5 Day Trips Near OC To Do Before The Kids Go Back To School
Spend some quality time with the kids before they go back to school at some of these fun places. Your kids can get in touch with Orange County's abundant nature, be physically active and learn more about history and science while you make new memories together.
SeaWorld San Diego
500 Sea World Drive
San Diego, CA 92109
(619) 226-3901
seaworldparks.com
In addition to the well-known shows with killer whales like Shamu, SeaWorld San Diego has several other specialty shows with cats, dogs, pigs, birds and dolphins. You can see the variety of upcoming shows here. If you dream of interacting up close and personal with dolphins, look no further. There's even an opportunity to "dine with Shamu" for an hour, and the healthy menu has tasty options for adults and kiddos. There's also exhibits in which you can see sharks, turtles and penguins, and interact with sea life in the different "touch pools."
Crystal Cove State Park
8471 N. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-3539
www.crystalcovestatepark.org
With abounding nature at your fingertips, Crystal Cove State Park makes for an enjoyable outdoor day trip. You can explore the tide pools, go hiking, camping, swimming, surfing, scuba diving and take in the fresh ocean breeze and picturesque views. This state park embodies some of the many benefits of living in Orange County. You can simply hop in the car to see and experience activities in a wondrous outdoor environment.
Related: Best Hiking Trails In Orange County
Newport Aquatic Center
1 Whitecliffs Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 646-7725
newportaquaticcenter.com
Spend a day learning or polishing your rowing, kayaking and stand up paddle board skills at Newport Aquatic Center. Private lessons are available if you want special instruction for you and your family. Take a look at the different packages here. If you have a good time on the water, you may want to check out the camps and competitive rowing leagues offered. There's opportunities for kids and adults to get involved. Take a look at the website to get more information.
Discovery Cube
2500 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 542-2823
www.discoverycube.org
For kiddos who prefer more of an intellectual challenge indoors, Discovery Science Center is the place to go. Currently featured is "The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes," which highlights the history of Holmes' life and "features original manuscripts and artifacts, investigative tools and crime-solving opportunities." You can get tickets to this interactive, educational yet fun exhibit, for only $5. Learn more about the different activities organized for this special installation here.
San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 231-1515
zoo.sandiegozoo.org
The San Diego Zoo has thousands of amphibians, birds, arthropods, mammals, birds and reptiles to see and is a nice way to enjoy summertime sunshine while learning about the animal kingdom. See the extensive list of exotic animals at the zoo here. The website enables you to plan your day ahead of time by clicking on which animals you want to see. With so many intriguing creatures, you are sure to have a day filled with fun and amazement. Additionally, there are numerous plants to see and other activities you can add to your desired list of plans for the day such as 4D theaters, workshops and special tours.
Related: Best Go Kart Tracks In Orange County
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