Now that the weather is heating up, I’ve received lots of requests for water play areas at local parks. As always, I’m starting with what I know. And although I don’t know Irvine shopping – I’m pretty good at playing at the Spectrum. Last week, I took my 3 year old out to see what fun we could stir up.
Location: The Spectrum is the Irvine shopping center visible from where Interstate 405 and 5 meet. Irvine Center Drive is the exit to take from the 405. Take Alton if you’re coming from the 5. See the highlights below for parking suggestions. MAP to Irvine Spectrum for Water Play
Highlights:
- If you’re in for a real wet splashfest head towards the Food Court near PF Chang’s and Champs. There you’ll find 3 very cute tortoises spewing water surrounded by a gusher of a fountain. Parents here come prepared with swimsuits, towels, and lunch. It was fairly busy and I suggest dressing the kids in water shoes to prevent slipping. [Park near Edwards Theater in the structure on the side of the center nearest the 5 - off Gateway Boulevard.] Restroom near Food Court.
- If you’re more interested in a fountain of tiny droplets and being closer to the “kids area” of this Irvine shopping spectacle, then turn onto Enterprise from Irvine Center Drive next to Interstate 405. Pass Nordstrom’s and park in the small lot outside The Vitamin Shoppe for easy access to the fountain. I’d pick this particular fountain for smaller children. Restroom near Amy’s Hallmark.
- We also took the opportunity to stroll around a bit. Based on a recommendation from Tiny Oranges, we visited the Sweet Spot Baker’s Workshop so my daughter could decorate her own cupcake ($5).
- We also took a ride on The Big Wheel ($3 each) and The Carousel ($2 for her).
- Bring pennies to make some wishes in the fountains.
Be Aware:
- The Carousel and Big Wheel don’t open until 11am.
- Fountains can be busy. Recommend wearing shoes. Bring a towel.
Checklist:
- Parking is free. Park off Gateway in the structure OR off Enterprise before you hit Target.
- Concrete play surface in fountains.
- Restrooms in Food Court. Restrooms in Amy’s Hallmark. (There are directories all over the place for more locations).
- Umbrellas at tables surrounding fountains to shade adults watching the action.
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Even though some stores/kiosks don't open until 11am, the water fountains are ready for play at 10am. If you show up early it's easier to get a table seat with shade. Love that there is a Starbucks right next to the fountains too! Also, it's fun to bring plastic cups for the kids to put over the water spouts. It cracks the kids up when they go flying up in the air!
I was thinking about trying out the fountains at the Spectrum with the kids. It feels kinda weird being at a shopping mall but hey if it works, it works.
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