Things To Do
Disneyland Park
Make a Day of It at Disneyland! If you're visiting for the wedding weekend and have some extra time, consider spending a day at the Happiest Place on Earth! Located just a short drive from our wedding venue, Disneyland Resort offers two incredible parks, exciting attractions, delicious dining, and plenty of Disney magic for guests of all ages. Whether you're planning a family adventure or a fun outing with friends, it's a great way to make the most of your trip to Southern California. Be sure to purchase your park tickets and make any required reservations in advance if you plan to visit.
Knott's Berry Farm
If you're looking for thrills, fun, and a taste of Southern California history, consider spending the day at Knott's Berry Farm! Located just a short drive from our wedding venue, Knott's Berry Farm offers exciting roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and the famous boysenberry-inspired treats that made the park a local favorite. Whether you're seeking adventure or a leisurely day exploring the park, it's a great way to enjoy your wedding weekend. We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.
California Beaches
Where's The Beach One of the best parts of visiting Southern California is being so close to the coast! Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, take a scenic walk, watch the sunset, or enjoy waterfront dining, there are plenty of beautiful beaches just a short drive away. Popular nearby destinations include Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, and Crystal Cove State Park. Each offers its own unique charm, from lively piers and surf culture to quiet coves and breathtaking ocean views. Pack some sunscreen, soak up the California sunshine, and enjoy a little beach time during your wedding weekend!
Universal Studios Hollywood
Lights, Camera, Action! If you're looking for a day filled with movie magic and thrilling attractions, Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic choice during your visit! Experience exciting rides inspired by your favorite films and TV shows, explore immersive lands, enjoy live entertainment, and take the world-famous Studio Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at a real working movie studio. It's the perfect destination for movie lovers, thrill seekers, and families alike. Universal Studios Hollywood is about an hour from Irvine (traffic permitting), so we recommend planning for a full day and purchasing your tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
For the Thrill Seekers If you're in the mood for an adrenaline-filled adventure, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a great way to spend a day during your visit! Known as one of the ultimate thrill-ride destinations, the park features some of the most exciting roller coasters in the country, along with rides and attractions for guests of all ages. From record-breaking coasters to classic amusement park favorites, it's a must-visit for anyone looking for a high-energy experience. Six Flags Magic Mountain is located in Valencia (about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Irvine, depending on traffic), so we recommend planning ahead and purchasing tickets in advance if you plan to go.
LEGOLAND® California Resort
A Family-Friendly Adventure If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly day trip during your visit, LEGOLAND California is a great option! Located in Carlsbad, this theme park is designed especially for kids and LEGO fans of all ages. Enjoy interactive rides, creative building experiences, themed lands, and even a LEGO-themed water park and aquarium. It’s a relaxed, playful way to spend the day and perfect for families traveling with children. LEGOLAND is about a 1–2 hour drive from Irvine, so we recommend planning ahead and purchasing tickets in advance if you plan to visit.
Griffith Observatory
Scenic Views & Stargazing If you're looking for one of the most iconic views in Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is a perfect stop during your visit! Perched in Griffith Park, the observatory offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and the surrounding hills. Inside, you’ll find fascinating space and science exhibits, along with public telescopes for stargazing (weather permitting). It’s a great mix of sightseeing, nature, and a little bit of Hollywood history. The Griffith Observatory is about a 45–60 minute drive from Irvine (depending on traffic), and parking can be limited, so we recommend planning ahead and visiting earlier in the day or around sunset for the best experience.
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Beachside Fun If you're looking for a quintessential Southern California experience, the Santa Monica Pier is a great place to spend the day! Set right along the Pacific Ocean, the pier features an iconic amusement park, arcade games, oceanfront dining, and beautiful views of the coastline. You can also walk or bike along the beach path, shop and explore nearby Third Street Promenade, or simply enjoy the sunset over the water. Santa Monica is about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Irvine (depending on traffic), so we recommend planning ahead and allowing extra time to enjoy the area.
Museums of Los Angeles
Art & Culture in Los Angeles If you’re interested in art, science, history, or something unique, Los Angeles has an incredible range of museums to explore during your visit. From world-renowned institutions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Getty Center, to interactive experiences like the California Science Center and Natural History Museum, there’s something for every interest. You’ll also find smaller specialty museums, contemporary art spaces, and rotating exhibitions throughout the city. Whether you're looking for a relaxed afternoon or a full day of exploring, LA’s museums are a great way to experience the culture and creativity of the area. Most museums are about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Irvine depending on traffic, so we recommend planning ahead and checking hours and ticket availability in advance.
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
A Day at the Zoo If you're looking for a relaxed and family-friendly outing during your visit, the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a great choice! Located in Griffith Park, the LA Zoo is home to hundreds of animals from around the world and features beautifully landscaped botanical gardens throughout the grounds. It’s a peaceful and enjoyable way to spend a few hours, with plenty of shaded walking paths, engaging exhibits, and scenic spots to explore. The LA Zoo & Botanical Gardens is about a 45–60 minute drive from Irvine depending on traffic. We recommend checking hours and ticket information ahead of your visit.
Aquarium of the Pacific
Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming If you're looking for a fun and relaxing coastal activity during your visit, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a wonderful option! Located in Long Beach, this world-class aquarium features a wide variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean and beyond. Explore immersive exhibits, see playful sea otters, touch tanks with rays and sharks, and learn about ocean conservation in an engaging and interactive setting. It’s a great choice for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys ocean life. The Aquarium of the Pacific is about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Irvine depending on traffic, and we recommend purchasing tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.
The Queen Mary
See the Queen... The Queen Mary If you're looking for a unique and historic experience during your visit, the Queen Mary is a one-of-a-kind stop in Long Beach! This retired British ocean liner is permanently docked and now serves as a historic attraction, hotel, and event space. Guests can explore the ship’s beautifully preserved Art Deco interiors, learn about its fascinating maritime history, and enjoy guided tours that share stories from its time at sea. It’s a great mix of history, architecture, and a little bit of mystery. The Queen Mary is about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Irvine depending on traffic. We recommend checking tour availability and hours in advance if you plan to visit.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
La Brea Tar Pits & Museum If you're looking for something truly unique to Los Angeles, the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum is a fascinating place to visit during your stay! Located in the heart of the city, this active Ice Age excavation site lets you see real fossils being uncovered right in the middle of urban LA. Inside the museum, you’ll find incredible displays of prehistoric animals like saber-toothed cats, mammoths, and giant sloths, along with ongoing scientific research you can observe in real time. The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum is about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Irvine depending on traffic, and we recommend checking hours and ticket information ahead of your visit.
