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Family-Friendly Itinerary for a Week in Orange County

Thursday, December 21: Arrival in Orange County

Welcome to Orange County! After arriving at the airport, take a taxi or rental car to your hotel. Check out flight and hotel prices on Kayak. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the hotel pool or exploring the local area. In the evening, head to Downtown Disney for a magical experience of dining, shopping, and entertainment.

  • Hotel check-in: Prices vary, estimate 1 hour
  • Downtown Disney: Free entry, estimate 3-4 hours
Friday, December 22: Disneyland Resort

Experience the wonder of Disneyland Resort today. Start your day at Disneyland Park, where you can immerse yourself in classic Disney attractions and meet beloved characters. In the afternoon, hop over to Disney California Adventure Park for thrilling rides and themed lands. Stroll through Downtown Disney once more for dinner and shopping.

  • Disneyland Park: $154 per person (1-day park hopper ticket), estimate 8-10 hours
  • Disney California Adventure Park: $154 per person (1-day park hopper ticket), estimate 6-8 hours
Saturday, December 23: Universal Studios Hollywood

Today, venture outside of Orange County for a day trip to Universal Studios Hollywood. Explore the iconic movie sets, enjoy thrilling rides, and witness incredible shows. Don't miss out on magical experiences like "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" and the Studio Tour. Return to Orange County in the evening.

  • Universal Studios Hollywood: $109 per person (1-day ticket), estimate 8-10 hours
Sunday, December 24: Beach Day in Huntington Beach

Spend a relaxing day at the beach in Huntington Beach. Start your morning with a walk along the beautiful Huntington Beach Pier and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Take part in water activities such as surfing or paddleboarding in the afternoon. As the sun sets, have a beachfront dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants.

  • Huntington Beach Pier: Free entry, estimate 2-3 hours
  • Water activities: $30-50 per person, estimate 2-4 hours
Monday, December 25: Christmas at Knott's Berry Farm

Experience a festive Christmas celebration at Knott's Berry Farm. Enjoy the park's thrilling rides and shows, and marvel at the beautifully decorated Christmas displays. Take a tour of Ghost Town or enjoy live entertainment throughout the day. Don't forget to try some delicious boysenberry treats!

  • Knott's Berry Farm: $85 per person (1-day ticket), estimate 8-10 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Balboa Island and Newport Beach

Explore the charming Balboa Island and Newport Beach today. Start your morning with a ferry ride to Balboa Island, known for its picturesque streets and quaint shops. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront and grab a famous Balboa Bar or frozen banana. In the afternoon, head to Newport Beach for some relaxation on the sandy shores.

  • Balboa Island: Free entry, estimate 2-3 hours
  • Newport Beach: Free entry, estimate 2-4 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Science and Culture in Discovery Cube

Engage in hands-on learning and fun at the Discovery Cube in Santa Ana. Explore interactive exhibits focusing on science, technology, and the environment. Learn about space, ecosystems, and more. In the afternoon, visit Bowers Museum nearby to experience world-class art and cultural exhibits.

  • Discovery Cube: $19.95 per person, estimate 3-4 hours
  • Bowers Museum: $15 per person, estimate 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When you have some free time in Orange County, consider visiting Crystal Cove State Park, where you can explore tide pools and hike along scenic trails. Another hidden gem is the Lyon Air Museum, showcasing vintage aircraft and military vehicles. Locals also love the Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive play center for young children to learn through hands-on exhibits.

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