4-Day Adventure in Irvine, California

Day 1: Shopping & Dining

Irvine, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Crack Shack

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast of chicken and waffles or their famous breakfast sandwich, all served in a casual outdoor setting.
Drive or rideshare to The Crack Shack, located at the Irvine Spectrum Center.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Irvine Spectrum Center

Spend some time shopping and strolling through the vibrant Irvine Spectrum Center, filled with popular brands, art installations, and a movie theater.
Walk around the shopping center as everything is within walking distance.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Chipotle

Refuel with a customized burrito or bowl from Chipotle, perfect for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
Located within the Irvine Spectrum Center, simply head inside for lunch.
USD 12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ride the Giant Wheel

Take a spin on the iconic Giant Wheel for stunning views of the area and to enjoy a bit of thrills.
Walk to the Giant Wheel within the Irvine Spectrum Center.
USD 10, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Visit Tanaka Farms

Explore this local farm with an array of fresh produce; don’t miss the walking tour where you can sample fruits straight from the field.
Drive to Tanaka Farms, about a 15-minute drive away.
USD 20, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a fine dining experience with perfectly aged steak and fresh seafood at this acclaimed steakhouse.
Drive back to the Irvine Spectrum Center and head to The Capital Grille.
USD 60, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature & Recreation

Irvine, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urth Caffe

Savor organic coffee and delicious breakfast items like the classic avocado toast at this local favorite.
Drive to Urth Caffe, approximately a 10-minute drive.
USD 10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Orange County Great Park

Spend the morning exploring the expansive Orange County Great Park, featuring walking trails, sports fields, and even a giant balloon ride.
Drive to Orange County Great Park, which is about a 15-minute drive.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Farmers Market

Enjoy local dishes and fresh produce at the weekly farmers market held in the Great Park.
Stay in the park for the Farmers Market; typically on Sundays.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Great Park Balloon

Take a ride on the Great Park Balloon for amazing views of the surrounding area for a unique perspective.
Walk over to the balloon launch area within the park.
USD 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Great Park Art Gallery

Explore the contemporary exhibits at the Great Park Art Gallery that showcase local and international artists.
Located within the same park.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Pizza 900

Enjoy a wood-fired pizza with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, sure to satiate your appetite after a busy day.
Drive approximately 10 minutes to Pizza 900.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Botanical Bliss

Irvine, California

8:30AM

Breakfast at Mimi's Cafe

Delight in a French-inspired breakfast featuring items such as Eggs Benedict or quiche at this cozy café.
Drive to Mimi's Cafe, about 10 minutes away.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit UCI Arboretum

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and native plants at the UCI Arboretum, a peaceful escape into nature.
Drive to the UCI Arboretum, roughly 15 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Filling Station Cafe

Dig into a hearty lunch featuring sandwiches and salads in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Drive to The Filling Station Cafe, about 10 minutes from the Arboretum.
USD 18, 1 hour

2:00PM

Nature Walk

Enjoy a guided nature walk at the nearby Turtle Rock Nature Center, where you can learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Drive to Turtle Rock Nature Center, roughly 10 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee Break at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Re-energize with your favorite coffee or tea and a pastry in this laid-back café.
Drive to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, approximately 5 minutes away.
USD 7, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Houston's

End your day with a flavorful meal featuring specialty salads, steaks, or seafood in an upscale setting.
Drive to Houston’s, about 10 minutes from the café.
USD 50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Art & Shopping Day

Irvine, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Corner Bakery Cafe

Indulge in a freshly baked pastry or a breakfast sandwich at this popular café known for its tasty brunch menu.
Drive to Corner Bakery Cafe, about 10 minutes away.
USD 12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit South Coast Plaza

Explore one of the largest shopping centers in California, home to luxury boutiques, trendy stores, and art installations.
Drive to South Coast Plaza, roughly a 20-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Experience world-renowned dumplings and Taiwanese dishes at Din Tai Fung, a favorite amongst visitors.
Located within South Coast Plaza, head to the restaurant for lunch.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the South Coast Repertory Theatre

Catch a matinee performance or explore the gallery spaces at the South Coast Repertory Theatre, showcasing fantastic works by local artists.
A short walk from Din Tai Fung within South Coast Plaza.
USD 20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Coffee at Starbucks

Grab a refreshing coffee or snack as you wind down your shopping adventure.
Just a few steps within South Coast Plaza.
USD 7, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Cap off your delightful trip with a diverse menu and delicious cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory in South Coast Plaza.
Located within the shopping center; just walk there.
USD 40, 2 hours
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