Aurora Park in Mission Viejo: Neat-o Nature Walk and Yellow Taxicab

Aurora Park in Mission Viejo was such a surprise when I first visited this park between Marguerite Parkway and Alicia Parkway in June of 2009.

We went there for a playgroup at the end of the school year with our preschool friends. We stayed for 2+ hours! Once we were done playing on the playground, we headed for a nice walk below the park on a sidewalk loop.

I now regularly return to walk the loop around the park and the playground is just as fun for kids.

Directions to Aurora Park in Mission Viejo: Drive up Alicia Parkway toward the foothills. Turn right on Aurora Drive and make a quick left onto Via Gaudix. The park is ahead on your right. OR take Marguerite Parkway going north and turn left onto Via Gaudix. (Address: 23202 Gaudix, Mission Viejo) MAP to Aurora Park in Mission Viejo

Highlights:

• Generally nice feel - landscaped seating area, surrounded by oaks and sycamores, feels secluded and cozy, easy to view kids and keep track of multiple children
• Yellow taxi cab seems to the highlight, as well as the swings
• Natural exploration - we loved the nature trail behind and below the playground! It's perfect for a toddler stroll. You can take the stairs or the ramp.
• 2 baby swings, 2 bench swings
• View of Saddleback above the soccer field

Be Aware:

• This structures have arches over the ladders and walkways - no problem for the kids - but I ALWAYS hit my head on these!
• Heard about a red ant attack on the grass by the basketball court (daughter was sitting in the grass and the ants bit her). Again, just be aware.

Checklist:

• Parking on Via Guadix
• Sand and recycled rubber play surface
• NO restrooms, but there is a drinking fountain
• Not much shade on the playground, but there's trees nearby
• Easy to view kids
• Half basketball court
• Soccer field
• Picnic area overlooking the oak grove trail
• Picnic tables at the park
• Official City of Mission Viejo information about picnic shelter reservations
• Official City of Mission Viejo page about Aurora Park

Parks Nearby Aurora Park in Mission Viejo:

• Olympiad Park
• Melinda Park

Originally published in June 2009.