Pioneer Road Park is probably best-known for its summer water play. Thanks so much to Mary for recommending this one! It's not even on the map. My kids "oooh-ed" and "aaaah-ed" upon arrival at the brick-paved parking lot. Planners thought of every detail to make it feel like you've traveled back to pioneer days. From the many depictions of cowboys and the West to the … [Read more...]
Newport Beach Civic Center and Park (also known as White Bunny Park)
Everyone thinks of the Newport Beach Civic Center Park as the place with the white bunny sculptures. But when I think of Newport Beach, I think of sailing and the ocean. Even their city seal sports sails, fish, and the ocean. So that's why it makes sense that the architecture of the Newport Beach Civic Center and Park (NBCC) should match that vision. The roofline looks … [Read more...]
Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest
Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest is a local treasure. Serrano and Whiting are familiar names for those traveling in Lake Forest, but learning the historical significance of the ranchos and people behind the names is fascinating to me. Once you're done with your experiential history lesson - head over to Serrano Creek Park for some play and maybe some natural … [Read more...]
Serrano Creek Park in Lake Forest: Horse Trails and Eucalyptus for a Real Rancho Feel
Serrano Creek Park in Lake Forest is a great park tucked away behind the Heritage Hills Shopping Center at the corner of Lake Forest Drive and Trabuco Road. The park runs all the way to Bake Parkway with eucalyptus and willow lining the creek. Location: Near the corner of Lake Forest and Trabuco on Serrano Road. From the 5 freeway, take the Lake Forest exit. Follow it … [Read more...]
Accessible Playgrounds in Orange County
Accessible playgrounds in Orange County have play equipment designed for children with special needs. Many times, that means the actual play structure has ramps that accommodate children in wheelchairs. It also means much of the play surface around the equipment is a flat recycled rubber surface. I've seen accessible swings and "boats" which fit wheelchairs and friends can … [Read more...]