pretend city: learning through play

Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine, California is more than just a play space; it’s an interactive attraction in Irvine, where children’s imaginations come to life. With a vibrant and interactive space designed to ignite creativity, curiosity, and learning in young minds. From miniature cityscapes to hands-on exhibits, Pretend City offers a unique experience where play is not just entertainment but also a powerful tool for education and growth.

Plan Your Trip to Pretend City Children’s Museum

If you’re planning a trip to Pretend City Children’s Museum, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

• The general hours of operation for Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine are Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Be sure to check Pretend City’s website for current hours of operation and any closures.
• General Admission is $22 for adults and children, while seniors and military personnel get a discounted rate of $20. The museum also offers a special “Museums for All” pricing option for those in need. $5 tickets are also available to individuals with an EBT card, allowing everyone to enjoy Pretend City without the financial barrier that many low-income families face. Buy your tickets 今日
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as there’s plenty of walking and exploring to do.
• お子さんが展示物やアクティビティに夢中になるよう促すだけでなく、自分のペースで自由に探検できるようにしましょう。
• Free parking is available in the parking lot and behind the building or you can find additional parking on the street.

Why Visit Pretend City in Irvine?

At Pretend City, play is not just about having fun, it’s also a valuable educational experience. Through role-playing and hands-on activities, children learn essential life skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and cooperation.

Activities for You and Your Little Ones

Step into Pretend City, Irvine’s beloved kids museum, where interactive exhibits turn imagination into discovery. Families can explore dozens of hands-on activities designed to spark “learning through play” — perfect for curious toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary adventurers alike.

Highlights include:

• Art Studio: Kids paint, draw, and craft their own masterpieces — great for creativity and fine-motor skills. Pro tip: Arrive early for less crowding and more room to create.
• Mini Market: Little shoppers grab carts and “buy” groceries while practicing counting and social skills. Ideal for preschoolers; try mid-morning for shorter lines.
• Construction Zone: Budding builders stack, sort, and design with foam blocks — a fun way to build early STEM and problem-solving skills. Bring comfy clothes for active play.
• Farm: Children harvest pretend crops and care for animals, learning about food and nature. Perfect for toddlers and sensory seekers.
• Marina: Sail toy boats and explore water play tables that inspire curiosity about motion and science. Visit before lunch to avoid wet clothes fatigue!
• Health Center: Future doctors and nurses role-play checkups, encouraging empathy and language skills. A hit with preschoolers and early readers.

For families seeking indoor, family-friendly fun in Irvine, Pretend City offers endless opportunities to play, explore, and learn together.

Family-Friendly Fun Nearby Pretend City

Make a day of it! After exploring Irvine’s kids museum, head to these nearby 家族で楽しめるアーバインの見どころ — all just minutes from Pretend City and perfect for toddlers to tweens.

• アーバイン・スペクトラム — A colorful outdoor shopping and dining hub (10 min drive). Ride the Giant Wheel, grab a sweet treat, or catch a kid-friendly movie. 駐車場 Free in nearby structures. Parent tip: Hit the carousel early before crowds build.
• グレート・パーク — Wide-open spaces, playgrounds, and the iconic Great Park Balloon (8 min drive, outdoor). Budget tip: Balloon rides are free but go early for tickets. Parent tip: Pack sunscreen and hats — shade is limited.
• 田中農場 — Seasonal wagon rides, u-pick veggies, and friendly farm animals (12 min drive, outdoor). 駐車場 Included with admission. Parent tip: Bring closed-toe shoes — it’s a real working farm!
• Adventure Playground (University Park) — A hands-on play zone where kids can build, dig, and get delightfully messy (10 min drive, outdoor). Free entry! Parent tip: Bring a change of clothes for water play.
• ブーマー — A lively family entertainment center packed with go-karts, mini golf, arcade games, and bumper boats—perfect for all-ages fun just minutes from Pretend City.

Visit Pretend City Today

From pretend play to park adventures, a day around Pretend City promises hands-on fun for kids and easy, stress-free planning for parents. Keep the good times rolling with nearby attractions, parks, and delicious bites — explore more アーバインでの楽しみ方 and browse アーバインのレストラン to plan your perfect family day out.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO PRETEND CITY