Keeping Cool in Irvine This Summer
With the arrival of summer, things are heating up in Irvine. While getting to the nearest beach and enjoying the ocean breeze might be on everyone’s one to-do list, there are a number of other ways to also cool down this summer in Irvine. Here are a few cool things to do to get through the summer heatwave.
Indulge in Cool Treats
Ice cream, smoothies, and shaved ice are just a few sweet ways to keep cool this summer. Try the new flavor of the week at Yogurtland where you can mix and match any of your favorites and add a number of toppings to your creations. To cool off in the most healthy way, head over to Pressed Juicery for a fresh pressed green juice or one of the tasty seasonal lemonades. For an additional boost, add on one of the wellness shots that promote vitality and health.
Tea Maru, in the Quail Hill Shopping Center, crafts fresh boba and specialty drinks that are curated in-house each day. Whether choosing a signature Tea Maru latte with boba at the bottom or a delicious slush topped with boba, there are a variety of refreshing flavors to choose from. With over thirty drinks on the menu, this shop offers an incredible selection of delicious, sweet treats for everyone.
Water Play at Irvine Spectrum Center Splash Pad and Boomers
Kids will have a fun time splashing around at the Irvine Spectrum Center sprayground. This fun, little oasis offers the best escape for children to run around and enjoy some water play. With water continuously spraying up from the ground, kids completely get lost in the joy of splashing around while keeping cool. It’s fun exercise too. Be sure to bring an extra pair of clothing as well as a towel if you want to continue shopping afterwards.
To have a complete day filled with water and adventure, check out Boomers. This indoor and outdoor park includes family-friendly bumper boats. Easy to steer and equipped with water cannons, this is a fun activity for older kids looking for some friendly water competition while keeping cool.
Enjoy a Swim
The Villages of Irvine feature a number of amenities that are available exclusively for residents, including access to the resort-style pools. Taking a morning or evening swim is the perfect way to cool down and beat the heat. With a wading pool available for kids, enjoying a day at the pool is an activity the entire family can enjoy. Feel free to relax afterwards under the sun shades or cabana.
Alternatively, if you’re interested in enrolling your children in swim class or want to participate in lap swimming or water aerobics, head over to the world renowned William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center or the Northwood Aquatics Center. They both feature a wide range of water fitness programs and activities for kids and adults.
Visit a Museum
For a fun playdate with the kids, head over to Pretend City Children’s Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits that fully enhance child’s play and development. Kids can participate in discovery learning by planting vegetables in the farm, playing in the sand at the beach, or reading in the library. There is also an art studio for the little creatives as well as a meditation studio for some kid-style solitude. At this museum, kids can fully activate all aspects of their imagination.
Another museum that offers a retreat from the sunny weather is the UCI Institute and Museum of California Art. This museum, which features exhibits from Impressionism to Post-War Contemporary, has an extensive collection celebrating California artists. With a wide range of mediums and genres to explore, a day at this museum culminates in both the learning and appreciation of art luminaries.
See a Live Performance or Movie
Going to the movies or seeing a live performance is an ideal way to add a break in your day and immerse yourself into another world. The summer concert series at the Irvine Barclay Theatre is the perfect sanctuary for jazz listening in an intimate setting. Other events at this 750-seat theater include contemporary dance and theater. Each season offers a wide range of talent and programming.
Alternatively, a day at the movies is still a much treasured pastime. The Regal Irvine Spectrum is a state-of-art movie theater that features reserved seating and a viewing experience unlike any other. The theater boasts IMAX, 3D, and immersive 4DX screens that feature motion seats and environmental effects. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic comedy or drama or an action flick, a cool escape is just a ticket away. Feel free to grab an ice cold drink or a small bite while you wait.
Living in the Villages of Irvine is the ultimate urban retreat. Not only does your home offer spacious layouts and resort-style amenities, but there are also endless activities just outside your door. During the summertime or any other season, you’ll always discover something new while living in Irvine.
