List of fun things to do Thanksgiving Weekend in Orange County. Attractions, activities, parks, and day trip ideas, along with a few hidden gems. If you have out-of-town visitors or are local looking for affordable outings close to home, don’t forget to bookmark and share this page.
Popular Orange County Thanksgiving Weekend Attractions
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is Orange County’s most affordable theme park. Knott’s has camp Snoopy for the younger visitors and a selection of thrilling coaster rides. After riding the coasters, visit the ghost town, take a trip inside a gold mine, or get wet on the log ride.
Disneyland California
If you have out-of-town guests, they might want to visit Disneyland California but be prepared for large crowds. It’s best to purchase multi-day passes to save money, but don’t expect a significant discount. Keep in mind that a trip to Disneyland can be expensive.
Pirates Dinner Show
Pirates Dinner Adventure is a fantastic show suitable for a fun-filled family outing, a romantic date night, or a visit with relatives. Located in Buena Park, this action-packed pirate show takes place on a replica 18th-century Spanish ship set in a 250,000-gallon indoor lagoon. During the show, guests can enjoy an elaborate three-course meal while entertained by the immersive pirate-themed action happening around them.
Adventure City Anaheim
Adventure City tries this little amusement park if you have younger children and are on a budget. Rides are geared towards kids up to about ten, with even a few moms and dads who can hop on. An all-day ticket will not set you back often, and your kids will have a blast.
Sawdust Winter Festival
Laguna Beach Sawdust Art Festival Winter Fantasy. This annual event is not your typical gathering of local arts and crafts artisans. What makes it unique is that each booth is hand-built.
Top 10 Orange County Thanksgiving Day Trips
Irvine Park Day Trip
Irvine Regional Park has something to offer for everyone in your family. From the Orange County Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad to two lakes, bike trails, hiking trails, play areas, and picnic spots, plenty keeps you busy for an entire day. The best part? It only costs a few dollars for a whole day of fun!
Newport Beach Back Bay
Newport Back Bay is a great place to spend the day. You can ride or run the Back Bay loop or take a family day hike. Stop by Newport Dunes for ice cream or lunch after you explore the back bay. Kayaks and Stand-up Paddle Boards can be rented at Newport Aquatic Center to explore the bay by water.
Seal Beach
Seal Beach is a charming coastal town with beautiful soft sand, abundant sunshine, and mild waters, creating an ideal aquatic playground for swimming, surfing, and fishing. All while enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Pacific Ocean. There are numerous dining options close to the beach along the main street.
Laguna Beach Day Trip
The prime attraction of Laguna Beach is its magnificent seven-mile coastline, drawing in numerous visitors. The place offers many outdoor activities and a thriving arts community, making it a favorite destination for Southern Californians and other tourists.
Old Town Orange
Stroll down historic Glassell and Chapman Streets past charming historic buildings and antique stores tucked neatly between cozy sidewalk restaurants and soda fountains. Established in 1871, the area is the most historic city in Orange County and one of the best walking districts in Southern California.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
Embark on a historical journey and visit one of the famous California Missions. Once you complete your mission tour, numerous other attractions exist in the nearby San Juan Capistrano Rios district. This day trip can be conveniently made by train, as the Amtrak station is just a short walk away.
Santa Ana Zoo
The Santa Ana Zoo is a small but delightful zoo located in Prentice Park in Santa Ana. It’s perfect for families with young children and features a few notable exhibits. You can also enjoy a fun ride on the zoo train or take a spin on the Ferris wheel to cap off your visit.
O’Neill Regional Park Day Trip
O’Neill Regional Park is a day-use picnic area and an overnight camping facility. Take your family for a hike or visit the nature center. There are play areas for kids and many shady trees for a picnic. O’Neill Park also has a great camping area, perfect for a camping trip not too far away from home.
Nixon Library Day Trip
The Richard Nixon Library, located in Yorba Linda, is an excellent destination for a day trip. It houses an extensive collection of historic artifacts, including the presidential limousine, helicopter, and a remarkable exhibit of statues of world leaders. Richard Nixon’s birthplace and final resting place are also on the grounds.
Fullerton Arboretum
The Fullerton Arboretum is an excellent place to discover various plants worldwide. You can experience the scents of the Mediterranean, relax in the shade of the Redwood Forest, and enjoy the stunning autumn colors of the northeastern United States, all without leaving your city. Admission to the arboretum is free, but they would appreciate it if you can make a donation.
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