This park is HUGE. I came here because I was interested in riding on the big orange balloon with my friends and found out there are a lot of things to do here. Best of all, FREE PARKING. They have volleyball nets set up, soccer fields, a carousel, a hanger with two life-sized planes, an art gallery, among many other things to do. The balloon rides are first come, first served on Thursdays and Fridays 10am-3pm and 7pm-10pm and Saturdays and Sundays 9am-3pm and 7pm-10pm. I came on a Saturday at 2pm and was turned away. The worker told me to come at least an hour before opening to guarantee a spot on the list. read more

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This park is huge! A lot of room for flying kites... place has a free first come first serve air balloon ride. read more

Great Park - First come first serve ballon ride - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

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The park is clean and so much fun. During soccer tournaments or sports events, the park is very full of people and cars, but they do a pretty good job of parking attending and cleaning up trash. However, if you get a chance to go on a regular day, I highly recommend it. There is so much to see and so fun for the kids. Lots and lots of space to roam around, the park is full of historical facts, and the play area has so many fun activities. I got to be a kid and zip lined, went down slides, jumped on the merry-go-round, and spun around in a ride. Such a fun place! read more

First time here was in August on a Saturday afternoon. There were 2 food trucks next to the carousel and Kona Icee truck by the soccer field. Balloon ride was open. All you have to do is scan the QR code by the Balloon ride and make your reservation. Very Simple. For those complaining about the sign up process. We decided to go again on Monday, Labor Day. I didn't pack a lunch (assuming, my bad) lunch trucks would be on site as it is a Holiday. No, lunch trucks and the snack bar inside the visitor center was closed. Why would they close the snack shop on a busy Holiday? Its not like someone is making the food, these are prepackaged sandwiches, etc and no lunch trucks on a Holiday??? Why???? The park itself offers so much for families of all ages, clean restrooms, ample parking, nice modern playground. Just disappointed there was no food available and a busy Holiday. The snack shop even has fun toys for children so again, why would they close this little shop inside the visitor center...... read more

***THE GREAT PARK LIVE EVENT IS A CASH GRAB*** This was by far the worst treatment we've gotten from a business ever. Their managers Jared and Candy are unprofessional and will demean the customers by saying it's common sense that no bags are allowed at these types of events. I go to these types of events all the time from the 626 Night Market to the OC fair and they've all allowed my mini backpack inside so it's not weird to assume that my mini backpack that can barely fit sunscreen and my wallet would be allowed in. We came here specifically for the balloon ride a couple weeks ago but was quoted a 2.5 hour wait. We heard there was an event going on and was encouraged to check it out by other staff members while we wait. In order to get into the event, we would need to purchase tickets and we did so at the box office. The cashier never told us tickets were final sale (which by the way is ILLEGAL because under Civil Code Section 1723, no refund signs must be CONSPICUOUSLY displayed) nor were there signs plastered by the box office showing what is/what isn't allowed, or the dimensions of bags that are allowed. They claim to have signs plastered everywhere mentioning their policies but the only ones I saw were 2 small signs by the ticket line--mind you--one of those signs was hiding behind a giant pole. They keep saying it's on their website or social media but we weren't aware because again, we stumbled upon this event. Jared, Candy, and the "Director of Finance" all said they "can't process refunds on grounds". They gave us a card to email someone for the refund. Asked them on social media for the refund and they gave us the same cookie cutter response as on the email. All we want is just a refund for an event that we did not even get to enjoy. They admitted that it was their fault for being disorganized yet they still refuse to resolve the issue. Do not give these people your hard earned money. They are all CROOKS. No wonder the reviews for this place is so low. People are spending money for an enjoyable experience and you provide us with rude staffs who treat us with disrespect and zero customer service. read more

Great Park is huge, modern, lots of activities, lots of facilities and only more to come. Free tethered hot air balloon rides is a fun touch! read more

The Great Park is actually pretty great! Aside from the things you would normally expect to find at a park, there's always something going on here - from farmer's markets, craft fairs, holiday events, pumpkin patches around Halloween, to food trucks and sports games, you name it! And nearly all of these events are free. So is parking, usually. The site is the former El Toro military base, so its huge, flat and open. Much of it is paved. Great for biking and skateboarding! The grounds are also clean, well maintained, and did I mention there's a carousel and a giant hot air balloon? The balloon ride offers some pretty awesome views of Orange County, Catalina, and the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. This used to be free but now it costs a few dollars. You can also get sports equipment like soccer balls, if you leave your ID at the front desk. Since it is a former military base, they have exhibits of old military aircraft, documents, and other things in the hangars that have not been torn down yet. There is some pretty interesting historical information to view from the time period around World War II. The park is still under construction - as it is supposed to be the "Central Park" of Orange County, a la New York's Central Park. Condos, shopping, a lake, the works. Everything seemed to stall for a few years but now things have started up again. At the time of this review they are building a giant sports complex on one of the runways. The City of Irvine is also becoming more involved and working on improving the events and offerings there. The park has a pretty cool website with all the info at http://www.ocgp.org/ If you haven't been here before, it is definitely worth a look. Even if you have been before, there's probably something new you would be interested in. read more

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We hadn't been to the Great Park in quite awhile and decided to take a walk there today. This place is huge and what a nice sports park, so many different fields, soccer, baseball, volleyball, basketball, they have it all. They have several kids playgrounds too and restrooms. Plus the Farmers Market on Sunday's, although we didn't check it out today. There were some food trucks also near some of the fields where Lacrosse games were going on. Great park with walkways winding around and through the entire park. I wish I took more pictures! read more

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Nice place，parking is free，and waiting just few minutes！ I can took lot of nice pictures！！ read more

Great Park - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

I have attended several events at Great Park Live. The Irvine Nights series has been especially fun. The value is excellent with reasonable prices for tickets and food. There is also free parking. The venue is clean and the staff is super friendly and attentive. I would highly recommend this experience for a night out with friends or family. read more

I kept thinking that in 20 years this really will be a great park. Right now it's barely a park. It'll take time to develop this former military base into the park envisioned. I came on a Sunday when they have the farmer's market. They have the big orange balloon ride and a carousel over on the former runway (hot pavement). There is an educational exhibit of fruits and vegetables growing which is nice but not as interesting as the Bugs Life garden at California Adventure. Also several grassy areas. I'd probably like this "park" if I had a dog as it seems like a good place just to walk around aimlessly. There are several buildings which they apparently have events in (which would provide more to do) but nothing was going on when I was here. Best bet is to check their website and go when there is some activity going on otherwise an hour spent here is plenty. read more

Great Park - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

Well Date of Visit : July 11, 2021 and If your looking for an place to go in Irvine then put this Park on your bucket list and enjoy !! As we arrive we first park in parking lot #4 and this lot is much closer to the soccer fields and you might have to walk quite a way to get to the main playground !! So I do suggest you park in Lot 3 because it is much closer and you don't have to walk as far !! Now there are plenty of parking and the lots are huge here !! Sometimes they do have farmers market here also !! Which they did while we were here !! It's an amazing park !! Lots of open space with lots of green grassy areas and plenty of shade for you and trees !! Lots of benches for you to sit also !! It's just one of the most beautiful parks I have been to !! Perfect for families and friends !! Also if your looking for an park to take your kids this is the one also !! Super enjoyable and fun !! Huge also !! Probably one of the biggest Parks also !! Just put this park on your bucket list and enjoy and have fun !! Because we sure did !! Lots of areas for your kids to play also !! Amazing and I shall return and enjoy again !!! read more

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A fantastic place to spend a day. There's some great history here as it was built were a Marine Corp base was (my husband served on that base for awhile). In fact, some of the original flight tarmacs, hangers and buildings are still there. There are so many walking and bike trails, plus multiple sports fields. read more

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Today was my first time at the Great Park. Wow!! I am really pleased w what they have done w this area that was a total dump before! I'm also SO glad it wasn't made into another golf course, but instead it's an awesome family park w lots of sustainable living components. We enjoyed it all from the farmers market (and great food trucks!) to the huge lawns and the farm to food lab etc. The carousel is a good deal too ($3 for all day pass). Also nice is that parking is free! We spent all day here and will definitely come back! read more

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DO NOT GO TO THIS PARK. Especially not with your children. Their security staff harassed myself and another mother that were alone with our children. The male staff discriminated against me and said he would have officers remove me and my children from the park. There was no reason at all for this. We were quietly playing and were safely distanced from others in the playground. Sure enough, this coward of a man called over 2 female park guards to further make a scene in front of my children. We finished our time at the playground and will not be returning. read more

Great Park - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

Great place to hang out with big group! Good views, good for bike ride and running as well.

Boo to all the naysayers! So what if it didn't turn into an airport? It is what it is and you just need to let it go. The Great Park is still in completion stages. The only value you'll get is the Thursday-Sunday balloon ride granted there is no line so call ahead or the newly launched Farmer's Market on Sundays from 11am-2pm. If you go to their website, there's plenty more in the works for this expansive land and I can definitely see the potential for the future. Getting here is tricky. The entrance is off of Marine Way underneath the 5 overpass so look carefully but if you're exiting off the freeway its a dead shot but coming from Sand Canyon just follow the brown signs. Park employees are friendly and there's a visitor's center full of information pertaining to the park as well as other signs and markers pointing out various things of interest. The balloon is the main attraction. It's decorated like a pumpkin for Halloween and goes up 300-400 feet offering great views of Orange County. I think I've found a new Sunday fun activity. read more

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Having 3 kids (ages 3 and under) has its share of challenges- one of which is my eternal quest to find places to take my little ones without spending too much money. Thank you OC Great Park. The carousel and balloon rides are free, and if you take the lil ones at a time when the 'big' kids are at school, the lil ones get the benefit of continuous carousel rides... No waiting in line, and they can try out all the different carousel animals...something that was apparently important to my girls. I'm glad we went! NOTE: carousel and balloon rides are no longer free. :( read more

This park should be called the Good park! 24 tennis courts and not one pickleball court! No park can be considered "Great" without pickleball! Huge mistake, they need to rectify this travesty immediately. Otherwise great location, park, sports fields etc! read more

Nice park but a big money grab. Overbooks several events and tournaments then provides completely inadequate parking.

Love this park! So huge. So many soccer fields. Has basketball courts too. Love the carousel area. Family kid and doggy friendly! read more

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Clean park very big and often hosts events. Great spot to hang out and have some fun with family/friends

This place is beautiful. I would say it is one of the best parks in the OC area. They have multiple soccer, baseball, basketball, and tennis field. Also, the people here are very diverse and friendly, which is something if you are looking for this type of environment for your family. read more

4.5 stars. This is a great park to go biking (or of course, walking or having a picnic) with lots of paths on smooth, flat grounds. The only drawback is there's no shade anywhere really, but it was nice to come here for the first time. It's a far drive for me, so I won't be back hardly, if ever. read more

We don't live locally but we love this place. Farmers market on Sundays until 2pm. Lots of shaded areas to picnic and hang out with friends and family, and great well-maintained basketball courts. We have yet to explore the other amenities here but so far it's been great! read more

They open Thursday to Sunday. Go sign waver before you can ride. They have day and night views

Great Park, Free Parking, Great Volleyball Courts, they even have a farmers market on weekends.

With all of the construction going on during the weekdays it is pretty empty so this is a nice place to come walking that is dog friendly. I really appreciate that there are a few dog waste bag dispensers since I had been in the situation where I thought I had a few with me but when we were walking the park I realized I was out, I just wish there were a few more of them around the park. I have done the daytime balloon ride a few times and thought it was nice and really nice that we were able to bring out small (20lb) dog on as well. read more

Great Park - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

The Great Park is a nice attraction to the "New Beverly Hills" community in Irvine. But truly it is sad to say goodbye to Marine Corps Air Station El Toro and all the times I've spent on there watching the Air shows and walked around the base in the early 1990s up until the closure ceremony in 1999. MCAS El Toro was home to 15,000 Marines and their families. I really hope that they keep all the hangers as local monuments to the Great Park. As a remind of what El Toro Irvine used to be. Thank you to all Marines who proudly served at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro from 1943 to 1999. read more

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This is a clean and well maintained park. It is pretty easy to locate, Google Maps takes you right to the location, short distance from the freeway exit. It has a private parking lot so ample amount of parking spots available. It has great running/walking pathway, grass fields for kids and pets to run around, vending machines as well as few kiddie rides. My favorite part of the park is the balloon ride where you can get an aerial view of OC and the museum for airplanes. During weekend, there is usually a farmers market and soccer games going on. P.S.free Wifi!! read more

The services and event listings here continue to grow. Unfortunately, so does the price. It used to be fun bringing out-of-town guests to see the area on the "big, orange balloon". Now at $10/person - I would rather bring them to see improv or enjoy the local cultural food options. HINT: The monthly antique meet/vendor fair on the first Sunday of the month can be fun to explore. At least the parking is still free (for now). read more

One of the best tennis facilities in Orange County. 25 courts, including a Court 1 stadium court. It's always packed here! And the reason why? The courts are well maintained. I've never had issues with the lights here, net missing straps, like you'll see at some other public courts. Yes, these courts are free the public! Most other facilities of this scale charge a per hour fee to play on them, not here. There is a dedicated staff that works here, the office is right when you walk into the center. If you're looking for courts, sign up on the list with the staff and they'll get you on one. Just keep in mind there are peaks times, after 7pm where it can be hard to get a court (every court is often used at night). Weeknights after 7pm is usually reserved for WTT, so you might wait longer for a court then. If you have kids interested in getting into tennis, there's a great academy here! The instructors are all great and I've taken lessons/drills with several of them. The only issue sometimes is parking. The tennis and soccer venue share a lot so it can be packed if there's a soccer event going on. read more

Cool park! Went to the soccer stadium to watch the O.C Soccer Club play...beautiful stadium with comfortable seating! Beach volleyball courts right outside of the stadium. No park entry fee, no paid parking! There's tons of stuff to do here. I love it! read more

With the amount of land this park has, it had so much potential to become an icon to rival Central Park but Great Park is such a letdown. It lacks trees for shade, walking paths and bodies of water. It is mainly a sports facility for soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, softball and volleyball. The only family attractions is a carousel, ice skating and tethered hot-air balloon ride. Where are the ducks?? PROS * Great fields for sports CONS - Lacks trees - Having a pond or streams would be nice - Lacks food and snack vendors MY RECOMMENDATIONS * Having your phone's navigation is helpful so you don't get lost read more

Summer concerts during COVID19- social distancing. Sit in your car or set up chais. Tune into 90.9 to hear better, food truck or bring your own. Some concerts are family oriented, some are adults...Tijuana Dogs played and it was awesome!!! A fun 4 hours to socialize, drink beverages and sing along....A great Irvine night out!!! Thanks City if Irvine read more

Great Park - Irvine Summer Concert- Tijuana Dogs - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

Nice park in Irvine area The park is really huge and there are many activities you can join I love this park read more

Amazing park, super rude and disrespectful staff. Mainly this guy right here. Super disrespectful for no reason. read more

Great Park - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

A gorgeous facility located in the suburbs of Irvine, California! I have been able to visit Great Park several times as my boyfriend plays for the Orange County Soccer Club. The dedication put into making this space attractive for all ages shows upon visiting. Logistically, Great park has plenty of parking, which is always a plus. There are other attractions in addition to the Great Park soccer field that I have yet to visit. Things like the hot air balloon, carousel, etc. seem like fun additions for the families in town. One thing I really appreciate is that the OC Great Park facility is always in a pristine condition. Everything from the bathrooms, to the bleachers, are in clean shape and those things make a difference when you are sitting in for a two hour game! Oh, and if you're hungry, they have a variety of snacks to purchase. My piece of feedback for the park is the restriction on reusable water bottles. I like to save plastic bottles ( and money) by bringing my bottle to games or outdoor events. Each time I have attended a game here, I am asked to either throw away my bottle or return it to my vehicle. As there are many families that visit park I find that a highly inconvenient regulation. I don't mind spending on food or additional drinks, but water is something I would appreciate being able to bring in. Overall, Great Park is indeed a GREAT park. Whether you are watching a game, or spending time outdoors, it is a wonderful place to pass an afternoon or evening with those you love. I look forward to returning! read more

OC great park is my favorite spot to play tennis with friends. They have over 20 well lit, clean courts and the surrounding park area make the drive from LA worth it. Tennis court #1 is the best (insider secret). They are still open during COVID-19 and people are doing a good job of wearing masks and social distancing. read more

Great Park - tennis with ted! - Parks Near Me - Irvine, California

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This park has been so much fun their kids have all ages and they can play on everything and there's a lot more to explore so come on down there's over 200 parks in this area. read more

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