Museums

Pretend City Tips to Make Your Visit AMAZING

Visiting Pretend City in Irvine? Our kids LOVE this place, and we’ve been there at least a few dozen times. Here are some Pretend City tips to know before you go!

Pretend City children’s museum is exactly what it sounds like- it is a big, warehouse style building set up like a complete, working city. Kids are free to explore the city in any way they choose, and everything is designed to be touched and handled by inquisitive little hands.

Kids can shop at a grocery store that looks exactly like Trader Joes, then head to the farm area to see how food is made and see baby chicks. They can dance on a stage, visit the library, or play at the beach. They can paint, splash in water tables, and build. They can visit the doctor or the dentist, work or “eat” in a restaurant, and play house in a tiny home made just for them.

In a word- Pretend City is a child’s DREAM playground. We love visiting Pretend City with toddlers, and even our big kids are still super into the pretend play this children’s museum provide. If you’re in the area- heck, even if you’re not- planning a visit to Pretend City could very well be one of the highlights of your trip. 

But before you go- here are our best Pretend City tips to make sure you get the most out of your visit.

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Visiting Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Looking for an educational, free aquarium in Southern California? Check out the totally fun, totally free Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, located in San Pedro!

Listen, we love- abosolutely LOVE- the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. We had annual passes for a good long while, and we used them often.

When I decided to stay at home with the kids though, those Aquarium of the Pacific passes were just too pricey to keep. And as a result, we went a LONG time without visiting an aquarium.

So when I hear about an amazing, free little aquarium in nearby San Pedro, I just knew we had to give it a visit.

And oh boy, were we ever pleasantly rewarded!

If you’re looking for an aquarium in Southern California that won’t break the budget, we highly recommend Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro. Here’s what you need to know before you go!

CHILD LOOKING AT MOON JELLIES; TEXT; CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM

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Visiting the California Science Center with Kids

Looking for an educational activity with wow factor…that WON’T break the bank? Consider visiting the California Science Center with kids! It’s got activities for all ages, and is sure to get you cool mom credit with your kids!

I want to give my kids tons of educational experiences. I want them to see new things, visit new places, and learn in fun, challenging ways.

I just don’t always love the price tag that comes with that.

It’s why I love visiting the California Science Center with kids. Everything is so hands on, interactive, and appropriate for kids (and adults!) of all ages.

And the best part? It’s pay-what-you-can donation based system.

So if you’re looking for a free activity to do with your kids in Long Beach, consider putting the California Science Center at the top of your list!

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