Local Attractions

Sandy Beaches

Southern California is home to beautiful beaches, each of which with their own distinct feel. Popular options include:

• Newport Beach
• Laguna Beach
• Corona Del Mar
• Huntington Beach

Attractions and Theme Parks

UCI is located within driving distance of a number of acclaimed theme parks and attractions, including:

• Disneyland
• Knott’s Berry Farm
• Universal Studios
• Six Flags
• Mission San Juan Capistrano

Visual and Performing Arts

Get a first-hand look at everything from local artisans to world-class theater, ballet, and dance. For more information, check out the following:

• Sawdust Festival
• Festival of the Arts (Pageant of the Masters)
• Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Shopping

There is no shortage of shopping centers in Orange County. Some of the most popular centers in the area include:

• Fashion Island
• South Coast Plaza
• Irvine Spectrum Center

Sports

The sports scene in Southern California is as vibrant as ever, especially in summer! Catch a game with one of the area’s sports teams:

• Los Angeles Angels (baseball)
• Los Angeles Dodgers (baseball)
• Los Angeles Galaxy (football)
• Los Angeles Rams (American football)
• Los Angeles Chargers (American football)

Cuisine

Whether it’s Indian, Japanese, or Italian, Irvine is home to an array of global fare. Check out some popular choices:

• American
• Mexican/Hispanic
• Italian
• Asian
• Mediterranean

Nature

From the park in the middle of our campus to the numerous hikes and nature reserves in the area, UC Irvine is a perfect destination for nature-lovers:

• Aldrich Park
• UCI Arboretum
• Local Parks & Facilities
• Hiking Hotspots
• Aquarium of the Pacific

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an immensely popular city and the center of the nation’s film and television industry. Good times are only an hour away:

• LACMA/Urban Light
• Hollywood
• Vibrant food scene
• Santa Monica Pier
• Griffith Observatory

San Diego

San Diego is known for its beaches, parks and warm climate. A quick drive south will put you at the heart of what San Diego has to offer:

• Balboa Park
• San Diego Zoo/Safari Park
• La Jolla
• Coronado

University Town Center

University Town Center (UTC) has a number of food and retail options open for the community, including In-N-Out Burger and Chipotle. View a full list of amenities here.

Campus Plaza

Campus Plaza is a popular shopping center within a 5-minute walk from the on-campus residential community: Arroyo Vista. View a full list of amenities here.