8 Family Friendly Outings

This historic ethnic district is home to North America’s largest Japanese-American population. Visit the Japanese American National Museum and check out stores offering colorful clothing, home goods, and souvenirs in the lantern-decorated Japanese Village Plaza. Sample a delicious green tea donut or Mochi ice cream, or enjoy some of the city’s best sushi. From LA Union Station take the Metro Rail Gold Line to Little Tokyo/Arts District Station.

Dynamic, interactive exhibits offer education and entertainment for the entire family. The permanent home of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the Museum features permanent exhibits which explore Biology, Technology, Ecosystems, and Air and Space, brought to life by the museum’s seven-story IMAX Theater. From LA Union Station take Metro Rail Red Line to the 7th St/Metro Center Station and transfer to the Expo Line. Exit at Expo Park/USC station.

The Museum is located in the Fullerton Transportation Center, learn about the history of the three railroads which served Orange County. Explore the museum’s collection of historically-significant railroad cars spanning the first half of the twentieth century, ranging from sleeping and dining cars to a variety of cabooses. Guided tours are available.

A quick bus ride from the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center, this children’s museum will inspire and entertain visitors of all ages to learn more about their local community. Engaging, hands-on, science-based programs and exhibits focus on topics such as healthy living and environmental stewardship. From the Santa Ana Station take OC Bus 83.

Voted the Best Museum in Orange County, the Bowers features carefully curated exhibits from the Ancient Arts of China to First Californians to the Magical Art of Disney. The perfect activity for the whole family, with a special Kidseum for children. Make sure to enjoy lunch at Tangata, located within the museum. From the Santa Ana Station, take OC Bus 83.

Learn about the plants and animals of Central and South America without leaving Orange County. With educational programs, two play areas, and food services and a gift ship which caters to children of all ages, this family-friendly zoo is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Take OC Bus route 59 at the Santa Ana Blvd. stop in front of the Santa Ana station to Grand and Chestnut, then walk east to reach to Zoo.

Located in the Los Rios Historic District, Zoomars is about a 100 foot walk from the San Juan Capistrano station. This family-owned petting zoo offers something for everyone. Make friends with farm animals large and small, ride a pony, or try your hand at mining – Zoomar’s offers good, clean family fun.

Whale watching cruises are an exciting activity for the entire family, and Dana Point Harbor is the ideal place to observe whales as they migrate close to shore in the spring, summer, and winter. Check out Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching for a special Metrolink discount. Take OC Bus route 91 from downtown San Juan Capistrano to the harbor.