The Irvine Spectrum is Orange County’s mecca for discerning shoppers and is incredibly focused on giving more – more premium shopping, more endless entertainment, and more distinct attractions.
This SoCal shopping center has crushed the brick-and-mortar curse and outshines other malls in Orange County. It boasts 160 specialty stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s conveniently located at the I-5 fwy and I-405 fwy junction. The Spectrum is located in the City of Irvine.
Lined with mature palm trees, it mirrors an oasis with pretty water fountains and lush greenery festooned along the sidewalks. It’s time to stop the boring online shopping and lackluster interactions with the delivery guy. You can ditch the need for exorbitant annual park passes, disappointing county fairs, and driving away your monthly gas budget on a tedious road trip. The Irvine Spectrum offers incredible attractions for the entire family. You’ll be astounded at all the fun that is waiting for you to discover and truly enjoy.
This Orange County mega market place is a cultural hub and geographic center where you can plan your next visit not only for a day of shopping, but for an extended stay because there is so much to do. Imagine a two day park hopper pass at a shopping mall. Perhaps your first day starts off with shopping the newest trends and flag-ship pop-ups or it’s straight to the whimsical carousal with treats in tow. Visitors can end the day with a ride on the lighted Giant Wheel, and cruise to the theatre for summer’s newest blockbuster. Maybe your vibe is sipping new seasonal mojitos with music hosted by Habana Restaurant. Fill your summer with kid friendly events, discover new tastes, and standout experiences. The Irvine Spectrum has arrived as the new coveted staycation choice for locals and an exciting destination for travelers.
Sounds too good to be true? Believe it. Here comes another bonus: parking is FREE.
Irvine Spectrum Details
Address: 670 Spectrum Center Drive
Phone/Guest Services: (949) 790-4871
Website: https://www.Irvinespectrum.com
Pets: absolutely yes
Irvine Spectrum Stores
When it comes to retail therapy, Irvine Spectrum offers unsurpassed store selection and traditional favorites. This outdoor mall has 38 million square feet of commercial space. Addidas, H&M, Hollister, Heat, Hurley, Cotton on, Cotton on Kids, Levis, L’Occitane, Lululemon Athletics, Free People, Oakley, Pac Sun, and Vans are just a few.
If you’re looking for accessories and fun specialty shops, Irvine Spectrum offers Havaianas Lids, Typo, Francesca’s, Hot Topic, Miniso, RSQ Scate, Pura Vida, Kestan and Quay.
Irvine Spectrum is home to several luxe spa services and trendy beauty experiences. Pamper yourself or continue your workout routine. Spectrum offers standout fitness options for those just getting started or advanced. Level up your current program and try something completely new. Some highlight options are listed below.
- House Of Lange Hair Design
- Lip Lab By Bite
- Lush
- Planet Beauty
- Royal Bee
- Sephora
- Stretch Lab
- Wakse
- Aveda Isle Salon Spa
- Cycle Bar
- Stride
- 24 Hour Fitness
Irvine Spectrum also has familiar, affordable favorites like Target, Tilly’s, The Body Shop, Brandy Melville, Claire’s, GNC and Old Navy. Nordstrom, a west coast favorite is here as well. There is plenty of kid friendly and specialty shops like Kids Foot Locker, Jeanine N Mini, The Game Chest, and Cotton On Kids. The list of retailers doesn’t stop here. Irvine Spectrum has a complete store list on its website,
There are new retailers, flagship stores, and coming soon brands giving shoppers a generous blend of merchants:
- Kevin Jewler’s
- World of Hearing – Hearing Aids
- Vin Fast – All Electric Vehicle Ownership
- Burnin’ Mouth – Spicy Dishes from Nashville to Korean BBQ
- Quay – Australian Sunglasses
- Vuori – Californian Coastal Fitness and Lifestyle Transformation
- Cotton On: Body
- Intimissi
- Bristol Farms Newfound Market
- Gramm00
Irvine Spectrum Attractions, Events and Entertainment
Giant Wheel
You might find a pair of mouse ears or a princess costume rushing by to be first in line at the spectacular Ferris wheel, but thrills of surprise are seen everywhere. This landmark attraction at The Spectrum truly delivers. Of course, you’ve seen the 108-foot, lighted Giant wheel. It’s Orange County’s light house to all the fun with spectacular views. The hand-crafted, Italian import has just been renovated with a fresh new look for its 20th anniversary. Expect gushes of laughter and screams of joy. It’s Orange County’s brightest beacon with 52,000 led lights. Come see the dazzling show of 16 million color schemes. You can’t beat the $5 ticket price. Don’t forget to join the Kids Birthday Club. As a member of the club, the birthday celebrant can ride the attractions all day for FREE.
Price: Tickets $5 each
Location: Near Target
Hours of operation:
- Mon. thru Thurs. 10am –900 pm
- Fri. thru Sun. 1000am -11 00 pm
Tickets are available for purchase at Guest Services located next to the Giant Wheel and Target. Guest Services also provides height requirement information as well as holiday hours
Carousel
Right next to the Giant Wheel is a whimsical carousel painted brightly with a menagerie of animals and regal horses. There is emotion with every stroke and color said Laguna Beach fine artist, Amanda Burke. This carousel rivals any in Orange County with classic carnival music and charming craftmanship. it’s definitely a favorite for all ages. Parents are able to ride with little ones. It’s a treasure for getting that prefect photo for your Christmas card or for posting! Kids ride this attraction all day for FREE on their special day as a Kids Birthday Club Member.
Location: Near Target and The Giant Wheel
Price: $3 per person (single ride)
Hours of Operation:
- Sun. – Thurs. 10:00am-9:00pm
- Fri. – Sat. 10:00am-10:00pm
Tickets are available for purchase at Guest Services, located next to the Carousel and Target. Guest Services also provides height requirement for riders as well as holiday hours
Spectrum Climber
Bigger kids can have a great time, too. The Spectrum Climber is so cool. It’s an 18 foot tall, 49 foot wide gigantic three-dimensional climbing sculpture. An adventurous platform with 75 different options, it’s a wow factor at Irvine Spectrum. It combines thinking, logic and problem solving. It’s a futuristic playground to get the wiggles out and be with other kids. It was designed by Spencer Luckey, an artist and president of Luckey Climbers, a company that designs climbing sculptures for children’s museums across the world. This isn’t your average jungle gym. Spectrum Climber is functional, fun and FREE!
Location: Next to the Carousel. Located on the south end near Target
Hello Kitty Kitchen
Got red bows? Enchantment and tea time entertainment is waiting for you at the Hello Kitty Café. The Hello Kitty Café is a dreamy place for little ones and the biggest of kids. Super cute and just as charming as this Sanrio icon can be. Fans will giggle with delight and relive fond memoirs. The Hello Kitty café offers coffee, tea and adorable desserts. Sit in a yummy pink room full of fancy and frilly sips for a birthday party, special occasion, or just because she’s always been your favorite. The Hello Kitty Café offers a special Afternoon Tea Time and Evening Cocktail Service in the Bow Room. Drinks with Kitty? How cool is that! Plenty of merchandise and gear inside just in case you couldn’t find your red bow. Reservations are a must for these special services.
Location: Near Giant Wheel
Phone: (949) 936-5357
Website: https://www.irvinespectrumcenter.com/dining/restaurants/hello-kitty-cafe
Dave & Busters
Forget about that cheesy mouse guy and his outdated pizza parlor! Dave & Busters is an incredible place to eat, drink, and be merry. Started in Dallas in 1992 this sports and game arcade lives up to its reputation. D&B dazzles by delivering more hi-tech games, more sports and more ways to win cool prizes. The shiny, flat screen tv rooms transform an ordinary eat out day to an extraordinary day. Adults can have drinks, eat great food and watch all the games while the kids have their own fun nearby. It’s a place for family, birthdays, and friends. Not into games or its just you and the guys? Then this is definitely your spot. Join D&B rewards program before you go to receive a welcome gift for big discounts and instantly receive free bonus game chips. Want more savings? Visit on Wednesdays for half price games. You won’t be able to count all the big screens or games playing simultaneously, but you can count on coming back real soon.
Location: Near Old Navy
Phone: (949) 727-0555
Website: https://www.daveandbusters.com/locations/irvine
The Escape Game
This already sounds like a major start for a vacation day! You and your team need to complete your mission in 60 minutes. Work together to uncover clues, crack codes and master puzzles. It’s mystery, suspense, and an adrenaline filled adventure. Champion the challenge of themed games like Gold Rush, Mysterious Market, or Prison Break. Maybe you want a real challenge and choose a 9/10 difficulty level and go for The Heist. You can Choose your team or add more suspense by drawing lots. Reservations are recommended, especially if you just want a private group. Call directly for age recommendations.
Location: Near Old Navy
Phone: (949) 541-9165
Website: https://theescapegame.com/irvine/#book-now
Irvine Improv
Looking for a more adult evening? Check out the Irvine Improv. Its Orange County’s go to venue for an all-star lineup. The Irvine Improv offers a full bar and Americana dining.
Location: Near the Regal Irvine Spectrum
Phone: (949) 854-5455
Website: https://improv.com/irvine/calendar/
Regal Irvine Spectrum
Feeling like red vines and popcorn? Take in the latest summer blockbuster at the Regal Irvine Spectrum ScreenX, 4DX, RPX & VIP.
Location: Near Dave & Busters
Phone: (949) 450-4920
Website: https://www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-edwards-irvine-spectrum-screenx-imax-rpx-vip/1010#/buy-tickets-by-cinema
Irvine Spectrum Restaurants and Quick Bites
Ask anyone in Orange County and the answer is always the same. The Spectrum has the best restaurants. From formal dining to quick bites or lovely treats, eating is easy. Eateries offer services like online curbside pick-up, takeout and the online app Open Restaurant for reservations. Happy hour and more are offered by many restaurants with seasonal specialty drinks. There’s something for every taste and budget. All your contemporary favorites and international libations are available. It’s the perfect place to find your new favorite dish or flavor.
- Full Service: BRIO Tuscan Grille, California Pizza Kitchen, Capital Dim Sum-Seafood-Bar, The Cheese Cake Factory, Cucina Enoteca, Dave & Busters, Del Fresco’s Grille, Fogo do Chao, Habana, Javier’s Cantina & Grille, Little Sister, Nordstrom Café Bistro, P.F. Chang’s, Paul Martin’s American Grille, Robata Wasa, Silverlake Ramen, Umami Burger, Viaggio Pizzeria, Wood Ranch BBQ 7 Grill, Yard House
- Casual and Quick Dining: Burnin’ Mouth, Chipotle Mexican, Curry Up Now, Falasophy, Flip Burger, Food Hall at Bristol Farms newfound Market, Hudson Cookies, Luna Grille, Panda Express, Pho Saigon Pearl, Pieology Pizzeria, Roll Em Up Taquitos, Subway, Tender Greens, Urban Seoul 2.0, Veggie Grill, Whaoo’s Fish Tacos
- Snacks and Treats: 85*C Bakery Café, Afters Ice Cream, The Alley, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Bakery Habana, Blkdot Coffee, Chocolate bash, Cold Stone Creamery, Duff’s Cake Mix, Frost, A Gelato Shoppe, Haagen-Dazs, Hello Kitty Café, Honey & Butter Macarons, Nordstrom Ebar, Pressed, Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Somisomi, Starbucks Coffee, Wetzel’s Pretzels, Yogurtland
Pets
Pets are very welcome and celebrated at the Irvine Spectrum. Bring your furry family member to visit the Doggie Photo Station that is too cute. Rex and Mr. Pickles can snap as many selfies as they want. Fido should be on his best behavior and on a leash at all times in the outdoor shopping center. Many stores allow pets inside and some restaurants offer patio seating that is dog friendly. Look for the paw print stickers outside of the entrance doors to indicate pets are allowed. Box Lunch, Cucina Enoteca, Paul Martin’s American Bistro, Pho Saigon Pearl, Pressed Juicery, Subway, Wahoo’s Fish Taco’s, and Yard House are some restaurants that allow your best-behaved pooch. It’s recommended that you directly contact retailers/restaurants concerning their service/pet policy.
More Spectrum Tips and Seasonal Events
NEWSLETTER/RETIL THERAPY APP
Saving time and money is easier than ever at Irvine Spectrum. Download Irvine Spectrum’s Retail Therapy App for store coupon, sales, and special promotions on Apple and Google Play. It’s a quick and valuable resource. Want more shopping news and offers? Then sign up for the Irvine Spectrum newsletter. The website has an incredible At Your Service feature. As you browse for information directly on the Spectrum website, simply text your question in the orange highlighted “Ask me a question box” for an immediate response. You can also directly text your questions to (949)267-3339.
Sign up for the Kids Birthday Club for a day of Free rides on their birthday and receive a birthday lanyard for all day access.
FRESH AIR FITNESS
Fresh Air Fitness is an amazing opportunity to discover new fitness options and improve workouts from experienced trainers that can transform your body. Enjoy this new series of open-air workout classes available during summer. Classes are fun, results driven for all levels. Held on Saturday mornings for a limited time, reservations are required so sign up directly on the website. Fees do apply.
TODDLERS AND TUNES
Its FREE! Toddler Storytime is every first Tuesday of the month and located on the Giant Wheel lawn from 10am to 12pm. Come for interactive games, kid friendly DJ music, creative fun and more. Past events featured Bubblepop and cupcake decorating compliments of Duff’s Cake Mix. Check the Spectrum website for upcoming dates and more information.
SUMMER SUNDAYS
It’s all about the sun and being outdoors at the Irvine Spectrum. Make memories every Sunday from 3pm to 7pm on the Giant Wheel Lawn. During the months of June and July the Spectrum hosts games and music for the family. It’s FREE!
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS
Movies Under The Stars is a family friendly movie night outside for FREE. This family tradition is available in June and July on the Giant Wheel lawn from 7pm-9pm. Movies begin promptly at 7:30pm. Kids aren’t the only ones who will sing along, favorites like UP, Spiderman, and Moana are scheduled. Bring a blanket, treats and the gang for a night of movie magic or maybe it’s a sweet date night. Check website for dates and more information,
MOJITO MONDAYS WITH HABANA
Irvine Spectrum knows adults need their play time, too. It’s Music and Mojitos every Monday night in July and August. Habana Restaurant is hosting a great night of dancing and drinks on the Giant Wheel Lawn. From 6pm-8pm, you’ll also enjoy yummy bites and a ride on the Giant Wheel with your ticket. Tickets are $15 and reservations are recommended. What a perfect date night under the stars. Check the website for more information.
ICE SKATING
Of course, there’s a place to ice skate during winter in sunny California. The best ice-skating rink in Orange County is at the Irvine Spectrum. Returning every November with all the holiday traditions, treats, beautiful decorations and winter magic.
Irvine Spectrum Hotels
MARRIOTT IRVINE SPECTRUM
The Irvine Spectrum Marriott is within walking distance from The Irvine Spectrum. An upscale, newly redesigned hotel, this Irvine Spectrum Marriott is full of amenities during your stay or extended staycation. Extended stay suites are equipped with a kitchen. This hotel has plush rooms, daily housekeeping, and an inhouse mini market. This Marriott is pet friendly, too. Although breakfast is not free, each room has a mini fridge, free afternoon snacks and free Wi-Fi. There is a great fitness center and big swimming pool for relaxing in the cabanas or getting out for summer fun. Bonus for this Marriot because there is a Starbucks located inside.
Address: 7905 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine
Phone: (949) 759-0200
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/snamc-marriott-irvine-spectrum/overview/
DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON HOTEL IRVINE
The Double Tree is minutes from Irvine Spectrum and is a four-star rating. Here you can count on spacious rooms, a restaurant, business center and breakfast. Of course there is a swimming pool with jacuzzi. Pets are welcome for an additional fee. The good news there is a free airport shuttle and free wifi. The Double Tree is only a 10 minute drive to the Spectrum so you can return to your room after a day of glorious shopping, nap and return for a fantastic dinner .
Address: 90 Pacifica, Irvine
Phone: (949) 471-8888
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/onaisdt-doubletree-irvine-spectrum/
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT IRVINE SPECTRUM
The Courtyard likes to boast itself as a destination shopper’s hotel. It’s located less than one mile from the Irvine Spectrum. You’ll be delighted to know the Courtyard offers an on-site bistro and a Starbucks. The large rooms are sleek and the décor contemporary. The reviews for this hotel rave about the large fitness center with several treadmills, Stairmasters and a CrossFit station. The 75 foot swimming pool is also a lap pool with lane markers. Guests are pleased to find dry cleaning and on-site laundry services. Pets are not allowed. High speed wifi is also available for free. The Courtyard offers enhanced amenities and a comfortable stay.
Address: 7955 Irvine Center Drive
Phone: (949) 453-1033
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/snasi-courtyard-irvine-spectrum/overview/
Irvine Spectrum Parking
- All surface lots are FREE parking. More great news: no time limit for parking either. Overnight parking is prohibited. There are three parking decks at the Spectrum Center. *Parking at the 100 Spectrum Center Drive Parking Deck is Free Only MON.-FRI. AFTER 6PM and on weekends ONLY.
- Access and parking is easier than ever. Guests can use the electronic available parking signs designating vacant stalls. These are those cool red and green lights visible from the top of each space. Try the real time parking availability map for seamless parking locations.
- Valet parking can be found at three locations: 200 Spectrum Drive across the street from Cheesecake Factory, inside the Regal Parking structure, and inside the Nordstrom Parking Structure.
- EV Charging stations are also available for $1 per hour. *Charging stations located across from the Cheesecake Factory, 100 Spectrum Center Drive, have an additional charge after the first three hours.
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