Irvine is a suburban city in Orange County that's perhaps best known as home to the University of California Irvine (UCI) and dozens of major corporate headquarters, including Taco Bell. For shopping or a night on the town, the Irvine Spectrum, a large outdoor retail center and entertainment complex, has something for everyone. Irvine offers easy access to John Wayne International Airport, which is less than 10 miles away. Renting in Irvine puts you close to a number of beaches and other entertaining destinations. Drive less than 15 minutes southwest, and you can put some sand between your toes at Newport Beach or Laguna Beach. Shoppers can travel just 7 miles to Costa Mesa's world-famous South Coast Plaza, the largest mall on the West Coast. Angel stadium, home of the Los Angeles Angels, and Disneyland are just 15 miles away in Anaheim. Irvine is just 40 miles away from Los Angeles. For a longer trip, drive about 85 miles to San Diego, or head 90 miles east to Big Bear for fishing and boating in the summer and skiing or snowboarding in the winter.
Renting in Irvine, CA
Irvine is a newer, planned city, so most residences were constructed within the last 30 years. While it's always advisable to thoroughly research any area in which you're considering renting, Irvine's market requires flexibility since you might not land your first choice. High-paid executives, workers of all stripes and university students scour the list of apartments for rent in Irvine and flood the open houses, so be prepared to jump on a great find.
Family fun and cultural activities
The Irvine Barclay Theater: Housed at the University of Irvine, this theater not only presents plays of its own but also shows broadcasts of world-renowned theater performances.
The Irvine Museum: This museum features a collection of art from the California Impressionist period.
Pretend City Children's Museum: In the form of a small, interconnected city, this educational children's museum encourages hands-on learning experiences.
Irvine Ranch: This historic park includes 24 original ranches that celebrate the proud agricultural history of Orange County.
The Irvine Spectrum. (Courtesy of AngryJulieMonday) Irvine Ranch historic park. (Courtesy of OC Parks)
