Wonder Studio New Summer Exhibit
Explore hands-on creativity at Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine, California with an immersive summer art exhibit where families can paint, build, and create together through play-based experiences.
Loading view.
Calendar of Events
S Sun
M Mon
T Tue
W Wed
T Thu
F Fri
S Sat
2 events,
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We would love to see you and your little one dressed up for the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older […]
3 events,
OPEN Tuesdays for the Summer!
Pretend City is OPEN Tuesdays for the summer. Starting 5/26 through 9/1. TIME: 10am - 4pm There will be No Early Entry for Members.
1 event,
2 events,
2 events,
Meet the Beekeeper with the Beekeeper’s Association of Southern California
Meet the Beekeeper with the Beekeeper’s Association of Southern California
More info coming soon! TIMES: 11am - 12:30pm
1 event,
3 events,
-
Artists in Action
Artists in Action
Artists in Action invites families to explore creativity together through hands-on experiences led by real artists. Each visit offers new materials, fresh ideas, and playful ways for children to express themselves and connect through art.
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We would love to see you and your little one dressed up for the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older […]
3 events,
OPEN Tuesdays for the Summer!
Pretend City is OPEN Tuesdays for the summer. Starting 5/26 through 9/1. TIME: 10am - 4pm There will be No Early Entry for Members.
Baby Steps
Baby Steps
Dedicated to children 18 months and younger, Pretend City hosts TWO Baby Steps programs a month on the first Tuesday and second Sunday. This program is a great way to socialize your little one and offers new learning opportunities in a safe space. This is perfect for first-time parents who can engage with one another, […]
2 events,
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
Pretend City Children's Museum and Parentis Foundation are partnering for something truly magical at We Read Wednesdays, where Littles and Grans read together! Our wonderful Empowering Readers OC reading mentors are bringing the joy of storytelling into the playful world of Pretend City, where imagination comes alive and every corner invites discovery. This partnership is […]
1 event,
2 events,
Meet the Author with Griselda Maldonado
Meet the Author with Griselda Maldonado
Storytime and Meet the Author with Griselda Maldonado! TIMES: 11 am ONLY About the play partner: Dr. Griselda Maldonado is a Santa Ana native, educator, and bilingual author who celebrates culture through storytelling. Inspired by her family’s journey, she is dedicated to preserving language and tradition for future generations. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgriseldaauthor/?hl=en Linkedln: https://www.linkedin.com/in/griselda-maldonado-ed-d-ab1879306/ X: https://x.com/drgrismaldonado Book Bio: This […]
2 events,
STEM Up to the Challenge
STEM Up to the Challenge
Are you ready to STEM Up to the Challenge? TIMES: 11am & 2:30pm Learn about gravity with the ring & chain trick!
3 events,
Artists in Action – Martin Bruinsma
Artists in Action – Martin Bruinsma
Artists in Action invites families to explore creativity together through hands-on experiences led by real artists. Each visit offers new materials, fresh ideas, and playful ways for children to express themselves and connect through art. Times: 11am - 12pm Martin Bruinsma is a fine art painter with works in Mexico City, New York City, Beverly Hills and Genoa Italy. He […]
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We would love to see you and your little one dressed up for the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older […]
3 events,
OPEN Tuesdays for the Summer!
Pretend City is OPEN Tuesdays for the summer. Starting 5/26 through 9/1. TIME: 10am - 4pm There will be No Early Entry for Members.
-
Neurodivergent Family Night
Neurodivergent Family Night
Join us for a free evening where children and caretakers are invited to play in a sensory-friendly, neuro-affirming environment! We encourage the whole family to attend, and therapists can join as well. Neurodivergent Family Nights are held on the second Tuesday and fourth Thursday of each month from 5-7 pm (after we close to general […]
3 events,
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
Pretend City Children's Museum and Parentis Foundation are partnering for something truly magical at We Read Wednesdays, where Littles and Grans read together! Our wonderful Empowering Readers OC reading mentors are bringing the joy of storytelling into the playful world of Pretend City, where imagination comes alive and every corner invites discovery. This partnership is […]
-
Pretend City After Dark
Pretend City After Dark
Enjoy an adults-only evening of painting, sculpting, wine, and community at Pretend City Children's Museum. Ages 21+. Space is limited.
1 event,
2 events,
Way to Play Day
Way to Play Day
Way to Play Days are held on the 2nd Friday of every month. This event allows parents and caregivers to complete free health screenings including developmental, dental, vision, and/or speech. Local child development experts are on site to provide information and assist grown-ups with questions they may have regarding their child’s development.
3 events,
Celebrating Obon
Join us as we celebrate Obon, a meaningful Japanese tradition that honors and remembers ancestors through dance, storytelling, and community. Families are invited to learn about themes of remembrance, gratitude, and connection! Bon Odori Dance Workshop Times: 11am & 2:30pm Activities and times subject to change. About the play partner: Orange County Buddhist Church (OCBC) The Orange […]
-
Temaki Sushi Class with Sticky Fingers OC
Temaki Sushi Class with Sticky Fingers OC
Get ready to roll at Pretend City! 🍙 Join Sticky Fingers OC for a hands-on Temaki Sushi cooking class where children can mix, create, and taste their own delicious creations. This interactive experience combines food, learning, and fun while introducing young chefs to new ingredients and cooking skills. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
2 events,
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We’re opening the city just for toddlers! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older siblings, please. *Registration is required, including members* Every Monday! 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM […]
3 events,
OPEN Tuesdays for the Summer!
Pretend City is OPEN Tuesdays for the summer. Starting 5/26 through 9/1. TIME: 10am - 4pm There will be No Early Entry for Members.
Artists in Action
Artists in Action
Artists in Action invites families to explore creativity together through hands-on experiences led by real artists. Each visit offers new materials, fresh ideas, and playful ways for children to express themselves and connect through art.
2 events,
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
Pretend City Children's Museum and Parentis Foundation are partnering for something truly magical at We Read Wednesdays, where Littles and Grans read together! Our wonderful Empowering Readers OC reading mentors are bringing the joy of storytelling into the playful world of Pretend City, where imagination comes alive and every corner invites discovery. This partnership is […]
2 events,
Cooking in the City
Cooking in the City
Join us in imaginative cooking with REAL tasty food. Cooking Activities: 11 am & 2:30 pm *This is not a cooking class, we will engage in imaginative play and have an opportunity to enjoy pre-made cooked food We’re planning something special! Stay tuned for more information. For sneak peeks, please check out social media. Space is […]
2 events,
Habitat Hike Animal Encounter with Environmental Nature Center
Habitat Hike Animal Encounter with Environmental Nature Center
Get ready for a wild adventure! Families will journey through the desert and forest on a pretend hike filled with live animals, nature discoveries, and hands-on exploration. Times: 11am & 2:30pm *Please note programming lasts 10-30 minutes. Included in museum admission. Space is limited! Book your tickets now. *Members do not require a reservation. *Events and dates are […]
3 events,
Sustainable Saturdays
Join us for Sustainable Saturdays in partnership with Niagara Cares. Families can create art using recycled materials while exploring fun ways to reuse everyday items. Together, we'll learn how small changes can help care for our community and the environment. Included in museum admission. Space is limited! Book your tickets now. *Members do not require a reservation. *Events and […]
-
Artists in Action with Chuck Jones
Artists in Action with Chuck Jones
Artists in Action with Chuck Jones Center for Creativity invites families to explore creativity together through hands-on experiences led by real artists. Each visit offers new materials, fresh ideas, and playful ways for children to express themselves and connect through art. Times: 11am-12pm About the play partner: Founded upon the time-honored philosophies of legendary, Oscar-winning animation director Chuck Jones, the […]
2 events,
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We’re opening the city just for toddlers! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older siblings, please. *Registration is required, including members* Every Monday! 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM […]
3 events,
OPEN Tuesdays for the Summer!
Pretend City is OPEN Tuesdays for the summer. Starting 5/26 through 9/1. TIME: 10am - 4pm There will be No Early Entry for Members.
Artists in Action
Artists in Action
Artists in Action invites families to explore creativity together through hands-on experiences led by real artists. Each visit offers new materials, fresh ideas, and playful ways for children to express themselves and connect through art.
2 events,
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
We Read Wednesdays with Empowering Readers OC
Pretend City Children's Museum and Parentis Foundation are partnering for something truly magical at We Read Wednesdays, where Littles and Grans read together! Our wonderful Empowering Readers OC reading mentors are bringing the joy of storytelling into the playful world of Pretend City, where imagination comes alive and every corner invites discovery. This partnership is […]
3 events,
Spanish English Bilingual Storytime
Spanish English Bilingual Storytime
More information coming soon! Follow us on socials for the fastest updates. TIME: 11am ONLY
Neurodivergent Family Night
Neurodivergent Family Night
Join us for a free evening where children and caretakers are invited to play in a sensory-friendly, neuro-affirming environment! We encourage the whole family to attend, and therapists can join as well. Neurodivergent Family Nights are held on the second Tuesday and fourth Thursday of each month from 5-7 pm (after we close to general […]
3 events,
-
Food as Medicine with Rady Children’s Health
Food as Medicine with Rady Children’s Health
Join us for Food as Medicine, a hands-on experience where kids and their grown-ups explore seasonal, nourishing foods together with Rady Children’s Health. Times: 11am-12pm *Please note programming lasts 10-30 minutes. Homemade gummy bears with real fruits and veggies – and FIBER (no added sugars) Lesson on Fiber About the Play Partner: Rady Children’s Health (RCH), a […]
Celebrating Raksha Bandhan
Celebrating Raksha Bandhan
Join us as we celebrate Raksha Bandhan, a meaningful holiday that honors the bond between siblings and loved ones through traditions of love, care, and connection. Families are invited to learn about themes of family, protection, and togetherness through simple, age-appropriate activities and shared cultural experiences. Activities and times subject to change. Times: 2:30 PM
2 events,
-
Pretend City’s 17th Birthday
Pretend City’s 17th Birthday
Join us for Pretend City Children's Museum's 17th birthday Celebration! We’re marking another year of play, learning, and imagination with a day full of exciting activities, music, dancing, and delightful surprises. Come celebrate with us and make unforgettable memories at Pretend City’s birthday bash!🎂 Times: 11am-3pm Included in museum admission. Space is limited! Book your tickets now. *Members […]
2 events,
3 events,
Toddler Town
Toddler Town
We’re opening the city just for toddlers! Climb, dance, problem-solve, and pretend your way through our miniature world, designed to support movement, connection, and big developmental leaps. Designed for children 19 months to 3 years. This program is exclusively for toddlers and their caregivers. No older siblings, please. *Registration is required, including members* Every Monday! 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM […]