City of Irvine, CA Guide

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History

Before the arrival of Gaspar de Portolà, a Spanish explorer, in 1769, natives from the Gabrieleño inhabited the area. Once the Spanish took over, this area was mostly used for livestock. 

In 1821, after Mexico claimed independence from Spain, Mexican citizens were granted portions of land by the government. It came to be known as Rancho Santiago de Santa, Rancho San Joaquin, and Rancho Lomas de Santiago. 

By 1864 Thomas and Benjamin Flint, Llewellyn Bixby, and James Irvine purchased 50,000 acres of land from Jose Andres Sepulveda, who previously owned the land. The $18,000 purchase was the result of a legal dispute between both parties. 

The city didn’t fully develop into the suburban Orange County community that we know of today. The transformation began mid-century with the establishment of major institutions like the University of California Irvine and the construction of the MCAS El Toro airbase. However, the true change took off with the vision from city planner William Perreira, who envisioned a vibrant suburban community surrounding the university. Eventually, it grew into an even larger sprawling community as residents voted for measures that would incorporate more areas of the city. 

Things to do in Irvine

Shopping at the Irvine Spectrum Center

You can enjoy a day full of shopping at the Irvine Spectrum Center. It has more than 100 shop shops and a movie theater, spa, and plenty of places to eat. There is also a Giant Wheel that reaches 108 feet, and it has incredible views, especially at night.  

Irvine Spectrum Center

670 Spectrum Center Dr, 

Irvine, CA 92618

Explore Nature at the Botanical Gardens at UCI

Take a stroll through UCI’s Arboretum. It’s open to the public between Tuesday and Saturday, and admission is absolutely free. It’s perfect for plant enthusiasts and for anyone just wanting to escape and get in touch with nature. 

 University of California Irvine

Campus Dr and Jamboree Rd

Irvine, CA 92697

Get a taste of Culture at the Korean Cultural Festival

This popular festival celebrating Korean Culture takes place yearly and features traditional Korean music, festivities, and as you can imagine, lots of delicious Korean food. 

Korean Cultural Festival

1 Civic Center Plaza, 

Irvine, CA 92606

Explore Art at the Irvine Museum

The city of Irvine is home to incredible natural landscapes that inspired artists to paint portraits of them. Get a look at the city’s past through beautiful artwork, which is home to some beautiful and unique art collections unique to the area. 

Irvine Museum

18881 Von Karman Ave #100

 Irvine, CA 92612

Pick your own Produce at Tanaka Farms

Glen Tanka Farms have been farming for over 30 years. Today, Tanaka Farms is a popular destination for families and everyone else. You can take a wagon ride around the farm, providing valuable lessons on everything that goes on behind farming. You can pick your own produce, take it home with you, and cook a fabulous meal with organic ingredients. 

Tanaka Farms

5380 3/4 University Dr

Irvine, CA 92612

Get Your Need for Speed at Marconi Automotive Museum

For car enthusiasts, the Marconi Automotive Museum houses a collection of fast cars and trucks that will awe your eyes, including a 1996 Formula one Ferrari. 

Marconi Automotive Museum

1302 Industrial Dr

Tustin, CA 92780

City Resources 

Irvine Police Department 

949-724-7000 (non-emergency number)

For emergencies, please call 9-1-1

Address:

1 Civic Center Plaza

Irvine, CA 92606

University of California Irvine Police Department

(949) 824-5223 (non-emergency)

Address:

410 East Peltason Drive

Irvine, CA 92697-4900

Irvine Community Development Program

 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606

(949) 724-6470

Public Works and Transportation Department

1 Civic Center Plaza

Irvine, CA 92606

(949)724-7365

Irvine Animal Care Center

6443 Oak Canyon

Irvine, CA 92618

(949)724-7740

City Manager’s Office

1 Civic Center Plaza

Irvine, CA 92606

(949) 724-6246