Daycations - Santa Ana for Kids

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  • Santa Ana offers plenty of places for kids and families to play and explore. A zoo. Science center. Museums. Even the train station is worth a quick tour. All the cool spots require a connection from the Santa Ana Metrolink Station via OC Bus, Uber or Lyft. Come say hello to all 50 of their monkeys!

    Bowers Museum/Kidseum

    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.

    Dining options
    Tangata

    Getting here from the station
    From the Santa Ana Station take OC Bus route 83 north on Main Street. Exit at W 20th Street.

    Discovery Cube OC

    What better way to introduce your kids to the wonderful world of science. The Discovery Cube OC 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.
    Discount available

    Dining options
    Enjoy a fun lunch at the science center!
    Beansprouts

    Getting here from the station
    From the Santa Ana Station take OC Bus route 83 north on Main Street. Exit just past Interstate 5.

    Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park

    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.
    Discount available

    Getting here from the station
    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.

    The train station

    Be sure to explore the Santa Ana station when you arrive. Completed in 1985, its Mediterranean Revival design features arcades, decorative tile, curved outdoor staircases, two-faced clocks and beautiful wrought ironwork. It served as a filming location for the movie “Rain Man.

    Train schedules

    We always suggest when planning your adventure to check the Metrolink train schedule to Santa Ana. Both the Orange County Line and the Inland Empire Orange County Line serve this destination.

How to Get There

Everything you need to know, including train schedules and tips on buying tickets and riding Metrolink trains. Easy!

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