Irvine Spectrum Center
A lively open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment hub with a Ferris wheel, diverse restaurants, and trendy shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Irvine Spectrum Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment hub with a Ferris wheel, diverse restaurants, and trendy shops.
"It's always a great place to hang out and window shop. All the eating places here are great."
🎯 Ride the Ferris Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of OC from the iconic Ferris wheel. Great for photos!
🍣 Explore Diverse Dining
From sushi to KBBQ, find delicious eats. Robata Wasa and Kalbi Social Club are highly recommended!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Ferris Wheel
Center of the complex
Soar above Orange County for breathtaking views. A must-do for a memorable experience and great photo ops!
Diverse Dining Scene
Throughout the center
From sushi to KBBQ, explore a culinary adventure with numerous highly-rated restaurants. Perfect for foodies!
Vibrant Shopping Destination
Numerous retail stores
Discover a wide array of trendy boutiques and popular brands. Ideal for fashion enthusiasts and gift shoppers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Dining and Shopping Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride the Ferris Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of OC from the iconic Ferris wheel. Great for photos!
🍣 Explore Diverse Dining
From sushi to KBBQ, find delicious eats. Robata Wasa and Kalbi Social Club are highly recommended! +1
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Discover a wide range of stores, from high-end to trendy boutiques. Perfect for a shopping spree! +1
🎬 Catch a Movie
The multiplex offers a great entertainment option. Check showtimes in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride the Ferris Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of OC from the iconic Ferris wheel. Great for photos!
🍣 Explore Diverse Dining
From sushi to KBBQ, find delicious eats. Robata Wasa and Kalbi Social Club are highly recommended! +1
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Discover a wide range of stores, from high-end to trendy boutiques. Perfect for a shopping spree! +1
🎬 Catch a Movie
The multiplex offers a great entertainment option. Check showtimes in advance.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Enjoy
The open-air layout is perfect for a leisurely walk and people-watching.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Irvine Spectrum Center for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options, and the iconic Ferris wheel, making it a great place to hang out and enjoy a day or evening. While some find the shopping selection a bit limited, the overall experience is considered enjoyable for social gatherings, movies, and casual strolls.
"It's a big place and there's lots of friendly people ready to help... And take your money. I thought the seat prices are a bit high, but they give the overall impression of quality. Take now that when you use the delivery service of food and drinks to your seats, that a $2 to goes a long way to getting extra napkins, popcorn butter, salt, ice for your drink, and so forth. Once again, they make movie hoping difficult. Seems to me that if you pay to go in and use an entry seat in a nearly empty theatre, they would build goodwill. Que sera sera."
jsa trades
"It's always a great place to hang out and window shop. All the eating places here are great. Especially when waiting for downtime to cool down before for the next soccer game. It's pretty clean. Great selection to come for a soccer tournament weekend."
Alejandro Kerns
"Went here to buy a gift and was distracted by all of my favorite, trendy stores. Lots of shopping and dining options here - but my top 5 girly-girl stores includes: Kestan, Isabelle’s Cabinet, Francesca’s, Nectar, and N.Cat - all of them have beautiful clothing with lots of frills, ultra femininity, chiffon, lace and ruffles, vintage and shabby chic, and the latter is an amazing hair accessory store! I’ve listed the name of the store under each photo."
tiffany
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Irvine Spectrum Center is conveniently located near the I-5 and 405 freeways in Irvine, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options are also available, though less direct. 
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Irvine Spectrum Center, including both free and paid options. Valet parking is also an option for added convenience.
The center is designed for walking, with a pleasant open-air layout. For longer distances or to simply enjoy the scenery, consider riding the Ferris wheel for a unique perspective.
Yes, it's about a 25-minute drive from Disneyland, making it a great stop before or after a theme park visit.
The main address is 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Irvine Spectrum Center is free. You only need to purchase tickets for specific attractions like the movie theater or the Ferris wheel.
Operating hours can vary by store and restaurant, but the center generally opens around 10 AM and closes around 9 PM on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Irvine Spectrum Center frequently hosts events, including live music, holiday celebrations, and seasonal activities. Check their website or social media for current event listings.
Generally, pets are not allowed in the common areas of the Irvine Spectrum Center, though service animals are permitted. Some outdoor dining patios may allow pets, so it's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Yes, there is a fee to ride the Ferris Wheel. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to check the current rates at the ticket booth.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The Irvine Spectrum Center offers a diverse range of stores, from popular national brands like Urban Outfitters and Fabletics to high-end retailers and unique boutiques. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to home goods and specialty items. +1
Popular dining options include Robata Wasa for sushi, Kalbi Social Club for KBBQ, and Javier's for Mexican cuisine. There are also many other choices, from fast-casual to fine dining. +2
Yes, while there are upscale options, you can also find more budget-friendly choices like fast-casual restaurants and cafes. The Reddit community suggests looking for places that aren't too expensive for college students.
Yes, the movie theater at Irvine Spectrum Center offers a delivery service for food and drinks to your seat. It's noted that a small tip can go a long way for extra amenities. [^Review]
MINISO at the Irvine Spectrum Center is a great spot for anime finds and goodies, including figures and collectibles.
📸 📸 Photography & Entertainment
The Ferris wheel offers great panoramic shots. The overall architecture and vibrant atmosphere also make for excellent photo opportunities, especially during holidays or special events. +1
Yes, there is a large multiplex cinema at the Irvine Spectrum Center, offering a wide selection of current films.
Beyond shopping and dining, you can enjoy the Ferris wheel, catch a movie, and sometimes find live music or other performances. New entertainment venues like Hijinx Hotel are also set to open.
Yes, the Irvine Spectrum Center is family-friendly with attractions like the Ferris wheel and a movie theater. The open-air environment is also pleasant for a stroll with children. +1
The Irvine Spectrum Center has a vibrant, open-air atmosphere that is visually appealing and well-maintained, making it a pleasant place to spend time with friends or family.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Ferris wheel, the multiplex cinema provides entertainment for all ages. While specific play areas might be limited, the general atmosphere is lively and engaging for children. Consider visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more relaxed for your family.
💸 Budget Travelers & Students
Window shopping is always free, and simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, people-watching, and taking photos of the architecture and Ferris wheel can be a great way to spend time. Look for special promotions or happy hour deals at restaurants. The multiplex cinema can also be a relatively affordable entertainment option, especially if you catch an early show. [^Review]
couples
Catching a movie at the multiplex cinema or simply strolling hand-in-hand through the lively outdoor complex provides a relaxed and enjoyable evening. The variety of shops also offers opportunities for browsing and perhaps a small, thoughtful gift.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Irvine Spectrum Experience: More Than Just a Mall
[^Review]Visitors often highlight the iconic Ferris wheel as a must-do attraction, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. This, combined with a diverse range of restaurants and a multiplex cinema, positions the Spectrum as a comprehensive entertainment complex rather than just a shopping destination. The variety of experiences available ensures there's something for everyone, from families to couples looking for a night out.
While it boasts a wide selection of stores, some reviews suggest that the shopping variety might be somewhat limited compared to larger retail hubs. However, the overall ambiance, coupled with the extensive dining options and entertainment, makes the Irvine Spectrum Center a compelling place to visit for a well-rounded day out. [^Review]
Culinary Delights at Irvine Spectrum
Standout recommendations include Robata Wasa for its sushi and ambiance, perfect for date nights, and Kalbi Social Club for an exceptional KBBQ experience. For those seeking other cuisines, options like Javier's offer Mexican delights. The variety ensures that whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, you'll find a satisfying choice.
Even for those on a budget, like college students mentioned on Reddit, there are affordable dining choices available. The center's layout also allows for easy exploration of different eateries, making it a great place to discover new favorite spots.
Shopping Sprees and Retail Therapy
+1The center houses a wide array of stores, from well-known retailers like Urban Outfitters and Fabletics to more specialized shops. Some reviewers highlight specific stores known for their feminine styles, such as Kestan and Francesca's, while others point to the availability of high-end brands. [^Review]
Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, a special gift, or simply enjoy window shopping, the Irvine Spectrum Center offers a comprehensive retail experience. The open-air setting adds to the enjoyment, making a shopping trip here a pleasant outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit