Balboa Fun Zone - a row of tennis shoes sitting on top of a tennis court
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Balboa Fun Zone

4.3
·668 reviews·Newport Beach, United States

A nostalgic seaside amusement park offering classic rides, arcade games, and ocean views on the Balboa Peninsula.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Balboa Fun Zone - a row of tennis shoes sitting on top of a tennis court

Balboa Fun Zone

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A nostalgic seaside amusement park offering classic rides, arcade games, and ocean views on the Balboa Peninsula.

4.3
(668 reviews)

"Multi generational memories made here. Staff were so friendly. Highly recommend the Ferris wheel and the Ocean Motion ride."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride Tickets Cost

Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available!

🚗 Parking Tips

Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balboa Ferris Wheel

Balboa Ferris Wheel

Waterfront

Iconic waterfront Ferris wheel offering scenic views of the harbor and ocean. A classic for a reason!

TikTokInstagram
Balboa Arcade

Balboa Arcade

Inside the Fun Zone

Classic arcade games and modern challenges for all ages. Perfect for a fun-filled afternoon.

TikTokInstagram
Ocean Motion Ride

Ocean Motion Ride

Waterfront

A thrilling ride offering dynamic views and a splash of excitement by the water.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Balboa Fun Zone offers year-round fun, summer weekends can get packed. Consider weekdays or shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience. Check operating hours, especially outside of peak season, as they can be limited. Reddit

Parking & Smells

Parking can be a challenge, especially during busy times. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing. Be aware of a potential sulfur smell near the docks, which can be avoided by walking to the street. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, cooler temps
Crowd
High
When
Off-season weekdays
Why
Quieter, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Turns out you just need a little serotonin boost at @Balboa Fun Zone 🎡☀️🍔🕹️💙 #visitnewportbeach #newportbeach #balboafunzone #balboapeninsula #funzone
@visitnewportbeach
98 likes • 6K views

🎯 Ride Tickets Cost

Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available! InstagramReddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough! Reddit

Taking my travel adventures to new heights on the Balboa Fun Zone’s Ferris Wheel in Newport Beach, CA 🎡♥️📍FUN FACT: Childish Gambino filmed 3005 here with that cute teddy bear! 🧸🤎 The wheel was established in 1936 with ~ 6.5 M riders! It says that it could be the world’s longest Ferris wheel ride! And major plus it is $5 per rider!♥️ #theoc #ferriswheel #dateideas #datenight #sunset #newportbeachc...
@cu.behindthescenes
89 likes • 10.6K views
The Balboa Fun Zone is home to all things fun! Visitors can enjoy rides on the waterfront Ferris wheel, play games in the new @balboaarcade or enjoy the new @irvsburgers 🎡🕹️🍔 Balboa Fun Zone is also a popular place to rent bikes, harbor cruises, whale watching, or take off to Catalina Island. ⛴️🐳🚲 Balboa Fun Zone is located on the Balboa Peninsula across from Balboa Pier off Balboa Blvd. A publi...
visitnewportbeach
0 likes • 19.3K views

👃 Beware of Smells

A sulfur smell near the docks is common. Walk to the street to avoid it. Reddit

🎡 Ferris Wheel Fun

The Ferris wheel offers great views, but rides are short and can be pricey. Reddit

Nothing beats a beautiful day at the @balboaarcade!🏖️☀️ Games, sunshine, and smiles all around. The perfect way to spend a Friday! 🙌🕹️ #BalboaFunZone #FunZoneArcade #NewportBeachFun #ArcadeLife #FamilyFun #BalboaVillage #FridayFun #GoodVibes
balboaarcade
27 likes • 699 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride Tickets Cost

Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available! InstagramReddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough! Reddit

👃 Beware of Smells

A sulfur smell near the docks is common. Walk to the street to avoid it. Reddit

🎡 Ferris Wheel Fun

The Ferris wheel offers great views, but rides are short and can be pricey. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture nostalgic moments with ocean backdrops and vintage charm. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(668 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Balboa Fun Zone for its nostalgic charm and multi-generational appeal, with friendly staff enhancing the experience. It's a great spot for younger kids, offering classic amusement park fun. However, some find the ride prices a bit steep for the duration, and operating hours can be inconsistent outside of summer. The occasional sulfur smell near the docks is also a minor drawback for some. Reddit+2

"Multi generational memories made here. Staff were so friendly. Highly recommend the Ferris wheel and the Ocean Motion ride. Hours online are not accurate! Hours after summer season are limited."

Hector Torres

"It's a fun place to spend the afternoon with your family. Harbor cruise is a really good way to see Christmas lights. The food is OK priced and the rides are $6 a person per ride. There is a very strong fish/sulfur smell in between the boats docks and the fun zone. You can avoid buy walking out to the street if you get sick from bad smells. Also it gets very busy so make sure to get there extra early if you want to find parking or even better take a lift."

Dom

"We had about 45 min to kill so we stopped here to take the grandkids on the ferris wheel whic ended up being kind of spendy. I think it was 6$ per person for about a 5 minute ride. It’s kind of fun. It’s right along the water by the ferry. The girls liked the trampoline more than the Ferris wheel but I think it was 8$. They had to weigh at least 30 pounds and they got to jump for maybe 5 minutes."

Mark Taylor

What People Like

Nostalgic atmosphere
Friendly staff
Great for young kids

What People Dislike

Ride prices
Limited hours
Occasional smells

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Balboa Fun Zone is located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California. You can drive and find parking nearby, though it can be challenging during peak times. Alternatively, consider ride-sharing services. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are parking lots and street parking options, but they fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Arriving early is highly recommended. Reddit

While direct public transport to the Fun Zone itself might be limited, you can explore Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus routes that serve the Newport Beach area, with potential transfers. TikTok

Yes, the Balboa Island Ferry is a charming way to reach the Balboa Peninsula, and the Fun Zone is a short walk from the ferry landing. TikTokInstagram

To avoid traffic, plan your visit for weekdays or during the off-season. If visiting on a weekend, aim for early morning. Ride-sharing can also help bypass parking hassles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry into the Balboa Fun Zone itself is generally free. However, individual rides and arcade games require tickets or payment. Reddit

Individual rides, like the Ferris wheel, typically cost around $6 per person. Some attractions, like trampolines, might be slightly more. InstagramReddit

Occasionally, there are promotions, such as free Ferris wheel rides with a meal purchase at adjacent restaurants like Irv's Burgers. Keep an eye out for these deals! Instagram+1

Operating hours can vary, especially after the summer season. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Tickets for individual rides are usually purchased on-site at the ticket booths. There isn't typically a need to buy them in advance unless a special event is occurring. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

The main attractions include the iconic Ferris wheel, a classic arcade, bumper cars, and other carnival-style rides. It's a nostalgic spot for family fun. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Balboa Fun Zone is great for younger kids with rides like the Ferris wheel and trampolines. Many visitors find it a good experience for families. Reddit

The arcade features a mix of classic video games, redemption games where you can win prizes, and skill-based challenges. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the rides, you can enjoy the waterfront views, take a harbor cruise, or even catch a ferry to Balboa Island. TikTokInstagram

The Ocean Motion is a popular ride that offers a dynamic experience with views of the ocean and harbor, providing a thrilling yet family-friendly adventure. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

You'll find classic amusement park fare like burgers, fries, and funnel cakes. Irv's Burgers is a notable new addition. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, there are several dining options in Balboa Village, including Irv's Burgers right next to the Fun Zone, and various eateries along the peninsula. Instagram+1

While the Fun Zone is on the peninsula, the famous frozen bananas are a staple on Balboa Island, a short ferry ride away. Instagram

Food prices are typical for a tourist attraction, with meals generally ranging from $10-$20. Reddit

The focus is on classic amusement park food. For healthier options, you might need to explore further into Balboa Village or pack your own snacks. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Ferris wheel with the ocean backdrop, the colorful arcade, and the vintage signage offer great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Ferris wheel provides excellent panoramic views, making it a prime spot for capturing photos of the harbor and surrounding areas. TikTokInstagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with management if you plan extensive filming. Reddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Daytime provides bright, clear shots of the attractions and ocean. TikTok

The Fun Zone has been around since 1936, so many of its structures and the overall atmosphere offer a nostalgic, vintage feel perfect for historical-themed photos. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Balboa Fun Zone is a fantastic destination for families with young children. The rides, like the Ferris wheel and trampolines, are perfectly suited for little ones, offering a safe and fun environment. Reddit The arcade provides hours of entertainment with a variety of games. Consider taking advantage of any combo meal deals that might include free ride tickets to make the outing more budget-friendly. Instagram Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for potential crowds on weekends. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While individual rides can add up, the Balboa Fun Zone offers a free entry experience, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere without spending a fortune. Reddit Look for promotional deals, such as free Ferris wheel rides with food purchases at nearby establishments. Instagram+1 Enjoying the arcade games can be a more cost-effective way to have fun compared to some of the pricier rides. TikTok Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Balboa Fun Zone is a photographer's delight, offering a blend of vintage charm and coastal scenery. Capture the iconic Ferris wheel against the ocean backdrop, the colorful lights of the arcade, and the nostalgic street scenes. TikTokInstagram The golden hour before sunset provides particularly beautiful lighting for memorable shots. TikTok Don't forget to explore the surrounding Balboa Village for additional picturesque opportunities, including the historic ferry and Balboa Island. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Balboa Fun Zone, established in 1936, is a beloved landmark on the Balboa Peninsula. It began as a ground-level amusement park filled with rides and games, offering accessible fun for generations. TikTokInstagram While parts have been redeveloped over the years, the core of its nostalgic charm remains, making it a place where multi-generational memories are made. Reddit The area has seen significant investment, with plans for revitalization aiming to preserve its vintage appeal while enhancing the visitor experience. Instagram

This historic amusement park has been a backdrop for memorable moments, from childhood visits to sharing the experience with one's own children. Reddit Its enduring presence speaks to its ability to connect with visitors on an emotional level, offering a tangible link to the past. The Fun Zone's longevity is a testament to its ability to adapt while holding onto its core identity as a place of simple, joyful entertainment. TikTok

Navigating the Fun Zone Experience

Visiting the Balboa Fun Zone is a straightforward affair, but a few tips can enhance your day. Entry to the zone is free, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere. However, individual attractions like the Ferris wheel and arcade games require tickets, typically costing around $6 per ride. InstagramReddit It's worth noting that operating hours can be limited, especially outside the summer season, so checking in advance is crucial. Reddit

For those sensitive to smells, be aware that a sulfurous odor can sometimes be present near the docks. This is a common occurrence in harbor areas and can be easily avoided by walking a short distance to the main street. Reddit Parking is another consideration; arriving early or utilizing ride-sharing services can save you time and frustration, particularly on busy weekends. Reddit The Fun Zone is a fantastic spot for younger children, offering rides and games that are both engaging and age-appropriate. Reddit

Beyond the Rides: Exploring Balboa Village

The Balboa Fun Zone is just one part of the vibrant Balboa Village. Adjacent to the Fun Zone, you'll find a variety of dining options, including the newly opened Irv's Burgers, which has a history dating back to Route 66. Instagram+1 The area also serves as a hub for other activities. You can rent bikes to explore the peninsula, embark on scenic harbor cruises, or even set off on whale watching excursions. TikTokInstagram

For a unique experience, consider taking the historic Balboa Island Ferry, a short walk from the Fun Zone, to explore the charming shops and famous frozen bananas of Balboa Island. TikTokInstagram This proximity to diverse activities makes the Balboa Fun Zone a great starting point for a full day of exploration in Newport Beach, offering a blend of classic amusement park fun with coastal adventures. TikTok

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