California Family Destination Guide

Dana Point Ocean Institute Located next to the Dana Point harbor and the Pacific Ocean, the Ocean Institute offers science and maritime history programs to youth during the week, and is open to the general public on weekends, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visitors can enjoy ocean-themed exhibits, marine life touch tanks and aquaria with hundreds of marine creatures. Institute staff and volunteers are on hand to share the secrets of our seas. Unique maritime and ocean-themed items are available in the Chambers Gallery everyday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Institute address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. For an added charge, visitors can enjoy marine mammal cruises onboard the Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer or sail onboard the tall ship Spirit of Dana Point. Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr. Dana Point, CA 92629

Goat Hill Junction in Fairview Park has been operated by the Orange County Model Engineers for about 16 years. They have grown from 600 feet of track to over 20,000 feet of track that takes riders on a 12- to 15-minute journey through the park. Club members operate over 40 gas and steam powered model locomotives. Orange County Model Engineers members offer train rides every third Saturday and Sunday of the month from 10 am to 3:30 pm. Rides are free but they do accept donations. There is also a gift shop and snack bar. Birthday parties can be booked and a a train crew is provided for your private use. This is a great place to take your kids and have good family fun. Ask about their children’s birthday party events. Goat Hill Junction is loacted in Fairview Park in Costa Mesa, California.
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