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Located near the center of Orange County, California, Irvine is a planned community that features broad and well-maintained avenues, numerous bike trails and sidewalks bordered by manicured foliage. One of the county's biggest green spaces is located here: the Great Park spans almost 1,300 acres, which is twice the size of New York's Central Park. For more colorful pursuits, the Fine Arts Center offers classes on the visual arts and ever-changing exhibits in its halls.

Key facts

At only 5 miles away, John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the closest airport, which primarily services domestic routes. Foreign visitors can arrive through Los Angeles International (LAX), which is 45 miles away. A car is the best way to reach both airports, although shuttles and taxis are also available. A car is also the best way to get around town, with free and plentiful parking available.

Hints and tips

Early humans occupied the area up to 18,000 years ago, while Gabrielino natives occupied the area around 2,000 years ago. The city was formally incorporated in 1971, though planned communities grew in Irvine from the 1960's. The weather is typically sunny and mild with average highs in the low 80's during summer and average lows in the 40's during winter, when a few inches of rain arrive.