Best Kids' Valentine's Day Activities In OC

Valentine's Day is for lovers, and that includes your beloved children. You can take the kids with you to mess up your romantic dinner plans or leave them at home and worry about them while you fail to enjoy an evening out on your own. But a better idea is to take the whole family out for one of these charming, family-friendly Orange County attractions.

The Wizard of Oz
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
Date: Feb. 11-24, 2014 at 7:30pm
www.anaheimoc.org/wizard-oz-segerstrom-center-arts

An American family classic comes to this exquisite Orange County stage in time for Valentine's Day. Based upon your kids' Christmas lists, they have a not entirely healthy obsession with killing zombies and listening to questionable pop bands. For something a little more wholesome, take a chance on this spectacle you loved when you were a kid. Admittedly, back in the day, there was less pressure to follow terrible entertainers and there certainly weren't this many zombies. The Segerstrom always puts on a good show, however. And isn't any opportunity worth getting the kids off their devices?

Travels with Millard Sheets
Laguna Art Museum
307 Cliff Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-8971
Date: Through June 1, 2014
www.lagunaartmuseum.org

Orange County weather is perfect, even at Valentine's Day, although even the stoutest of families find it difficult to enjoy the beach in February. You can still go to the beach but remain protected from the elements at the Laguna Art Museum. While there, tour the climate-controlled galleries and visit the featured exhibit featuring California artist Millard Sheets. Arriving in time for Valentine's Day, experience a local master's travels around the world through the artist's own eyes. It may not be champagne and roses, but the kids don't like those things anyway, and if they're not careful, they might learn how much they enjoy art.

What do you mean running is not romantic? Be honest. If you were committed to romance, would you be searching around for something to do with your kids on Valentine's Day? Way cheaper than a lobster dinner, nothing says "I love you" like chasing your much faster children around a pleasant, if hilly Irvine neighborhood. Enjoy a beautiful, yet challenging USATF-certified course that separates the dedicated Valentine's Day runner from the shortsighted, compulsive St. Patrick's Day stumbler. There is also a 1K option for those intent on overindulging on an impractical dinner on the 14th.

Related: Best Unique Holiday Experiences For Kids In OC

Whale Watching Cruise
Dana Point Harbor
34675 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 496-5794
www.danawharf.com/whalewatch.html

Do you remember every movie your parents took you to see when you were a kid? Of course not. Do you remember that time you went whale watching, sailed on a beautiful boat and saw a ton of sea life? Your kids will, and they will love you for it. Dolphins and whales are everywhere right now, and you can witness them live for about the same cost as a night at Cinepolis. Sail the harbor and open ocean on new, clean, safe vessels with an extraordinary sighting-success rate. Adults may purchase a glass of wine or champagne for an extra special Valentine's touch.

Silver Stirrup Riding Academy
Serrano Creek Ranch
25200 Trabuco Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 354-3603
www.silverstirrupridingacademy.com

"More than a trip around the arena," get some quality saddle time on a fantastic mount and build some incredible family memories. Sure, you can take that special someone for a romantic horseback escape. But why humiliate yourself when she sees you can't ride? Instead, bring the whole family for some lessons. Silver Stirrup offers entertainment, learning and a true bonding experience. You and your children will become closer and build an appreciation for and understanding of nature and these magnificent animals.

Related: OC's Best Spots For Family Photos

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