All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, and leaves his (or her) family feeling floppy. Hotel Irvine has the remedy, having created a hybrid hotel that serves the needs of both families and business travelers beautifully. It’s genius.
A hotel like this makes perfect sense here in Orange County – we’ve got an easy access airport, Disneyland, and beach activities galore. All of this available year round. For a traveling business person with family, a work trip to Orange county for work can easily flip into the opportunity to take a fantastic family vacation.
Thanks to Hotel Irvine for hosting my family in order to facilitate this review
Enter Hotel Irvine, an airport close, centrally located Orange County hotel that has anticipated the needs of both business travelers and families, perfectly.
Once upon a time this hotel was a Hyatt, catering more to the business crowd. But after undergoing extensive renovations it has emerged from it’s chrysalis as a unique boutique property that does far more than pay the (current standard among large chains) lip service to “family friendly” than offering chocolate chip cookies and a coloring sheet. In fact Hotel Irvine’s casual resort atmosphere makes their family friendly activities and offerings so attractive that it’s become a hang out for local families as well as travelers. Guests at the property also appreciate the spacious rooms.
Here’s what makes this hotel so unique, and welcoming to families:
The Marketplace – a 24 hour high end convenience market in the lobby that sells an amazing variety of fresh locally sourced products as well as wholesome favorites, at reasonable prices, no mark-up. This is pretty much unheard of at a hotel! It’s like having a Whole Foods mini market at your disposal. You can also get your Starbucks coffee and sandwiches and pizza at the marketplace.
I have a hard time finding healthy gluten free foods for my family at regular markets but found plenty to eat here. In fact I’ll be coming back to the Marketplace at Hotel Irvine for lunch!
Movie Nights in the Backyard – a super fun family event that draws locals. Come and watch your favorite classics outdoors, with treats and snacks from the Marketplace, and food and drinks available for purchase. Choose from burgers and dogs, fries, roast some S’mores and there’s even a signature cocktail themed to the movie. Bueller? Bueller? Anyone?
Duffy Boat Rental – This might be my favorite option for family entertainment in the OC. We’d never been on a Duffy boat before and now I have to wonder why we waited so long. It’s insanely fun to tool around in your own private pleasure boat complete with fridge, sound system and comfy seats. Also relaxing. My kids fell asleep for part of the trip! The hotel can arrange for guests to rent a Duffy Boat for cruising around Newport/Balboa. Look out for Sea Lions sunning themselves on yachts!
Eats Kitchen and Bar – Hotel Irvine has a award-winning Chef Jason in residence and EATS offers up some original fare as well as your favorites. There’s an emphasis on farm to table and an eclectic and delicious menu. We especially loved the pickled fresh veggies!
Club 12 Concierge Area– is a perfect place to host a quiet meeting or to pop in for snacks and refreshment for yourself and the kids. This hosted space that offers breakfast and afternoon hor deourves, as well as computers for you use to send a quick email or get a spot of work done, is a boon to family travelers and worth the upgrade!
Pool, Game and Lounge areas – There’s just a friendly laid back feeling throughout the property that welcomes guests to hang out. Outdoor areas boast firepits and giant Jenga games. Indoor areas have several different comfortable areas for playing cards, enjoying conversation and general lounging with the kids. And yes… there is a pool! My kids need to know there is a pool at any hotel we travel to for family fun. Do yours?
Winter, spring, summer or fall, I cannot imagine a more family AND biz friendly hotel to visit. Check out Fall Specials below:
GOOD EATS BRUNCH – EATS KITCHEN & BAR
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS / 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
With brunch this good, why limit to just one day? Join us for weekend brunch on both Saturday and Sunday mornings at EATS Kitchen & Bar, and enjoy classic breakfast favorites with contemporary twists. Add even more flavor with $15 build-your-own bottomless mimosas.
For a limited time, purchase a brunch entrée on Saturday mornings, and we’ll treat you to a complimentary mimosa bar*! Mention code “MIMOSA” to your server to receive this deal. *Restrictions apply.
THANKSGIVING IN THE BACKYARD THURSDAY, NOV 28TH / 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen and into The Backyard. Join our Thanksgiving feast with a cornucopia of food stations, a dessert station, live music from a solo guitarist, face painting, a photo booth, giant lawn games, petting zoo and more.
$79 per adult, $37 ages 5 – 12. Pricing excludes tax and gratuity.
HOLIDAY MIXOLOGY CLASSES – RED BAR AND LOUNGE
DECEMBER 6TH & 20TH / 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
This holiday season, shake up a good time at Red Bar and Lounge. On select Fridays in December, you’re invited to shake, mix and muddle customized holiday cocktails in our interactive mixology classes. Cheers!
$60 per person. Pricing excludes tax and gratuity. Maximum of 12 guests per class.
Advance reservations required on Eventbrite.
More information, event menus and happenings on the Hotel Irvine Website
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