WELCOME TO GREAT PARK
THE HISTORY OF GREAT PARK
Learn how a retired military base, with a rich agricultural history, began a whole new life as a great metropolitan space — Great Park. Great Park currently has over 450-acres of developed parkland. Its investments have failed to produce the idyllic natural haven it was envisioned to be. Amenities emphasized by the ParkScore index such as basketball hoops, dog parks, playgrounds, senior centers, and splash pads live up to the scale of vision of the Great Park master plan.
Overview Of The Great Park
A Community That Showcases Thought
20, 890
No. of Households
54,368
Total Population
34.2
Median Age
$151,934
Average Household Income
95.22 %
Employment Rate
95.4%
Graduation Rate
Top Outdoor Activities Available The Great Park
Crafted with a focus on family and community, the meticulously designed Portola Springs Village in Irvine provides expansive, scenic surroundings and a plethora of luxurious amenities akin to those found in resorts. With more than fifteen parks in Irvine situated close to the newly built residences in Portola Springs, residents can enjoy leisurely strolls along the open space trails.
01
Take A Moment To Marvel At The Great Park Balloon
The Great Park Balloon is Great Park’s iconic attraction. With the ability to soar 400 feet above the surrounding landscape, it serves as a public observation deck for Great Park’s development and offers an unmatched 360° view that spans 40 miles on a clear day.
02
Visit the Great Park Farmer's Market
The Great Park Farmer's Market is a bustling hub of activity, where locals and visitors alike gather to peruse a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and community spirit that defines this beloved market.
03
Embark On A Captivating Journey Through Time With Great Park's Walkable Historical Timeline
Great Park Walkable Historical Timeline is laid out on one of the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro's taxiways, and guides visitors through 162 significant historical events of global, national, state, and regional significance
04
Discover A Haven For Sports Enthusiasts At The Great Park Sports Facilities, Where State-Of-The-Art Amenities Cater To A Wide Range Of Activities
Great Park, presented by UCI Health, features amenities for tennis, volleyball, soccer, baseball, softball, and more. The Baseball & Softball Complex, as well as an additional 48 acres of amenities at the Great Park Sports Complex, are open to the community, featuring basketball courts and more soccer fields.
05
Explore the Kids Rock Playground
Welcome to the Kids Rock Playground, where imaginations soar and adventures abound! This vibrant playground is a haven for young explorers, featuring colorful structures, interactive elements, and safe, exciting play areas designed to spark creativity and endless fun for children of all ages.
Great Park
The Central Park Of The West!
Portola Springs earned the title of "Village of the Year" in 2019. This charming community offers picturesque landscapes, architectural marvels, and exceptional schools equipped with the latest technological amenities, all nestled within serene neighborhoods. With an abundance of parks, trails, pools, and convenient access to various shopping centers, Portola Springs stands as the perfect choice for any family.
Parks
Beacon Park
Cadence Park
Parasol Park
Pavillion Park
The Pools Park
Rise Park
Solis Park
Novel Park
Malls
Plaza Del LagoFive Points Plaza Irvine Spectrum Center® West Park Plaza Newport Coast Shopping Center
Restaurants
Irvine Breakfast Club
Postino Park Place
Nep Cafe By Kei Concepts
Burnt Crumbs
Bosscat Kitchen and Libations
Coffee Shops
Onyx Golf
Cooks Corner Coffee
Tru Bru Organic Coffee
Bunnye Cafe
Rose Cafe
Entertainment
Great Park Ballon Ride
Great Park Carousel
Great Park Gallery
Fivepoint Amphitheater
Gamers Luxury
Community Center + Rentable Facilities
Farm + Food Lab
Great Park Facilities
Sports Fields
Community Parks and Facilities
Schools In Great Park
Beacon Park Elementary
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27:1 Student to teacher ratio
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Best known for STEM, music and elective classes
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75.93% proficient or better in English Language Arts/Literacy and 74.32% proficient or better in Mathematics
Cadence Park
Elementary
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26:1 Student Teach ratio
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Acknowledged and won an award for being one of the most diverse schools in the country and state
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One of the most environmentally sustainable schools with a full functioning garden
Portola High School
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Irvine Unified’s newest public high school
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Brand New, 42 acre state-of-the-art campus
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Best of the Best K-12 Education Award in California and the Nation
Blast From The Past
The tale of the Great Park intertwines deeply with the pioneering spirit of James Irvine Sr. and his associates, who established the Irvine Ranch in 1864. This vast land, covering 110,000 acres, swiftly became a symbol of agricultural prosperity in Southern California.
Under James Irvine Sr.'s leadership, the Irvine Ranch flourished, cultivating various cash crops thriving in the region's fertile soil. From bountiful orange groves to extensive fields of lima beans, the ranch became a powerhouse of agricultural production. By 1910, the Irvine Ranch had garnered a reputation as one of California's most productive ventures, claiming the title of the world's leading producer of lima beans.
The success of the Irvine Ranch not only contributed to the region's economic growth but also influenced its cultural and social landscape. The influx of workers and settlers attracted to the promise of agricultural abundance laid the groundwork for the vibrant community that would later call Irvine home.
Tracing the early history of the Great Park, one recognizes the enduring legacy of innovation, resilience, and determination embodied by the pioneers who cultivated the land, paving the way for future generations. The agricultural heritage of the Irvine Ranch serves as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight that continue to shape Irvine's development.
The tranquility of Irvine's agricultural scenery was disrupted by the events of December 7, 1941, when the attack on Pearl Harbor plunged the United States into World War II. As the nation mobilized its forces and resources, the strategic importance of Southern California's vast land became increasingly evident.
Amidst the wartime urgency, the extensive fields of Irvine Ranch caught the attention of Lt. William J. Fox, a visionary leader whose foresight influenced Irvine's trajectory. Recognizing the area's strategic value for military operations, Lt. Fox advocated for the establishment of Marine Corps Air Station El Toro in 1942. This pivotal decision transformed Irvine's serene landscapes into a bustling military center.
Marine Corps Air Station El Toro swiftly became a cornerstone of America's defense infrastructure, playing a vital role in personnel training, aircraft testing, and serving as a crucial departure point for troops heading to war zones. The base's strategic location, coupled with its state-of-the-art facilities, positioned it as a key element in the United States' military strategy during and after World War II.
In the post-war era, Marine Corps Air Station El Toro continued its essential operations, adapting to new challenges and evolving military priorities. For decades, the base stood as a symbol of strength, resilience, and national pride, embodying the sacrifices and dedication of its personnel.
However, with geopolitical shifts, the era of Marine Corps Air Station El Toro came to an end. In 1999, amidst changing military priorities and global dynamics, the base ceased operations, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in Irvine's history.
Today, the Orange County Great Park serves as a dynamic testament to Irvine's dedication to providing unparalleled recreational, cultural, and community experiences. The park's diverse range of attractions and amenities continue to attract visitors from near and far, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
At the heart of the Great Park's cultural offerings are the Palm Court Arts Complex and Great Park Gallery. These vibrant spaces serve as hubs of creativity, showcasing a diverse array of exhibitions, performances, and cultural events. From contemporary art installations to live music concerts, the Palm Court Arts Complex and Great Park Gallery embody the park's commitment to celebrating artistic expression and fostering cultural exchange.
In addition to its cultural vibrancy, the Great Park is also home to a wide range of recreational facilities catering to active lifestyles and outdoor enthusiasts. Sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas provide opportunities for families and friends to gather and engage in leisure activities. The park's expansive green spaces and scenic trails offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and enjoy moments of relaxation and rejuvenation.