Irvine’s park system has, once again, been ranked in the top 10 in the nation by the Trust for Public Land. It’s the seventh year in a row the city has received the recognition.

“It’s clear that Irvine is promoting health and well being in the community,” says Sadiya Muqueeth, director of community health at the Trust for Public Land. “Sunlight, fresh air, exercise and access to nature all have a positive effect on our physical health and emotional well-being.”

As we created the Irvine Master Plan, a distinct emphasis was placed on parks. In fact, that document, written in the 1960s, called for a place “where both people and nature will thrive.” 

The fruits of that early commitment are visible across the city.

According to the Trust for Public Land, Irvine’s parks encompass 37% of the city – more than twice the national median of 15% – providing exceptional park access. Irvine residents live, on average, just 172 steps from a park, compared to the Orange County average of 645 steps, helping to make Irvine one of the healthiest cities in America. In total, there are 277 parks in town with 44 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents – more than double Portland, Oregon and Boise, Idaho.

Read the 2022 Parks Guide to find your favorite park in town.