Fairview Park is the city’s largest park, with a total of 208 acres, including 195 acres of open space – natural area and 13 acres of manicured landscape. There are two Nationally Registered Cultural Resource Historic Sites and five unique habitat ecosystems inside the 195 acres of open space, which are home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species. Picnicking, kite flying, wildlife observation, environmental education, and 7 miles of walking and bicycle paths are all available at the park, which serves as a regional gateway to the Santa Ana River Trail, the Orange Coast River Park, and the adjacent Orange County Talbert Regional Park. A miniature train and a model airplane flying field, both maintained by collaborating non-profits, are also located in the park, which also holds a number of City-wide special events throughout the year. (Source: Costa Mesa City of the Arts)
A tangle of tall wildflowers blooms in the spring along a succession of short trails on the plateau. A wooden platform with benches sits in the middle of one trail. People can sit here in the late afternoon and watch several little birds dart in and out of the blooms. Another trail goes to a riverbed with a well-preserved California scenery featuring massive oak trees, vast grass, and native California plant fields. All the way down to the shore is bike and running routes. (Image Source – The Orange County Register)
The Canary Drive entrance, the Placentia Avenue wetlands crosswalk, and the pedestrian bridge connecting the west and east sides of Fairview Park provide access to trails and the finest flower viewing.
Every June, the Costa Mesa Lions Club presents its annual Fish Fry at Fairview Park. Between 10,000 and 20,000 people attend the event. There are carnival rides and prize drawings, and admission is free. Fish dinners cost $10. There is also a variety of entertainment available. The Fish Fry is held to aid local schools, clubs, and other community organizations generate funds.
Dentistry at Its Finest is nearby. Other fun things to do: Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
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