This unique park is unlike any we have ever been to before. Totally worth the hype and price of admission, which is a small fee. This park is completely enclosed with one way in and out and offers multiple areas for play. You can easily spend the whole day here getting lost in the fantasy world of Atlantis!
A summary of our visit to Atlantis Play Center
We arrived and had a slightly difficult time finding the entrance. The directions lead us to the back side of the enclosed playground, where the Garden Grove Sports and Recreation Center is located. (off of Deodara Dr). The entrance to the Atlantis Play Center is at the end of Atlantis Way. (makes sense) Street parking and a parking lot are available on this side.
Welcome to Atlantis
We parked and walked to the entrance where there is a window to the left to pay to enter. It is $2 for ages 3 years and up and free for ages 2 years and younger. (Cash only)
After, we walked over to the picnic tables on the right and put our stuff down. At first glance we saw a splash pad which we did not know was at this park. We were very excited for some water play!
Exploring Atlantis
We decided to check out the rest of the park before heading to the splash pad. Cement walkways lead from one area to the next, which is nice if you are towing a wagon or have a stroller. We walked past the splash pad and found ourselves in a wide-open area with a huge dragon slide! The kids LOVED this slide. You climb up a small hill in order to slide down the dragon’s neck.
We moved on down the walkway and found some neat swings and a whale slide. The kids climbed up the back of the whale and slid down out of its mouth. We also discovered a brick bridge that led to another small playground. Continuing our journey, brought us under the bridge to an area where we spent a good portion of our time, the carousel. My kids are fans of spinning toys and will spin until they drop.
Splish Splash
It was finally that time and we made our way over to the splash pad. We had a good time splashing through the water and climbing on the sea creatures. The water is on a timer, and we needed to activate it every once in a while. The button to turn on the water was acting up and a few of us adults had difficulty getting it to work, but it was a good time, nonetheless.
Final Thoughts
We enjoyed our time here! My kids absolutely loved exploring Atlantis! The plants were well kept and the area itself was taken care of, but you could tell the play equipment had seen better days. It was a shame to see the slides and playsets so rough looking with paint chipping and scuffed up. I wish the play equipment was taken care of and kept up to date. Other than that, it was a fun park to explore and will be back in the future!
Details to plan this adventure:
- Address: 13630 Atlantis Way, Garden Grove, CA 92844
- Parking Fee: Free
- Entrance Fee: $2 per person ages 3 years and older, Free for children 2 and younger. (Cash only)
- Hours: *This park can be rented out. Check their website or call ahead of time to make sure the park is not closed for an event. (714) 892-6015
- Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm - Restrooms: Yes, there are restrooms at the front of the park, right next to the main picnic area.
- Accessibility: Paved walkways run throughout the center, making it easy to bring a stroller or wagon along with you. Some of the play-set areas have sand with no other way to reach the play equipment without walking through the sand. Some of the play areas had the rubber turf. There were also no accessible swings available.
- Shade: There are trees everywhere with plenty of shade throughout the play center. Most of the playground areas were not covered by shade. Come prepared with hats and sunscreen.
- Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed, but properly identified service animals are allowed.
- Picnic Area: Yes, there are a few picnic areas with picnic tables. You can also bring a blanket and set up on the grass.
- Food/Water: Food and water are permitted in the play center.
- Splash Pad Rules/hours of operation: (open during the summer only: Early June – Labor Day)
- 1) To start, locate the blue post and touch the Activator on the top of the cap.
- 2) Running, pushing or rough play is not allowed.
- 3) Toddlers who are not potty trained must wear swim diapers.
- 4) Diapers are not allowed.
- 5) Swimsuits must be worn at all times. (boxers/ underwear & jeans/denim are not allowed) Water shoes are permissible.
- 6) Shoes, food, and beverages are not allowed in the water area.
- 7) Children less than 5 years old must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
- 8) If the water area becomes too crowded, line and time limits will be implemented.
- 9) Park rules must be adhered to at all times.
- SMOKING is prohibited.
More Information: Atlantis Play Center | City of Garden Grove (ggcity.org)
Recommended Items:
- Towel and swimsuit (during splash pad season)
- Change of clothes
- Snacks/water (you may be here for a while)
