Irvine Spectrum Center

Spectrum Center is such a beautiful mall, with stunning fountains, magnificent lights, a 75-foot Christmas tree, and a giant Ferris wheel. From the Ferris wheel, you'll be higher than the tops of the palm trees and can see the freeways and the entire area.

This is a large outdoor shopping center with plenty to do and many options to choose from. Whether it's ice skating, shopping, watching a movie, or playing games, this place has something for everyone.

Also, make sure to visit the Hello Kitty Café to enjoy some delicious treats! But be prepared, as the line can get very long, so plan ahead. This is my favorite mall, and I highly recommend it!

I'm not a fan of giant malls and I'm an even less of a fan of giant crowds. Irvine spectrum has both

Parking is an adventure too. It's always packed and the structure although free is crazy.

I think the outdoor areas are nice but it doesn't make up for the sheer density of people all over the place unfortunately

The Irvine Spectrum Center is a vibrant lifestyle center developed by the Irvine Company, located in the Irvine Spectrum district on the southeastern edge of Irvine, California. This popular destination features major department stores such as Nordstrom and Target, along with a variety of attractions including a Giant Wheel Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a Regal Cinemas 21-screen movie theater. The center has evolved over the years, with its development spanning a decade. The first phase opened in 1995, followed by subsequent phases in 1998, 2002, and additional expansions between 2005 and 2006.

The planning for the Irvine Spectrum Center began as early as 1985. By 1989, the Irvine Company had completed two 15-story office towers at the site, laying the groundwork for what would become a major retail and entertainment hub. Construction of the entertainment portion, initially called the "Entertainment Center at the Irvine Spectrum Center," began in 1993, culminating in the opening of its first phase in 1995. This initial phase included Edwards Cinemas' 21-screen multiplex, the Oasis Food Court, and GameWorks. The second phase, completed in 1998, expanded the offerings significantly.

The center's iconic carousel, crafted in San Francisco, was added in 2001, followed by the introduction of the Giant Wheel Ferris wheel in 2002, which became a centerpiece of the center. Manufactured in Italy by Westech Limited, the Ferris wheel features open-air gondolas that seat up to six people and is situated near Nordstrom. That same year, two anchor stores, Robinsons-May and Nordstrom, were introduced. Following Macy's acquisition of Robinsons-May in 2006, the Robinsons-May store was rebranded as Macy's, though it eventually closed in 2016. Target was added as a third anchor during an expansion in 2006. Since then, smaller enhancements have included the Clock Court restaurants, a children's play area, and seasonal attractions.

One of the center's signature winter attractions is its seasonal ice skating rink, which has been offered since 2003. Sponsored by the Anaheim Ducks, the rink is located outdoors in front of the Ferris wheel and provides a festive activity for all ages. During the holiday season, the Irvine Spectrum Center becomes especially lively, with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree that changes colors, accompanied by music that enhances the festive atmosphere.

The Irvine Spectrum Center is also home to one of California's two Hello Kitty Cafes. This themed dessert cafe is inspired by the beloved Sanrio character Hello Kitty, offering a variety of adorable desserts and beverages. The cafe is a favorite among visitors for its whimsical decor and numerous photo opportunities.

With its vast array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, the Irvine Spectrum Center is known for its lively and positive energy, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the center offers something for everyone.

Spectrum always fun and classy with music especially during holidays. Skating rink December. Always festive!

Lots of shopping selection from major retailers, boutique shops, food and entertainment too!

Service is usually very good with varying costs and value proposals.

A great shopping center filled with a variety of food selections. Stores range from high end to affordable while dining options range from casual to date night.

I love coming here during the holiday season because of how festive they decorate this place. As someone in their 20s, I love the variety of shops they have like Urban Outfitters, Sephora, and Anthropology. My recent visit here, I visited The Dive Oyster Bar and had fantastic oysters. They also have casual spots like The Melt or fancier spots like Habana. During the holiday season, you can also enjoy some fun ice skating with a live DJ. This mall also has a ferris wheel that overlooks Irvine. Parking here is offered as both self and valet. There's a few floors for the parking structure so finding a spot shouldn't been too difficult.

Nice outdoor mall with lots of restaurants and a variety of retail stores. We went on Black Friday and they had so many pop up locations with free treats for guests. The mall is dog friendly too, so my cousin frequently brings his dogs for walks there.

We went on the giant wheel and got a birdseye view of the area.

Irvine Spectrum Center is easily one of the nicest outdoor shopping malls I've visited. There's plenty of parking available in both lots and parking structures, which is a relief for such a popular spot. The entire area feels clean, new, and feels safe, making it a family-friendly location. The common areas are beautifully maintained with lots of seating, greenery, and gorgeous lighting at night, adding to the ambiance.

The mall has an impressive variety of shops and restaurants. For food options, you'll find everything from Yard House and Pho Saigon Pearl to Del Frisco's Grille, Chipotle, and The Cheesecake Factory. If you're in the mood for drinks or snacks, there's Pressed, SomiSomi, and the adorable Hello Kitty Cafe. Shopping is plentiful as well, with options like Nordstrom, Anthropologie, and Sephora.

Aside from shopping and dining, there's plenty to do for entertainment. You can hop on the Ferris Wheel, hang out at Dave & Buster's, catch a movie at Regal Cinema, enjoy a show at Irvine Improv, or try out VR gaming at Odyssey VR.

Overall, Irvine Spectrum Center truly offers something for everyone with its wide range of stores, restaurants, and activities. It's the perfect spot to spend a day out with family or friends!

Huge outdoor shopping mall! So many stores and dinning :) so much things to choose if you are not decided which or where you want to go to spend the whole day :) recommend this place
Parking is so insane on weekends!
Come in this time of the year - Christmas- lots of lights and fun things to do
Be aware when you go into restroom, if you not notice you will go one side and go out another side of the mall, don't get lost

Spectrum is great. Lots of shopping, lots of activities. Lots of food.

I used to like it more years ago when it was less crowded. I'd say come on a weekday to avoid the crowds!

This place is full of criminals. I got pick-pocketed here and fortunately the police caught the thieves stealing phones from everyone . The mall itself doesn't even have any good sites, It's a mall soley for teens- think cheap garbage like HM, brandy melville etc. the cheapest, smallest Nordstrom I've ever been in which had no designer labels. It's so overcrowded too? With teens who have no where else to hang out. Never going back.