Featuring a wide variety of trains, Goat Hill Junction Railroad is operated by the Orange County Model Engineers. Furthermore, it includes close to five miles of actual track and showcases 1.5-inch, 2.5-inch, and 3.75-inch scale equipment. Explore more.
Additionally, Measure AA ensures that Fairview Park remains a nature park unless voters decide otherwise. The only exceptions include updates required for ADA compliance, habitat restoration, preservation, maintenance, or public safety.
208 Acres of Open Land
The 208 acres of Fairview Park create a true nature sanctuary. Moreover, the park’s landscape features diverse wildlife habitats, open grasslands, and scenic canyons. As a result, it serves as an ideal location for horseback riding, hiking, running, and biking. It is also home to the Goat Hill Junction Railroad, which offers model train rides on the third weekend of every month.
Furthermore, the park contains five distinct ecosystems and stands as the largest park in Orange County. It is also a Nationally Registered Cultural Resource Historic Site. Consequently, visitors can observe many species of birds, mammals, plants, and native trees. The park supports environmental, educational, and recreational activities such as birdwatching, wildlife observation, kite flying, and educational programs. However, wildlife agencies reported in 2021 that model aircraft flying conflicts with the park’s natural resources.
Fish Fry
The annual Fish Fry is a popular community event that raises funds for schools, clubs, and local organizations. Additionally, it features a parade, carnival rides, food vendors, raffles, and live music. The Costa Mesa–Newport Harbor Lions Club sponsors this long-running celebration.
The 208 acres of Fairview Park also include open fields, trails, hills, and forested areas. Moreover, wetlands and a wildflower preserve provide habitats for rare species. Consequently, the park remains ideal for hiking, walking, horseback riding, and running. It also hosts kite-flying events and serves as a gateway to the Orange County Talbert Regional Park.
The Fish Fry has taken place at Fairview Park since 2012 after relocating from Lions Park. This year, organizers scheduled the event later in September to avoid disrupting bird nesting activity. Volunteers will wear T-shirts featuring a Ferris wheel and the phrase “Last Ride at Fairview Park.” The event is expected to return to Lions Park next year. More places to also visit by clicking here.
Kite Flying
The large open spaces of Recreation Park are perfect for kite-flying family picnics or relaxed day trips. Additionally, visitors can enjoy walking trails and scenic views throughout the park.
The park also includes a model aircraft flying field operated by the Harbor Soaring Society and a miniature railroad run by the City of Costa Mesa. Therefore, both attractions remain open to the public and must follow the City of Costa Mesa Flying Field Rules.
The 10-acre Silver Lake Meadow offers a peaceful setting where families can enjoy nature together. It features a playground, sports fields, and courts for volleyball, tennis, and basketball, along with picnic tables. Moreover, native plants line the trails, making it an ideal escape from the pace of city life.
Model Airplanes
Costa Mesa is a highly walkable city, with many attractions located nearby. Additionally, public transportation is available through the Orange County Transportation Authority, with affordable one-way tickets and monthly passes. Alternatively, visitors can rent an RV in Orange County to explore the coastal region comfortably.
On the west end of Fairview Park, the Harbor Soaring Society has flown model aircraft for more than 60 years. However, wildlife agencies have stated that these activities conflict with sensitive natural resources, including vernal pools, riparian habitats, and coastal sage scrub.
Consequently, the City Council voted 5–2 to allow nonmechanical gliders to continue operating while staff updates the master plan for the 208-acre park and searches for alternative locations. A public hearing is scheduled for January, with a final decision expected by May. In the meantime, the familiar buzzing of radio-controlled aircraft remains a reminder of why residents value this peaceful and scenic park. Next blog post.
Driving directions from Omega Investment Insurance to Fairview Park
Driving directions from Fairview Park to The Reptile Zoo