FAQs

Project Details

We plan to break ground January 2025, and open by year-end 2026.
On the corner of Skyhawk & Marine Way in an area of the Great Park called the Cultural Terrace. Close to the softball fields and Wild Rivers. Across street from Second Harvest and Be Well.
We’re more than doubling our space. We’ll have 57,000 sq. feet of indoor learning space, meeting and office space, plus 20,000 outdoor oearning space. Our current learning space is 13,000 sq. feet.
Children – birth through 10 years old will benefit from the expanded programs, field trips, and learning spaces.
No, we are closing 29 Hubble and building everything from the ground up, including outdoor learning spaces and a full service restaurant. Pretend City will own the building and learning spaces.
Yes, there will be discounts on designated days throughout the year and resident discounts on membership.
We will be open Tuesday – Sunday from 10am-4pm
An outdoor space with a stream, gardens, construction zone and more.Inside, all the areas we love now updated, plus a plane above the city, a climbing structure, a tech lab, a pet center, and more.
OC Music & Dance, Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, and a Chinese Cultural Museum
Our hub will bring together expert partners and educators, ultimately establishing a one-stop shop for early childhood development where educators can grow their knowledge and families can thrive.

Campaign Details

Funding includes the generous City of Irvine, individuals, foundations, government, businesses and corporations.
Donors can donate cash, in-kind materials and labor, other assets, corporate matching gifts, or make a 3-5 year pledge. Contact Sue Harrison, Chief Development Officer
In-kind donations will support the construction and furnishings. Please contact Sue Harrison, Chief Development Officer, for a list of needs.
Yes, there is a large range of naming and sponsorship opportunities. Contact Sue Harrison, Chief Development Officer
Pretend City is a 501(c)3 educational nonprofit. Donors making qualified unrestricted and/or restricted gifts may receive tax benefits.
Yes, the Board of Directors are supportive of this project, and 100% are participating in the Campaign

Childhood only
happens once

With your help, we can amplify impact. We can meet all children, from all walks of life, at this critical moment in their lives and continue to inspire futures shaped by rich creative experiences.