Save the Fun Zone Campaign In Full Effect

This is an interesting time in the Newport Beach area.  There has been a proposal that the Balboa Fun Zone be replaced by the "ExplorOcean" Newport Harbor Nautical Museum. 

The Balboa Fun Zone is currently a collection of "carnival" like attractions and shops.  In the "fun zone," you can get candy, ride a Ferris wheel, or take the ferry to balboa island.  Let us not forget that the great sitcom Arrested Development was partially set at the Balboa Fun Zone.

On the other hand, The ExplorOcean Nautical Museum will be a modern $40-million center with many family attractions including a submarine simulator and a "4D" sensory theater (the "4th D" will be piped in smells or "aromarama") .  The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum currently is already in existence but a fraction of the size of the proposed expansion.  The proposed expansion would turn it into a sprawling 34,000 square foot complex and include open-air patios and a seafood restaurant overlooking Newport Harbor.  An artist rendering is pictured.

Conflicted Feelings

The Balboa Fun Zone the is so charming and is packed with memories for so many of us. Lots of clients have gotten jobs at the "Fun Zone" through the years and it has been a stepping stone for them as they advance to a fulfilling career  and life in recovery.  How many of us have strolled through the Fun Zone on a date or eaten taffy from Balboa Candy?

On the other hand, the childhood memories this blogger has of the Fun Zone are admittedly that it was a bit dingy and run down - even 30 years ago.  The expansion of the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum would possibly revitalize this area and make it a desired attraction  - like the Long Beach and Monterey Bay Aquarium.

One things for sure, as we know and say to our selves daily: "the only constant is change, so you better accept life on life's terms."

Learn more or get involved:

ExplorOcean Newport Harbor Nautical Museum Site

ExplorOcean Newport Harbor Nautical Museum Facebook Page

Balboa Village Fun Zone Facebook Page  - features frequent discussion of preserving Balboa Fun Zone

"I grew up in Newport Beach BEFORE it was the OC" Facebook Page - also features community discussion of Balboa Fun Zone

Upcoming Meetings -

One activist posted that stakeholders could attend a Balboa Village Meeting on November 3rd at the City Council Chambers.

Several activists are meeting Tina Hoffman at her regular morning meeting at the Newport Landing Restaurant at 8:30 AM on November 8th. It is the "Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month Balboa B.I.D. (Business Improvement District)" meeting.