The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Anaheim, CA: Beyond Disneyland
Experience the Magic of Disneyland Resort
No visit to Anaheim is complete without a trip to the world-famous Disneyland Resort. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Disney veteran, the magic never gets old. The resort consists of two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, each offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
Disneyland Park: Where the Magic Began
Disneyland Park, also known as the “Happiest Place on Earth,” is where Walt Disney’s vision first came to life. Classic attractions like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain are must-dos. Don’t forget to watch the nighttime fireworks display for a truly magical end to your day.
Disney California Adventure: Thrills and Adventure
Adjacent to Disneyland Park is Disney California Adventure, where you’ll find more thrilling rides and immersive experiences. Highlights include the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land. If you love Pixar films, Pixar Pier is the perfect place to relive the stories of your favorite characters.
Catch an Anaheim Ducks Game at Honda Center
If you’re a sports fan, catching an Anaheim Ducks hockey game at the Honda Center is a must. The Ducks, Anaheim’s NHL team, bring excitement to the ice, and the Honda Center is a great venue to watch the action unfold.
Other Events at Honda Center
Beyond hockey, the Honda Center also hosts a variety of events, including concerts by world-renowned artists, family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice, and other sporting events. Check the venue’s calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
Explore Adventure City for Family-Friendly Fun
Adventure City may not be as famous as Disneyland, but this smaller, family-friendly amusement park is perfect for those traveling with young children. With affordable admission and shorter lines, Adventure City offers a more relaxed theme park experience.
Kid-Friendly Rides and Attractions
Adventure City features a variety of rides that are ideal for younger kids, such as the Freeway Coaster, the Carousel, and the Giggle Wheel. The petting farm and arcade are also popular attractions that will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
Shop and Dine at Anaheim GardenWalk
Anaheim GardenWalk is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment center located just a few blocks from Disneyland. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a day at the parks or want to explore local shopping and dining options, Anaheim GardenWalk has it all.
Shopping and Entertainment
Anaheim GardenWalk offers a range of stores, including local boutiques and well-known brands. You can also catch a movie at the state-of-the-art cinema or challenge your friends to a game of bowling at Bowlmor Lanes.
Dining at Anaheim GardenWalk
The dining scene at GardenWalk is diverse, with everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Enjoy a meal at The Cheesecake Factory, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., or McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Italian, or American classics, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Immerse Yourself in Culture at MUZEO Museum and Cultural Center
For those interested in art, culture, and history, a visit to the MUZEO Museum and Cultural Center is a great way to spend an afternoon. This contemporary museum in downtown Anaheim offers rotating exhibits that cover a variety of topics, from fine art to local history.
Rotating Exhibits
MUZEO’s rotating exhibits keep things fresh, offering something new for visitors every few months. Past exhibits have included explorations of California’s rich history, fine art showcases, and culturally significant exhibitions from around the world. Check the museum’s schedule to see what’s currently on display.
Cultural Events and Programs
In addition to its exhibits, MUZEO also hosts cultural events, lectures, and educational programs that engage the local community. Whether it’s a special art workshop or a family-friendly cultural event, MUZEO offers a variety of enriching experiences for visitors.
Enjoy Outdoor Fun at Yorba Regional Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Yorba Regional Park is one of Anaheim’s best-kept secrets. This 140-acre park features serene lakes, picnic areas, and scenic walking paths, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Walking, Biking, and Picnicking
Yorba Regional Park’s extensive network of paved trails is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. You can also rent bikes and paddleboats to explore the park further. For those looking to have a relaxing day, the park offers picnic areas with barbecue grills, making it an ideal spot for a family gathering.
Fishing and Playgrounds
The park’s lakes are stocked with fish, so bring your fishing gear for a peaceful afternoon by the water. For families, the park has several playgrounds where kids can burn off energy, as well as sports fields for soccer and baseball.
Step Back in Time at Anaheim Packing District
The Anaheim Packing District is a historic landmark turned modern food hall, offering a variety of unique dining experiences in a beautifully restored setting. Once a citrus packing house, this iconic building is now a trendy hotspot for food lovers.
Unique Dining Experiences
The Anaheim Packing District is home to more than 30 food and beverage options, ranging from artisanal ice cream to global cuisine. Whether you’re craving sushi, gourmet grilled cheese, or vegan delights, you’ll find a wide variety of culinary choices. Be sure to check out the outdoor garden area, where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
Live Music and Events
In addition to its diverse food offerings, the Anaheim Packing District regularly hosts live music and community events. From weekend farmers markets to outdoor concerts, there’s always something happening that adds to the lively atmosphere.
Discover Hidden Gems at Center Street Promenade
Just a short walk from the Anaheim Packing District, Center Street Promenade is another destination worth exploring. This revitalized shopping and dining district features a collection of trendy boutiques, specialty shops, and charming cafés.
Local Boutiques and Specialty Shops
Center Street Promenade is known for its unique, locally owned businesses that offer everything from handmade goods to eco-friendly products. It’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift while supporting small businesses.
Craft Coffee and Local Eateries
Grab a cup of coffee from one of the area’s popular craft coffee shops, or sit down for a meal at a local eatery. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely lunch, Center Street Promenade has plenty of options to choose from.
Take a Brewery Tour at Anaheim’s Craft Breweries
Anaheim has become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, and the city is home to several acclaimed breweries that are worth exploring. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just curious about the local craft beer scene, a brewery tour is a great way to spend an afternoon in Anaheim.
Popular Breweries to Visit
Some of the top breweries in Anaheim include Bottle Logic Brewing, The Bruery, and Anaheim Brewery. Many of these breweries offer tasting rooms where you can sample a variety of beers, from IPAs to stouts, and learn more about the brewing process.
Brewery Tours and Events
In addition to tastings, many breweries offer guided tours where you can see the brewing process in action. Be sure to check out local brewery events, such as beer festivals and special release parties, for a fun and unique experience in Anaheim.
From theme park magic to hidden local gems, Anaheim offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re spending the day at Disneyland or exploring the city’s thriving food and craft beer scene, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in this vibrant Southern California destination.
