A Traveller's Guide to Anaheim, California
Anaheim is a city in northern Orange County, California, United States. It is part of the Greater Los Angeles Area. Anaheim is a gem in Southern California that offers lots of fun adventures for the entire family. It is known for being the home of the Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center. Therefore, let us dive into planning your itinerary, covering theme parks, landmarks, activities, and experiences you can make the most out of on your trip to Anaheim.
Disneyland Park and California Adventure
- Rides & Attractions – Disneyland Park, Anaheim offers a wide variety of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. You can enjoy the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion. There is the Space Mountain roller coaster in Tomorrowland for thrill seekers. If you’re a huge Star Wars fan, do not miss the Rise of the Resistance. At California Adventure, you will find more exciting adventures. Try the Incredicoaster ride at Pixar Pier.
- Shows & Entertainment – If you need a break from rides, immerse yourself in the incredible shows and entertainment that Disneyland Park and California Adventure have to offer. For a nostalgic trip, you can take a stroll down Main Street USA, where you can enjoy the ambiance of Walt Disney’s original vision of the park.
- Disney Park & Activities – In order to make the most out of your experience, consider purchasing Park Hooper tickets, which shall give you access to Disneyland Park and California Adventure on the same day. Managing your time at the park is essential, and that’s where the FastPass and the new Genie app come in. You can use them to reserve access to popular attractions and Lightning Lanes to bypass long wait times and maximize your fun.
Other Attractions in Anaheim
- Convention Centers and Arenas – While you’re exploring Anaheim, do not forget to check out the bustling Anaheim Convention Center. It is the largest convention center on the West Coast of the United States. The center hosts a variety of events including conferences and expos all through the year. The Honda Center is another exciting venue that offers thrilling entertainment experiences. You can watch a local hockey game or enjoy a live concert at the arena.
- Beaches, and Outdoor Activities – Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City, is just a short drive from Anaheim. You can soak up the sun, try some surfing, or unwind with a fishing rod in hand over here. To have a more active adventure, look to head over to Sky Zone Trampoline Park in order to jump off some energy. If you’re in the mood for a stroll, take a walk through the Yorba National Park, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature in a serene setting.
- Art and Shopping – Anaheim also offers delightful art, culture, and shopping experiences that will leave you wanting more. Visit the Center Street Promenade for a mix of both and you can find boutique shops and art galleries over here to explore. For Disney enthusiasts, you can explore the Downtown Disney District and the World of Disney store which is a shopping destination that offers Disney-themed merchandise.
- Landmarks – You should also look to explore Downtown Anaheim and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. Other notable spots include Anaheim Parking District, a food hall filled with diverse and unique dining spots. There is also Muzeo, a museum and cultural center that showcases the city’s art and history. Finally, there is the Center Street Promenade where you can shop and dine.
- Experiences – Experiences ranging from sports events to live entertainment venues, you will never run out of things to relish. You can catch a game at Angel Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Angels Major League Baseball team. You can even decide to spend an evening at City National Grove of Anaheim which is a versatile live entertainment venue for hosting concerts, comedy shows, and cultural events. Other than these, you can also experience knightly drama at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, where you can feast like a royal while watching jousting and horsemanship in action. You can incorporate all these experiences into your itinerary, mixing theme park days with culturally enriching experiences. This will make sure you have a memorable time exploring Anaheim.
Food
- Disneyland & California Adventure – There are plenty of restaurants around while you’re exploring Disneyland Park and California Adventure. To have a unique dining experience, try the Blue Bayou Restaurant. This charming place will allow you to enjoy delicious New Orleans-inspired cuisine while you overlook the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. There is also Plaza Inn which offers a fantastic character breakfast buffet. Here you can simply start your day with your favorite Disney friends all the while indulging in a great selection.
- Downtown Disney District – Once you step into the Downtown Disney District, you will find yourself stricken with a variety of dining options. To have an unforgettable Italian experience, savor the authentic dishes at Naples Ristorante E Bar. Their pasta is absolutely perfect and so is their garlic bread. You will find cuisine here for everyone to enjoy and if you have a particular spot in mind, make sure you reserve it beforehand.
- Anaheim Packing District – For a more local dining experience, Anaheim Packing District should be your next stop. This beautifully renovated historic citrus packing house is home to an impressive array of delicious cuisines. You will find everything from artisan-inspired dishes to classic comfort foods. There are also food halls, which are casual, communal dining spaces that provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your meal. You will notice that many vendors use locally sourced ingredients for a farm-to-table experience.
Stay
- Disneyland Resort Hotels – If you wish to wake up right next to the magic of Disneyland, then Disney Resort Hotels are your perfect choice. These hotels offer unparalleled proximity to the theme parks and include some great perks like exclusive entrance options and Disney character dining. There is the Disneyland Hotel, a classic original that offers themed rooms with playful decor. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offers a more high-end experience, and you should consider this hotel if you want a full-service spa and great design. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel is great for the seaside atmosphere and fun-filled character breakfasts.
- Other Hotels – Anaheim Marriot is a sleek hotel that offers modern amenities and a convenient location near the Anaheim Convention Center. Next is the Castle Inn and Suites, which is a family-friendly option. This hotel has a mix of standard rooms and suites with whimsical castle-themed decor. Finally, there are hotels in Southwest Anaheim. It is great for those looking for budget-friendly options.
Tips
- When planning your trip to Anaheim, consider investing in Fast Passes. These passes help you skip the line for popular attractions.
- Always keep a bottle of water with you, it is important to always stay hydrated.
- Dressing in layers is important as the weather in Anaheim is unpredictable.
- Do not forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Download the park’s mobile app for an easy-to-use map and mobile ordering options.
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