Anaheim, California: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Anaheim welcomes over 25 million visitors annually, yet less than half explore attractions beyond Disneyland? This Southern California gem offers so much more than just Mickey Mouse’s playground. From world-class sports venues and cultural museums to outdoor adventures and culinary delights, Anaheim packs an impressive array of experiences into its sun-soaked streets.

Planning Your Anaheim Adventure

Getting to Anaheim

Anaheim is conveniently located in Orange County, just 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles. The closest airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Santa Ana, about 13 miles away. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Long Beach Airport (LGB) are also viable options, though slightly farther. Once you’ve booked your flight, you can reach Anaheim via rental car, shuttle service, or rideshare.

Best Time to Visit

Anaheim enjoys Southern California’s famous Mediterranean climate with mild, comfortable weather year-round. For the most pleasant experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of March-May or September-October when temperatures hover between 70-85°F. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather but also brings larger crowds to the theme parks. Winter (November-February) sees occasional rain but remains mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F.

Getting Around Anaheim

While having a rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring Orange County, Anaheim offers several transportation alternatives. The Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) system provides convenient shuttle service between major attractions, hotels, and shopping districts. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and many hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations like Disneyland.

Magical Theme Parks in Anaheim

Disneyland Resort

No visit to Anaheim is complete without experiencing the magic of Disneyland Resort. The original Disney theme park opened in 1955 and continues to captivate visitors with its iconic attractions, beloved characters, and immersive themed lands. Next door, Disney California Adventure Park offers additional thrills with attractions inspired by Pixar, Marvel, and California’s rich history.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Just a short drive from Anaheim, Knott’s Berry Farm offers a different kind of theme park experience. Known as “America’s first theme park,” Knott’s combines thrilling roller coasters with a celebration of California’s pioneer history. The park features four themed areas, each with unique attractions and entertainment. Don’t miss Ghost Rider, one of the longest and tallest wooden roller coasters in the world, or the immersive Ghost Town where you can experience life in the Old West.

Adventure City

Perfect for families with younger children, Adventure City provides big fun on a smaller scale. This compact theme park offers rides and attractions specifically designed for kids, including a gentle roller coaster, a petting farm, and live entertainment. With its manageable size and shorter lines, Adventure City makes for a relaxed, stress-free day of family fun that won’t break the bank.

Sports and Entertainment Venues

Angel Stadium

Baseball fans shouldn’t miss the opportunity to catch a Los Angeles Angels game at Angel Stadium. This iconic ballpark offers an authentic American baseball experience with modern amenities and excellent sightlines. Even if you can’t attend a game, the stadium offers tours where you can explore the dugouts, press box, and other areas normally off-limits to the public.

Honda Center

Home to the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, the Honda Center hosts exciting hockey games during the season. Beyond hockey, this versatile arena welcomes major concerts, family shows, and other sporting events throughout the year. Check the event calendar when planning your trip to see what exciting performances might coincide with your visit.

House of Blues

Located in the Anaheim GardenWalk, House of Blues combines live music with Southern-inspired cuisine for a complete entertainment experience. The venue hosts a diverse lineup of musical acts ranging from local bands to national touring artists. Before the show, enjoy a meal at the restaurant featuring signature dishes like jambalaya and shrimp & grits.

Outdoor Adventures in Anaheim

Yorba Regional Park

Escape the hustle and bustle at Yorba Regional Park, a 140-acre oasis featuring four lakes connected by streams. The park offers paved walking and biking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing spots. Rent a paddleboat to explore the lakes or simply relax under the shade of a tree and enjoy the serene atmosphere. This is one of the best things to do in Anaheim for those seeking a peaceful natural setting.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Oak Canyon Nature Center, a 58-acre natural park nestled in the Anaheim Hills. The center features four miles of hiking trails winding through three adjoining canyons. Visit the John J. Collier Interpretive Center to learn about local wildlife through exhibits and live animal displays. Weekend nature programs offer guided hikes and educational activities for all ages.

Huntington Beach

Just a 20-minute drive from Anaheim, Huntington Beach (also known as “Surf City USA”) offers 10 miles of uninterrupted sandy shoreline. Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, or learning to surf at this iconic California beach. The Huntington Beach Pier provides spectacular ocean views and great fishing opportunities, while the adjacent Pacific City shopping center offers dining and retail therapy after your beach day.

Cultural Attractions and Museums

MUZEO Museum and Cultural Center

Located in downtown Anaheim, MUZEO showcases rotating exhibitions of art, culture, and history. Housed in a historic Carnegie Library building, this museum offers an intimate cultural experience with both local and international perspectives. Check their calendar for special events, workshops, and lectures that might enhance your visit.

Bowers Museum

A short drive to neighboring Santa Ana brings you to the Bowers Museum, one of Southern California’s finest cultural institutions. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from around the world, with particular strengths in pre-Columbian art, Asian art, and Pacific cultures. Their special exhibitions frequently feature treasures from international museums, making each visit a unique experience.

Anaheim Packing District

History and culinary arts combine at the Anaheim Packing District, a revitalized historic citrus packing facility now home to a vibrant food hall. Beyond the delicious dining options, the district preserves an important piece of Anaheim’s agricultural heritage. The architecture itself tells the story of the region’s citrus industry, which played a crucial role in Southern California’s development.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

Channel your inner Top Gun pilot at Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, where state-of-the-art simulators provide an authentic aviation experience. Choose between fighter jet combat missions or flying a commercial Boeing 737 aircraft. No experience is necessary, as instructors provide comprehensive training before your flight. This unique attraction offers an unforgettable experience for teens and adults alike.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Let the kids (and kids at heart) burn off energy at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. This indoor adventure center features wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, ninja warrior courses, and more. Special programs include toddler time, fitness classes, and glow-in-the-dark jumping sessions. It’s the perfect rainy day activity or break from the Southern California sun.

Camelot Golfland

Camelot Golfland offers family fun with miniature golf courses, arcade games, laser tag, and bumper boats. The medieval-themed facility features four unique 18-hole mini-golf courses with creative obstacles and water features. During summer months, the adjacent Waterpark provides slides and pools for cooling off on hot days.

Dining and Shopping Destinations

Anaheim Packing House

Foodies will delight in the Anaheim Packing House, a culinary wonderland housed in a restored 1919 citrus packing facility. This modern food hall features over 20 artisanal eateries offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese and authentic ramen to craft cocktails and specialty desserts. The communal dining areas, live music, and industrial-chic atmosphere create a vibrant social experience beyond just eating.

Center Street Promenade

Downtown Anaheim’s Center Street Promenade offers a charming mix of independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This pedestrian-friendly district hosts regular events including a weekly farmers market, art walks, and seasonal festivals. It’s the perfect place to experience Anaheim’s local culture and support small businesses.

Anaheim GardenWalk

For a more traditional shopping and dining experience, visit the Anaheim GardenWalk, an outdoor entertainment and retail complex near Disneyland. Beyond shopping, GardenWalk features bowling at Bowlero, virtual reality experiences at VR Junkies, and numerous dining options ranging from casual to upscale.

Brewery Scene

Anaheim has emerged as a craft beer destination with numerous breweries offering unique local flavors. Unwind after a day of sightseeing at establishments like Brewery X, Golden Road Brewing, or Anaheim Brewery. Many offer family-friendly environments with outdoor seating, food options, and games.

Where to Stay in Anaheim

Resort District

The Anaheim Resort District surrounding Disneyland offers numerous accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the theme parks and provides easy access to the Anaheim Resort Transportation system. Many hotels feature Disney-themed rooms, pools with water slides, and character dining experiences.

Downtown Anaheim

For a more local experience, consider staying in Downtown Anaheim near Center Street. This area offers boutique hotels and vacation rentals with easy access to local dining and cultural attractions. While you’ll need transportation to reach Disneyland, you’ll enjoy a more authentic neighborhood atmosphere.

Anaheim Convention Center Area

Business travelers or those attending events at the Anaheim Convention Center will find numerous hotels catering specifically to their needs. These properties typically offer business centers, meeting spaces, and convenient access to both the convention center and Disneyland.

Practical Tips for Visiting Anaheim

Safety Information

Anaheim is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard travel precautions apply. Keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and use reputable transportation services. The Anaheim Police Department maintains a visible presence in tourist areas, and most attractions have security personnel. For medical emergencies, Anaheim Global Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente Anaheim Medical Center provide comprehensive care.

Weather Considerations

While Anaheim enjoys pleasant weather year-round, it’s wise to check the forecast before your trip. Summer days can reach 90°F, so pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and hats. Winter evenings can cool to the 50s, so bring a light jacket. Rain is rare but possible from November through March. If visiting water parks or beaches, don’t forget swimwear and towels.

Suggested Itineraries for Anaheim

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Spring

Spring brings the Anaheim Cinco de Mayo Festival with authentic Mexican food, music, and dance performances. Garden enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Anaheim Beautiful Garden Tour showcasing stunning residential gardens throughout the city. At Disneyland, the Food & Wine Festival at Disney California Adventure celebrates California’s culinary diversity.

Summer

Summer evenings come alive with the Downtown Anaheim Farmers Market & Craft Fair every Thursday. The Anaheim Hills 4th of July Celebration features one of Orange County’s most spectacular fireworks displays. Throughout summer, the Anaheim Packing District hosts outdoor concerts and movie nights in the adjacent Farmers Park.

Fall

Fall brings Halloween festivities including Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland and Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. The Taste of Anaheim showcases the city’s diverse culinary scene with samples from dozens of local restaurants. Art lovers can enjoy the Anaheim Fall Festival & Halloween Parade, one of Orange County’s oldest community events.

Winter

Winter transforms Anaheim into a holiday wonderland with Disneyland’s elaborate Christmas decorations and special events. The Anaheim Ballet performs The Nutcracker annually at the City National Grove of Anaheim. Downtown Anaheim hosts Holidayfest with ice skating, holiday shopping, and visits from Santa.

Day Trips from Anaheim

Laguna Beach

Just 25 miles south of Anaheim, Laguna Beach offers stunning coastal scenery, art galleries, and pristine beaches. Explore tide pools at Main Beach, hike the coastal trails at Crystal Cove State Park, or browse the works of local artists at the Laguna Art Museum. The picturesque town center features unique boutiques and oceanfront dining options.

Los Angeles

The entertainment capital of the world is just 30 miles northwest of Anaheim. Spend a day exploring iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, or the Getty Center. Sports fans can catch a Lakers, Dodgers, or Rams game depending on the season. With so many diverse neighborhoods to explore, from Beverly Hills to Venice Beach, you could plan multiple day trips to LA.

Catalina Island

For a complete change of pace, take a ferry from nearby Long Beach to Catalina Island. This Mediterranean-style island offers outdoor adventures including snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining. The charming town of Avalon features unique shops and restaurants, while the Catalina Casino (not a gambling venue but a historic entertainment center) provides architectural splendor and cultural events.

Experience the Magic of Anaheim

Anaheim truly offers something for everyone, from the world-famous magic of Disneyland to the natural beauty of its regional parks. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, culinary delights, or simply a relaxing getaway in the Southern California sunshine, this vibrant city delivers unforgettable memories.

As you plan your Anaheim adventure, remember that the best experiences often come from balancing the iconic attractions with hidden gems. Take time to explore beyond the theme parks, interact with locals, and discover what makes this city special. With its perfect weather, diverse attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Anaheim awaits to become your next favorite destination.

Anaheim Map and Location

Anaheim is located in Orange County, California, approximately 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles.