Anaheim

The Seven Spots in Anaheim That You Need to Visit

The Seven Spots in Anaheim That You Need to Visit

Located in sunny California, Anaheim is one of the most popular destinations for sun-seekers. In fact, millions of tourists flock to the city during the colder months.

Anaheim is known as one of the best destinations for some fun under the sun. And with so many attractions in store, this city is perfect for both children and adults.

While Disneyland is its most famous attraction, it’s not the only reason why you must visit Anaheim. It’s rich in sumptuous food and drinks, as well as places that will either give you an adrenaline rush or relax you.

Here’s more about the best spots in Anaheim.

The Best Spots

1. Disneyland Park

Anaheim Disneyland Park — Image by thetravelin3 via Tripadvisor

Anaheim is home to Disneyland Park, the world’s most famous theme park. In all frankness, it would be a shame to pass on a chance to visit it. That’s regardless if you’re coming with or without kids. After all, you still have your inner child hiding deep within.

Designed by Walt Disney, the park opened in 1955 and has grown a lot since then. Today, you can explore eight themed areas, each with a unique flavor and style. The iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle is also there and is a sight you’ll never miss out on.

Numerous themed rides also await you behind the walls of Disneyland Park. Since Disney now owns Star Wars, you can also visit the Galaxy’s Edge. And while you’re there visit the iconic cantina featured in the Star Wars movie, A New Hope.

Keep in mind that you might have to place an advance order if you want to make your very own lightsaber.

2. Vans Skatepark

Anaheim Vans Skatepark — Image by Management via Tripadvisor

The Vans Skatepark in The Outlets is a piece of heaven on Earth for all skateboarding aficionados. It doesn’t matter if there’s an outdoor skate park in your hometown – this is something else. In fact, it’s one of the most awesome things to do in Anaheim.

The park offers 20,000 square feet of skating space. It features a vertical wall, a variety of ramps, a flatland section, and so much more.

But if your child doesn’t yet know how to skate, you can pay for on-the-spot lessons. While they won’t become pro in a day, they’ll learn enough to have fun. And if they’re already skilled skaters, they can go for an open skate.

What’s best, you can rent all the necessary equipment right there.

3. Anaheim Packing District

If you’re in town for a few days, you should make time to visit Anaheim Packing District. This unique part of the city offers a range of unique restaurants and cafes. Also, you can catch many outdoor events, as they’re quite popular with the locals.

The district also includes some historic renovated buildings. The list includes the Packing House and the famous Packard Building.

If you’re in the mood for Japanese or Italian food, the Packing District is the place to be. Vietnamese and Indian too.

The area is also home to some of the city’s best bars and breweries. Drop by for a glass of fine wine or a pint of artisan beer.

Finally, places like the Mezzanine Stage have live music. Anaheim’s popular and up and coming artists perform there regularly.

4. Flightdeck Simulator

Anaheim Flightdeck Simulator — Image by v_spassov via Tripadvisor

Are you on the hunt for some of the coolest and best spots in Anaheim? If so, pin the Flightdeck Simulator on your radar. It’s a unique experience, to say the least, and every visitor should try it at least once.

But what does the Simulator offer?

You can become a fighter jet pilot for the day and rule the virtual skies above Anaheim. Choose among a range of historical aircraft and become a true Top Gun. And you can even compete against other pilots.

Do note that anyone who wants to try it out must be 11 years and older.

5. Center Street

The Center Street Promenade is among the best places to eat in Anaheim. While the restaurants in the Packing District are on the high-end range, Center Street will give you a true taste of Anaheim.

It showcases numerous street fairs and art shows, as well as the farmer’s market. This street is also where you can hop aboard the famous Polly the Trolley. It will take you straight to the Packing House. But do note that you can only catch it on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

And by all means, grab a taco and a glass of pressed juice when you’re there.

6. Sky Zone

Anaheim Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park — Image by Tracy W via yelp

The Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park opened in 2012. It was the first of its kind in the world and it’s still the most popular today.

The place is huge and broken into several zones. You can play Ultimate Dodgeball in one area and move to the next for a SkyRobics fitness class. And if you’re feeling competitive, you can also play a game of SkySlam while you’re there.

But if you want a slightly less intense experience, you can hop over to the Foam Zone pit. It has 10,000 foam cubes and is the perfect place to relax before the next high-intensity activity.

7. Yorba Park

Anaheim Yorba Park — Image by CrankingChick via Tripadvisor

After all the high-adrenaline action, you may want to take some time to wind down. Head on to Yorba Regional Park where you’ll find the prettiest vistas in the city. In fact, it’s one of the best places to hang out in Anaheim.

The sprawling park is the perfect place to take a peaceful stroll among the trees. The sun that shines through the treetops will warm you even in the winter months.

You can also access the local lakes via the Yorba Park. Keep in mind that you’ll have to traverse the park’s hiking trails to reach them.

The Best of Anaheim

Whether you’re just after food or some fun activities, you’ll find them all in Anaheim. The legendary Disneyland Park is the city’s top attraction, but it’s not the only reason for you to go and visit this city.

Food lovers will adore the unique restaurants found in the Packing District. But for the best street food, you should go to Center Street.

If adrenaline is the name of your game, Anaheim delivers in spades. Sky Zone, Flightdeck Simulator, and the Vans Skatepark are your best bets. But if you’d rather have some peace and quiet, Yorba Regional Park is the most relaxing spot in the city.

While most people go to Anaheim to escape the cold, you can go and visit anytime you like.

Weekend Getaways

Where to Go for a Fun Night Out in Anaheim

After the sun sets is when the real party in Anaheim begins. Find out why the city is perhaps more crowded at night than during the day.

Most people outside of California would associate Anaheim with Disneyland and a place that’s tailor-made for family vacations. But like many other cities in California, Anaheim kicks it up a notch after dark, too.

There’s a lot to see, do, and experience when it comes to the nightlife in the city. Whether you prefer drinks, dancing, or just want an adventure, finding something fun to do won’t be difficult.

The House of Blues

Spending a night at the House of Blues is a good idea. It’s a family-friendly venue that stays open until around 11 pm.

The food is good and the service is always on point. But what makes it even better is that it often hosts live gigs so the atmosphere is lively.

Legacy Nightclub and Lounge

While the House of Blues represents a relatively tame Anaheim nightlife experience, Legacy Nightclub goes in the other direction.

This is a perfect spot if you’re an avid dancer. The club stays open much longer and always attracts a very diverse crowd.

An entry ticket costs much less than a cocktail and is perfect for the vibrant crowd who knows how to party.

Rumba Room

As one of the city’s top dance bars, the Rumba Room caters to all Latin music lovers. It’s also a more upscale venue with a gorgeous interior, experienced dancers, and a massive floor area.

And at night, the Rumba Room puts on exciting light shows with equally terrific sounds. If you want to dress up when you party, this is the place to visit.

Blush Nightclub

The Blush offers another opportunity to enjoy a more upscale experience of the Anaheim nightlife. The club often features some of the best DJs in the world and has an outstanding sound and lighting system.

Spanning 10,000 square feet, it’s a massive club with VIP sections, a smoking patio, and a capacity of up to 900 guests. This club is also very easy to access from the area’s top accommodations and other attractions, as it’s located in the Resort District.

The Parkestry Rooftop Bar

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You’ll have other fun things to do in Anaheim besides dancing all night long. And a trip to the Parkestry Rooftop Bar is among those that will be worth your trouble.

The outdoor venue offers a spine-tingling view of the city and the relaxing atmosphere can help you unwind after a long day. And the great menus, music selection, and late-night vibes provide plenty of entertainment.

Book a Recording Session at the 3673 Studios

If you want another alternative to drinking and dancing, you have the 3673 Studios.

It’s part of Anaheim nightlife and a top couples’ attraction where you can sing together – like in a studio. You can interact with the professional staff, get coaching, and experience amazing sound quality and engineering.

It also doesn’t stay open until too late, so there’s still time to hit the dance floor later if you want to.

8 Eighty Eight Cigar Lounge

The place (yes, three 8s or 888) is half cigar lounge and half sports bar. Regardless, it’s a vibrant spot that leaves its imprint on Anaheim nightlife.

The venue stays open 24 hours from Sunday through Wednesday. But other days, it only serves customers until 2 am. That said, it has an amazing atmosphere and the screens can accommodate multiple sporting events.

It’s a casual place with reasonable prices, a full bar, pool tables, and cigars. Not a bad place to hang out if you’re a sports fan, cigar aficionado, or traveling in large groups.

The Anaheim Night Market

This is one of the coolest periodic events in the city.

The Night Market puts on variety shows, displays Etsy-type vendors, and other great activities. This gives people opportunities to have fun outside after dark while experiencing something other than the usual.

It can get a bit crowded, though, but it’s something where you don’t know what to expect – definitely something to keep in mind.

Bravo Night Club

The Bravo Night Club opened in 2000 and since then, it’s become one of the most popular nightspots in Anaheim. The specialty is mainly live dance music, though it often features themed nights, DJs, special guests, and music that covers a wide range of genres.

It’s also not as upscale as some of its competitors, making it a more affordable option for you to catch exciting Anaheim events after dark.

K1 Speed

This venue closes at around 10 pm every night. But it still provides plenty of entertainment and thrills to anyone that crosses its threshold.

K1 Speed features high-performance electric karts where you can go up to 45 miles per hour in the tiny speedsters. Most races don’t last over 10 minutes, though, but the feeling on the track can keep your adrenaline going for quite some time.

You can also grab a quick bite in the venue before you head out to do other things.

Outdoor Movie Screenings at the Beach

If you want to see a moonlit movie on the beach, you can do it in Anaheim. Just keep in mind that the best weather for this is usually between July and August.

Cherry Beach and Huntington Beach, both minutes away from Anaheim, often put on such shows. You may not always get free parking, but the sound is great and the view of the night sky even better.

The 17th Door

Anaheim is not particularly known for haunted houses. However, the experiences put together by The 17th Door are quite different.

The themes change often, the plots always keep you guessing, and the actors do a great job of staying in character.

It’s definitely a unique experience that appeals to younger generations looking for fun things to do in Anaheim at night.

It’s Easy to Have a Good Time Before Turning In

If you want to party 24/7, you can do it in Anaheim and Orange County. You can sample the local cuisine, drink some cocktails, or dance to Latin music.

You can even watch a movie outside or have the life scared out of you, all in the name of good fun. The venues in Anaheim know how to put on a good show for locals and tourists alike.

World's Best

11 Sights That Make Anaheim Worth a Trip

11 Sights That Make Anaheim Worth a Trip

Everyone wants to take in some California sun on vacation. Check out why Anaheim might be a better alternative than other major cities in the Golden State.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Anaheim. The variety of indoor and outdoor activities and attractions can keep you busy and entertained for a two-week vacation.

But like any other place, some sites raise the city’s profile among tourists more than others. Here’s what to look for so you don’t miss out on any of the fun.

1. Disneyland

Sure, Anaheim has a lot more to offer than the popular theme park. But you can’t go on a trip here and not spend at least a few hours at the iconic Disney park. It’s the city’s star attraction and the only park in the franchise built under Walt Disney’s supervision.

Taking in everything that the theme park has to offer can take days. However, even exploring the park for a few hours can put you in a good mood.

Besides, each Disneyland Park has its own unique style, rides, and themes. It’s not a case where if you see one you’ve seen all of them with these parks.

2. Try to Catch the Lit Halo at Angel Stadium

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This is the country’s fourth-oldest Major League stadium. It’s an impressive venue with a unique characteristic.

Because at the top of a 230ft sign, there’s a halo that lights up whenever the home team wins a game, be it at home or away.

You can tour the stadium or try to catch a game. Sitting in the stands with around 45,000 baseball fans is simply a good way to spend the afternoon.

3. Yorba Regional Park

Located on 140 acres of land and straddling the Santa Ana River, Yorba is one of the most gorgeous sites in the area.

It has a wide range of facilities and hundreds of tables that’s perfect for a picnic. You can also hop on some of the bike trails and hiking trails.

It’s a perfect spot for taking in some fresh air and capturing amazing photos.

4. The Medieval Arena

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Take a trip to the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament and catch a show. This venue hosts two-hour dinner events with four-course meals. Meanwhile, the arena seats around 1,100 people and puts on a family-friendly show with jousting knights and sword fighting.

This is simply one of the most unique things to do in Anaheim.

5. The Ice Rink

The ice rink in Anaheim is nothing too spectacular. However, this indoor venue offers something that California desperately needs sometimes – a way to escape the heat.

You can either take some lessons or go enjoy the ice on your own. And if you don’t bring skates of your own, that’s ok because you can rent a pair there.

Spending even just two hours won’t put a dent in your pocket and will keep you cool during the day.

6. Stroll Around the Oak Canyon Nature Center

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The Oak Canyon Nature Center is a reserve of 58 acres that’s perfect for nature walks, hiking in trails of moderate difficulty, and checking out live animals.

You can also find the John J. Collier Interpretive Center in the region. If you visit, you can see a couple of historical exhibits while taking shade from the California sun.

7. Anaheim Gardenwalk

Maybe you’re interested in things to do near Disneyland without actually going to Disneyland. Luckily, there’s the Anaheim Gardenwalk nearby. It’s an outdoor complex with lots of shops, cafes, and eateries. It’s also close to most of the city’s top hotels.

Take a stroll around the complex and see what it has to offer. It’s relaxing during the day but transforms into one of the busiest spots in the city at night. It’s when the entertainment venues come alive and the outdoor fire pits create an exciting setting.

8. The Convention Center

It pays to spend some time planning a trip to Anaheim. It may be unconventional an idea but the local convention center is one of the most popular tourist attractions. In fact, to many, it’s its own Anaheim travel destination.

The complex offers over a million square feet of space dedicated to a variety of exhibitions. It holds outdoor and indoor gatherings and some of the coolest trade shows around. It’s also very close to the Disneyland Resort.

Find out what’s coming to town before you book a trip to avoid missing out on cool shows and exhibits.

9. Take to the Skies

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A trip to the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center is not about sightseeing. Instead, it’s where you can step inside a cockpit and learn what it feels like to take charge of a real plane.

Granted, it’s one of the most booked attractions in the city as it does offer a variety of experiences, from flying fighter jets to 747 commercial planes.

It’s also not a hard place to reach – the simulator sits just five miles away from downtown Anaheim.

10. Catch a Game at the Honda Center

If you’re a hockey fan, don’t miss out on a trip to the Honda Center. The local team, the Anaheim Ducks, has been playing there since 1993.

The venue can seat around 17,000 people. If you visit during the NHL season and you can catch a game, the atmosphere is unforgettable. In the offseason, you might catch an interesting musical act or two because the venue gets converted into a concert hall.

11. Adventure City

Once you’ve seen Disneyland, it’s hard to look at other theme parks with the same level of excitement. But Adventure City in Anaheim does a good job of competing. It’s a smaller park that offers a variety of thrilling rides. And it’s also less crowded and much cheaper than its Disney-themed counterpart.

You might want to consider it when traveling on a tight budget.

Enjoy the Heart of Orange County

If someone dropped you in the middle of this city, you’d have no problem finding something cool to do. There’s plenty of room to relax, get some vitamin D, cool off, or go off the charts on the excitement.

Anaheim is a very family-friendly vacation destination, but also one that gets a fresh second life after dark.