Things to Do in Anaheim

Anaheim might be best known as the home of Disneyland Resort, but the sun-kissed city is overflowing with things to do and see outside of the theme parks. Seated in the heart of Orange County, Anaheim boasts the stadiums of 2 professional sports teams amidst a wide range of luxury shops, fine restaurants, and popular performance venues. Founded in 1857, this SoCal city has its share of historic buildings and unique architecture that are worth a day of exploration. With peaceful residential neighborhoods and lush parks as well, Anaheim is perfect for a leisurely vacation or getaway.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Anaheim

Anaheim is constantly redeveloping itself, and its calm, people-oriented neighborhoods make it an incredibly walkable city. Most of the area's activity is focused around its prolific theme parks, but step away from the Disney magic and you'll find an abundance of unique attractions to pique your interest.

Downtown Anaheim

Also known as the Anaheim Colony Historic District, the Downtown area is the administrative center of the city. Here, you can explore the bustling Farmers Market along Center Street Promenade, or visit the historic Carnegie Library in the MUZEO, a museum of local culture and art.

Anaheim Resort District

The tourist hub of the region, the Anaheim Resort District is packed with hotels and attractions for its many visitors from around the globe. The district encompasses the sprawling Anaheim Convention Center—the largest exhibition facility on the West Coast—and the outdoor shopping center of Anaheim GardenWalk. Be sure to check out the Angel Stadium of Anaheim, also called "The Big A," and Honda Center, both home to the city's major sports teams.

Disneyland Resort

Pay a visit to the "Happiest Place on Earth" at Disneyland Resort, which contains the theme parks Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure along with the Downtown Disney shopping complex. Spend days soaking in the magic by hopping aboard rides themed after favorite Disney movies and meeting characters straight out of the films.

Aside from the spectacular stage shows, musical parades, and firework extravaganzas at Disneyland Resort, Anaheim offers plenty to see throughout the city. At the Honda Center's indoor arena, catch the Anaheim Ducks—previously known as the Mighty Ducks—during one of their ice hockey matches. Baseball fans can also visit the Angel Stadium, the field that the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim call home. Music lovers should visit the City National Grove Anaheim, the indoor music venue formerly called Tinseltown, and Sun Theater, where unique acts host shows regularly.

Whether you want excitement or relaxation, Anaheim has the answer. Pack your family vacation full of magic and fun with full days spent at the Disneyland Resort parks, or shop until you drop at the vibrant boutiques of the Anaheim GardenWalk. For a more leisurely time, escape into nature at Yorba Regional Park, whose meandering trails take you past gentle Santa Ana River and are ideal for a bike ride or stroll. The smaller Pearson Park—Anaheim's first city park—is perfect for a sunny picnic and boasts an amphitheater that comes to life with performances during the summer months. Get a glimpse of the city's past by stopping by the Anaheim Packing House, renovated from a 1919 facility, or marvel at the striking Queen Anne architecture of the Woelke-Stoffel House in historic Founders' Park.

Traveling on a limited budget in Anaheim? Spend time instead of money on fabulous experiences.

Anaheim Central Library - Stop here and learn about the significance of this place to the local community.

Yorba Regional Park - Organize a picnic and enjoy a walk around the beautiful plants.