Top 10 Hidden Gems in Downtown Disney District: Insider Experiences Beyond the Parks
Discover Disney magic beyond the theme parks at the Anaheim Resort™. Downtown Disney District surprises visitors with exceptional dining, handcrafted cocktails, and delectable sweets—ideal for convention attendees seeking unique delights.
1. Savor a Post-Meeting "Spirit Sampler"
At Tortilla Jo’s, a vibrant Mexican cantina, explore an extensive tequila menu featuring blanco, añejo, reposado, and mezcal. Recommended flights of three varieties are expertly paired by flavor, color, and intensity. Under the stars at the outdoor Uva Bar, enjoy a flight of four 5-ounce draft beers from SoCal favorites like Stone Brewing, Ballast Point, and The Dudes’ Brewing.
2. Taste Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria uses imported Caputo flour from Southern Italy and spring water mimicking Italy’s Campania region for its hand-worked dough. The result: a mouthwatering crust that's lightly charred on the edges yet thin and soft in the center.
3. Sip Jungle Cruise-Inspired Cocktails at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar
“Owned” by Trader Sam from the iconic Disneyland® Park riverboat ride, this tiki bar at the Disneyland® Hotel serves colorful cocktails amid historic memorabilia. Pair Island-inspired appetizers like Sam’s Pu Pu Platter with whimsical drinks such as the Shrunken Zombie Head or HippopotoMai-Tai for fun flavors and presentations.
4. Relish a Steak-and-Wine Dinner at Steakhouse 55
A Downtown Disney gem inside the Disneyland® Hotel, Steakhouse 55 evokes Old Hollywood elegance with its rich palette and crisp white tablecloths. Indulge in classics like seven-onion soup and bone-in dry-aged New York strip from a menu of prime steaks and seafood.
5. Tap Your Toes at Ralph Brennan’s Flambeaux Jazz Club
This restaurant and bar transforms into a Bourbon Street-style party at dusk, featuring live New Orleans-inspired musicians.
Photo credit: @lynleesmmt on Instagram
6. Bowl and Rock Out at Splitsville
This three-story entertainment hub offers 20 bowling lanes, live events, and four dining areas with Anaheim-exclusive dishes.
7. Immerse in Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire VR Experience
New to Downtown Disney® District, The VOID’s hyper-reality tech transports groups of four as Stormtroopers in the Star Wars universe to aid the rebellion.
8. Connect with Nature
The bridge over Disneyland® Drive in Downtown Disney® District frames stunning photos of the drought-resistant arboretum garden. Seasonal planters throughout feature pumpkins, holiday ornaments, and more.
9. Indulge in Handmade Sweets
Watch candy apples—famous from Disneyland® Park—being crafted at Marceline’s Confectionary, or grab artisanal macarons and cake pops from local favorite Kayla’s Cakes.
10. Enjoy Nightly Live Entertainment
From a cappella artists to dueling DJs, musicians provide a vibrant soundtrack across Downtown Disney® District. Check the full schedule at disneyland.com.
For more on Downtown Disney® District, visit disneyland.disney.go.com.
