Anaheim Welcomes You Back: Discover Theme Parks, Hidden Gems, and Endless Adventures in SoCal
After a long hiatus, our shared craving for travel is stronger than ever. Amid the wanderlust, few destinations shine brighter than Anaheim, the SoCal home of Disneyland and countless beloved characters. It's fully reopened—and arguably better than before.
Anaheim anchors theme park paradise with fresh attractions at Disneyland Resort, plus nearby favorites like Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. But stay longer to uncover local treasures that appeal to every traveler. Here's our curated guide to the best experiences.
For Food Lovers
Long before theme parks, Orange County's fruit heritage defined the area. Start at the Anaheim Packing District, a tribute to the early 20th-century citrus boom. This vibrant complex features The Packing House (a historic 1919 Sunkist facility now a global food hall); The Packard Building (1925 showroom with Umami Burger and a brewery); Farmers Park (more vendors); The MAKE Building (1917 marmalade factory with modern makers and Jav’s BBQ); Modern Times' Leisuretown (warehouse-turned brewery, restaurant, cafe, and swim club); and CTR Street (additional eateries in historic downtown).
With endless options, craft themed food crawls: Frozen treats at Popbar, Hans’ Homemade, and House of Chimney Cakes; tacos at Urbana, Cervantes, and Pour Vida; Southern flavors at Georgia’s Kitchen (soul food), 206 BCE (Cajun), and Sweetbird (fried chicken).
For an authentic dive, visit Little Arabia for top-tier falafel, shawarma, and baklava. Highlights: flatbreads at Forn al Hara, falafel and shawarma at Sahara Falafel, chicken with garlic sauce at Zankou Chicken, and baklava plus knafeh at Victory Sweets.
For Craft Beer and Cocktail Enthusiasts
Anaheim, founded by German immigrants in 1857, boasts more breweries than any other Orange County city. Sample them on the La Palma Beer Trail: Bottle Logic Brewing (Fruited Berliner Weisse) and Asylum Ales (beer floats). Nearby, The Bruery (pioneers of OC craft beer) offers Ruekeller Helles and Maibock lagers; don't miss Phantom Ales Hazy IPA.
The Packing District shines with Modern Times Beer at Leisuretown, Unsung Brewing, and upcoming Monkish Brewing. Cocktails abound at speakeasy-style Blind Rabbit and boxcar wine bar BXCR.
Elevate with rooftop views: The Fifth Rooftop (drunken donuts); Blu SkyBar (Sunset in Sevilla cocktail); Parkestry Rooftop Bar (garden-infused drinks like Sweet William's); and Rise Rooftop Lounge at Westin Anaheim Resort (tapas and Disneyland vistas, guest-exclusive since July 16).
For Outdoor Adventurers
Hike Weir Canyon in Anaheim Hills, part of California's first National Natural Landmark—a 4-mile loop with mountain views for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Explore Oak Canyon Nature Center's three canyons, stream, and 4 miles of trails through rare coastal sage scrub and oak woodland.
Surf at Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, or Laguna Beach (30-40 minutes away). For relaxed vibes, catch Los Angeles Angels games at historic Angel Stadium (“The Big A”).
For Culture Seekers
Next to Angel Stadium, City National Grove of Anaheim (1,700 seats) hosts stars like Prince and Stevie Nicks. Catch violinist Bijan Mortazavi or Air Supply this summer.
Packing District venues offer live music from sitar duos to jazz and DJs; Parkestry features moonlit Mozart.
Visit Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center for civil rights exhibits, or the 1908 Carnegie Library for Anaheim: A Walk Through Local History. Street art thrives at STC Anaheim GardenWalk.
For Shoppers
Anaheim GardenWalk blends art, jewelry, and even a flight simulator with dining.
Head to The Outlets at Orange for 110 stores (Adidas to Zumies, including Bloomingdale's and Saks). Luxury awaits at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa (Chanel, Dior, with concierge services).
Don't overlook Downtown Disney: Disney merch, Pandora, Sephora, Curl Surf, LEGO Store, and Star Wars Trading Post for magical souvenirs.
