Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Anaheim, CA

  • Published 2022/10/15

Anaheim is a city in southern California, best known as the home of Disneyland Resort.

However, there are many other things to do in Anaheim that will keep tourists busy and entertained.

Anaheim is home to the Angels baseball team and the Ducks hockey team.

It’s the tenth largest city in Orange County, with a population of over 345,940 people.

German settlers founded the settlement of Anaheim in 1857.

They derived the name from the Santa Ana River that flows through the city.

Anaheim has something for everyone, from exploring the area’s natural wonders to sampling local cuisine.

Here are the best things to do in Anaheim, California:

Enjoy Family-Friendly Fun at Anaheim GardenWalk

Welcome sign of Anaheim GardenWalk

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

Steps away from renowned locations such as Disneyland Resort and Anaheim Convention Center is a 430,000-square-foot outdoor entertainment experience called Anaheim GardenWalk.

Surrounded by attractions such as Angel Stadium and Honda Center, there’s something for everyone at GardenWalk!

If you’re looking for a place to eat, shop, or catch a movie while in Anaheim, GardenWalk is the perfect spot.

With over 20 different restaurants and retailers, as well as a movie theater, there’s something for everyone at this outdoor entertainment center.

Plaza of Anaheim GardenWalk

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy a meal at one of GardenWalk’s many restaurants, including American favorites like California Pizza Kitchen and The Cheesecake Factory.

Otherwise, try something new with some fish tacos at Tito’s & Tacos.

Then work off those calories by bowling a few games at Bowlmor Lanes or catch a movie at the theater.

Bowlmor lanes at Anaheim GardenWalk

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

Anaheim GardenWalk’s newest attraction is its Art on the Walk.

This program features rotating art installations from local artists displayed in the GardenWalk courtyard.

This unique art program is a great way to enjoy some beautiful artwork while you’re out shopping or dining.

Stop by Anaheim GardenWalk to see the latest installation!

House of Blues concert venue at Anaheim GardenWalk

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

Visit the Happiest Place on Earth at Disneyland Resort

Sleeping beauty's castle at Disneyland Resort

HarshLight from San Jose, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Of course, the number one thing to do in Anaheim is to visit the Disneyland Resort.

This world-famous resort comprises two theme parks – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park – and the Downtown Disney District.

Visitors can enjoy rides, shows, and attractions themed around their favorite Disney characters.

If you’re looking for a place to create lasting memories, the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is perfect.

Star Wars area at Disneyland Resort

Tomás Del Coro from Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With over 60 fantastic attractions, exciting parades, and delicious treats, it’s not surprising that Disneyland has become “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

Take in the historic old-town vibes of Main Street, with its horse-drawn carriages, delectable sweets shops, and Dapper Dans singing your favorite old songs as you enter the park.

From there, go straight through Sleeping Beauty’s castle into Fantasyland, where most people can ride classic amusement park rides such as Dumbo, the Flying Elephant, and It’s a Small World.

See why so many people love spending time at this iconic destination!

Paradise pier at Disneyland Resort

Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take a Day Hike at the Oak Canyon Nature Center

If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy nature in Anaheim, check out the Oak Canyon Nature Center.

The nature center offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, including hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area.

The nature center is also home to various animals, including deer, raccoons, and coyotes.

Visitors can learn about the local wildlife and ecology at the nature center’s exhibits.

The Oak Canyon Nature Center is the perfect place to enjoy a day outdoors in Anaheim.

Soak in Orange County Vibes at the Anaheim Packing District

Exterior of the Anaheim Packing District house

Joppi Martin / Shutterstock.com

The Anaheim Packing District is a must-visit for any foodie.

This historic district was once home to the Sunkist orange packing plants, and today it has been revitalized into a unique food hall with over 20 different vendors.

Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

For breakfast, try the Japanese-style crepes with a cup of tea or coffee at Crepe Coop or the fish and chips at Chippy Fish & Grill.

For lunch, grab some soul food at Georgia’s Kitchen or authentic Syrian food at Mangal.

Interior of the Anaheim Packing District

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

Likewise, enjoy Southern seafood from Kettlebar or some farm-to-table dishes from Poppy and Seed for dinner.

Don’t forget to save room for dessert

The Packing District is home to some of the best desserts in Anaheim, including handcrafted ice cream from Popbar, gourmet fresh pastries and desserts from Le Parfait Paris, and freshly baked pies from Pie Hole.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it at the Anaheim Packing District.

Shaved ice dessert in Anaheim Packing District

Januva / Shutterstock.com

Take a Quiet Morning Stroll at Yorba Regional Park

Wood duck on Yorba Regional Park's water

Mike’s Birds from Riverside, CA, US, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and take in some nature, look no further than Yorba Regional Park.

This park is located in the heart of Anaheim and is home to beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of open space for visitors to enjoy.

The best time to visit Yorba Regional Park is in the morning when the sun is just rising and the birds are singing.

Stroll through the gardens and take in the sights and smells of the flowers, or walk around the lake and watch the ducks swimming around.

You might even see a deer walking through the park if you’re feeling lucky.

Yorba Regional Park is a great place to spend an hour or two on a quiet morning.

Don’t forget it on your next trip to Anaheim!

Cheer for the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center

Exterior of the Honda Center

Katherine Welles / Shutterstock.com

If you’re looking for a great place to watch an Anaheim Ducks game, the Honda Center is the perfect spot.

The Anaheim Ducks are a professional ice hockey team that plays in the National Hockey League (NHL).

The arena opened its doors on June 19, 1993, as Anaheim Arena.

Entrance to the Honda Center

Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com

However, in 2006, it was renamed Honda Center following a naming rights agreement with the Japanese automaker.

To offer a fantastic experience for every visiting fan, Honda Center continues to improve the facility.

The arena’s most extensive improvement, the Grand Terrace Project, includes a 15,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor entertainment area.

Cisco’s StadiumVision platform has been installed throughout the stadium and adds over 500 HD monitors.

Interior of the Honda Center

ISU_79, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A brand-new scoreboard measuring 27 feet tall and 47 feet 10 inches wide debuted in 2015.

Anaheim Ducks fans can enjoy watching their favorite players compete on the ice or grabbing some food from one of the many restaurants inside.

Make sure to check out what’s new before your next visit!

Ice rink of the Honda Center

CocoaButter / Shutterstock.com

Explore Anaheim’s Hidden Gems at CtrCity

Anyone looking for a unique and fun experience in Anaheim must check out CtrCity.

CtrCity, pronounced as Center City, is a “museum without walls” that offers visitors a variety of exhibits and activities.

Anaheim’s CtrCity is home to various public art installations throughout the district.

These art installations are the perfect way to explore Anaheim’s hidden gems.

The public art in Center City includes everything from murals and sculptures to textiles and tiles.

Check out the Center City website for a map of the public art installations.

You never know what you might find!

CtrCity is perfect for anyone who wants to explore Anaheim’s history and culture.

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out CtrCity’s Uncommon Holiday Gift Guide!

CtrCity is the perfect place for a day or night out in Anaheim.

Watch a Baseball Game or See a Concert at Angel Stadium

Exterior of the Angel Stadium

Usa-Pyon / Shutterstock.com

If you’re looking for a great place to watch a baseball game or see a concert, Angel Stadium is the perfect spot.

Opened in 1966, Angel Stadium is home to the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball (MLB).

The stadium has a seating capacity of 45,050 and was the first MLB stadium with luxury suites.

The Angel Stadium, which many people customarily call the “Big A,” is one of the most famous ballparks in Major League Baseball.

Baseball game at Angel Stadium

KPegg / Shutterstock.com

It might be the fourth-oldest ballpark in MLB, but it has undergone several modernization projects that have made it comfortable for spectators.

In addition to baseball games, Angel Stadium hosts other events, such as concerts and college football games.

The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including U2, The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and Madonna.

If you’re planning a trip to Anaheim and want to catch a game or concert at Angel Stadium, check out the event schedule on the official website.

You won’t want to miss out on this world-class stadium!

Aerial view of the Angel Stadium

Frank Romeo / Shutterstock.com

Catch a Show at the City National Grove of Anaheim

Exterior of the City National Grove of Anaheim

Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com

The City National Grove of Anaheim is a premier music venue in the heart of Orange County.

If you’re looking for a great place to catch a show, the City National Grove of Anaheim is the perfect spot.

The venue hosts a variety of music genres, including rock, pop, and country.

Some of the biggest names in music have performed at the City National Grove Anaheim, including Aerosmith, The Eagles, Darius Rucker, and Zac Brown.

In addition to concerts, City National Grove of Anaheim also hosts comedy and other special events.

Facade of the City National Grove of Anaheim

Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com

The City National Grove of Anaheim also offers the unique opportunity to host events with a capacity of 10,000 people or more.

The spectacular main hall, which seats up to 3,500 people (or 4,100 when needed), will accommodate large gatherings, including receptions, dinners, roaming networking events, and performances from its built-in stage.

World-class concerts and entertainment are also available.

Whether a big convention or a more fun casual-themed event is planned, the City National Grove of Anaheim’s catering staff will amaze and astonish guests.

Take an Afternoon Stroll at Pearson Park

Monument at Pearson Park

Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com

Pearson Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Anaheim, California.

The park is home to a playground, a pond, and plenty of open space for visitors to enjoy.

The park has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s, dubbed Anaheim’s first “City Park.”

In 1960, the 19-acre park was officially renamed after former Anaheim mayor Charles A. Pearson.

A theatre at Pearson Park

Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com

Today, Pearson Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

The park is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a picnic lunch with friends.

Families with children will enjoy the playground, the recreation center, and the swimming pool.

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax in Anaheim, visit Pearson Park!

Find Your Top Gun Moment at the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

Are you looking for an adrenaline rush?

Look no further than the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center in Anaheim, California.

Here, you can experience the thrill of aerial maneuvers at 600 knots or air-to-air combat in one of the eight F-16 Fighter Jet simulators.

Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, take the controls of a commercial airliner in their Boeing 737 flight simulator.

You don’t need flight experience to enjoy the center.

Classroom training and in-flight instruction will ensure you have a challenging aviation adventure that you won’t forget.

Celebrate Local Art at Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center

Large letters signage of Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center

mikeledray / Shutterstock.com

The Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center is a world-class museum in Anaheim, California.

The museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of Orange County.

The Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center offers a variety of exhibits, including art, history, and science.

Exterior of Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center

mikeledray / Shutterstock.com

The Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center encourages community involvement in exploring and celebrating Anaheim’s rich heritage, culture, and arts through innovative activities.

The museum also hosts special events, such as concerts and lectures.

It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Anaheim!

Score a Strike at the Splitsville Luxury Lanes

Building sign of Splitsville Luxury Lanes

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

For a fun night out with friends and family in Anaheim, California, you can never go wrong with Splitsville Luxury Lanes.

The lanes offer a variety of activities for visitors, including bowling, dining, and arcade games.

The lanes are also home to various food options, including pizza, sushi, and burgers.

Check out the arcade games if you need a break from the bowling alley!

Splitsville Luxury Lanes is the perfect place for a night out with friends or family in Anaheim.

Enjoy Craft Beer at Anaheim’s Famous Bruery

Exterior of the Bruery

Orange Grove / Shutterstock.com

Local craft beers are on tap in Anaheim.

Since German immigrants founded Anaheim, it naturally has a long history of excellent beer.

Anaheim is home to various breweries, which offer visitors a variety of unique local craft beers.

If you’re looking for a fun day or night in Anaheim, check out some of the city’s famous breweries, such as the Bruery.

Located along Grove Street, The Bruery is one of Anaheim’s most famous breweries, founded in 2008 by Patrick Brue.

Food and drinks in the Bruery

Kevin Yuan / Shutterstock.com

It was named after Rue’s family patriarch, Theodor Bruery.

Theodor was a Belgian immigrant who settled in Anaheim in the late 1800s.

The brewery offers visitors a variety of craft beers, including barrel-aged bourbon and rum.

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the tasting room’s experimental ales, including its fruited sour ales.

Sour ales in the Bruery

Kevin Yuan / Shutterstock.com

Listen to Live Music at the House of Blues Anaheim

Exterior of the House of Blues Anaheim

The Image Party / Shutterstock.com

The House of Blues Anaheim is the perfect place to listen to some live music.

It offers a different experience than its other locations in Chicago and Boston while staying true to the franchise’s mission.

A concert in the House of Blues Anaheim

Harmony Gerber / Shutterstock.com

The one-of-a-kind folk self-taught art found throughout the restaurant and concert hall makes each area distinct.

From up-and-coming indie artists to renowned musicians, there’s always something for everyone’s tastes at the House of Blues Anaheim.

Alcoholic drinks in the House of Blues Anaheim

truannak12 / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

Anaheim has a rich history and culture with something to offer everyone, outdoors or indoors.

With so much to see and do, this place is a city that you won’t want to miss.

Discover the best things to do in Anaheim, California!

© All rights reserved.