Exploring Beyond the Happiest Place on Earth: What to Do in Anaheim Besides Disney
Anaheim, the city situated in Orange County, California, is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions beyond the iconic Disneyland Resort. From outdoor enthusiasts to foodies, and from family-friendly fun to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Anaheim. In this article, we’ll delve into the top things to do in Anaheim besides Disney, highlighting some of the city’s hidden gems and must-visit spots.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Anaheim is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some top picks for nature and outdoor activities:
- Finebra Brewing Company: Located in the heart of Anaheim, Finebra Brewing Company is a local favorite brewery that offers a variety of beers and live music. Take a tour of the brewery and sample some of their craft beers.
- SANTA ANA RIVERBANK CONTINENTAL PLAN: The Santa Ana Riverwalk is a 3.5-mile linear park that runs along the Santa Ana River. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic while enjoying the beautiful views.
- ANAMEI MOUNTAIN: For those looking for a more adventurous activity, Anaheim Mountain offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and zip-lining opportunities.
Cultural Experiences
Anaheim has a rich cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues to explore:
- CECORENA MUSEUM OF CINEMATOGRAPHY: Located in Ontario, but easily accessible from Anaheim, the CECORENA Museum is a unique museum that showcases a vast collection of film memorabilia and interactive exhibits.
- ANAMEI ARTS: Anaheim’s Arts District is home to over 100 art galleries, including the California Museum of Art and Southern California Museum of Art.
- THE OUTLET MUSEUM: While not a traditional museum, the Outlet Museum offers an immersive experience of luxury shopping, food, and entertainment.
Food and Drink
Anaheim is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants serving everything from classic American fare to international cuisine:
- TOP GUN: ALTON BANDERAS RESTAURANT: This Top Gun-themed restaurant in Anaheim offers a fun and nostalgic dining experience, complete with a beer garden and a drive-in movie theater.
- GAZA COFFEE CAFE: For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, head to Gaaza Coffee Cafe, which serves up delicious falafel, shawarma, and other international dishes.
- KOCKTA: Located in the Anaheim Packing District, Kockta is a stylish and trendy bar that serves creative cocktails and small plates.
Shopping and Entertainment
Anaheim is a shopper’s and entertainment hub, with plenty of malls, arcades, and attractions to choose from:
- SHERATON ANAMEI MALL: This upscale mall offers a range of stores, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Lululemon, and Gap.
- HICKORY SQUARE: Located in downtown Anaheim, Hickory Square is a stylish shopping district with a mix of boutique stores, art galleries, and restaurants.
- WINCHELRELLS TOWN SQUARE: This iconic arcade is a must-visit for gamers of all ages, with over 60 classic and modern arcade games.
Tabletop Gaming
Anaheim is a haven for tabletop gaming enthusiasts, with a range of options from board games to card games:
- MILK GAMES: Located in Anaheim, Milk Games is a board game cafe that offers a wide range of games, including popular titles like Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering.
- DOWNTOWN ANAMEI GARAGE: This interactive gaming experience offers a variety of board games, card games, and video games, including an escape room and a virtual reality experience.
- HILL TOP GAMES: Located in Santa Ana, but accessible from Anaheim, Hill Top Games is a classic board game cafe that offers a wide range of games and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Events and Festivals
Anaheim hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, including:
- ANAMEI FESTIVAL OF SMOKE: A classic music festival featuring local and national acts.
- SANTA ANA RIVERFEST: A fun and festive event that celebrates the Santa Ana River.
- HUNDRED DAYS OF SUMMER: A summer festival that offers live music, food, and activities for all ages.
Conclusion
Anaheim is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture vulture. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, shopping and entertainment, and events and festivals, there’s always something new to discover in Anaheim. So why not venture beyond the Happiest Place on Earth and explore all that Anaheim has to offer?