Things to Do in Anaheim

About Anaheim

Anaheim exists because of a mouse, and it doesn't pretend otherwise. This Orange County city built its identity around Disneyland Resort, which opened in 1955 and turned a stretch of orange groves into one of the most visited tourist destinations on the planet. That said, calling Anaheim a one-trick pony sells it short — the city has grown into a legitimate convention and sports hub, anchored by the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center, home to the NHL's Anaheim Ducks and a regular stop for major touring concerts.

The Disneyland Resort remains the gravitational center for most visitors, and rightly so — it's two theme parks (Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure) plus Downtown Disney, all within walking distance of dozens of hotels along Harbor Boulevard and Katella Avenue. But Anaheim also works as a base for exploring the wider region: Angel Stadium sits a few miles east, Knott's Berry Farm is a short drive in Buena Park, and the beaches of Huntington and Newport are 20-30 minutes south by car. The city itself has invested heavily in its Anaheim GardenWalk and Packing District developments, giving visitors reasons to stay local for dinner rather than just crashing after a 12-hour park day.

This is a destination built for families first, but it works equally well for conference-goers, sports fans chasing a Ducks or Angels game, and concertgoers hitting Honda Center. Solo travelers and couples without kids can still enjoy it, particularly if the goal is nostalgia, roller coasters, or a home base for exploring Southern California, but don't expect a nightlife scene or cultural depth on par with Los Angeles proper, which is about 30 miles north.