15 Things To Do In Anaheim That Are Anything But Basic

Anaheim, often recognized for hosting Disneyland Resort, dubbed the "Happiest Place on Earth," offers much more than just theme park excitement. This vibrant city in Orange County is a hub of adventure that attracts visitors globally. Beyond its renowned theme park, Anaheim features a revitalized downtown area and a lively nightlife scene, making it a diverse vacation destination suitable for families, food enthusiasts, and everyone in between. Discover Anaheim's hidden gems and see why it's much more than just a gateway to Disneyland.

Things to Do in Anaheim, California With Your Family

1. Practice Your Tricks at Vans Skatepark

Are your kids into skateboarding? Take them straight to Vans Skatepark, a massive 20,000 square foot space ideal for both experts and novices. They’ll have so much fun that you might just be tempted to join in too; book a lesson with a certified instructor and impress everyone with a kickflip.

2. Have Trapeze Lessons at SwingIt 

If you want to find the coolest stuff to do in Anaheim, why not crank the adrenaline factor by a thousand? SwingIt Trapeze is where you’ll receive acrobatic classes and learn how to fly off from trapeze bars. Fly high without fear, knowing you’re protected; your kids will absolutely love this experience.

3. Find Instagram-Worthy Food at the Anaheim Packing District 

What was once an orange processing plant has since been rebuilt as one of the hippest Anaheim attractions known as the Packing House, the coolest gourmet food court you’ll visit in the O.C. The old Sunkist facility dates back to 1919 and is basically your one-stop sampling haven for all the flavors—fresh produce, world-class culinary talents, and the most Instagrammable desserts you can imagine.

4. Check out Center Street Promenade 

A hip city street near the historic downtown Carnegie Library, the Center Street Promenade is an Orange County shopping destination filled with boutique shops, local eateries, and lofts of the most luxurious kind. This is the greatest afternoon stroll for you and your family since there’s food, music, entertainment, and a very high chance you’ll find local treasures to brighten up your household decor.

5. Take the Whole Family to Medieval Times

Medieval Times in Buena Park offers an entertaining evening that transports you back to the days of knights, jousting, and falconry. Located just a short drive from Anaheim, it's a fantastic family-friendly activity. Visitors can watch as knights clad in period-authentic armor compete in battles to win the Queen's favor, wielding traditional weapons. While enjoying the show, guests can also savor a feast that includes traditional roast chicken among other sides, enhancing the medieval experience.

Fun Things To Do in Anaheim Alone 

6. Catch a Game at Angel Stadium

Anaheim is home to the Los Angeles Angels of the American League West; some would argue that the Happiest Place on Earth isn’t actually Disneyland—it’s Angel Stadium. If you’re in Anaheim and looking for things to do on your own, catching a game at this iconic baseball stadium in California can be the greatest way to immerse yourself in the culture of the region.

7. Explore Anaheim GardenWalk

Located near the gates of Disneyland Resort, Anaheim GardenWalk is a pedestrian-friendly district filled with all kinds of shopping and dining experiences. Just wandering around and strolling past familiar restaurants and regional favorites will be one of the most fun things you’ll do in Anaheim.

8. Stroll through Yorba Regional Park

Yorba Regional Park in eastern Anaheim spans a mile-long area that's sure to enchant any nature lover. This 140-acre landscaped park features winding bike paths that meander around four scenic lakes. As you explore, keep an eye out for the charming ducklings that call these waters home. This quaint park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activity, ideal for a day of exploration.

9. Visit Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center 

Housed within the historic downtown Carnegie Library is Anaheim’s most interesting thing to do—a visit to the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. Closely tied to creative expression, the museum shines most through its eye-catching displays of Anaheim’s history; you won’t be able to look away.

10. Have your Cake and Eat It at Amazing Cakes 

If you’re a sweet tooth, then a trip to Anaheim’s Amazing Cakes should be a no-brainer. Ever since its establishment in 1991, Amazing Cakes has been wowing locals and visitors with sweets that have appeared in every menu imaginable; this includes Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end hotels, and even a few luxurious a well as affordable spas in the Golden State.

Romantic Things To Do in Anaheim With Your Partner

11. Indulge Your S.O. at the Anaheim White House Restaurant 

Looking for an Anaheim attraction that screams romance? Look no further than the legendary fine-dining spot White House Restaurant—everything about this place seems presidential. Take your pick from the delectable Northern Italian menu and enjoy the fabulous service, all while in the company of someone you love.

12. Spend the Day Fishing with The Experts

When it comes to stuff to do in Anaheim, this one’s definitely out of the box, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting. Davey’s Locker offers sporting trips for adventurous couples, taking you two out on the sea for a full day with a very real potential of reeling in catches.

13. Have Fun at Disneyland Resort 

It’s about time we talk about the Happiest Place on Earth—it’s where romance blossoms. Anaheim’s Disneyland resort is truly a magical place for indulging your inner child. The worlds of Disneyland include so much detail, it’s easy to detach from real life and transport to a world full of wonder.

14. Tune the Outside World out at Oak Canyon Nature Center 

One of the best things to do in Anaheim is only a short drive from Yorba Regional Park—the Oak Canyon Nature Center is SoCal nature at its finest. The 58-acre park is absolutely enveloped by hiking trails, all of them lined with interpretive information.

15. Attend a show at City National Grove

With state-of-the-art lighting, an intimate arrangement of only 1,700 seats, and a world-renowned lineup both past and present, City National Grove is the place you need to take your beaux.