Welcome to Anaheim, a city filled to the brim with attractions you can’t wait to get your hands on! When you adhere to our list of the top attractions in the region, other than those associated with Disney, you’re in for an Anaheim excursion well done. Avoid the long Disney lines, and bypass the high prices, by taking advantage of some of the top-rated attractions found anywhere in the fine state of California! Once you get to know the city, you may wish to stay longer and start booking the top hotels with in-room kitchens or hotels by Extended Stays America. Whatever it is that you choose, we promise Anaheim is worth it. Learn more about our list of things to do in Anaheim.
1. Anaheim Founders' Park

Travel back in time with a visit to this venue, preserved to immortalize Anaheim’s agricultural history. The location features two historic buildings — the two-level Anaheim’s citrus era’s Queen Anne, erected in the late 19th century, and the mid-19th-century Mother Colony House, one of the city’s earliest structures. You’ll also find a replica of a 19th-century countryside and a citrus era’s windmill and carriage house. More 19th-century-inspired properties were added, which are used for educational programs, exhibits, and feature restrooms. And if you need an old setting for your special event, Founders’ Park can be the perfect spot. The park is 2.1 mi (3.37 km) from Downtown Disney District, which takes about 6 minutes by car.
Anaheim Founders' Park
Address: 400 N West St, Anaheim, CA 92801, United States
Website: Anaheim Founders’ Park
2. Adventure City
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Adventure City on Friday, March 15, 2019
Adventure City is an uncrowded, fun venue for everyone, especially those who don’t want to dent their pockets on Disneyland. The place boasts 17 rides, including the continent’s first to and fro shuttle coaster, the crazy bus, and Adventure City Express Train, which trips around the serene amusement city. The location also features engaging programs for kids, including the famous Thomas Tank Engine, to collaborate with other children to construct train tracks. The reasonable entrance fee covers all the amenities, excluding the arcade and wall climbing. Parking is complimentary. The amusement park is easily accessible from STC Anaheim GardenWalk, being a 10-minute drive and 5.5 mi (8.85 km) away.
Adventure City
Address: 1238 S Beach Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92804, United States
Website: Adventure City
Price: 18 - 22 USD
3. Center St. Promenade
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The best food and shops located in the heart of CtrCity Anaheim! #CTRSTPROMENADE PC: @wjsphoto_corporate
Posted by CENTER STREET ANAHEIM on Monday, March 11, 2019
Whether you want to shop for souvenirs or wish to style your hair in a vintage barber’s shop, Barbeer, while sipping a locally brewed beer, this center is a must-visit. Center St. Promenade, the city’s former commercial hub, is now a modernized spot with rustic flair. The shopping mall is a short distance from Mickey’s Toontown, which takes 5 minutes by car (1.6 mi/2.57 km). Here, you’ll find boutiques, artisan-inspired restaurants, outdoor cafes, and a farmers’ market. The lively place is also the grounds for fun events such as Anaheim Halloween Parade and seasonal art shows.
Center St. Promenade
Address: Anaheim, CA 92805, USA
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Angel Stadium

Begin your Anaheim experience with a trip to one of the region’s premier athletics locations! Welcome to the stadium of the Anaheim Angels, where you can routinely find demonstrations of world-class athleticism and competition! Ideally, you’ll be in Anaheim during the MLB season, however, even if you’re in Anaheim during the offseason, you can always take a premium tour of the facilities, and there might even be an event at the MLB park! Catching a game at the stadium is truly one of the best things to do around Anaheim.
The stadium is not far away from City National Grove of Anaheim, which is four minutes away by car. Angel Stadium regularly hosts events when the Angels aren’t continuing their winning ways, so make sure to check online for the latest and greatest events happening right on Angels’ turf!
Angel Stadium
Address: 2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: Angel Stadium
5. Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
For a riveting virtual experience, the likes of which you likely have never before experienced, come by the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center! This attraction is easily accessible from Disney California Adventure Park which is only 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometers) away. Here, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor: the opportunity to pilot your own flight and to take the controls, as the master of the skies. If you’re at least 11 years old and feel like developing a taste and a love for the skies, then there has never been a better time to swing by the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, in Anaheim!
Here, you can get behind the controls of a wide range of air-worthy aircraft and test your aeronautical knowledge against the best to ever fly! It’s time that you experienced the freedom that is allowing your feet to virtually leave the soil and take to Anaheim air, even if you do so from the comfort of the ground! Come by the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, for a certified virtual flight experience that is sure to have you clamoring for more.
Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center
Address: 1650 S Sinclair St, Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center
6. Honda Center

Next on the list of places to see in Anaheim is Honda Center. If there are first-rate thrills to be found, they are likely here! This indoor arena, recognized as one of the premier indoor arenas in the region, is first and foremost the home to the Anaheim Ducks, one of California’s representatives in the National Hockey League. Come by during the season to cheer on the Ducks, and to count yourself among the slew of lucky fans that can witness the Ducks carrying on the mighty hockey tradition that characterizes the Anaheim area!
The Honda Center also plays host to a diversified variety of events, both paid and for charity. Make sure to check the venue’s website for the latest events happening in Anaheim! From competitive MMA events to top-tier concerts, the Honda Center promises to deliver world-class entertainment, right in your backyard! This arena is a three-minute drive from Angel Stadium, home of the MLB’s Los Angeles Angels.
Honda Center
Address: 2695 E Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: Honda Center
7. Yorba Regional Park

When it’s time to slow down the pace of life in Anaheim to a comfortable stroll, it’s time to familiarize yourself with the local wonder that is Yorba Regional Park. Here, you can lose yourself in the peaceful stillness, relax under sprawling trees that line the park’s edges, and fall in love with the feeling of the warm sun’s rays on your skin.
There’s always something to enjoy here! This park is also typified by its facilities, some of the best that you can find anywhere in the Golden State. For one, Yorba Regional Park contains access to several local lakes via its dynamic series of hiking trails. If you prefer to stay in the heart of the park, there is always a gathering to be found somewhere, given that the park also contains benches, picnic tables, and more! Stay for the rejuvenation at Yorba Regional Park. Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center is 11.6 miles (18.66 km) away and takes about 16 minutes of driving.
Yorba Regional Park
Address: 7600 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92807
Website: Yorba Regional Park
8. Anaheim Packing District

When it comes to visiting a new city, there’s always time to check out one of the local landmarks. The same is true for Anaheim, and you’re going to want to come check out the Anaheim Packing District at your earliest convenience. The Anaheim Packing District takes advantage of the ideal combination of unforgettable food and verified history. Originally constructed in 1919, this historical staple was once a citrus-packing house, where some of Anaheim’s best products were shipped to the masses. Today, the venue still exists with the same purpose: to deliver high-quality food to those who seek it!
As a high-end food court, the Anaheim Packing District is your answer to any hunger, with diverse culinary options, like Pandor Bakery, Umami Burger, and the Hammer Bar! Local vendors make the most out of the opportunity to impress both locals and visitors at this location! This Anaheim attraction is not far from Disneyland Park, which is a four-minute drive away.
Anaheim Packing District
Address: 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
Website: Anaheim Packing District
9. Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Play Every Day this Summer for about $1.00 per day!
Posted by Sky Zone Anaheim on Saturday, June 23, 2018
For some high-octane fun that you’re not going to want to forego, check out the Sky Zone Trampoline Park the next time you happen to swing by Anaheim! Featuring a diverse selection of trampolines and environments, Sky Zone Trampoline Park continues the Sky Zone legacy of high-quality fun, without compromising any of your personal safety.
You’ll find that with a little bit of effort, you can bounce higher and soar further than you ever thought possible! Discover how amazing you feel as soon as your feet leave the ground under your own power when you make Anaheim’s Sky Zone Trampoline Park your next first-rate attraction! Fall in love with the feeling of the trampoline beneath your feet, and afterward, you’ll discover that the entire experience doubles as an authentic workout opportunity! Make this place your next excuse for adventure as it is one of the genuinely fun things to do in Anaheim. From Honda Center, this park is just 10 minutes away by car.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Address: 1301 N Kellogg Dr, Anaheim, CA 92807
Website: Sky Zone Trampoline Park
10. Concourse Bowling Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If your trip to Anaheim is all about having fun, then you don’t have a reason to miss the Concourse Bowling Center! The establishment is within driving distance of Disneyland Resort, which is 7.8 miles (12.6 kilometers) away. Located right in the heart of Anaheim, this local hotspot allows you to familiarize yourself with the art of the sport, all while visiting one of the region’s social hangout staples!
This contemporary attraction also includes billiards tables, so you can relax and enjoy the company of your friends and loved ones between rounds of bowling! If you’re looking for a meal while onsite, trust the location’s full-service bar and accompanying grill, to allow you to make the most out of the trip! It’s all waiting for you at the Concourse Bowling Center in Anaheim, at the collision site of excitement and socialization!
Concourses Bowling Center
Address: 3364 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: Concourse Bowling Center
11. Anaheim Ice

Welcome to your newest excuse for a mind-numbing good time! Anaheim Ice is the place to be if you’re looking for an opportunity to ice skate anywhere near Anaheim. The ice skating complex is within reach of Pearson Park, taking about nine minutes by foot via North Lemon Street. The prices are affordable, the state-of-the-art facilities are top-notch, and the entire experience will serve as an unforgettable life memory!
At Anaheim Ice, you can take advantage of their easy ice skating lessons, where you can perfect your craft. Or, you can swing by during their free skate period, to circle the ice while your favorite songs play over their speakers! The building itself, to make a good story great, is also one of the major architectural feats of renowned architect, Frank Gehry. There are so many reasons why you need to find yourself at Anaheim Ice the next time you’re anywhere near the area - choose one, and discover the sensation of the ice beneath your feet!
Anaheim Ice
Address: 300 W Lincoln Ave, Anaheim, CA 92805
Website: Anaheim Ice
12. Pearson Park

Come discover the sheer pull of full Anaheim sunshine, at Pearson Park, just seven minutes on foot from George Washington Park! This location’s various natural and physical attractions make for an unforgettable park experience, whether you elect to visit by yourself, or with your entire family! Perfect for any and all of your bike riding or hiking escapades, Pearson Park allows each and every guest to bask in the views, the pristine California sunshine, and near-perfect weather!
Pearson Park also plays host to a variety of playground and pond amenities, making it a virtual must-see, whenever you’re in or near Anaheim. Wide open spaces and wonderful days are in your near future, whenever you visit Pearson Park!
Pearson Park
Address: 400 North Harbour Boulevard, Anaheim, CA 92805
Website: Pearson Park
13. STC Anaheim GardenWalk

Shopping. Truly one of the best things you can do on a trip. STC Anaheim GardenWalk, only a five-minute drive from Anaheim Convention Center, welcomes all your shopping and dining needs! You can come here to get your souvenirs to bring back home or just simply pay a visit to see what’s the hottest item in town. Here you’ll find a diverse selection of restaurants where you can eat to your heart’s content. You may even get lucky and chance upon a sale and special deals during your visit!
STC Anaheim GardenWalk
Address: 400 West Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Website: STC Anaheim GardenWalk
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
14. Downtown Anaheim Farmers Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Farmers’ markets are really where it’s at if you want to get your hands on unique and artisan finds. If that sounds like your kind of thing, head on to Downtown Anaheim Farmers Market, a nine-minute walk on North Lemon Street from Pearson Park. Shopping here is among the best things to do near Anaheim’s finest downtown offerings. Do remember that they’re only open every Thursday, so keep a close watch on your schedule. You’ll find an assortment of food stalls that will keep your belly full. Aside from that, the vendors include crafts that display their expertise through the products, which you may want to bring home with you as a piece of your Anaheim experience!
Downtown Anaheim Farmers Market
Address: 201 West Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, CA 92805, United States
Website: Downtown Anaheim Farmers Market
Opening hours: Thu: 11am - 3pm (closed from Fri - Wed)
15. Oak Canyon Nature Center

Oak Canyon Nature Center, a 9-minute drive (4.4 mi/7 km) from Anaheim Hills Festival, is where you want to go if you’re into outdoor activities that are not extreme. The nature preserve is a 58-acre (23-hectare) park that is owned and regulated by the city. It houses John J. Collier Interpretive Center, a museum with national history and animal exhibits that is only open during weekends. The picturesque Oak Canyon Nature Center is also a popular wedding destination and some of its areas are truly worth capturing on camera.
Oak Canyon Nature Center
Address: 6700 E Walnut Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92807, United States
Website: Oak Canyon Nature Center
Opening hours: 7am - 5:30pm (daily)
16. Anaheim White House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Being a popular destination among tourists, Anaheim has some of the best restaurants in sunny California. One of those is the high-end Italian steak restaurant, Anaheim White House, just four minutes on foot from Walnut Grove Park. How does Angus filet mignon sound to you? That’s what’s waiting for you at this dining establishment. It’s the perfect place to take your sweetheart for a date night. Families are welcome to dine as well! Dinners are open for reservation, so call ahead and make your night one for the books!
Anaheim White House
Address: 887 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805, United States
Website: Anaheim White House
Opening hours: 5pm - 10pm (daily)
17. Camelot Golfland
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Perfect warm weather at Camelot Golfland today!
Posted by Camelot Golfland on Friday, March 3, 2017
It’s not true that you can only take your kids and family to Disneyland for them to have a good time in Anaheim. The city is filled with family-friendly destinations! One of those is Camelot Golfland, which is a 15-minute drive from Disneyland Park. This amusement center is complete with fun activities: arcades, mini-golf courses, laser tags, race cars, and bumper boats. Your little ones are not going to have a dull moment at Camelot Golfland. So, if you’re looking for the underdog amusement park, keep this in mind!
Camelot Golfland
Address: 3200 E Carpenter Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806, United States
Website: Camelot Golfland
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
18. Bruery Terreux Tasting Room
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Another brewery for beer enthusiasts out there is The Bruery, which is just a three-minute drive from Anaheim Lake. Bruery Terreux Tasting Room’s specialty is farmhouse-style wild and sour ales. If it sounds like something you wish to try, then make your way to the brewery! A few of their bestsellers are the Flemish red ale Oude Tart, Tart of Darkness stout, raspberry sour blond ale Rambulous, and many more. Sample the selection from their tasting room and make a memorable night out of it!
Bruery Terreux Tasting Room
Address: 1174 N Grove Street, Anaheim, CA 92806, United States
Website: Bruery Terreux Tasting Room
Opening hours: Tue: 4pm - 10pm; Wed - Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
19. Mission Escape Games - Escape Room Anaheim
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Mission Escape Games - Anaheim on Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Who says you need to go to Disneyland to get your dose of adrenaline rush? Try out one of the most unique attractions in Anaheim, Mission Escape Games! Just 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) from Disneyland Park, it’s an interesting break from the usual things that one would do on a trip. Dare yourself to try Mission Breakout: The Ultimate Bank Heist. Currently, the escape room center has four different games, so that should be enough fun to fill out your day. Bring your friends for the ultimate escape!
Mission Escape Games
Address: 400 Disney Way #313, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Website: Mission Escape Games
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri: 11:30am - 11pm; Sat: 10:30am - 11pm; Sun: 10:30am - 10pm (closed on Mon)
20. Santa Ana River Lakes

Everyone is welcome to visit Santa Ana River Lakes, a well-known Southern California fishing lake, which is one of the best things to do close to Anaheim’s downtown area. No fishing license or experience is required. Just a seven-minute drive from the famed Honda Center, the fishing lake opens at 6 am, so you can make it an early morning activity to fire up your day. If your group is looking to try something new in Anaheim, this is definitely the place to go. Surely, fishing is the last thing you’d expect to do on vacation, so you might be surprised by how much fun you’ll have. Gear up!
Santa Ana River Lakes
Address: 4060 E La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92807, United States
Website: Santa Ana River Lakes
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 6am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 24 hours (closed on Thu)
Never a dull moment!
Forget anything with a Disney name on it - these attractions are more accessible and affordable, and will guarantee that your next Anaheim excursion will be unforgettable. From Pearson Park to Anaheim Ice and from a trampoline park to delicious steakhouses that’ll send your expectations out of this world, trust our recommended list of the absolute top attractions in Anaheim for a vintage California experience! And to extend your enjoyment, why not consider staying in one of the nearby hotels or Airbnbs in Anaheim.
Editor’s Note: Due to Covid-19, the business hours of these attractions may differ from the stated timings in this article. Please be sure to check the updated hours from the websites.
Frequently asked questions about best things to do in Anaheim
1. What are the top attractions to visit in Anaheim?
Though Disneyland is the number one attraction here, there are still plenty of activities to do here, including viewing world-class competitions at the Angel Stadium, having a taste of the city’s food scene at the Anaheim Packing District, and watching a game of hockey at the Honda Center.
2. What are the best outdoor activities in Anaheim?
Anaheim features plenty of green spaces like Yorba Regional Park and Pearson Park. And one of the best outdoor activities here, besides having fun at Disneyland, is strolling around these parks, where you can relax, inhale the fresh air, and discover natural wonders.
3. What are the best day trips from Anaheim?
If you’re done exploring Anaheim and still have time to visit other nearby cities and attractions, then you should make sure you go on a day trip to San Diego, Los Angeles, Catalina Island, or Newport Beach.
4. What are the most popular things to do in Anaheim with kids?
Aside from Disneyland, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions in Anaheim that not only your kid will enjoy, but you’ll also love, such as bouncing at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park, ice skating at Anaheim Ice, and trying different dishes at the Anaheim Packing District.
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