MetroGuide.Network > AttractionGuide > Anaheim Attractions

Anaheim
Attractions

Welcome to MetroGuide Networks' overview of Anaheim-area attractions. The Greater Anaheim area is full of attractions for all ages. Anaheim, the place in the sun where Disney theme park magic first came to life, has proven that it's not such a small world after all -- not when it comes to packing in myriad diverse attractions luring visitors from near and far. Since Disneyland's 1955 debut, the area has mushroomed into a multi-faceted vacation destination. Lore has it that Walt Disney scouted every inch of Southern California before finally settling on 75 acres of orange grove in Anaheim for his first amusement park vision, destined to become a star-spangled fantasy capital of the world. Yet arrivals are also drawn to some 42 miles of Orange County shoreline and communities stretching from Long Beach and Newport Beach to Balboa, Laguna Beach and San Clemente. About 30 miles south of downtown Los Angeles and 90 miles north of San Diego, Anaheim/Orange County spans more than 700 square miles, and boasts its own professional ballet company, the Anaheim Angels baseball and Mighty Ducks hockey teams. Anaheim itself measures over 48 square miles, has a population of about 328,000, and ranks as the 10th largest city in California. The Anaheim Resort Transit (ART), unveiled in 2001, features 10 electric buses, two electric trams, and 25 propane-driven trolleys providing access to all resorts, attractions, hotels, restaurants and shops.

Below is a list of some suggested things to do in the Anaheim Metropolitan Area, with links to more details when available.

Anaheim Angels

Catch the Anaheim Angels as they battle Major League Baseball's best at the Edison International Field of Anaheim, minutes from the Anaheim Convention Center at the corner of Katella Avenue and State College Boulevard. For tickets, call (714) 663-9000; Groups: (714) 940-2162.
2000 Gene Autry Way. (714) 940-2000

Anaheim Dad Miller Golf Course

With a lake and lovely trees, the Dad Miller Golf Course is easily walked and has become popular with players of all ages and abilities. The practice center offers bunkers, chipping green and a night-lighted driving range. A snack bar, restaurant and cocktail lounge are on site. Reservations are accepted one week in advance, with special rates for seniors.
430 North Gilbert Street. (714) 765-GOLF

Anaheim Garden Walk

Opening in summer 2004, Anaheim Garden Walk is the newest major development in the Anaheim Resort, featuring family attractions that include an aquarium, brand name retail shops and a range of dining choices.

Anaheim Hills Golf Course

In the Santa Ana Canyon, the Anaheim Hills Golf Course has valleys, slopes and ancient sycamores on the old Nohl Ranch. The course, with a country club atmosphere, has a golf shop, restaurant, cocktail lounge and a 2-tiered, 32-station driving range. Reservations accepted one week in advance, with special rates for seniors.
6501 Nohl Ranch Road. (714) 765-GOLF

Anaheim Indoor Marketplace

The Anaheim Indoor Marketplace, with more than 200 variety stores selling name-brand merchandise at up to 70 percent below retail, is the place to go for bargains on athletic shoes, luggage, souvenirs, electronics and jewelry. Weekends feature live entertainment. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Monday. Closed Tuesdays.
1440 South Anaheim Boulevard. (714) 999-0888; (800) 479-7927

Anaheim Museum

The Anaheim Museum, about 10 minutes from the Anaheim Convention Center and housed in the only remaining Carnegie Library in Orange County (where once there were five), presents city history in the Anaheim Room. Exhibits rotate in the North and South galleries, and there is a children's gallery.
241 South Anaheim Boulevard.

Antique Historical District/Old Towne Orange

A wooden stake pounded into the ground in July, 1871 marked the center of a new town, soon to be called Orange and eventually to become known as Old Towne Orange, antique capital of California. First known as Richland, the town was laid out by Alfred Beck Chapman and Andrew Glassell, two lawyers receiving the land as payment for fees. Picturesque Old Towne Orange, about 10 minutes from Disneyland, is a perfect square mile, divided into quarters, with the oval Plaza Park (on the National Register of Historic Places) at the center. Streets run north and south; avenues run east and west. More than three dozen antique and collectible shops with names like American Roots, Knot Knew Shop, and Wild Goose Chase are accompanied by tea rooms and restaurants such as Someplace In Time and Ugly Mug Café. The Victorian Fountain, now at 330 E. Chapman, came in 1887, and the Norfolk Star Pine Tree, planted in 1903, serves as the town's yule tree.
Chapman and Glassell streets. (714) 997-1370

Aquarium of the Pacific

The world-class Aquarium of the Pacific, with a life-sized blue whale suspended from the ceiling, celebrates treasures of the planet's largest, most diverse body of water. Three regions explored are the Southern California/Baja Pacific, the Northern Pacific, and the Tropical Pacific. The aquarium, with sleek glass architecture, is a milestone in design and technology. Shark Lagoon exhibits 150 different species and has its own theater and gift shop.
100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 951-1660

Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim

The 19,200-seat Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim, home to the NHL Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, hosts assorted premier family shows, top-billed concerts, popular sports and entertainment events throughout the year.
2695 East Katella Avenue intersecting with Douglass Road. (714) 704-2400

Asian Garden Mall

In the heart of Little Saigon, the Asian Garden, features some 400 ethnic boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants and Orange County's largest jewelry center, specializing in 24k gold, diamonds, pearls, and jade. Marble statues of the Happy Buddha and the Gods of Happiness, Longevity and Prosperity stand at the entrance. Little Saigon has more than 2,000 retail shops and eateries along Bolsa Avenue.
9039 Bolsa Avenue, Westminster. (714) 891-2122

The Block At Orange

Orange's newest entertainment and retail destination, courtesy of the Mills Corporation, is The Block at Orange, a mega-entertainment complex including an AMC 30-screen theater, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Hilo Hattie, Vans Skate Park, The Power House, Dave & Busters, Alcatraz Brewing Company, Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe, Café Tu Tu Tango, and more.
20 City Boulevard, Orange. (714) 769-4000

Crystal Cathedral

Designed by famed architect Philip Johnson, the Crystal Cathedral has been hailed as among the world's most spectacular religious edifices. The cathedral, resembling a four-pointed star, with 10,000 panes of glass covering the web-like, translucent walls and ceiling, is home to the annual "Glory of Christmas" and "Glory of Easter" pageants. The cast includes live animals, flying angels and special effects, all performing within the 2,890-seat cathedral.
13280 Chapman Avenue, Garden Grove. (714) 971-4013

Disney Ice

Ranking among the “coolest” places around, Disney Ice, official training facility of the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, has daily skating sessions, private ice rental, broomball and parties for youth and adults.
300 West Lincoln Avenue. (714) 535-7465

Disneyland California Adventure

Designed like a picture postcard, Disney's 55-acre California Adventure, next to Disneyland, hails the fun, diversity and pioneering spirit of California, with three themed lands: Paradise Pier, Hollywood Pictures Backlot, and the Golden State. Among big draws are the 360-degree loop-de-loop of the California Screamin' rollercoaster, the rapids of Grizzly Peak and the sourdough of Pacific Wharf. Soarin' Over California in Condor Flats salutes the state's aviation heritage. Golden Dreams, a film hosted by Whoopi Goldberg, salutes people whose courage and creativity have shaped California. For a leisurely overview, The Sun Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel, provides a good look at the grounds.
1150 West Magic Way. (714) 956-6519

Disneyland Park

This is where the magic began, with Walt Disney's original theme extravaganza, Disneyland Park, still going full tilt with eight themed lands, classic Disney characters, favorite attractions, live entertainment and parades down Main Street U.S.A. The Park encompasses more than 60 major rides, 50 shops and 30 restaurants. Fireworks light up the sky each night during peak periods.
Call for a current schedule of parades and shows.
1313 Harbor Boulevard., Anaheim. (714) 781-4565

Dromo One

After a comprehensive briefing, racers are provided with safety equipment and a race kart to compete as one of nine drivers. Race results are posted with finishing positions. Participants must be at least 5 feet or taller, and parents or legal guardians must sign for minors under 18.
1431 North Main Street, Orange. (714) 744-4779

Flight Deck Air Combat Center

Civilians can take on the role of piloting fighter jets via cockpit simulators, with take-offs, landings, aerial maneuvers at 500 knots and air-to-air combat.
1601 South Sunkist Street, Anaheim. (714) 937-1511

Fritz That's Too

Orange County's largest gentleman's club restaurant and bar, open for lunch and dinner, has live adult entertainment.
710 East Katella Avenue. (714) 978-1828

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

Beyond the city bustle lies Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa, a hideaway nestled in a canyon. For over a century, spa-goers have been drawn to its soothing mineral waters, working wonders on body and soul. The 16 pools, spas and warm waters are now combined with professional body services, salon treatments and Club Mud, Southern California's only red clay mud bath club. The most recent addition is The Grotto (an underground, cave-like setting) for body moisturizing treatments. The spa day is about 45 minutes from Orange County.
25000 Glen Ivy Road, Glen Ivy. (909) 277-3529

Grove of Anaheim

The intimate Grove of Anaheim brings in headliners like Styx, Yes, George Benson, REO Speedwagon, Dwight Yoakam or Brian Wilson up close and personal. No seat is more than 80 feet from the stage, and an acclaimed dinner menu is served in selected sections. Prices vary, depending on performer and event.
2200 East Katella Avenue. (714) 712-2703

Hastings on The Avenue (at the Hilton Anaheim)

This stylish billiard parlor has full cocktail service and selection of Pacific Rim and American appetizers. Two Italian slate billiard tables are surrounded by five 50-inch plasma television screens, each with dedicated satellite reception and PC network capability. Open daily 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. for lunch or dinner.
Hilton Anaheim, 777 Convention Way. (714) 740-3911

House of Blues, Downtown Disney

This hot live music venue and restaurant in the Downtown Disney entertainment complex has an eclectic line-up of musical fare, and a full-service southern-style restaurant known for its Sunday Gospel Brunch. Dress is casual and there is a child's menu.
1530 South Disneyland Drive. (714) 778-2583

Joe's Automotive Museum/Joe's Garage

Race cars, hot rods, custom jobs and classics are part of the extensive collection at Joe's Garage, with panoramic murals depicting the evolution of the automobile in California.
36 Auto Center Drive, Tustin. (714) 832-1717

Knott's Berry Farm Theme Park

Once an actual berry farm, this 160-acre theme park is packed with world class rides, family shows and attractions. Six themed areas include the GhostRider wooden roller coaster, Supreme Scream (30-stories up, 3 seconds down), and high-octane thrills of Xcelerator, sending riders from 0-to-80 m.p.h. in 2.3 seconds. For a slower pace, try Camp Snoopy, home to the Peanuts gang.
8039 Beach Boulevard. (714) 220-5124

Knott's Soak City U.S.A. Water Park

Knott's Soak City U.S.A. is a separately gated, 13-acre water park adjacent to Knott's Berry Farm. Themed to 1950s Southern California beaches, its highlights include a 760,000-gallon wave pool, 16 tube, body and speed slides, and a lazy river stretching a third of a mile. Open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends in May and September.
8039 Beach Boulevard. (714) 220-5124

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California has more than 40 kid-powered rides, shows and attractions. Thrills include speeding along razor sharp curves and dips in the LEGO TECHNIC Coaster. The park is about one hour south of Anaheim.
One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbad. (760) 918-LEGO

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament provides family entertainment pegged to the glory of 11th century Spain. Spectacular pageantry, Andalusian horsemanship, swordplay, falconry, sorcery and romance unfold while guests feast on four-course banquets served in true medieval, pre-silverware fashion. The experience culminates in an authentic jousting tournament among brave knights of the realm.
7662 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park. (714) 521-4740

Moving on Entertainment

Moving on Entertainment, a non-alcoholic venue, seeks to promote wholesome family entertainment and professional shows.
201 East Broadway Avenue. (714) 776-7776

Phoenix Club

The Phoenix Club entertainment center encompasses seven acres of banquet halls, festival grounds and beer gardens. Dress is casual and there is a child's menu. Open for lunch Monday through Friday; daily for dinner, and brunch on Sunday.
1340 South Anderson Avenue. (714) 563-4161

Plaza Garibaldi

The Plaza features authentic Mexican, country-style cooking, along with a sports bar and 350-seat dinner theater with a Mariachi dinner show on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Children dine free with a paying adult.
500 North Brookhurst Avenue. (714) 758-9014

Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen, Downtown Disney

Ralph Brennan's representation of New Orleans' dual legacies - food and music -- depict the charm, ambiance and hospitality of historic, contemporary New Orleans. Food options are quick service, casual dining, or fine dining, plus live music nightly. Dress is casual, and there is a child's menu. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
1590 South Disneyland Drive. (714) 776-5200

Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace

The Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace opened in July, 1990 with more than 50,000 friends and well-wishers – Presidents Ford, Reagan, and George W. Bush and their First Ladies all showed up -- on hand to join Nixon and his wife Pat. The privately supported, non-profit institution focuses on the 37th President along with public forums from town meetings to national policy conferences. Recorded material available for review includes the famed Watergate smoking-gun tape. Visitors are invited to tour the farmhouse where Nixon was born and raised, and to view the couple's final resting places, set among more than 1,300 rose bushes in White House-styled gardens. A Presidential Gift Shop is on site.
18001 Yorba Linda Boulevard, Yorba Linda. (714) 993-5075

San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino

Providing live gaming action with poker, blackjack, video gaming and bingo. Call for promotions and an entertainment schedule.
5797 North Victoria Avenue, Highland. (909) 382-2222

SpeedZone

SpeedZone, built around speed and competition, incorporates real racing action, indoor interactive entertainment and food to create a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. On about 12 acres, the park offers a chance to get behind the wheel of four types of cars, including custom-built, ¾-scale grand prix cars and 18-foot-long, 300-horsepower dragsters racing on tracks designed by top industry experts.
17871 Castleton Street, City of Industry. (626) 913-9663

Stadium Promenade

Stadium Promenade hosts the Century 25 movie theater (the area's only theater with the THX-certified sound system), King's Fish House, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, Chili's Grill & Bar, and Penske Racing Center.
1623 West Katella Avenue, Orange. (714) 288-9845

Wild Rivers Waterpark

Wild Rivers Waterpark has more than 40 water rides and attractions, two humongous wavepools (Hurricane Harbor and Thunder Cove), and other fun for kids and adults. Admission includes all water rides and attractions, and tubes are provided. Lockers, parking, Hurricane Harbor bodyboards, food and beverages are available for an extra charge.
8770 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 788-0808

MetroGuide.Network > AttractionGuide > Anaheim Attractions

« Top of Page