Planning a trip to Anaheim, California? Even though Anaheim is largely known for being the home to Disneyland, there’s so much more to discover around Anaheim in California’s famous Orange County. From catching a sports game to vibrant shows and entertainment, to a peaceful day at a regional park, there’s one-of-a-kind California experiences around every corner. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland, we’ve got you covered. Continue reading for a list of some of our favorite things to do in Anaheim (not Disney).
Things to Do in Anaheim that Aren’t Disneyland: Smaller Theme Parks
Although Disneyland is one of the most iconic theme parks in Anaheim, there are plenty of other thrilling things to do in the area that aren’t Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park. There are alternative options for large theme parks in Anaheim besides Disneyland and smaller parks for families to avoid huge crowds. Let’s dive in.
Knott’s Berry Farm
If you’re in Anaheim looking for a theme park that isn’t Disneyland, then check out Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park. Knott’s Berry Farm was actually California’s first theme park! What originally started as a roadside berry stand in the 1920s turned into today’s sprawling 57-acre theme park and water park. The park has dozens of rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. Knott’s Berry Farm pays homage to its origins by serving original recipes from Mrs. Knott’s 1934 restaurant. Knott’s was the first farm to grow boysenberries successfully, so you’ll definitely see the delicious berry in many treats around the park. You won’t want to miss the world-famous Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Pie! The theme park also holds many festivals throughout the year, including the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival and Knott’s Scary Farm.
Adventure City
Adventure City is a small theme park that is one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Anaheim, unlike Disney parks. Although there are fewer rides, you can buy four tickets to Adventure City for the price of one ticket at a big theme park. This theme park has 17 rides, shows, and a petting zoo that are all great for young children. The lines for rides are much shorter than at Disneyland, so the kids will be able to ride every ride as many times as they’d like! Although nearby theme parks might be better for teenagers or groups with no children, there are plenty of fun attractions here. While visiting, you must check out Rewind Racers, which is America’s first forward and reversing family coaster. Adventure City is a perfect option for families with small children looking for things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland.
More Things to Do in Anaheim that Aren’t Disneyland
If you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland or a theme park, then you’re in luck. There are plenty of fun activities for the whole family in Anaheim and the rest of Orange County. From major league baseball games to live entertainment, you’ll have plenty of options for your family vacation itinerary!
Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center
For a taste of Anaheim’s unique heritage and rich culture, head to the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. This 25,000-square-foot complex is made up of the historic Carnegie Library and the gallery space. Since 2007, this center has showcased everchanging innovative and interactive exhibits in science, culture, art, and history. Not to mention, the center hosts many creative events for the public to enjoy, including concerts, walking tours, workshops, poetry readings, and more. So, the curious and creative may consider stopping in for a few hours during their Anaheim vacation.
Catch a Los Angeles Angels or Anaheim Ducks Game
Attending an Los Angeles Angels baseball game is great if your family is full of sports fans or you’re just looking for fun things to do that aren’t Disneyland. If you’re visiting the Anaheim area during the MLB season, which is from late March/early April to late September/early October, an Angels game is a must-do activity! Plus, if the Angels do well during the regular season, they might be in the playoffs, which run into October. So, if you’re lucky, you could catch a playoff game while visiting Anaheim!
However, regular season games can be just as fun! Your family can enjoy a fun day at the Angel Stadium in Anaheim, enjoying the weather and some tasty snacks! Moreover, you can also catch an Anaheim Ducks hockey game during your trip. This professional ice hockey team plays home games at the Honda Center. As a member of the Pacific Division of the NHL, whether you’re a hockey fan or not, you’re in for an exciting match.
Dine at Anaheim Packing District
If you’re interested in a true culinary flight, head over to Anaheim Packing District. This eclectic upscale food hall is an indoor venue filled with a wide variety of local vendors and bars, offering great diversity in cuisine. From soul food to Indian flavors, to crepes and gastropubs, this center has it all. Sip on craft beer while digging into a delicious Cajun plate, or simply grab an ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere. Not to mention, the Anaheim Packing House hosts a wealth of events, including sustainable markets, trivia, karaoke, local live music, classic cars and historical tours, and so much more. So, during your trip, if you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim (not Disney), check out the Anaheim Packing District, one of the most diverse food halls on the West Coast.
Visit Anaheim GardenWalk
Anaheim GardenWalk is an outdoor shopping center in the heart of Anaheim with great entertainment and dining. This is where you can partake in some of the most magical things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland. Not only are there unique shopping options at GardenWalk, but there is plenty of fun to be found! Mission Escape Games offers escape room games with fun themes that are a perfect family vacation activity. Whether you want to participate in the bank heist room or something more sinister, there are options for every group!
Another fun and unique option at GardenWalk is the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center. Guests can feel what it’s like to fly a commercial airliner or military fighter jet and engage in air to air combat. Or, prepare to be dazzled at Kip Barry’s Magical Cabaret at Anaheim GardenWalk, a variety dinner show full of incredible illusions! So, make sure to dedicate an afternoon to visiting GardenWalk.
Explore the Oak Canyon Nature Center
Next on the list of things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland is exploring the Oak Canyon Nature Center! This 58-acre natural park in nestled in the Anaheim Hills and consists of three adjoining canyons. Here, guests enjoy wandering four miles of hiking trails, admiring curious wildlife, and traversing oak woodland and coastal sage scrub. The terrain is ideal for both experienced hikers and beginners, so the entire family can come along! What’s more, the John J. Collier Interpretive Center is also on-site. This small museum features live animals, as well as regional natural history exhibits.
Spend the Day at Huntington Beach
If you’re looking for a beach day, consider making the thirty-minute drive to Huntington Beach! Of things to do in Anaheim (not Disney), you can never go wrong with an afternoon spent in the sun and surf of the beautiful California coast. Known for its incredible surfing conditions, scenic pier, and local Main Street, Huntington Beach is the perfect place to unwind, work on your tan, and get a true taste of West Coast living. As the more laidback counterpart to the nearby Newport Beach, which features Fashion Island and other upscale characteristics, Huntington Beach welcomes tourists and locals with warm sunshine and turquoise waters.
Catch a Show at City National Grove
For fabulous entertainment in Anaheim that isn’t at Disneyland, head to the City National Grove of Anaheim. This is where you can attend performances by some of your favorite musical artists. Among the artists that have performed at City National Grove of Anaheim are Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan, and Prince. You can also catch shows by some of the most popular stand-up comedians in the business! Plus, there are often theater or dance performances at the venue. So, no matter what your taste in entertainment is, you’re bound to find something you love at City National Grove of Anaheim.
Timeshare Resorts in Anaheim
Although Disney Vacation Club has fabulous resorts in the area, there are great options for timeshare resorts in Anaheim that aren’t at a Disneyland resort. Wyndham Destinations, one of the most popular timeshare brands in the industry, has resort options in Anaheim that you will love. Below, we’ll discuss two spectacular Wyndham resorts, as well as Disney resorts close to the Disneyland park. So, when you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim (not Disney), these resorts deliver location-wise.
Club Wyndham Dolphin’s Cove
Club Wyndham Dolphin’s Cove is a five-acre timeshare resort less than a mile away from Disneyland. The resort is also conveniently located near plenty of other things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland. Guests will find it easy to relax amongst the resort’s lush gardens and sparkling fountains. This Wyndham timeshare resort has a heated outdoor pool, which is great during the hot summers in Southern California, as well as the mild winters. There is also a mini golf course at the resort to help keep the family entertained. Four to eight guests can sleep comfortably in the resort’s one-, two-, or three-bedroom villas. You can also enjoy a home-cooked meal in your timeshare villa’s fully-equipped kitchen, which is stocked with cookware and dishes.
Club Wyndham Peacock Suites
While exploring all of the things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to relax. This is where Peacock Suites comes in! This lovely resort is within walking distance to the Disneyland Resort, Knotts Berry Farm, and the Anaheim Convention Center. So, enjoy a great location whether you’re visiting the parks or not! You may even be able to catch Disneyland’s fireworks shows from the roof of the resort. The roof also features a sunbathing area, with hot tubs and a heated swimming pool on the lower level.
In your downtime, head to the game room or hit the fitness center. And whether you’re vacationing with the family or just a couple of friends, you’ll have plenty of room to unwind at Peacock Suites. The resort offers one, two, and three-bedroom villas with all of the comforts of home you’ll desire on vacation. These in-room amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry units, and a private balcony.
Villas at the Disneyland Hotel
However, if you are still planning to visit Disneyland during your stay and want to stay close to the parks, this DVC resort is for you. The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel are as magical as they are modern. The design and artistry found in this resort is inspired by Disney history and classic animated works from the past, making the entire hotel one enchanting Disney masterpiece. On-site amenities include a delightful palette-shaped swimming pool (four pools total), whirlpool spas, poolside cabanas and pool bar, a children’s play area and splash pad, a spa, plenty of Disney-themed on-site dining, and, of course, easy access to the Disneyland parks and the Downtown Disney district. As for accommodations, enjoy luxurious studios and one-, two-, or three-bedroom villas. These villas feature a kitchen, washer/dryer, and separate bedrooms.
Experience Things to Do in Anaheim that Aren’t Disneyland
There’s so much to explore in Anaheim, and you can’t do it all in one trip! So, if you want to visit sunny Anaheim year after year, you’ll need a place to call home base. Whether you’re taking a Disneyland vacation and want more things to do in Anaheim that aren’t Disneyland, or you’re not visiting the parks at all, there are beautiful timeshare resorts that put you in the heart of the fun.
What’s more, you can find the perfect timeshare for a fraction of the cost of retail on the resale market! Simply browse our market, find your ideal resort, and make an offer. One of our licensed real estate agents will get in contact with you soon. For questions or concerns, give us a call at call at 1-800-410-8326 or email us at [email protected].
Sell Your Timeshare
Already have a timeshare and looking to sell? We get it. Sometimes, our travel needs change. From selling your vacation club membership to selling your week, we’ve got you covered. Simply fill out the form below, and we’ll reach out to you soon to prepare your listing.
