Orange County, California: Exploring Anaheim, Buena Park and Santa Ana

Arrive in Anaheim and prepare for a day or more of magic at Disneyland^® Resort. The resort encompasses two theme parks, Disneyland^® Park and Disney California Adventure^® Park, as well as the Downtown Disney^® District. Start in Disneyland Park and discover a mix of classic rides and new attractions. Cruise the canals of “it’s a small world,” explore a galaxy far, far away at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and take a steam-train trip on the Disneyland Railroad – the original ride from 1955 is a fun and easy way to get around the park. Next, head to Disney California Adventure Park to see beloved stories brought to life. Live out your superhero dreams at Avengers Campus, or ride the thrilling Incredicoaster known for its mix of speed and special effects. Don’t leave without a walk through the Downtown Disney District. You can refuel at great restaurants and shop for souvenirs at the World of Disney.

After your Disney adventures, take a short drive to try local food and drinks at the Anaheim Packing House or SteelCraft Garden Grove. The eclectic destinations offer open-concept seating and treats from a variety of restaurants and vendors. Top off your meal with a beverage from one of the city’s many breweries like Unsung Brewing Co., Brewheim and Ballast Point, or head to a rooftop bar to watch the Disney fireworks show on select nights. RISE Rooftop Lounge, Top of the V, Parkestry and The FIFTH provide chic ambiance and unmatched viewpoints. If the timing’s right, crown your trip with an Anaheim Ducks hockey match at the Honda Center or a Los Angeles Angels baseball game at Angel Stadium.

From Anaheim, head north for more fun in Buena Park, where you’ll find world-class entertainment just 8 kilometers from Disneyland® and 24 kilometers from beautiful Pacific Ocean beaches. Knott’s Berry Farm is an exhilarating place to begin your Buena Park adventure. Arrive early to experience everything California’s first theme park has to offer. Make memories on kid-friendly rides in Camp Snoopy and brave record-breaking roller coasters in the Old West Ghost Town. Break for lunch at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner or Rock & Brews outside the park. After a rest, suit up for an afternoon of water fun at Knott’s Soak City. Check out Knott’s Independence Hall on your way in – it’s an exact replica of the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, landmark. The Source OC is another great place to fill an afternoon. A premium dining and entertainment destination, The Source features movie theaters, sports centers, restaurants and luxury boutiques.

Continue your tour of Buena Park with a cruise down Beach Boulevard and a treat from Porto’s Bakery or Honeymee. Savor the sweetness as you consider your dinner plans: A meal and show at Medieval Times or Pirates Dinner Adventure, or a low-key culinary experience with international flair. For the latter, look to Yoshiharu, Gaucho Grill Argentinian Steakhouse, SUP Noodle Bar, Miss Shabu or Michelin Bib Gourmand-recipient Ramen & Tsukemen TAO. After dinner, keep the good times going at Beach Boulevard Club’s dueling piano bar or unwind with a nightcap at The Cauldron Spirits & Brews. Sip on the “Knotty Kid” signature cocktail, a must-try mix of boysenberry and cotton candy.

Take a scenic drive south to Santa Ana to wrap up your Orange County retreat. Start your day with a sidewalk stroll to gaze at all the colorful murals around the city; they’ve become a staple of the local experience. Home to makers and innovators from all backgrounds, Santa Ana is adorned with art almost everywhere. Walk through the Blue Lot to see sprawling street art or step inside a gallery to view a curated collection. Don’t overlook the architecture – the buildings themselves are sights to see. For lunch, grab a table at El Indio Botanas y Cerveza. It’s one of many local restaurants specializing in authentic – and delicious – Hispanic and Latin flavors. After your meal, amble around the 10-block Artists’ Village downtown to tour more galleries, studios and shops.

When the Santa Ana sun begins to set, sit down to dinner at Chapter One: the modern local. Its menu centers around sustainable ingredients and includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes, all with imaginative style. After your meal, immerse yourself in the city’s exciting nightlife. Walk to welcoming lounges and sip a craft brew or cocktail. To gain a true sense of Santa Ana’s personality, time your visit with recurring celebrations like the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk or Dancing in the Streets. Dancing in the Streets brings music and movement to Plaza Calle Cuatro on select Saturday nights.

Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County and rent a car for your Orange County road trip. Both airports are less than an hour’s drive from Anaheim, Buena Park and Santa Ana.