Anaheim Beyond Disney: Where the Locals Actually Go
Anaheim, California, is world-famous for being the home of Disney magic, but there is far more to this Orange County destination than main-street parades.
Whether planning a family trip or a weekend getaway, these top places to visit in Anaheim should top any itinerary.
World-Class Theme Parks
1. Disneyland Park & Disney California Adventure
No Anaheim guide is complete without mentioning the iconic resort. Disneyland Park features timeless classics like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, alongside immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Right across the esplanade, Disney California Adventure offers higher-thrill rides, including Avengers Campus and the hit Cars Land.
2. Adventure City
For families with younger children looking to avoid massive crowds and long lines, Adventure City provides a charming, budget-friendly alternative. Located in West Anaheim, this little amusement park features vintage carousels, mini coasters, and a petting zoo.
Dining & Historic Downtown Anaheim
3. Anaheim Packing District & Packing House
Housed in a restored 1919 Sunkist citrus packing building, the Anaheim Packing House is one of the last remaining historic citrus packing warehouses in Orange County. It has been transformed into a two-story culinary food hall featuring dozens of local vendors.
What to try: Everything from gourmet ramen, Indian street food, and artisan gelato to craft cocktails served inside hidden speakeasies.
4. Center Street Promenade
Located in the heart of Downtown Anaheim, Center Street Promenade is a walkable street lined with palm trees, outdoor dining patios, independent boutiques, and artisan coffee shops.
Sports & Live Entertainment
5. Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Baseball fans can catch a Major League Baseball game at Angel Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Angels.
6. Honda Center
If hockey or live concerts are more your style, head to the Honda Center.
Craft Beer & Local Nightlife
7. The Anaheim Craft Brewery Trail
Anaheim has evolved into one of Southern California's top craft beer hubs.
Planning Quick-Facts
Best Time to Visit: September to November and March to May offer comfortable weather with fewer crowds compared to peak summer.
Getting Around: The ART (Anaheim Regional Transportation) shuttle connects most major hotels to theme parks, sports arenas, and the Packing District.
Nearby Day Trips: Huntington Beach ("Surf City USA") and Laguna Beach are only 30-40 minutes away by car.
How to get to Kansas City Anaheim
- Route: Fly from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to a major airport near Anaheim—such as John Wayne Airport (SNA) (closest, about 15 miles away) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
- Airlines & Cost: Airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and Frontier offer options starting around $128+ one-way.
- Duration: Around 3 to 6 hours (total travel time including airport transfers).
- Route: Take I-40 or I-70/I-15 west across the country.
- Distance & Time: The total driving distance is roughly 1,566 to 1,609 miles, taking about 23 hours of driving time.
- Time Zone Change: Kansas City is 2 hours ahead of Anaheim.
- Duration & Cost: The journey takes about 1d 11h to 1d 15h (approx. 34–35 hours), with ticket prices generally ranging from $158 to over $950 depending on seating or sleeper car options.
- Route: Long-distance bus services (such as Greyhound or FlixBus connections) operate routes between Kansas City and the Orange County/Anaheim area.
- Duration: Typically takes around 40 hours or more







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