The 25 Best Things To Do Near Disneyland Resort in California [2024]

Travelers around the world flock to Disneyland Resort, but there’s more to do in this part of California than visiting Mickey Mouse.

Whether you’re a sports fan, a history lover, or a thrill-seeker, there’s something to do near the Happiest Place on Earth. To kick-start your travel planning, here are the best things to do near Disneyland Resort for visitors of all ages.

The Best Things To Do Near Disneyland Resort in California

1. Adventure City

Since 1994, Adventure City has entertained families with its classic fair rides, petting farm, and games. With over 18 attractions on the property, the park has something for most families. In particular, the space is known for its relaxing environment while offering its guests hours of fun.

Some of the most beloved parts of the park are Mount Adventurous, Thomas the Tank Engine Creative Play, and the Giggle Wheel. You can make special arrangements for birthdays and other parties.

The nearest bus stop is Beach-Starr.

• Address: 1238 S. Beach Blvd., Anaheim, CA 90680

Hot Tip:

The Visit Anaheim Savings Pass is free and gives you discounts for specific restaurants, transport, and activities.

2. American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park

In Santa Ana’s MainPlace Mall, the American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park is the perfect place for fans of the hit TV show. The course consists of obstacles similar to those used by the actual show’s athletes, so you and your family can compete to see who is the toughest, strongest, and most athletic.

Some of the most popular parts of the course are the Monkey Swings, the Spider Walls, and the Warped Wall. There’s also an inflatable obstacle course, which is perfect for youngsters.

The nearest bus stop is Main-Main Place.

• Address: 2800 N. Main St. #603, Santa Ana, CA 92705

3. Anaheim ICE

Anaheim ICE is such a popular indoor rink that even professional hockey teams and skaters use it. Initially, the space was commissioned by Disney, but it’s since become an independent business used for figure skating competitions, lessons, parties, and leisure skating.

It rarely gets cold enough for snow in Southern California, so the rink is one of the best ways to enjoy this winter activity, no matter how warm it is outside. Adult and child skate sizes are available.

The nearest bus stop is Lincoln-Clementine.

• Address: 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92805

4. Angel Stadium

Angel Stadium is Anaheim’s big stadium and the home ballpark of the Los Angeles Angels.

Most families visit the stadium on game days, but you can take an in-depth guided tour of the space during the off-season or when there’s no game scheduled. These tours even grant you access to the locker room, the dugouts, and other areas usually closed to the public when athletes are on the premises.

The nearest bus stop is State College-Gene Autry.

• Address: 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806

5. Bowers Museum

History- and art-loving families have been visiting the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana since it opened in the 1930s. The space has acquired over 100,000 items, many of which are Native American or pre-Columbian pieces.

In addition to the permanent exhibit, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that feature specific artists, cultures, or periods. Most are family-friendly, but call ahead to be sure. There’s even an interactive area for young visitors, the Kidseum, to get children more interested in the arts.

The nearest bus stop is Main-20th.

• Address: 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA 92706

6. Camelot Golfland

You can find Camelot Golfland sites throughout California, but the one in Anaheim is a particular favorite among visitors. The park’s centerpiece is the miniature golf area, which features different courses of varying difficulty, all King Arthur-themed.

The Anaheim site also includes a bumper boat pool, laser tag, and child-friendly race cars. Keep in mind that there is a height and age requirement for the race course. There’s also food for sale.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma-Kraemer.

• Address: 3200 E. Carpenter Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806

7. Discovery Cube

Discovery Cube gets kids interested in science through interactive exhibits, camps, and on-site activities. Currently, there are 8 permanent exhibits, which include “Raceway,” “Rainforest Adventure,” and “You Be the Goalie.” These spaces explore science in a hands-on and fun way. Science camps are also hosted here.

This space is also available for large groups. For example, you can call ahead if you’re planning a field trip or a child’s birthday party.

The nearest bus stop is Main-Edgewood.

• Address: 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA 92705

8. Exodus Escape Room

Thrill-seeking and puzzle-loving families should have a great time at the Exodus Escape Room in Anaheim. Currently, the facility hosts 3 different room experiences: Villains Vendetta, Olympus, and the Elevator, all of which use puzzles and a 60-minute timer to promote teamwork and bonding.

These rooms are considered family-friendly, though you may want to call ahead if you’re traveling with anyone with sensory concerns. A minimum and maximum number of guests are also allowed, depending on the room you select.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma and Imperial.

• Address: 5642 E. La Palma Ave. #202, Anaheim, CA 92807

9. Flightdeck Rogue Racing Anaheim

If you’re traveling with aspiring pilots, make sure to visit Flightdeck Rogue Racing Anaheim. Visitors 11 and up can test out the simulator in an accurate and life-size cockpit to see how they’d manage flying their own plane.

You can choose from 2 different flight experiences. The Fighter Pilot Experience offers a more thrilling simulation, while the Airline Pilot Experience allows you and up to 5 guests to test out flying a Boeing 737. There’s also a car racing track.

The nearest bus stop is Katella-Clementine.

• Address: 400 Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802

10. Fullerton Arboretum

Spread across over 20 acres of Fullerton’s California State University Campus, the Fullerton Arboretum is the perfect place for a peaceful family day. Today, over 4,000 different plants grow on the property, which you can see while strolling the walking paths.

Additionally, there are 2 museums on the arboretum grounds: the Orange County Agricultural and Nikkei Heritage Museum and the Heritage House. Special events are also regularly hosted here, like educational seminars and hands-on workshops for all ages.

The nearest bus stop is State College-Yorba Linda.

• Address: 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, CA 92831

11. K1 Speed

K1 Speed lets families fuel their need for speed on a small-scale racetrack. You can try to beat the best time of the week and month and earn yourself a spot in the facility’s hall of fame.

There are 2 different car models. Those for adults can reach up to 45 miles per hour, while the cars outfitted for children reach a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour. Children have to be at least 4 feet tall to drive.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma-Red Gum.

• Address: 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, CA 92806

12. Kids Empire Anaheim

Kids Empire Anaheim offers children a chance to play, explore, and have adventures in a safe and secure environment. Since this play area is inside, it’s the perfect place to go on rainy days or during the summer when it’s too hot to be in the sun.

Climbing courses, slides, giant building blocks, and an indoor soccer arena are just a few of the many activities at the Kids Empire playground. This space can also be rented for parties.

The nearest bus stop is State College-Westport.

• Address: 2078 E. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806

13. Knott’s Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm is a family favorite among both locals and out-of-towners. In addition to the rides that are open all year, the park is famous for its annual events. In particular, the entire area turns into a haunted park during the fall for the “Knott’s Scary Farm” event.

There are a variety of rides, from Banzai Falls to Butterfield Stagecoach, many of which are considered family-friendly. However, keep in mind that most rides have a minimum height limit of 46 inches.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma-Beach.

• Address: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620

14. Lyon Air Museum

Since 2009, Lyon Air Museum, which abuts John Wayne Airport (SNA), has been a favorite spot among plane enthusiasts. In particular, the facility focuses on aircraft from World War II, but there are a number of other planes and vehicles from other periods.

Some of the highlighted items in the museum are the Cessna O-1 Bird Dog plane and the 1945 Indian Chief motorcycle. Eight of the planes in the museum have been preserved so well they can still be flown. Make sure to see if there are any special exhibits while you’re visiting.

The nearest bus stop is Red Hill-Fischer.

• Address: 19300 Ike Jones Road, Santa Ana, CA 92707

15. Marconi Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts of all ages should consider the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. Currently, there are over 100 different historic vehicles within the museum. Many of these pieces are from luxury companies like Ferrari and Lamborghini. There are even a few film cars like the Batmobile and the General Lee from “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

It’s a nonprofit museum; all admission fees are donated to charity. It also makes a memorable event venue for celebrations of all kinds, from birthdays to corporate galas and conferences.

The nearest bus stop is Red Hill-Santa Fe.

• Address: 1302 Industrial Drive, Tustin, CA 92780

16. Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center

Inside Anaheim’s Carnegie Library, the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center complex spreads out over 25,000 square feet. Since 2007, the museum has been used as a gallery and art space, celebrating culture from around the world.

As the space regularly rotates its galleries, you can visit multiple times without seeing the same things twice. Events are also regularly hosted on the premises, many of which are suitable for visitors of all ages. There are even camps and events specifically designed for children.

The nearest bus stop is Anaheim-Broadway.

• Address: 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805

17. Oak Canyon Nature Center

Anaheim’s Oak Canyon Nature Center covers over 55 acres, encompassing 3 different habitats to promote different vegetation. Hiking and nature walks are the main reasons why people visit the nature center. However, on weekends, the site’s interpretive center is also open.

This facility allows visitors to learn about the habitat more in-depth, including seeing some of the wild animals that call the territory home. For those families visiting in the summer, check if one of the center’s day camps is scheduled.

There isn’t a bus stop convenient to get here, so you’ll probably have to drive. Take California Highway 91 to Imperial Highway, make a left on Nohl Road, and then take a left onto East Walnut Canyon Road. The park is at the end of East Walnut Canyon Road.

• Address: 6700 E. Walnut Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92807

18. Orange County Ropes Course

Santa Ana’s Orange County Ropes Course is famous for being one of the largest rope courses on the West Coast.

With over 30 different course challenges at a multitude of heights, the course is great for thrill-seeking families. Classes are offered in rock climbing and rappelling. Of course, make sure no one you’re traveling with is scared of heights.

Groups are requested to call ahead for special arrangements and don’t hesitate to book it for birthday celebrations.

You need a car to get here. Drive down California Highway 91 to Gypsum Canyon Road, then take Featherly Park to the ropes course.

• Address: Canyon RV Park, 24001 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92808

19. PlayPie

PlayPie in Buena Park is an elaborate indoor play area with over 15,000 square feet of space. With slides, play sets, a ball pit, and more, kids of all ages can express themselves and explore their imaginations at the facility.

Birthdays on the premises are particularly elaborate, with multiple themes available, like events for kids who love circuses or princesses. Though the space is geared toward kids, even parents and guardians can enjoy the bright colors and attention to detail of PlayPie’s facility.

The nearest bus stop is Beach-Orangethorpe.

• Address: 6924 Beach Blvd., K-131, Buena Park, CA 90621

20. Pretend City Children’s Museum

Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine is dedicated to boosting creativity and expression in children. With its 17 different interactive exhibits, the space is a favorite among local and tourist families alike.

Education and growth are the 2 philosophical pillars of the facility, and it uses cutting-edge research to ensure all the sets and exhibits are properly designed to help kids develop. From art to reading, the space uses buildings in a typical city as a jumping-off point to inspire play.

The nearest bus stop is Irvine Center-Hubble.

• Address: 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618

21. Santa Ana Zoo

Since 1952, the Santa Ana Zoo has been a center of education, conservation, and fun in California. Over 200 animals are housed here, most representing species found in Central and South America, such as the emerald toucanet and golden-headed lion tamarin, one of the smallest monkey species in the world. Funnily enough, according to old contract stipulations, the facility has to house over 50 monkeys at any given time.

There are 6 different exhibits, with “Amazon’s Edge” and “Colors of the Amazon Aviary” being 2 of the most popular. There’s even a safari train for children.

The nearest bus stop is 1st-Lyon.

• Address: 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92701

22. Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Santiago Oaks Regional Park is a wonderful place for nature-loving families to enjoy the great outdoors. With numerous trails to explore, there’s a path for every family, no matter the ages and physical abilities of the people you’re traveling with.

You can also learn more about the local wildlife and geography at the nature center. Dogs are allowed in the park as long as they’re on leashes. Picnics and barbecues are also permitted, so you could enjoy an entire day here.

The nearest bus stop is Newport-Campus, though it’d be a 45-minute walk from there to the park. If you drive, take Santiago Cyn Road to North Windes Drive, which ends inside the park.

• Address: 2145 Windes Drive, Orange, CA 92869

23. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Fitness meets fun at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Anaheim. With its numerous trampolines, kids love how close the park lets them get to flying. It can also elevate dodgeball, rope climbing, and other sports.

Kids of all ages are welcome, though certain parts of the park have height or age requirements. You can also book the space for birthdays. Food is available at the park, but you can’t bring any from outside the building except for baby food.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma-Kellogg.

• Address: 1301 Kellogg Drive, Anaheim, CA 92807

24. Tanaka Farms

Though Tanaka Farms is a working farm, it’s also a popular spot for local and out-of-town families. Tanaka lets you pick your own fruit throughout the year, offering pumpkins in the fall and strawberries in the summer. It also has year-round tours.

In addition to agriculture, the farm serves as an educational center. The farm hosts workshops on topics from farming and barnyard animal welfare to gardening. There are also lunches, cookouts, and cooking seminars using the farm’s own produce.

The nearest bus stop is Michelson-Jordan East.

• Address: 5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612

25. Yorba Regional Park

Yorba Regional Park in Anaheim encompasses 13 acres and offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy California’s famously pleasant weather. A number of outdoor activities are permitted in the park, from biking and fishing to hiking. In fact, some of the park’s trails connect to the Santa Ana River Trail, which leads to the Pacific Ocean. It’s 27 miles to Huntington Beach and has a mostly flat, paved surface ideal for bikes.

Numerous amenities, like bathrooms, picnic tables, and barbecue sites, are available to make a day at the park stress-free. Bikes and boats are available for rent.

The nearest bus stop is La Palma-Potomac.

• Address: 7600 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, CA 92807

Hot Tip:

Missing LA from this list? If you’re set on leaving the immediate Disneyland area and visiting the City of Angels, Check out our guide to the best things to do in Los Angeles.

Final Thoughts

Disneyland is, without a doubt, one of the most popular vacation destinations in California. However, from zoos to museums, there are a number of other things for families and solo travelers to do near the park.

We hope this list has given you a few ideas of what sorts of activities and attractions you can do to pass the time while visiting the Anaheim area on the days you’re not at Disneyland.