Disneyland
Since its humble-ish beginnings, Disneyland has grown into two full-fledged theme parks, the original and California Adventure, which celebrates the state’s many personalities, with zones dedicated to Hollywood, the redwoods, and an enormous boardwalk. Over the years the park has been modernized, but sweet, vintage touches are still the order of the day in historic Disneyland, where you can watch parades and firework shows from quaint Main Street. If you merely want to brush up against the magic, stroll the Downtown Disney District, located just outside the parks, which is packed with restaurants and shops, including a massive Disney store.
Anaheim Packing House
Formerly a citrus packing warehouse, this historic 1919 building in downtown Anaheim has been remade as a contemporary two-story food hall, packed with buzzy culinary spots. Here, in the airy, modern environs, you can order up a hotdog enrobed in sweet waffle batter, nosh on mole enchiladas and red snapper ceviche, or get fancy at a speakeasy serving artisanal cocktails and five kinds of absinthe. Walk two minutes down the street to sample the city’s booming beer scene at the local beer garden.
Oak Canyon Nature Center
Drive just twenty minutes from downtown to leave the hustle of the city behind you, and hike into the rustic Anaheim Hills at Oak Canyon Nature Center. Four miles of trails criss-cross this 58-acre park, which is home to three canyons, oak trees, coastal sage, and native wildlife. Check the website for a schedule of ongoing programs, including outdoor movie nights.