About erindesantiago
Lives in San Pedro, Belize
Since Sep. 2008
35-49 year old female
Travel and food/wine writer & social media manager currently based in the Belize, Mexico & the Netherlands. Traveled to over 70 countries/6 continents to date.
Anaheim is home to one of the world's most iconic attractions: Disneyland. With two theme parks and a downtown shopping area, it's easy to make an entire vacation out of several days at the Disney parks. But the neighboring area also offers a number of attractions aside from the theme parks themselves, including sports arenas, unique shopping areas, and even an indoor trampoline park. Here, a little bit of everything, in three days.
15 Places
3 City Tips
15 Places
Theme Parks, Disney Parks & Activities
Restaurants
Disney Parks & Activities, Points of Interest & Landmarks
Restaurants
Restaurants
Theme Parks, Disney Parks & Activities
Restaurants
Hotels
Conference & Convention Centres
Neighbourhoods
Arenas & Stadiums
Arenas & Stadiums
Game & Entertainment Centres, Sports Complexes
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Disneyland is one of the top reasons travelers from around the globe head to Anaheim. The iconic theme park is a 'must' on your trip, whether or not you have kids. The original Disneyland park features a number of iconic rides, including the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain.
Blue Bayou is one of Disneyland's iconic restaurants and offers scenic views of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. The menu is on the pricey side, but the views and food are worth it. Be sure to try the Monte Cristo, which is similar to the French croque-monsieur. It's basically a fried ham and cheese sandwich topped with powdered sugar, and served with a side of jam that you dip each bite into.
After you wind down your day at Disneyland, take advantage of the neighboring Downtown Disney shopping area. There are a number of interesting shops and restaurants/bars that stay open later, as well as live entertainment some nights of the week.
Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria is located in the Downtown Disney District. It offers authentic southern Italian cuisine in a casual dining environment. Chef Umberto Rubelli has 25 years experience, including working at several Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy before coming to the US.
Start off your second day at the Disney Resort by taking your family to breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen, located inside the Disneyland Hotel. The popular buffet includes a great selection of food and a chance to interact with many Disney characters.
When Disney California Adventure first opened, it didn't receive the most positive feedback, but Disney has worked hard at rebranding the California-themed park. With new ride additions and enhancements, some of which are not available at any other Disney Resort in the world, Disney California Adventure is worth adding to your itinerary. Unmissable attractions include Radiator Springs Racers, Toy Story Midway Mania!, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and California Screamin'.
If you're looking for a nice dining option in Disney California Adventure, get a reservation for Carthay Circle. The sit-down restaurant offers an innovative menu and a good selection of wines. The Carthay Lounge is on the first floor, while the restaurant occupies the second floor.
If you're looking for nearby dining options while at Disney California Adventure, consider one of the restaurants at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Storyteller Cafe is great for breakfast, while Napa Rose provides a classy, high-end dinner experience.
The Anaheim Convention Center is right across the street from the Disney Resort and hosts a number of interesting conventions and shows throughout the year. While many are industry only, there are a number of smaller public conventions, including the Train Show and Disney's D23 Expo. If you like conventions and are looking for something else to do near the Disney Resort, check the convention schedule to see what's happening while you are in town.
If you're looking for a unique shopping spot, consider the revitalized district known as Center Street Promenade. It was the commercial center for Anaheim many years ago and has undergone a massive transformation. The up-and-coming district has an eclectic blend of independent stores and restaurants, and it also features a weekly farmers market, special events, and live music performances year round.
Formerly known as the Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim, the Honda Center is home to the NHL's Anaheim Ducks team. The indoor arena hosts a number of sporting events and concerts throughout the year. Expect crowds at many of the events, as the Honda Center is second only to Los Angeles's Staple Center when it comes to tickets sold.
Angel Stadium, commonly referred to as the 'Big A,' is one of the oldest active MLB stadiums in the United States and home to the Los Angeles Angels (formerly known as the Anaheim Angels.) Sports fans may also remember that it was once home to the Los Angeles Rams NFL team. If there isn't a game scheduled during your Anaheim stay, check out the behind-the-scenes ballpark tours.
Whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a fun workout, check out Anaheim's Sky Zone Trampoline Park. It opened in 2012 and offers a range of fun activities, including SkyRobics fitness classes, SkySlam court, Ultimate Dodgeball, and a Foam Zone foam pit.
The Packing District is another great shopping and dining destination in Anaheim. The refurbished spot includes the restored Packard Building and car showroom, along with the former citrus Packing House, which offers over 20 artisan eateries and has become a popular hangout spot for Southern California residents. Farmers Park connects the Packard Building and Packing House with a grassy area, boardwalk, and community gardens.