10 Must-Do Activities Around Disneyland

When you think of Anaheim, California, the first thing that pops into your head is probably Disneyland, right? The Happiest Place on Earth is a magnet for tourists worldwide, but let's not put all our Mickey-shaped eggs in one basket.

There's a whole world of fun surrounding Disneyland that deserves some spotlight too.

So, if you're looking to sprinkle a little extra magic on your Disneyland vacation without actually stepping foot in the park, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into 10 must-do activities around Disneyland that aren't, well, Disneyland!

10 Activities Around Disneyland

1. Downtown Disney District

Let's start right next door. Downtown Disney is your go-to for shopping, dining, and entertainment, no park ticket required.

From unique stores to themed restaurants and live music, it's a little slice of Disney magic without the price of admission.

Here are the top 10 places you shouldn't miss when visiting Downtown Disney:

1. World of Disney: The ultimate shopping destination for Disney fans, this expansive store features an incredible selection of Disney merchandise, including apparel, toys, collectibles, and home decor.

2. Disney Home: This store offers a variety of Disney-themed home goods, from kitchen accessories to bedding, perfect for adding a touch of magic to your home.

3. The LEGO Store: A paradise for both young and old LEGO fans, this store features a vast selection of LEGO sets, including exclusive Disney-themed sets, and impressive LEGO sculptures.

4. Splitsville Luxury Lanes: A modern take on bowling, Splitsville offers a unique combination of dining and entertainment, with luxury bowling lanes, live music, and a gourmet menu.

5. Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen: Experience the flavors of New Orleans at this restaurant that offers Cajun and Creole cuisine in an atmosphere filled with lively jazz music.

6. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes: Known for its gourmet burgers and over-the-top milkshakes, Black Tap is a must-visit for foodies looking for a unique dining experience.

7. Salt & Straw: Offering handcrafted, small-batch ice cream with unique flavors that change seasonally, Salt & Straw is a must-try for dessert lovers.

8. Naples Ristorante e Bar: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and a variety of pasta dishes, in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

9. Star Wars Trading Post: A must-visit for Star Wars fans, this store offers a wide range of merchandise, from clothing and accessories to collectibles inspired by the iconic franchise.

10. Ballast Point Brewing Co.: Offering a selection of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a menu of innovative, beer-friendly dishes, Ballast Point is a great spot to relax and unwind.

2. Anaheim Packing District

Foodies, assemble! Just a short drive from Disneyland, the Anaheim Packing District is a culinary haven housed in a historic 1919 citrus packing house.

This food hall boasts an eclectic mix of eateries and bars, perfect for indulging in everything from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal cocktails.

3. Knott's Berry Farm

Looking for thrills? Knott's Berry Farm is just a hop, skip, and a jump away in Buena Park. With a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides and family-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on their famous boysenberry pie!

4. Beach Day

Southern California is synonymous with beautiful beaches. Take a break from the theme park hustle and bask in the sun at Huntington Beach or Newport Beach. Surf, sand, and relaxation are just a short drive away.

Here are the top 5 beaches in Orange County that you absolutely must visit:

1. Laguna Beach: Famous for its stunning coves, clear waters, and artistic community, Laguna Beach is more than just a beach; it's a cultural experience. With tide pools, sea caves, and breathtaking ocean views, it's perfect for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax on the sand. Don't miss the chance to explore Heisler Park for some of the best views and art installations.

2. Huntington Beach: Also known as "Surf City USA," Huntington Beach lives up to its name with consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the world. The city's long pier, vibrant surf culture, and fire pits for evening bonfires create a quintessential California beach experience. The annual US Open of Surfing held here draws crowds for a reason.

3. Corona Del Mar State Beach: This beach is known for its stunning cliffside views and half-mile long sandy beach, making it perfect for families and couples alike. The area, which translates to "Crown of the Sea," offers excellent conditions for swimming, volleyball, and exploring the tide pools.

4. Crystal Cove State Park: Offering a more rustic beach experience, Crystal Cove features 3.2 miles of natural coastline, tide pools, sandy coves, and underwater parks for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. It's also home to the historic Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, a popular overnight destination.

5. Salt Creek Beach: Located in Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach is renowned for its stunning coastal views, well-maintained facilities, and excellent surf spots. The beach is situated below a beautiful park with grassy areas perfect for picnics, making it ideal for a full day of beach activities.

5. Anaheim GardenWalk

For a more laid-back shopping and dining experience, check out the Anaheim GardenWalk. This outdoor entertainment complex is a great place to unwind after a day of Disney adventures.

6. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Dive into history with dinner and a show at Medieval Times in Buena Park. Cheer for your knight in shining armor while enjoying a "hands-on" feast in a castle-themed arena.

7. Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

Fulfill your Top Gun dreams at the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center. Experience the thrill of aerial maneuvers at 600 knots or engage in air-to-air combat in realistic flight simulators.

8. Discovery Cube Orange County

If you're traveling with curious kids (or you're a curious adult), the Discovery Cube offers interactive science exhibits that are both educational and fun. It's a great way to add a little learning to your vacation.

9. The Outlets at Orange

Shop till you drop at The Outlets at Orange, where you can find great deals on top brands. This outdoor shopping center also features entertainment options like a movie theater and bowling alley.

11. The Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

For a splash-tastic time outside the Disney bubble, head over to the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Garden Grove, just a short drive from Disneyland. This indoor water park is an oasis of fun for families, offering water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and much more.

It's the perfect way to cool off and have some water-filled fun, no matter the weather outside. Plus, with themed rooms and activities beyond the water park, like mini-golf and an arcade, it's a mini-vacation within your vacation.

Whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart, the Great Wolf Lodge provides a howling good time for guests looking to dive into some extra fun while visiting the Anaheim area.

Wrapping It Up

Who knew there was so much to do around Disneyland that didn't involve actually going to Disneyland?

From thrilling theme parks and relaxing beaches to immersive dining experiences and shopping galore, Anaheim and its surroundings offer a plethora of adventures that can make your Disneyland trip even more magical.

So, the next time you're planning a visit to the land of Mickey, consider adding these exciting activities to your itinerary. Your Disneyland vacation just got a whole lot bigger!