Last updated on March 13th, 2025 at 10:44 am
We all know what brings us to Anaheim, and it’s probably what brought you to The Happiest Blog on Earth in the first place—Disneyland. I’ve been writing about Disneyland since 2013 and still keep coming up with more tips and things to discover just inside the resort.
But sometimes you need a day off from the theme parks or you have a day here and there to explore. You’re in luck because Anaheim and the surrounding Orange County area is filled with tons of fun things to do, especially if you’re a foodie!
Pro Sports
Professional sports are so much fun to watch live! Even if you don’t enjoy watching on TV, you have got to give pro sports a chance in person. Being in Anaheim, you have a few options depending on when you visit. All links below link to official websites.
- Anaheim Ducks – Anaheim’s NHL pro hockey team calls the Honda Center home. Their regular season is October through April.
Disneyland also hosts an Anaheim Ducks day every year at Disney California Adventure Park, typically in January. They host a parade and some player meet and greets.
- Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – Anaheim’s MLB pro baseball team plays at Angel Stadium, also knowns as “The Big A”. Their regular season is April through September, with post-season games in October. If you’re going to an Angels game, stop by Golden Road Brewery before the game for really good food and drinks. It’s right across the street.
- LA Olympics 2028 will also hold events in Anaheim and surrounding areas. I have more details on the 2028 Summer Olympics in my article here.
And of course, if you want to explore farther north, the LA Dodgers are my personal favorite MLB team but their tickets are a lot more expensive! Dodger Stadium is iconic, so if you’re a Dodger fan—add LA onto your Disneyland trip and spend a few days there too.
Eat: Packing District
The Packing District is an entire area to explore, so once you’re here, options abound! It’s made up of several smaller areas and is a historical area as well, with plenty to do and see.
I also recorded a podcast on Castle Talk Radio recapping everything I ate when I was here.
Inside the Packing District you have your choice of quick eats, lounging and relaxing restaurants and indoor/outdoor dining selections.
Here are just a few ideas to get your mouth watering:
- 18 Folds – Dim Sum, Boba cocktails, Egg rolls, Dumplings and more. Located in at the Farmers Park area of the Packing District.
- En Familia – Modern Mexican Steakhouse that literally melts in your mouth. This place has the best meat you’ll find in Southern California, the decor, the service and food is incredible. Located at the Packard Building.
Eat: Little Arabia
Did you know there’s a hub of Arab culture and cuisine right here in Anaheim? It’s the Little Arabia District. Inside this section of Anaheim including a portion of the Brookhurst Corridor, from Broadway to Ball—you’ll find so much delicious food and culture.
- Kareem’s Falafel– One of the first restaurants in Little Arabia has delicious, fresh ingredients and boasts a menu of all family recipes.
- Le Mirage Pastries– Family owned with their famous Dubai chocolate strawberries and a shop full of beautiful and delicious desserts. You’ll find mouthwatering assortments from French pastries, to Mediterranean pastries and more.
Eat: Brunch
As you can see, Anaheim takes its foodie scene very seriously. When you’ve slept in on your day after the them parks and maybe are checking out of the hotel, you need a place to sip some coffee and relax over brunch. 
- Lola’s By Modern Filipino Kitchen– serving up amazingly fresh and delicious Filipino food like Lumpia Breakfast Burrito, Kamayan Brunch Platter, Ube Pancakes and more.
More In Anaheim
What else is there to do in Anaheim and Orange County? I’m adding to the list. But I am also adding things I’ve personally done.
So while this list seems minimal, you know it comes recommended first hand. It’s not just massively sourced and pulled together from a huge internet search.
Here’s a quick mention of some other places I’ve explored:
- Anaheim GardenWalk– Outdoor mall area close to Disneyland. This place is pretty dead during the day and the shopping isn’t at all impressive. What you will find is a movie theater that comes in handy in a pinch. There’s also lots of video game / arcade type places. My son and I once made our way through and tried out a ton of games. At night it’s more lively with clubs and night life.
- Bowers Museum– Just outside Anaheim, a short drive aways is this darling museum that our family just loved. We went when they had a special Disney exhibit but we truly enjoyed the architecture, the grounds and the permanent exhibits. I recommend Bowers for anyone who loves a good museum and history.
