30 Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids

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Anaheim, California, is a vibrant city known for its world-famous theme parks and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to keep your kids entertained. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 30 fun things to do in Anaheim with kids, ranging from thrilling theme parks to educational museums and outdoor adventures.

Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids

1. Disneyland Park

No trip to Anaheim is complete without a visit to the iconic Disneyland Park. Often referred to as “The Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland offers a magical experience for children of all ages.

Key Attractions:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Fantasyland
• Tomorrowland
• Adventureland
• Frontierland
• New Orleans Square
• Critter Country
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Tips for Families:

• Arrive early to maximize your time in the park
• Use the FASTPASS system to reduce wait times for popular rides
• Download the Disneyland app for real-time wait times and park information
• Take advantage of the Disney PhotoPass service for family photos

2. Disney California Adventure Park

Adjacent to Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure offers a different theme park experience with attractions inspired by California’s history and culture.

Notable Areas:

• Cars Land
• Pixar Pier
• Avengers Campus
• Hollywood Land
• Grizzly Peak

Family-Friendly Activities:

• Meet Marvel superheroes at Avengers Campus
• Ride the Incredicoaster at Pixar Pier
• Explore the immersive world of Cars at Radiator Springs Racers
• Enjoy the “World of Color” nighttime spectacular

3. Adventure City

For a more low-key theme park experience, Adventure City offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for younger children.

Highlights:

• Rewind Racers roller coaster
• Rescue Ride
• Petting farm
• Thomas the Tank Engine play area

Why It’s Great for Kids:

• Smaller crowds compared to larger theme parks
• More affordable ticket prices
• Suitable for children aged 2-12

4. Anaheim GardenWalk

The Anaheim GardenWalk is an outdoor entertainment and shopping center that offers a range of family-friendly activities.

Family Activities:

• Catch a movie at the UltraStar Cinemas
• Play at the Bowlmor Lanes bowling alley
• Enjoy interactive art installations
• Dine at family-friendly restaurants

Shopping Options:

• Disney-themed stores
• Specialty shops
• Souvenir outlets

5. Angel Stadium

Baseball fans won’t want to miss a visit to Angel Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Angels.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Behind-the-scenes stadium tours
• Kids’ Zone play area
• Family-friendly seating sections
• Special promotions and giveaways on select game days

Tips for Attending Games with Kids:

• Arrive early for pre-game activities
• Bring sunscreen and hats for day games
• Check the promotional schedule for kid-focused events

6. Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

For aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts, the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center offers a unique and thrilling experience.

Simulator Options:

• F-16 Fighting Falcon jet fighter simulations
• Boeing 737 commercial airliner simulations

Age Requirements:

• Minimum age for jet simulations: 11 years old
• Minimum age for Boeing 737 simulations: 13 years old

7. Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park

Let your kids burn off some energy at Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park with various jumping activities.

Attractions:

• Open jump areas
• Foam pit
• Dodgeball courts
• Ninja Warrior course

Safety Measures:

• Required safety briefing before jumping
• Supervised jumping areas
• Special “Toddler Time” sessions for younger children

8. Bowlero

Bowlero offers a modern spin on the classic bowling alley experience, with additional games and activities for the whole family.

Features:

• Bowling lanes with automatic scoring
• Arcade games
• Laser tag
• Sports bar (for adults)

Family-Friendly Perks:

• Kids’ birthday party packages
• Family-friendly menu options
• Bowling ramps and bumpers for younger children

9. SeaLegs at the Beach

While not directly in Anaheim, SeaLegs at the Beach in nearby Huntington Beach offers a fun beachside experience for families.

Activities:

• Beach volleyball
• Fire pits for s’mores
• Live music (family-friendly during the day)
• Beach equipment rentals

Tips for Families:

• Bring sunscreen and beach toys
• Check the event calendar for family-friendly activities
• Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach

10. Yorba Regional Park

For a day of outdoor fun, head to Yorba Regional Park, a spacious green area perfect for family picnics and activities.

Park Features:

• Four lakes for fishing and model boat sailing
• Bike and walking trails
• Playgrounds
• Picnic areas with barbecue grills

Family Activities:

• Rent bikes or surreys for a family ride
• Go fishing (fishing license required for ages 16 and up)
• Have a family picnic or barbecue

11. Great Wolf Lodge Day Pass

While Great Wolf Lodge is primarily a resort, they offer day passes to their indoor water park, making it a great option for a day of aquatic fun.

Water Park Attractions:

• Water slides
• Wave pool
• Lazy river
• Interactive water play structures

Additional Activities:

• MagiQuest interactive game
• Arcade
• Bowling alley

12. Camelot Golfland

Camelot Golfland offers a variety of family-friendly activities in a medieval-themed setting.

Attractions:

• Miniature golf courses
• Go-kart tracks
• Bumper boats
• Arcade games

Why Kids Love It:

• Variety of activities in one location
• Themed environment adds to the fun
• Suitable for a wide range of ages

13. Anaheim ICE

Beat the heat and enjoy some ice skating at Anaheim ICE, a year-round indoor ice skating facility.

Features:

• Public skating sessions
• Ice skating lessons
• Hockey programs

Tips for Families:

• Rent skates at the facility
• Bring warm clothes and gloves
• Check the schedule for public skating times

14. The Adventure Lagoon

Located at the Hyatt Regency, The Adventure Lagoon is a water playground that’s open to the public.

Water Features:

• Water slides
• Splash zones
• Wading pools

Family-Friendly Amenities:

• Lounge chairs and umbrellas
• On-site dining options
• Changing rooms and lockers

15. K1 Speed

For older kids and teens who love speed, K1 Speed offers an indoor go-karting experience.

Track Features:

• Electric go-karts (more eco-friendly and quieter than gas-powered)
• Computer scoring system
• Safety barriers

Age and Height Requirements:

• Junior karts: 48″ tall minimum
• Adult karts: 58″ tall minimum and 13 years old

16. Cross Roads Escape Games

For families with older children, Cross Roads Escape Games offers immersive, puzzle-solving adventures.

Escape Room Themes:

• The Hex Room
• The Psych Ward
• The Fun House

Age Recommendations:

• Most rooms are suitable for ages 12 and up
• Adult supervision required for participants under 16

17. Center Street Promenade

Take a stroll down Center Street Promenade, a charming area filled with local shops, restaurants, and occasional street performances.

Family-Friendly Activities:

• Window shopping
• Outdoor dining
• Farmers market (on Thursdays)
• Seasonal events and festivals

Tips for Families:

• Check the event calendar for special activities
• Bring comfortable walking shoes
• Stop by the Anaheim Packing House for diverse dining options

18. SwingIt Trapeze Lessons

For a truly unique experience, try SwingIt Trapeze, which offers flying trapeze lessons for kids and adults.

Lesson Details:

• Safety harness and net provided
• Professional instructors
• No prior experience necessary

Age Requirements:

• Minimum age: 4 years old
• Parental consent required for minors

19. Anaheim Packing District

The Anaheim Packing District is a food hall and community gathering place housed in a restored citrus packing plant.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Diverse food options to suit all tastes
• Open-air seating areas
• Live music and events
• Nearby Farmers Park for outdoor play

Tips for Families:

• Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
• Check the event calendar for family-friendly activities
• Explore the surrounding area, including Farmers Park

20. Pearson Park Amphitheatre

Pearson Park Amphitheatre hosts various outdoor performances and events throughout the year.

Types of Events:

• Concerts
• Theater productions
• Movie screenings
• Cultural festivals

Family-Friendly Tips:

• Bring blankets or low-back chairs for seating
• Pack a picnic dinner (when allowed)
• Check the event calendar for kid-friendly performances

21. Oak Canyon Nature Center

For nature-loving families, Oak Canyon Nature Center offers hiking trails and educational programs.

Features:

• 4 miles of hiking trails
• Interpretive center
• Stream and small pond
• Native plant and animal exhibits

Educational Programs:

• Guided nature walks
• Summer day camps
• Wildlife presentations

Things to Do Near Anaheim with Kids

22. Medieval Times

Located in nearby Buena Park, Medieval Times offers a dinner and tournament show set in medieval Spain.

Show Highlights:

• Knights jousting on horseback
• Falconry demonstrations
• Medieval-style feast

Family-Friendly Features:

• Interactive elements for kids
• Photo opportunities with the cast
• Special dietary options available

23. Knott’s Berry Farm

Another popular theme park in the area, Knott’s Berry Farm offers a mix of thrill rides and family attractions.

Key Areas:

• Ghost Town
• Camp Snoopy (for younger children)
• Fiesta Village
• Boardwalk

Family-Friendly Attractions:

• Calico Railroad
• Timber Mountain Log Ride
• Character meet-and-greets with Peanuts characters

24. Irvine Regional Park

Irvine Regional Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for families.

Park Features:

• Orange County Zoo
• Pony rides
• Paddle boat rentals
• Train rides

Family Activities:

• Picnicking
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Outdoor concerts (seasonal)

25. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

For a swashbuckling good time, check out Pirate’s Dinner Adventure in Buena Park.

Show Features:

• Interactive pirate-themed performance
• Acrobatics and sword fights
• Three-course meal

Family-Friendly Aspects:

• Pre-show activities for kids
• Audience participation opportunities
• Special effects and pyrotechnics

26. Discovery Cube Orange County

This hands-on science center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for children.

Popular Exhibits:

• Dinosaur Quest
• Science of Hockey
• Eco Challenge
• Rocket Lab

Educational Programs:

• STEM-focused workshops
• Science demonstrations
• Seasonal camps

27. The Children’s Museum at La Habra

This small but engaging museum is designed specifically for young children.

Exhibit Areas:

• Nature Walk
• Carousel
• Model Train Village
• Science Station

Why It’s Great for Kids:

• Hands-on, interactive exhibits
• Designed for children under 8
• Frequently rotating exhibits

28. SteelCraft Garden Grove

SteelCraft is an outdoor urban eatery built from repurposed shipping containers, offering a unique dining experience.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Variety of food options
• Open-air seating
• Lawn games
• Live music (select nights)

Tips for Families:

• Visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience
• Bring sunscreen for outdoor seating areas
• Check social media for special events

29. Dave & Buster’s

For a day of arcade games and casual dining, visit Dave & Buster’s in Orange.

Attractions:

• Arcade games
• Virtual reality experiences
• Sports viewing area

Family-Friendly Aspects:

• Kids’ menu options
• Non-alcoholic drink options
• Family-friendly environment until evening hours

30. Orange County Beaches

No trip to Orange County is complete without a visit to one of its beautiful beaches.

Popular Beaches Near Anaheim:

• Huntington Beach
• Newport Beach
• Laguna Beach

Beach Activities for Families:

• Building sandcastles
• Swimming and body surfing
• Beach volleyball
• Exploring tide pools (at certain beaches)

Where to Stay in Anaheim with Kids

When visiting Anaheim with kids, choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your family’s experience. Here are some family-friendly options:

1. Disneyland Resort Hotels

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
• Disneyland Hotel
• Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel

1. Good Neighbor Hotels

• Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground
• Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance
• Great Wolf Lodge

1. Budget-Friendly Options

• Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
• Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort
• Candy Cane Inn

When choosing a hotel, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, in-room amenities (like mini-fridges and microwaves), and kid-friendly features like pools or play areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Anaheim with kids?
A: The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer offers warm weather but larger crowds. Fall and spring have milder temperatures and potentially smaller crowds. Winter can be cooler but offers special holiday events at the theme parks.

Q: How many days should we plan for our Anaheim trip?
A: A minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to explore Disneyland Resort and other major attractions. If you want to include nearby attractions and beaches, consider staying for a week.

Q: Are there any free activities for kids in Anaheim?
A: Yes, there are several free activities, including visiting Yorba Regional Park, exploring Center Street Promenade, and enjoying the outdoor areas of the Anaheim Packing District.

Q: What’s the best way to get around Anaheim with kids?
A: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to visit attractions outside of Anaheim. However, many hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Q: Are there any good rainy day activities in Anaheim?
A: Yes, indoor options include the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, Bowlero, and nearby museums like the Discovery Cube Orange County.

Q: What should we pack for a trip to Anaheim with kids?
A: Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hats, refillable water bottles, and light layers for changing temperatures. If visiting water parks or beaches, don’t forget swimwear and towels.

Q: Are there good dining options for picky eaters in Anaheim?
A: Anaheim offers a wide range of dining options, including many kid-friendly restaurants with diverse menus. Theme parks and family-oriented attractions usually have options to accommodate picky eaters.

Q: What are some budget-friendly tips for visiting Anaheim with kids?

A: Look for package deals on attractions, consider staying at off-site hotels, bring your own snacks and water to parks, and mix paid attractions with free activities like parks and beaches.

Q: Are there any special events or festivals in Anaheim that are good for families?

A: Yes, Anaheim hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year, including the Anaheim Halloween Parade, the Anaheim Fall Festival, and various cultural celebrations at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center.

Q: How accessible are Anaheim attractions for families with special needs?

A: Many Anaheim attractions, including Disneyland Resort, offer accommodations for guests with special needs. It’s best to check with each attraction directly for specific accessibility information and services.

Conclusion – Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids

Anaheim and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of activities and attractions for families with children of all ages. From world-famous theme parks to educational museums, from outdoor adventures to indoor entertainment centers, there’s something to suit every interest and budget.

Here are some key takeaways for planning your family trip to Anaheim:

1. Variety is Key: Mix up your itinerary with a blend of theme park visits, outdoor activities, and educational experiences to keep everyone engaged.
2. Plan Ahead: Research attraction prices, operating hours, and special events before your trip to maximize your time and budget.
3. Stay Flexible: Leave room in your schedule for unexpected discoveries or for revisiting favorites.
4. Consider Season and Crowds: If possible, visit during off-peak times to enjoy shorter lines and potentially lower prices.
5. Take Advantage of Local Resources: Use local visitor centers and websites for up-to-date information and potential discounts.
6. Balance Activities: Alternate high-energy days with more relaxed activities to avoid burnout, especially with younger children.
7. Explore Beyond Anaheim: Don’t hesitate to venture to nearby cities and beaches for a well-rounded Southern California experience.

Remember, the key to a successful family trip is creating lasting memories together. Whether you’re screaming on a roller coaster, building sandcastles at the beach, or exploring a new museum, Anaheim provides countless opportunities for family bonding and fun.

As you plan your trip for Fun Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids, keep in mind that each family is unique. What works for one may not work for another, so feel free to adjust these suggestions to best suit your family’s interests, ages, and energy levels. With its perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, educational opportunities and pure fun, Anaheim is truly a destination where family memories are made.