7 Fun Things to Do Near Disney (2023)
Want to add a little excitement and history to your Disneyland vacation? I'm sure you'll love our list of things to do near Disneyland. From nature spots to fascinating museums, these attractions will add some flavor to your stay on Mickey's magical kingdom. And, as a bonus, these SoCal destinations are only a short drive from the "happiest place on earth".
1. Knott’s Berry Farm
Are you in the mood for some exciting theme park rides? I assure you, you will have a great time exploring Knott's Berry Farm. Not only do they have thrilling rides, but they also have exhibits and amusements that are perfect for families.
Why we recommend it?
Knott's Berry Farm has 57 acres of family-friendly fun and entertainment.
Distance from Disneyland:
The fastest way to get to Knott's is to drive I-5 N. The route’s distance is 6.8 miles and the drive normally takes 11 minutes.
2. Downtown Orange Historic District
Old Towne is a place you'll want to visit if you're in the area. Known for its vintage architecture, this historic downtown is packed with collectibles and antique dealers, art galleries, specialty shops, bars, restaurants, and stellar coffee shops.
Why we recommend it?
The district is a cool place to explore and browse around, especially for collectors of vintage items. Even better, many of its buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places--plus, it has unique boutiques featuring local goods and handmade crafts that make great souvenirs.
Distance from Disneyland:
You can quickly get to this district by driving I-5 S from Disneyland. Travel time is 11 minutes and the route's distance is 6.9 miles.
Address: 300 E. Chapman Ave. Orange, CA
3. Pirates Dinner Adventure
Pirates Dinner Adventure offers a unique culinary experience in Buena Park.
Why we recommend it?
It's an interactive dining adventure with a pirate-themed show. There will be musical dinner, live-action theater with plenty of sword fights and acrobatics. There are mysterious monsters, thrilling adventures and intense battles as you indulge in a 4-course meal. You may upgrade your experience to sit with the captain as well as get a couple of souvenirs.
Distance from Disneyland:
There are many ways to get to this spot from Disneyland. We recommend I-5 N since it's the fastest and easiest. It's only 6.5 miles long and has a travel time of 10 minutes.
4. Sunset Views at Great Park Balloon Ride
A great way to enjoy the vast expanses of Orange County without the traffic congestion, the Balloon Ride at Irvine's Great Park - part hot air balloon, part observation deck - offers stunning views that span nearly 40 miles on a clear day!
Why we recommend it?
Thanks to being sponsored by FivePoint, it's totally free too! Just keep in mind that the balloon ride operates at certain times on Thursday through Sunday.
Distance from Disneyland:
Take the 5 freeway southbound. It's only 17 miles long and has a travel time of 30 minutes give or take.
5. Paint & Sip at SOUL+LAND lab
SOUL+LAND lab is an adults-only pop-up experience meant to spark your creativity on the canvas. Think paint & sip with the ease of pre-stenciled art. Each ticket includes a themed art workshop, all necessary art supplies, themed music and a fun instructors. Check out our website for times and dates.
Why we recommend it?
Aside from running the joint, we truly think it's a great and memorable 2 hour experience. It's affordable, fun, and really enables the mind & body connectivity. Come solo, with your boo, or the whole damn crew.
6. Anaheim Packing House.
If you're looking for something different to eat and need to satisfy the many varied cravings of a big group, there's no better place to go than the Anaheim Packing District. A bonafide bazaar of different restaurants, you can taste a variety of cuisines, from Cajun, Indian, and Soul Food to Syrian, Thai, and more. Theres a cool ice cream shop that serves gelato on popsicle sticks, and a coffee/pie shop that serves up creative concoctions like the Cereal Killer, which is packed with fruity pebbles and topped with fruit loops.
Why we recommend it?
If you're a foodie, come here. You won't regret it. You're welcome.
Distance from Disneyland:
It's only 2 miles away and has a travel time of 6 minutes away
7. Check Out the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center
While the Museum doesn't have a permanent collection, it does host a wide variety of traveling cultural exhibits throughout the year.
On the smaller side, this quaint museum is easy to see in just over an hour. Recent exhibits have covered everything from America's buffalo soldiers to the local history of the city of Anaheim. Other exhibits include "I am an American," which features artifacts, photographs, news clippings, and various other relics from Japanese incarceration in the United States during and after World War II.
Distance from Disneyland:
It's only 2 miles away and has a travel time of 8 minutes away
We hope this guide supports your adventure and has got you excited to visit Anaheim!Mike SalasSOUL+LAND team
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