Anaheim: Spoilt for choice in California's Orange County

Anaheim, California, USA.

A trip to Anaheim should start with Disney Land, but thats definitely not where it will end, writes Jane Jurgens.

Disneyland Resort

It's impossible to mention Anaheim without a nod to the famous mouse. If you've never been before, Disneyland is a definite must-do. With its Cinderella castle and Matterhorn Mountain, there's fun to be had for kids and big kids alike. Besides all the classic rides — think the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain and the Mad Tea Party — there's even more excitement on the horizon. This year, it's all about Pixar, with Pixar Fest launching on April 13, a new Pixar-themed fireworks show, and the opening of Pixar Pier and the Incredicoaster, an Incredibles-themed rollercoaster. In 2019, Disney's new Star Wars land is set to open. Covering 14 acres, guests will get the chance to captain the Millennium Falcon or take part in a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. To complete the experience, there will even be a fully immersive themed resort — complete with costumes, so you look the part.

Anaheim Brewery

Go back in time to old Anaheim at this revived pre-Prohibition brewery. An oasis in the Packing District, the brewery is run by former US Army Lieutenant Colonels Barbara and Greg Gerovac. The couple developed a taste for fresh local beer after being stationed in Bavaria in the 80s and 90s — where every small town has its own brewery. Anaheim Brewery has re-established the famous Anaheim Beer, which disappeared in the 1920s when National Prohibition turned off the taps. With a 100-seat beer garden, you can enjoy a glass of the famous brew while looking out on to Farmer's Park.

Shopping

Orange County is home to nearly 1000 retailers, so you'll want to put aside a decent chunk of time to hit the malls. For luxury brands, head to South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa or Fashion Island in Newport Beach — at these spots, you'll find high-end boutiques, department stores, and plenty of award-winning dining options. If you're more interested in scoring a bargain, make a beeline for the Outlets of Orange — the OC's only outlet centre. You'll find great deals at Bloomingdales, Ralph Lauren, Nordstrom, Nike, and more.

Farmers' market

Indulge in all the fantastic fresh produce and gourmet food the area has to offer at the Anaheim Certified Farmers' Market and Craft Fair, held on Thursdays at Center Street Promenade in Downtown Anaheim. Buy directly from certified California growers and sample some of the delicious cuisines cooked on site — from BBQ to roasted corn and tamales — while listening to local musicians perform. The street closes to cars on Thursdays and the stores and establishments on the Promenade get in on the act too — with some restaurants offering farmers' market specials on the day.

Center Street in Downtown Anaheim. Photo / Visit Anaheim

Hiking

The Anaheim area also boasts plenty of beautiful hiking trails to explore. If you're travelling with children, the Oak Canyon Nature Center is a good place for an immersive educational experience, with around six kilometres of hiking trails through the one of the few remaining areas of oak woodland. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and be sure to check out the butterfly garden.

If you're looking for a trail with the best views, the Canyon Rim Trail offers beautiful views of the city, nature and Walnut Canyon Reservoir — plus, the trail leads you to the Oak Canyon Nature Centre as well.

For another option, Yorba Regional Park is one of the most beautiful in Anaheim, with a playground, lake and plenty of nice spots for a picnic. This forest paradise covers 53 hectares, so there's plenty of walking to be done. Or if you've got wheels, it's also a great place for a bike ride.

There are also a couple of playgrounds to wear the kids out on.

FACT BOX

GETTING THERE
Air New Zealand flies from Auckland to LA.

DETAILS
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