While Disneyland’s rides and amusements steal the show, the city of Anaheim boasts a wealth of other enticing ventures. For families with young children, Knott’s Berry Farm and Adventure City are highly recommended amusement parks. Sports enthusiasts won’t want to miss a game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim during baseball season. And for those seeking sun and sand, the beaches of Laguna, Huntington, Oceanside, and even San Diego are all within a 100-mile radius. Make the most of your Anaheim adventure with these top-notch attractions beyond the Magic Kingdom.

Disneyland Resort

Numerous globetrotters attest that the original Disney resort truly lives up to its moniker as “The Happiest Place on Earth.” Disneyland Resort encompasses three distinct areas: Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the Downtown Disney District. Among these, the primary park remains a top favorite among reviewers and frequent visitors, as it boasts several themed sections such as Tomorrowland, Frontierland, Mickey’s Toontown, and the newest attraction, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which has brought an unprecedented level of excitement to the park. While not all of the “Star Wars” rides are currently available (with rollout continuing until early 2020), the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride and the themed shops and eateries that are open have received high acclaim from visitors.

While recent visitors have expressed their admiration for the timeless experience offered at this destination, it is important to note that a visit with your family may come at a high cost. Ticket prices vary based on the time of year, package deals, and other factors. For instance, a one-day ticket for kids and adults aged 10 and above starts at $129, and while purchasing multiday tickets may offer some savings, a two-day adult admission still costs $225. Prices are also subject to change based on the season and even the day of the week, with single-day adult admission costing as much as $149. It is worth noting that a single-day ticket only grants you access to one park, and if you desire to visit both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, you will need to purchase a Park Hopper Ticket, which can almost double your admission cost. Other factors to consider include dining (as outside food or beverage is not allowed in the park) and FASTPASS service, which allows you to save your place in line virtually, instead of having to wait physically for each attraction. If these prices seem too steep, it may be worth considering some of the more affordable theme parks in the area, such as Knott’s Berry Farm and Adventure City. While these parks may not offer the same level of glitz and glamour as Disneyland, they can significantly reduce costs and provide other unique experiences.

Huntington Beach

Renowned as the epicenter of surfing culture in California, Huntington Beach has earned the official moniker of “Surf City USA” and hosts the prestigious Vans US Open of Surfing every summer. This idyllic destination offers the perfect setting to ride the waves, whether on a board or from the shore. Situated approximately 20 miles southwest of Anaheim, it presents an excellent option for a day trip. Recent visitors have lauded the beach’s immaculate state, and its family-friendly ambiance.

Apart from the picturesque beach, the city’s Main Street boasts a plethora of attractions, such as the Surfing Walk of Fame, the International Surfing Museum, and the Surfers’ Hall of Fame. Additionally, the street is dotted with numerous surf shops and boutiques, adding to its charm. The pier, stretching 1,853 feet into the Pacific Ocean, is a must-visit spot, offering breathtaking views that have been praised by recent visitors. For detailed information on dining and lodging options, please refer to the city’s official tourism website.

Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

Attention all aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts! The Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center is the ultimate destination for you. Experience the thrill of taking off, engaging in dogfights, and executing daring aerial maneuvers in our state-of-the-art fighter jet and Boeing 737 flight simulators. Our simulators provide a realistic and immersive experience that will leave you feeling like a true aviator.

Located just a stone’s throw away from central Anaheim, lies the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center. To ensure your spot, we recommend making reservations at least one week in advance. For larger groups, we suggest booking even earlier. Operating hours are from Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Prices vary depending on the simulator and duration of your choice. For instance, a 35-minute “flight” in the fighter jet simulator (a 65-minute experience) costs $59 per person. Flights in the Boeing 737 simulator range from $109 to $398. For more detailed information, please visit our website.

Adventure City

Adventure City is a top pick for budget-conscious families with young children, as recommended by recent visitors. This charming theme park offers a refreshing and affordable alternative to the bustling and costly Disneyland. However, it’s worth noting that Adventure City is specifically designed for younger children, with most travelers recommending it for kids aged 2 to 10. While the park does feature two roller coasters, its emphasis is on interactive attractions that engage and entertain pint-sized visitors. For instance, the Thomas Tank Engine attraction encourages kids to collaborate and construct train layouts. So, if you’re seeking a stress-free and wallet-friendly outing for your family, Adventure City is a fantastic option to consider.

Adventure City is conveniently located between Ball Road and Cerritos Boulevard, nestled on the vibrant South Beach Boulevard in the heart of Anaheim. The park’s hours of operation may vary depending on the day and season, but typically it opens its doors from 10 or 11 a.m. until 5 or 8 p.m. With general admission priced at $21.95 ($17.95 for seniors 55 and older), and free parking, Adventure City offers unlimited access to all rides, shows, and attractions, except for the climbing wall and arcade. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to experience endless fun and adventure!

Knott’s Berry Farm

f you’re seeking a change from the typical Disney experience, or simply crave the rush of a high-speed roller coaster, look no further than Knott’s Berry Farm in nearby Buena Park. This esteemed theme park offers a unique blend of Wild West charm and state-of-the-art attractions, including a log ride, Wild West stunt show, boardwalk-themed area, and Camp Snoopy, a playground designed for young children. For thrill-seekers, we highly recommend the HangTime dive coaster and the lightning-fast Xcelerator The Ride roller coaster. During the scorching summer months, visitors can also cool off at Knott’s Soak City water park, open from mid-May through early September.

Knott’s Berry Farm offers a range of park hours, with opening times generally at 10 a.m. and closing times varying between 5 p.m. and 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve. For savvy visitors looking to save on admission, purchasing park tickets online is highly recommended. A single-day adult ticket can be purchased for just $55 online, compared to the $84 gate price. Those driving to the park can expect to pay a $20 parking fee, but cost-conscious travelers can opt for public transportation. The Anaheim Resort Transit route No. 18 conveniently drops visitors off at the Knott’s Berry Farm MarketPlace, while the Buena Park Metrolink station is just minutes from the park. From there, an Orange County Transportation Authority bus will take you straight to the park gates. Knott’s Berry Farm is located approximately 6 miles northwest of downtown Anaheim.