Top Things to Do Near Disneyland

You don’t always have to be in the park at Disneyland to have fun. Many cool things around Disneyland don’t cost much or are even free. Whether you love Disney or want to see other places nearby, there’s plenty to explore. These activities are fun, easy on your budget, and can improve your Disneyland trip.

Here Are The Top Things to Do Near Disneyland, CA!

Here are some of the best things you can do near Disneyland, from shopping to relaxing by the beach. These things are easy on your wallet, and many don’t cost anything or are cheap.

Shop at Downtown Disney

Distance from Disneyland: 6 min (2.0 mi) via S Walnut St

It’s a fun outdoor shopping area with cool Disney shops and many things to see. You don’t even need to buy anything to have a good time; just walking around is part of the fun! There’s a Lego Store where you can see a vast, fire-breathing Maleficent made entirely from Legos. A Star Wars store also looks like a jungle base from the movies. And don’t forget Marceline’s Confectionery, a candy shop named after the town where Walt Disney grew up.

If you’re driving, parking costs $10 for the first hour. But, if you buy something, you can have more free time! Spending $20 at any shop in Downtown Disney will give you three extra hours of parking.

Sit by the Fire at the Grand Californian Hotel Lobby

Distance from Disneyland: 2 min (0.4 mi) via Disneyland Dr

The lobby at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is fantastic. It has tall ceilings that go up six stories high, and the design looks old-fashioned Craftsman style. You can sit in one of the comfy chairs and enjoy the big fireplace that keeps the room warm, whether cold or hot outside. If you’re lucky, a pianist might play Disney songs, making everything feel even more magical.

Getting there is easy! Just find the entrance near Downtown Disney, between Sephora and The Disney Dress Shop.

Enjoy a Tiki Drink (or Dole Whip) at Trader Sam’s

Distance from Disneyland: 7 min (2.4 mi) via Disneyland Dr

If you love cool drinks and fun places, then you have to check out Trader Sam’s at the Disneyland Hotel. The famous Jungle Cruise ride inspires this tiki bar. The inside of the bar looks like an adventure, with decorations that make you feel like you’re on a jungle expedition.

They have fantastic drinks like the Shipwreck on the Rocks and Krakatoa Punch. When you order one, the whole bar might light up with cool effects, like flashing lights or a fake volcano eruption! And if you’re craving something sweet, right next door is Tangaroa Terrace, where you can grab a Dole Whip (a yummy pineapple soft serve).

Eat at the Anaheim Packing District

Distance from Disneyland: 5 min (1.9 mi) via W Santa Ana St

This place is a big food hall that used to be a place where they packed fruit. Now, it’s full of yummy food from all around the world. The vibe at the Packing District is super chill and fun. People hang out, talk, and enjoy their food. Sometimes, there’s even live music or a big screen showing a game, so you can relax and have fun while eating.

If you want a break from all the busy stuff at Disneyland, this is a great place to chill and people-watch. The Anaheim Packing District is a perfect addition to any list of the best things to do in Anaheim that aren’t disneyland, offering a unique mix of delicious eats, vibrant atmosphere, and local charm. It’s much cheaper than eating at Disneyland, so it’s a win-win!

Treasure Hunt for Antiques in Old Towne Orange

Distance from Disneyland: 8 min (6.7 mi) via I-5 S

If you’re a Disney fan, you’ll especially like the shops that sell old Disney memorabilia, like toys, posters, and other Disney treasures from the past. What makes Old Towne Orange even more remarkable is its history. The buildings around here are old, many dating back to the 1800s. Walking around and shopping, you also see history, like how people lived and worked long ago.

One remarkable building to check out is the Sunkist Building. It used to be part of the local citrus industry, so it has its history to share. Overall, Old Towne Orange feels like a fun treasure hunt where you explore and find things from different times.

Try Some Beers at Brewery X

How Far from Disneyland: 14 min (6.1 mi) via W Santa Ana St and E La Palma Ave

It’s a big, friendly beer garden where you can try craft beers and hard seltzers. The pizza is super popular, so if you’re hungry, this is a great spot to enjoy food with your friends or family. Moreover, if you’re bringing your pet, then don’t worry because pets are welcome too! They also have trivia nights on Mondays, so you can have fun while hanging out. Brewery X is a cool place to try local beers, eat great food, and spend time with people you like.

Try Boysenberry Boba and Fried Chicken at Knott’s Berry Farm

Distance from Disneyland: 7 min (6.6 mi) via I-5 N

Knott’s Berry Farm is a fun theme park, but don’t worry if you don’t have a ticket because you can still enjoy some of its best treats! Right next to it is Knott’s Marketplace, which is free to visit. It’s a great place to grab some yummy food and enjoy the park vibe. One snack you have to try is the boysenberry boba. And if you’re hungry, you should go to Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. They serve the park’s famous fried chicken, and it’s delicious!

The marketplace is perfect for enjoying Knott’s Berry Farm’s flavours without buying a ticket. You can eat, shop, and even pick up famous jams or other treats to take home.

Wear a Dirndl at Old World Village

Distance from Disneyland: 16 min (14.2 mi) via CA-22 W

It’s a cool Bavarian-style village that feels like you’ve been transported to another country. The streets are made of cobblestones, and everything looks old-fashioned and charming.

You can find a German deli where you can try some yummy food, a shop that sells dirndls (those pretty traditional German dresses), and even a Biergarten where you can enjoy a drink. Even though it’s close to more enormous shopping malls, Old World Village has a quiet, small-town vibe with local shops that make it unique.

If you go there during events like Oktoberfest, you can enjoy live music and even watch wiener dog races, which are super fun. It’s a quirky place to taste European culture without leaving Huntington Beach.

Ride the Big Ferris Wheel at Irvine Spectrum

Distance from Disneyland: 17 min (16.7 mi) via I-5 S

If you want more fun after Disneyland, go to the Irvine Spectrum. It’s an outdoor shopping mall with over 175 stores, restaurants, and fun activities. The best part is the giant Ferris wheel that is 108 feet tall! From the top, you get terrific views of the whole area. The ride is just $8, so it’s an affordable way to see everything from up high. While at the Irvine Spectrum, there are many other fun things to do. You can shop for Disney stuff at BoxLunch or stop by the Hello Kitty Grand Café for a yummy treat.

So, the Irvine Spectrum is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a fun, easy, and cheap activity after Disneyland. The Ferris wheel is the star, but there’s much more to explore.

Enjoy the Peace at Roger’s Gardens

Distance from Disneyland: 19 min (18.7 mi) via I-5 S and CA-55 S

Roger’s Gardens is not just a place to buy plants; it’s a peaceful and beautiful relaxing spot. It’s a 7-acre garden perfect for anyone who loves flowers and nature. Even if you don’t want to buy any plants, it’s still worth visiting because it’s a calm and lovely place. It looks so cute during holidays like Halloween and Christmas when they decorate the garden with cool lights and festive touches.

Roger’s Gardens also has a unique piece of Disney history! They have the Original Disneyland Bandstand, a gazebo that used to sit on Disneyland’s Main Street. It was moved to Roger’s Gardens in the 1970s. Now, it’s a beautiful place to sit outside, eat a meal, and enjoy Disney’s history and the lovely garden around you.

Conclusion

Disneyland is full of magic, but the fun doesn’t stop there. There are so many other exciting things to do nearby! From relaxing at Newport Beach to exploring fun places in Anaheim, there’s something for everyone. Plan your day, take it slow, and make memories that will till the end of your time. Disneyland and its nearby attractions are waiting for you!

FAQs

1. Is there anything for adults to do around Disneyland?

Yes! Adults can visit Downtown Anaheim for nightlife, enjoy live music at the House of Blues, or even relax at a nearby spa.

2. Can I visit Newport Beach and Disneyland on the same day?

Yes, you can! Newport Beach is only 20 miles away. It’s perfect for a quick trip to enjoy the sand and sea.

3. Are there good places to shop near Disneyland?

Yes, you can shop at Downtown Disney for Disney items. Try South Coast Plaza or The Outlets at Orange if you want more enormous malls.

4. What activities are suitable for kids near Disneyland?

Kids will love Discovery Cube Orange County, a fun science museum. Pretend City in Irvine is another excellent place for younger kids to play and learn.