Anaheim offers countless family activities beyond Disneyland. Disney’s famous park boasts 90+ rides that draw millions of visitors annually. Local attractions provide excellent alternatives too. We found gems like Adventure City that features 17 affordable rides. The sprawling Yorba Regional Park spans 140 acres of outdoor fun. The massive Great Wolf Lodge Water Park amazes visitors with its 105,000 square feet of aquatic entertainment.
Hidden Theme Parks and Attractions
Looking to explore beyond the Mouse House? Anaheim has several family-friendly gems that are easy on your wallet but pack plenty of adventure. These hidden spots give families a chance to try something different from regular tourist destinations.
Adventure City: A budget-friendly amusement park
Want a theme park where kids can hop on their favorite rides multiple times without waiting forever? Adventure City fits the bill. This cozy amusement park lets a family of four enjoy everything at a price that’s nowhere near the cost of one ticket at bigger parks. Plus, parking is always free!
The park features 17 rides and attractions built just for younger children (especially when you have kids aged 1-9). Your little ones can experience two roller coasters, including the Rewind Racers – North America’s first forward and reversing family shuttle coaster.
Animal enthusiasts will love the petting farm where children can meet friendly barnyard animals. Kids can enjoy interactive dance parties and shows at Stage 39 between rides. A ticket costs $31.95 per person, making this one of the most budget-friendly activities in Anaheim.
The park runs on seasonal hours. It opens from 10AM-5PM on weekdays and stays open until 8PM on weekends. Sunday visits are a great way to get more ride time since crowds are smaller.
Camelot Golfland: Mini golf and arcade fun
Families who love friendly competition will find plenty to do at Camelot Golfland. This castle-themed entertainment center stands out near the SR-91 freeway.
The facility stands as the country’s largest miniature golf complex with four unique 18-hole courses. Here’s a tip: check out all four options before picking one that your family likes best.
The castle houses a huge video arcade filled with new games and serves fresh pizza. But the fun doesn’t stop there. You can also enjoy:
- Laser tag adventures
- Race cars for speed enthusiasts
- Bumper boats for splashy fun
- Water slides during warmer months
Camelot Golfland has managed to keep everything in great shape despite its age – some visitors remember playing there since the 1970s. You can visit from 10AM-10PM Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Great Wolf Lodge: Indoor water park adventure
Picture yourself swimming and sliding in perfect 84-degree weather whatever the conditions outside. That’s what makes Great Wolf Lodge special, just 3 miles from Disneyland.
This amazing resort boasts a 105,000-square-foot indoor water park with nine water slides suited for different age groups. Kids of all ages find their sweet spot here, from exciting drops for older ones to gentle areas for toddlers.
Families can float down a lazy river, play in the wave pool, or relax in hot springs. The temperature stays at a comfortable 84 degrees throughout the year, making it perfect when weather turns bad.
Day passes are a great way to get access to all water park features without staying overnight. Kids under 2 get in free. The complete experience includes family-friendly suites and extra activities:
- Free daily events including dance parties
- Arts and crafts sessions
- Bedtime story readings
- Adventure Park attractions (available at additional cost)
Safety comes first with provided life jackets. Multiple dining spots inside the resort let you spend all day making splash-filled memories.
These thoughtful features and activities have made Great Wolf Lodge one of the top picks for families visiting Anaheim.
Free Things to Do in Anaheim with Kids
Need a budget-friendly vacation after spending big on theme park tickets? Anaheim has amazing free activities where your kids can play and learn. Many tourists miss these local treasures that let your family experience the authentic side of Anaheim without spending money.
Founders’ Park: Step back in time
Your kids will love this hands-on history lesson! Founders’ Park sits on the western edge of the original Anaheim Colony and celebrates the city’s agricultural roots. This one-acre historical treasure features two remarkable homes that take you back to Anaheim’s early days.
George Hansen built the Mother Colony House in 1857, and it stands as Orange County’s oldest wood-framed building. This historical gem almost faced demolition before its rescue and relocation in 1928. The beautiful two-story Woelke-Stoffel House next door shows off Queen Anne architecture from 1894, built during Anaheim’s thriving citrus period.
Kids love playing under the giant Moreton Bay Fig tree that dates back to 1876. Fun fact: this magnificent tree reportedly inspired Disneyland’s Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse. The tree’s massive shade creates a perfect spot to rest between adventures.
The park lets families stroll through recreated 19th-century landscapes on walkways and trails that bring the past to life. A carriage house, pump house, and windmill show visitors the crucial link between water and farming success.
The park comes alive on the first Saturday of each month with costumed characters during the open house. You can visit Monday through Friday from 11AM to 6PM.
Pearson Park: Amphitheater and playgrounds
This historic 19-acre green space opened in 1927 as Anaheim’s first “City Park” and got its current name in 1960 to honor former Mayor Charles A. Pearson. The stunning Spanish-style amphitheater, built in 1933, shows off terra-cotta roof tiles and shaded arbors covered in wisteria and bougainvillea.
You’ll find the playground right behind the amphitheater between the soccer field and tennis courts. The park added the Kobe and Gianna Bryant ‘Dream Court’ in May 2022. Your kids will enjoy the climbing structures, but smaller children might find some of the long, winding ladders challenging.
The park offers:
- Duck ponds with bridges along Sycamore Street
- Swimming pool for hot days
- Basketball courts and baseball fields
- Sand volleyball courts
- Historical elements including the 150-year anniversary bricks and time capsule
Parents tip: The ducks might come up to your family, but don’t feed them since human food can make them sick. You’ll find restrooms near the playground, and plenty of parking despite all the activities.
Boysen Park: Climb a real fighter jet
Locals call this 24.6-acre space “Airplane Park,” named after Rudy Boysen, the former Parks Superintendent who created the Boysenberry. The main attraction? A real U.S. Navy Cougar jet from the Korean War that’s been here since 1959.
The city bought the abandoned plane from the Navy for just $250 to cover rail transportation from Arizona. Kids could once climb through the tailpipe into the cockpit and play with authentic controls. Safety issues came up when wiring became exposed and rivets started coming loose.
The plane got a makeover in 1967 after being fenced off. It reopened covered in gunite (cement) to keep its shape while making it safer for kids. Important note for parents: The plane sits high up and children need to climb the wing to get in, which might be tough for little ones.
Beyond the famous jet, your kids can enjoy a rocket ship play structure with rock climbing wall, spring riders, climbing dome, and boulder. The park will get even better by 2026 with plans for a skate park, dog park, basketball courts, fitness equipment, and water play areas.
Anaheim Coves: Nature trails and zipline
This beautiful 26-acre nature park opened in 2019 along the Santa Ana River between Ball Road and Frontera Street. It offers a peaceful break from city life. The Orange County Water District, Flood Control District, and Southern California Edison worked together to create this space.
The park features a 2.5-mile paved trail that takes about 55 minutes to walk. The path winds around a reservoir with some compact dirt side trails. Your active kids will love Explorer’s Cove playground with its zipline, climbing net, boulder, play structures, and archeological dig area.
You’ll find free parking lots and clean restrooms at both Ball Road and Lincoln Avenue entrances. Lincoln Avenue parking puts you closest to the playground. To find Explorer’s Cove from Lincoln parking, go through the gate, turn left, take the tunnel under Lincoln Avenue, and follow the paved path.
The trail has fitness zones with signs you can scan for workout videos. You’ll also see educational signs, benches, and native plants along the way. Remember that gates and restrooms close at sunset.
Outdoor Adventures for Curious Kids
Natural spaces in Anaheim give families a break from city life’s concrete and crowds. These outdoor spots showcase Southern California’s ecosystems and let kids learn while they play.
Oak Canyon Nature Center: Hiking and wildlife
Oak Canyon Nature Center lies tucked away in the Anaheim Hills, spreading across 58 acres of untouched natural beauty. This hidden gem has three connected canyons and four miles of hiking trails. You’ll find some of the region’s last remaining oak woodland and coastal sage scrub here.
A peaceful stream flows through the park year-round and creates the perfect setting for nature walks. Families just starting their outdoor adventures will love these trails. More experienced hikers can enjoy shorter treks too.
The John J. Collier Interpretive Center stands at the park’s heart. This small museum houses live animals and shows off the region’s natural history. Kids love to spot native wildlife that calls the canyon home. They should keep their eyes open for the Goldspotted Oak beetle and coastal sage scrub.
Important safety note: The stream isn’t a play area since native species live there. It might also have poison oak oil that can cause reactions. The interpretive center runs on limited hours, so check before you visit.
The park’s naturalist-led hikes are a great way to get more from your visit. These guided walks teach you things about the local ecosystem you might miss on your own.
Yorba Regional Park: Biking and paddle boats
Yorba Regional Park spreads across 140 acres and runs over a mile long. This urban oasis sits right at Santa Ana Canyon’s mouth. Four connected lakes with flowing streams make this park special.
Bike lovers can hop on trails that connect to the Santa Ana River Trail. This national trail runs an impressive 20 miles to the Pacific Ocean. Wheel Fun Rentals operates in the park and offers bikes and swan-shaped pedal boats for lake adventures.
Rental tip: You can rent bikes until an hour before sunset. Boat rentals stop two hours before sunset.
Families will find everything they need here:
- More than 400 picnic tables with permanent shade structures
- Playgrounds throughout the park
- Seven group shelters you can reserve
- Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits
- Two baseball diamonds
- A physical fitness course
Yorba Regional Park blends structured fun with natural beauty perfectly. Taking a paddle boat out on the lakes gives families a peaceful way to spend time together.
Orange County Great Park: Balloon rides and history
The Great Park Balloon gives you a unique view of Anaheim and beyond. This tethered helium balloon stands 118 feet tall and holds 210,000 cubic feet of gas. It’s one of America’s largest and was the first of its kind in the U.S..
The balloon takes you up 400 feet and shows off amazing 360-degree views that stretch 40 miles on clear days. Adults pay $10 while kids ride free with a paying adult.
Safety first: A steel cable that can hold 99,000 pounds keeps the balloon secure, making this a safe family adventure. Each flight lasts about 15-20 minutes – plenty of time to take in the views.
The Visitors Center at 949-724-6247 can tell you if flights are running that day since weather affects operations. Show up early and check in 30 minutes before your planned flight time. Spots fill up fast.
Kids will love the themed playgrounds at Great Park. New play areas near the Sports Complex and Kids Rock teach young visitors about conservation and the water cycle through fun activities.
These natural spaces let families skip theme park crowds and connect with Southern California’s environments while making memories together outdoors.
Indoor Escapes for Hot or Rainy Days
The weather in Southern California can get too hot or bring unexpected rain. That’s when indoor activities become a must for family fun. Anaheim has plenty of climate-controlled adventures that mix learning with fun. These are great options if you’re looking for things to do in Anaheim with kids, whatever the weather.
Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center
Have you ever wanted to pilot an aircraft? Flightdeck lets parents and children experience flying thrills without leaving the ground. You’ll find it just a seven-minute walk from Disneyland’s main gate. This place is a chance to try three amazing simulation experiences.
The center has authentic fighter jet simulators where you can participate in air-to-air combat with other “pilots.” Everyone gets about 30 minutes of classroom instruction to learn simple maneuvers before taking control. Kids must be at least 10 years old and 4’10” tall to pilot the simulators. This makes it ideal for older children and teens who want something beyond theme parks.
The Boeing 737 simulator gives you a completely different challenge if you dream of flying commercial planes. Friendly instructors will help you learn to handle a massive passenger jet. Fighter jet sessions start at $59 per person for a 35-minute flight (65-minute total experience). Boeing 737 experiences cost between $109 and $398.
Racing fans can also enjoy Rogue Racing simulators. Families compete on virtual versions of the world’s toughest race tracks. New visitors shouldn’t worry – staff help you learn track layouts and car features.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Sky Zone Trampoline Park stands out as one of Anaheim’s most exciting kids activities if you need to burn energy. This huge facility has much more than simple trampolines.
You’ll find foam pits, rock climbing walls, and obstacle courses next to various jumping areas. Kids love the zipline, which keeps them busy for hours. The facility maintains a comfortable temperature year-round, so it’s perfect on hot or rainy days.
Clean “SkySocks” are required for jumping and you can buy them on-site. Birthday party packages come with private areas, invitations, supplies, and a dedicated host. Families who plan multiple visits can get memberships with special discounts and access to member-only events.
Anaheim Indoor Marketplace
Orange County’s largest indoor swap meet wonderland spans over 200 specialty shops. This massive 100,000+ square foot facility sits just one mile from Disneyland. It’s a unique place to shop and experience different cultures.
Shoppers find electronics, jewelry, and more at prices up to 40% less than retail. The food court has eight restaurants serving authentic Mexican, Central American, Chinese, and Italian food.
Weekend entertainment makes this place special for families. Friday brings Mexican Bingo in the food court. Saturday features Ballet Folkloric groups and live banda music. Sunday comes alive with Latin bands and Mariachi performers. Free transportation is available for tourists staying at Disneyland area hotels. This budget-friendly indoor adventure is easy to reach.
Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center
Downtown Anaheim’s Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center blends learning with entertainment perfectly. This 25,000-square-foot facility combines Anaheim’s historic Carnegie Library with modern gallery spaces.
The museum has two main parts: the Main Gallery with rotating exhibits (paid admission) and the free Carnegie Gallery. The Carnegie Gallery features changing exhibits and tells Anaheim’s fascinating story. Visitors love learning about the city’s wine-growing past and Disneyland’s arrival in the history section.
Special events add extra fun with Wine & Paint nights, themed BINGO events, and Art & Jazz sessions. Visitors can explore at their own pace. This works well for families with children who prefer setting their own schedule.
Muzeo’s downtown location near restaurants and shops makes it easy to add to your indoor plans. It’s the perfect escape when outdoor activities aren’t an option.
Educational and Interactive Experiences
Your kids will love exploring Anaheim’s hands-on educational venues where they can learn through play and create lasting memories. These museums are a great way to get enriching experiences that spark exploration, creativity, and discovery—just perfect for families looking for meaningful activities with kids in Anaheim.
Discovery Cube Orange County
Discovery Cube Orange County has over 80 hands-on science exhibits that turn complex ideas into fun adventures. Kids get excited as they try out exhibits that push them to think differently and learn new scientific concepts.
The museum aims to spark a lifelong passion for learning through science programs that teach and inspire. Kids have a blast at the Physics Lab, Bed of Nails, Science of Hockey, and Rocket Launch experiences. The popular Dino Quest exhibit reopened recently and comes with general admission or membership.
Kids love playing shopper at the Discovery Market. Touch-screen shopping carts guide them through a fun game that teaches healthy food choices and environmental awareness. They beam with pride when they see their pictures on the Market’s wall of fame after finishing one of the two games.
Regular visitors might want to look at annual memberships from $79, which let you visit as much as you want all year. The cost makes sense if you plan several trips to see the rotating exhibits and special events like Bubblefest and Spooky Science.
Bowers Museum and Kidseum
Santa Ana’s Bowers Museum houses more than 100,000 objects. You’ll find amazing pre-Columbian Mesoamerica pieces, Native American art, and collections from Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
Kidseum sits just two blocks from the main museum. This 11,000-square-foot interactive space got a makeover in 2014. The child-focused extension creates a cozy, relaxed setting with cultural exhibits that preschoolers and early elementary kids can touch and explore.
Kidseum’s recent “Future Park: Art + Technology” exhibit let kids work with digital technology in four interactive spaces:
- Sketch Town: Kids made colorful digital vehicles and buildings
- Light Ball Orchestra: Giant orbs changed colors and sounds with touch
- Connecting! Block Town: Colorful blocks became digital streets
- Hopscotch for Geniuses: The floor responded to kids’ movements
Your Bowers Museum ticket includes Kidseum entry, making it an economical choice for families seeking educational activities in Anaheim.
La Habra Children’s Museum
This little treasure packs many interactive experiences for younger kids. The museum has seven galleries that we designed mainly for children under 10.
Kids love taking turns as bus driver, and they can also enjoy a miniature train set, painting room, acting space, and grocery store. Parents often end up playing right alongside their kids instead of just watching.
The museum’s unique taxidermy room lets children gently touch and pet preserved animals. Dinosaur sculptures greet visitors on the front lawn, though climbing isn’t allowed.
Tickets cost $12 per person, and kids under two get in free. The $80 annual membership works out better for families planning several visits. Open from 10AM-4PM Tuesday through Friday with longer weekend hours, this hidden gem gives kids an affordable way to boost their imagination.
Unique Dining and Entertainment Spots
Food meets fantasy at these Anaheim entertainment venues where families can enjoy unforgettable dining adventures.
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
Ahoy, mateys! This swashbuckling dining experience brings theatrical thrills aboard a fully-rigged 18th-century Spanish galleon. The ship floats in a massive 250,000-gallon indoor lagoon. You’ll find this family-friendly attraction just minutes from Disneyland, where everyone becomes part of the story.
The two-hour show dazzles with aerial artistry, real swordplay, and special effects that keep kids excited all evening. Up to 150 audience volunteers participate in each show, making this “the world’s most interactive dinner show”.
Kids love to cheer for their favorite pirate as the action happens around them. The adventure comes with a hearty meal perfect for hungry little buccaneers. Parents should know that the show uses loud noises, strobe lighting, fog effects, and pyrotechnics, which might be too much for sensitive kids.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Take a journey to 11th century Spain at this castle-themed dinner spot in Buena Park. Families can root for one of six knights who show off their jousting, swordsmanship, and thrilling hand-to-hand skills while everyone enjoys a four-course feast.
The two-hour spectacle showcases amazing horsemanship and falconry. Guests dine medieval-style with tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, herb-basted potatoes, dessert, and two rounds of non-alcoholic drinks. They also serve vegetarian options if you ask.
Different ticket packages give you various perks. The Royalty Package is great for families who want premium seating and faster access.
House of Blues Anaheim
GardenWalk’s House of Blues gives families with music-loving kids a unique dining experience. The big space has several areas, with the main restaurant serving Southern favorites like Voodoo Shrimp and Jambalaya. The walls showcase amazing folk and outsider art.
Voted Best Live Music Venue by OC Weekly’s Reader’s Choice, this place goes beyond typical theme restaurants. The open dining room creates a warm vibe where families can relax among quirky decorations and chat with friendly staff.
Sports and Action-Packed Fun
Anaheim offers exciting sports venues and action-packed activities that will delight competitive, athletic families. Parents and children can enjoy these thrilling experiences together.
Angel Stadium: Catch a baseball game
Baseball games create magical family memories. Angel Stadium’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect to introduce children to America’s favorite pastime. The stadium’s energized environment keeps kids involved through nine innings of Los Angeles Angels action.
The food adventures add excitement, with the famous Helmet Nachos being a must-try treat. These nachos come in a life-size plastic Angels helmet that you can keep as a souvenir. Young fans can join the Junior Angels Kids Club (presented by OC Waste & Recycling) to get four free game ticket vouchers and exclusive merchandise.
Kids can run the bases after selected games on Family Sundays. Note that Angel Stadium doesn’t accept cash and has a “no bag” policy, so plan ahead.
Honda Center: Watch the Anaheim Ducks
NHL hockey comes alive at the Honda Center, home to the Anaheim Ducks. This premier sports facility sits just 10 minutes from Disneyland and hosts games throughout the regular season (October-April).
The venue offers more than hockey with its family-oriented events. Theme nights make each visit special with Women in Sports Night, Star Wars Night, and CHOC Day.
The Honda Center runs on cashless transactions and has a no-bag policy to make entry smooth and security better.
K1 Speed: Indoor go-kart racing
Let loose your inner speed demon at K1 Speed in Anaheim. Electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45mph and deliver genuine thrills whatever the weather.
These high-performance electric vehicles are nothing like typical miniature golf go-karts. They accelerate instantly with maximum torque from 0 rpm. The indoor track design allows racing year-round.
Junior karts need riders to be at least 48 inches tall, while adult karts require 4’10” (58 inches). Up to 12 racers can compete against the clock in Arrive & Drive races. This makes it perfect for families who love competition.
Racers can track their performance with up-to-the-minute data. Most first-time visitors start with one race, but soon find that speed becomes addictive enough to try the three-race combo package.
Day Trips and Nearby Beach Escapes
Need a break from theme parks? You’ll find amazing ocean adventures just a short drive from Anaheim. These coastal escapes will complement your theme park vacation without emptying your wallet.
Huntington Beach: Surf and sand
Huntington Beach sits just 21.1 miles from Anaheim via CA-55 N and I-5 N. This iconic beach destination embodies California’s relaxed surf lifestyle. The nickname “Surf City USA” fits perfectly, and families love its perfect mix of sand, sun, and waves.
Your kids can learn to ride the waves at several surf schools along the coast. These schools help beginners become confident surfers quickly. The stunning Huntington Beach Pier gives you amazing ocean views, and you might spot dolphins playing in the waves.
Main Street features the Surfing Walk of Fame – think Hollywood Boulevard with more board shorts. You can switch things up by renting kayaks or paddleboards at Huntington Harbor and glide past beautiful waterfront homes.
Long Beach Aquarium and Shoreline Village
Long Beach lies 29.6 miles from Anaheim via I-405 S and CA-22 E. The spectacular Aquarium of the Pacific houses marine species in 19 exhibits. You’ll see penguins, sea lions, sharks, otters, and puffins up close.
Kids particularly love the shark touch tank where they can safely meet these amazing creatures. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Shoreline Village sits right next to the aquarium, creating a colorful waterfront scene overlooking Rainbow Harbor. Kids love riding the antique carousel while parents browse shops and restaurants. Active families can rent bikes, join harbor cruises, or try parasailing.
Catalina Island: Ferry adventure
Catalina Island makes a perfect day trip, just an hour away by high-speed ferry. Boats leave throughout the year with up to 30 daily departures from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point.
The island feels like a different world, though it’s only 22 miles offshore. You can explore charming Avalon’s shops and restaurants or head to Two Harbors for amazing camping and beaches. Many visitors rent golf carts to tour the island before catching their evening ferry back to the mainland.
Conclusion
Anaheim packs countless family adventures beyond Disney’s gates. Budget-friendly theme parks, free historical sites, indoor escapes and beach day trips give options that match every interest, weather condition, and budget. These local gems help create authentic California memories without tourist crowds and sky-high prices. Your family deserves to discover Anaheim’s true spirit!
FAQs
Q1. What are some family-friendly attractions in Anaheim besides Disneyland?
Anaheim offers several alternatives like Adventure City, a budget-friendly amusement park with 17 rides, Camelot Golfland for mini-golf and arcade fun, and Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor water park resort. These venues provide unique experiences at more affordable prices than major theme parks.
Q2. Are there any free activities for kids in Anaheim?
Yes, Anaheim has several free attractions for families. Founders’ Park offers a step back in time with historical homes and gardens. Pearson Park features playgrounds and an amphitheater, while Boysen Park is known for its climbable fighter jet. The Anaheim Coves trail system provides nature walks and a playground with a zipline.
Q3. What indoor activities are available in Anaheim for rainy or hot days?
On challenging weather days, families can enjoy the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center for a pilot experience, Sky Zone Trampoline Park for active fun, the Anaheim Indoor Marketplace for shopping and cultural experiences, or the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center for educational exhibits and local history.
Q4. Are there any educational experiences for kids in Anaheim?
Absolutely. The Discovery Cube Orange County offers over 80 interactive science exhibits. Nearby, the Bowers Museum and its Kidseum provide cultural experiences, while the La Habra Children’s Museum features hands-on exhibits for younger children, including a unique taxidermy room where kids can gently touch preserved animals.
Q5. What day trips are recommended for families visiting Anaheim?
Popular day trips from Anaheim include visiting Huntington Beach for surfing and beach activities, exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village in Long Beach, or taking a ferry to Catalina Island for a unique offshore adventure. These destinations offer a refreshing change of pace from theme parks and are all within easy reach of Anaheim.