Family travel guide to Anaheim in Southern California
Located in sunny Southern California, Anaheim is a premier destination for family travel. While the city is world-famous for its theme parks, including the iconic Disneyland Resort, there’s so much more for families to explore. From nearby beaches to cultural experiences and fantastic family-friendly dining, Anaheim is a bucket-list destination for your next getaway.
When is the best time to visit Anaheim?
Anaheim enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, making it ideal for year-round travel. The best time to visit Anaheim for family travel is during the USA’s spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant and crowds at theme parks are manageable. Summer brings higher temperatures and more visitors, but it also means extended park hours and special events like Disney’s seasonal shows. Winter is quieter and more affordable, but expect festive cheer in the parks around the holidays.
Getting to Anaheim and getting around
Anaheim is well-connected for family travel, with nearby airports like John Wayne Airport (SNA) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offering multiple flight options. If travelling with children, consider pre-booking your airport transfers to save any hassles when you arrive. Renting a car is a popular option, giving you flexibility to visit nearby attractions, such as beaches or other Southern California cities.
For local transport, Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) is a convenient shuttle service to many attractions. Biking and walking are also great options in certain parts of the city.
Travelling with younger kids tip: Bring foldable strollers for easy navigation around the theme parks. A day at Disneyland is a lot of walking.
Things to do in Anaheim with your family
Anaheim has something for every family member, from thrilling theme parks to peaceful beaches within a short drive.
- Disneyland Resort: The ultimate family-friendly destination. Disneyland offers magical experiences for all ages, from meeting beloved characters to riding classic attractions.
- Knott’s Berry Farm: Located just a short drive away in Buena Park, Knott’s Berry Farm is a fun, less crowded theme park offering rides, shows, and a famous boysenberry-themed menu.
- Beaches: Anaheim is within driving distance of some of Southern California’s best beaches, including Huntington Beach and Newport Beach, which are perfect for a family day out by the ocean.
Inspiration for Anaheim family travel
Check out our articles below for inspiration and guides on things to do in Anaheim with your family:
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Family-friendly accommodation in Anaheim
Anaheim offers many accommodation options for family travel. Whether you’re looking for a hotel close to the theme parks or a budget-friendly spot, you’ll find something that fits your needs.
- Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground: Located just minutes from Disneyland, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms and a water playground for kids.
- Best Western Plus Pavilions: Another popular option near Disneyland, offering comfortable accommodations, breakfast, and friendly staff.
- JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort: A 5-Star option in Anaheim with views of the nightly Disneyland Resort fireworks from certain rooms.
Inspiration and reviews on family-friendly accommodation in Anaheim
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Dining with kids in Anaheim
Given that Anaheim is home to Disneyland Resort, it’s no surprise that there’s a wide range of dining options that cater to families. You’ll find everything from kid-friendly restaurants to food halls with plenty of choices.
- The Packing House: This vibrant food hall in Anaheim offers something for everyone, including kid-friendly options and unique local dishes. It’s a great spot for families who want variety.
- Pizza Press: A family favourite near Disneyland, offering custom pizzas that kids can help create.
- Allergy-friendly options: Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm both have a variety of allergy-friendly and dietary-conscious meals, making it easier for families with food restrictions.
Itineraries and day trips in Anaheim
Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended family travel holiday, here are some ideas to make the most of your time in Anaheim:
- 1-Day Only: Spend the day at Disneyland Resort, exploring the rides, shows, and parades. In the evening, head to Downtown Disney for dinner and shopping.
- 3-Day Itinerary: Enjoy a full day at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, then spend your second day relaxing at Huntington Beach before one final theme park day at Knott’s Berry Farm.
- 7-Day Itinerary: Split your time between the theme parks, a visit to the beach, and a day trip to Los Angeles, Santa Monica or even San Diego for family-friendly museums and attractions.
Nearby attractions: Don’t miss the chance to visit nearby cities like San Diego, home to the famous San Diego Zoo, or Los Angeles for attractions like Universal Studios.
Budgeting for your trip
Anaheim can be a bit pricey for family travel, especially when visiting popular theme parks, but there are plenty of ways to reduce the cost:
- Discounted park tickets: Check websites and apps like Klook for discounted theme park tickets.
- Free attractions: Enjoy Anaheim’s local parks or take a day trip to the beach, both of which are free, family-friendly activities.
- Affordable dining: Opt for quick-service restaurants inside the theme parks, or try local eateries like The Packing House for a more budget-friendly meal.
- Accommodation: When booking accommodations, consider staying slightly further from the parks for lower rates.
Additional resources
Anaheim is the ultimate destination for family travel, offering a mix of iconic theme parks, nearby sunny beaches, and a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for excitement or relaxation, Anaheim has it all.
To start planning your trip, check out these useful websites and apps:
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