Anaheim Resort District
The vibrant Anaheim Resort District, centered around Disneyland, offers a magical escape with hotels, dining, and entertainment for all.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for park entry
Anaheim Resort District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for park entry

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The vibrant Anaheim Resort District, centered around Disneyland, offers a magical escape with hotels, dining, and entertainment for all.
"A convenient hub for Disneyland magic, with plenty of dining and entertainment options right at your doorstep."
🚶♀️ Walkable vs. Ride
Many hotels are walkable to Disneyland, but consider ART shuttle or ride-share for convenience, especially with kids.
🎆 Fireworks Viewing Spots
Book hotels with rooftop lounges for prime fireworks views, or find spots in Downtown Disney.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Disneyland Park
Heart of the Anaheim Resort District
The iconic 'Happiest Place on Earth,' offering magical rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets for all ages.

Downtown Disney District
Adjacent to Disneyland Park
A vibrant promenade with unique shops, diverse dining options, and live entertainment, perfect for a stroll.

Anaheim GardenWalk
Across from the Anaheim Convention Center
An outdoor entertainment complex featuring restaurants, shops, and often hosts events and live music.

Fireworks Views
Various hotels and vantage points
Experience the dazzling Disneyland fireworks from select hotel rooftops or designated viewing spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Anaheim Resort District
Beyond the Parks: Exploring the District
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable vs. Ride
Many hotels are walkable to Disneyland, but consider ART shuttle or ride-share for convenience, especially with kids.
🎆 Fireworks Viewing Spots
Book hotels with rooftop lounges for prime fireworks views, or find spots in Downtown Disney.
🍽️ Dining Variety
Explore Downtown Disney and Anaheim GardenWalk for diverse culinary experiences beyond park food.
🎟️ Ticket Booking
Purchase park tickets and make park reservations well in advance, especially for popular dates.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable vs. Ride
Many hotels are walkable to Disneyland, but consider ART shuttle or ride-share for convenience, especially with kids.
🎆 Fireworks Viewing Spots
Book hotels with rooftop lounges for prime fireworks views, or find spots in Downtown Disney.
🍽️ Dining Variety
Explore Downtown Disney and Anaheim GardenWalk for diverse culinary experiences beyond park food.
🎟️ Ticket Booking
Purchase park tickets and make park reservations well in advance, especially for popular dates.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be expensive; consider hotel parking packages or using ride-sharing services to save.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Anaheim Resort District for its proximity to Disneyland and the abundance of entertainment options. The convenience of hotels, dining, and shopping within a concentrated area is a major draw. However, some find the costs associated with the area, particularly for parking and dining, to be quite high, and crowds can be overwhelming during peak seasons.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Anaheim Resort District is designed for walkability, but distances can be significant. The Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) shuttle system connects most hotels to the parks and attractions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Many visitors find it convenient to use a combination of walking and ART shuttles.Yes, many hotels within the Anaheim Resort District are within walking distance of Disneyland. However, the exact walking time can vary greatly depending on the hotel's location. Always check the distance and consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as advised by travelers.
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you can take a shuttle service, taxi, or ride-share to Anaheim. John Wayne Airport (SNA) is closer and offers similar transportation options. Some hotels may offer shuttle services as well.
Yes, parking is available at most hotels and attractions, but it can be costly. If you're staying within walking distance or using ART, you might consider skipping a rental car to save on parking fees.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can often connect to the ART shuttle system from local transit hubs. For longer distances, consider Amtrak or Metrolink trains to the Anaheim station, then a short ride-share to your hotel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Disneyland tickets can be purchased directly from the official Disneyland website or through authorized third-party sellers like Get Away Today. It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance and make park reservations as soon as possible, as parks can reach capacity.
Yes, in addition to a valid park ticket, you must make a park reservation for the specific date and park you plan to visit. This is a crucial step to ensure entry, especially during busy periods.
Disneyland's operating hours vary by season and day. It's essential to check the official Disneyland website for the most up-to-date hours for your planned visit date. Hours can range from early morning to late evening.
Yes, Downtown Disney District offers free entry for window shopping and enjoying the atmosphere. Pearson Park and Yorba Regional Park are also free public spaces with amenities like playgrounds and walking trails.
Absolutely! Downtown Disney District is accessible to everyone and does not require a theme park ticket. It's a great place to explore shops, restaurants, and entertainment before or after a park day.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Beyond Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, don't miss the vibrant Downtown Disney District for shopping and dining. The Anaheim GardenWalk offers more entertainment options, and many hotels provide unique experiences like rooftop bars with fireworks views.
Yes, the resort district is full of iconic photo spots, from the Disneyland castle to the themed streets of Downtown Disney. Many hotels also offer picturesque settings, like the JW Marriott's modern design or the Sheraton Park's lobby.
You can enjoy shopping and dining at Downtown Disney and Anaheim GardenWalk. Explore local parks like Pearson Park, or relax at your hotel, many of which have pools and entertainment.
Yes, some hotels in the Anaheim Resort District, such as the JW Marriott, have rooftop lounges that offer views of the Disneyland fireworks. This is a popular amenity for guests not inside the park.
The Anaheim GardenWalk frequently hosts events, including live music and festivals. The StickerXpo is an example of a specialized event held at the GardenWalk, attracting artists and vendors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Disney offers a wide range of dining, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. Popular choices include unique themed eateries and international cuisine. It's a great place to find diverse food options.
Yes, the Anaheim GardenWalk features a variety of restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets. You can find everything from casual dining to more upscale options.
Yes, Hana Gidining is a newer Japanese restaurant located in the Disneyland Resort District, offering a specific culinary experience.
The Packing District, often mentioned in relation to Anaheim, is known for its vibrant food hall and diverse culinary offerings, providing a unique foodie experience near the resort area.
While some dining can be pricey, exploring options in Downtown Disney and the GardenWalk, or looking for quick-service spots, can help manage food costs. Packing snacks for park days is also a common tip.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic landmarks like Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland are must-captures. Also, the vibrant streets of Downtown Disney, the modern architecture of hotels like the JW Marriott, and the general atmosphere of the resort district offer numerous photo opportunities.
Yes, with the right vantage point. Hotels with rooftop lounges overlooking the park are ideal. Alternatively, some spots in Downtown Disney might offer decent views, though they can be crowded.
Consider the architectural details of the various hotels in the district, or the lively street scenes in Downtown Disney. Even the ART shuttle buses can make for interesting shots if you're into transportation photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. For iconic park shots, early mornings before crowds build are best. Evenings offer the magic of lights and fireworks.
Drone usage is generally restricted in and around theme parks and densely populated areas for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations and venue-specific rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the theme parks, Downtown Disney offers a more relaxed environment with shops and entertainment suitable for all ages. Many hotels in the district are family-friendly, with amenities like pools that provide a welcome break. Look for hotels that offer family suites or connecting rooms for added convenience. Planning your transportation with the ART shuttle or ride-sharing can also make family outings smoother, especially when managing tired little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack snacks and water bottles to bring into the parks, as food and beverage costs can add up quickly. Explore dining options at the Anaheim GardenWalk or Downtown Disney for potentially more affordable meals than inside the theme parks. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, which can be a significant saving. Also, take advantage of free activities like exploring Downtown Disney's shops and enjoying the atmosphere.
couples
Consider booking a stay at a hotel with upscale amenities, such as the JW Marriott or Embassy Suites, which offer a more luxurious experience. For a unique date, explore the diverse culinary scene at the Anaheim GardenWalk or even catch a special event if your visit coincides with one. The magic of Disneyland itself can also be a romantic backdrop for couples looking to relive childhood memories or create new ones together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Disneyland Resort Transportation
For those preferring more flexibility, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and can be a good option, especially for groups or if traveling outside ART's operating hours. While many hotels are within walking distance of the parks, this can still involve significant mileage, particularly if you have young children or are managing strollers. Some visitors opt to drive and park, but be prepared for potentially high parking fees at the theme park lots or nearby structures. Consider your hotel's proximity and your group's needs when deciding on the best transportation strategy.
When considering walking, it's essential to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the distance. Some hotels are just a few minutes away, while others might require a 20-30 minute walk. For those staying further out, or if you want to save energy for park adventures, the ART shuttle or ride-sharing services are excellent alternatives. Always factor in travel time when planning your park entry, especially for early morning 'rope drop' arrivals.
Experiencing the Magic: Beyond the Rides
For a different vibe, the Anaheim GardenWalk offers an open-air entertainment complex with a variety of restaurants, shops, and often hosts special events and performances. This provides another avenue for visitors to enjoy the area's offerings, whether they're looking for a casual meal, some retail therapy, or live entertainment. The district also boasts hotels with impressive amenities, such as rooftop lounges that provide spectacular views of the nightly Disneyland fireworks, offering a magical experience even from outside the park gates.
Many visitors highlight the atmosphere and ambiance of the resort district as a key part of their experience. From the themed architecture to the friendly staff, there's an immersive quality that enhances the vacation feel. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, taking time to explore these non-park attractions can enrich your trip and provide a broader perspective of what the Anaheim Resort District has to offer.
Dining Delights in the Anaheim Resort District
The Anaheim GardenWalk also presents a diverse selection of restaurants, providing further choices for visitors. Whether you're craving American classics, international cuisine, or something more adventurous, the GardenWalk has options to explore. For those seeking specific culinary experiences, newer establishments like Hana Gidining, a Japanese restaurant, have opened within the resort district, adding to the gastronomic variety.
Beyond these main hubs, many hotels in the district offer their own dining facilities, including restaurants and bars, some of which are known for their unique offerings like rooftop lounges with fireworks views. For a more local flavor, exploring the broader Packing District in Anaheim can reveal a vibrant food hall with numerous vendors, offering a unique and often more casual dining experience. Planning your dining in advance can help you make the most of the culinary scene and avoid long waits, especially during peak times.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit