Anaheim & Laguna: Beyond the Parks

From the comfort of my chaise, I watch my feisty five-year old sprint back and forth across the waterpark. After three-days of hoofing it around Disneyland and California Adventure Park, it seems impossible that she could have any energy left. My husband’s snoring in the late afternoon sun. I can barely move. Yet somehow our daughter is completely unfazed by the 12,000-plus steps we clocked earlier today. Perhaps it was the ginormous, sugar-dusted churro she gobbled down in Critter County. Or maybe it’s just because she’s five. Either way, the sprays and waterslides at the Courtyard Anaheim are helping exhaust her excess energy.

The incredible waterpark on at the Courtyard Anaheim was hit with our kiddo

Like most families with young children, we came to Anaheim for Mickey Mouse. However, after a week in Orange County we’ve found a ton of family friendly fun outside the parks as well. Our trip began in laid-back Laguna Beach, where we combed the shoreline daily in search of what my daughter refers to as treasure – think broken seashells and random objects that beachgoers lose or leave behind.

Brooklyn’s seashell collection from Laguna Beach

The Inn at Laguna Beach, where we stayed, allowed us to maximize the sand and surf by providing complimentary beach chairs, towels and umbrellas. Other free perks we liked (alright, loved) were the hotel’s morning Starbucks coffee station; the daily ocean view wine-tasting, which – right-or-wrong –appeared to include unlimited pours; and the nightly milk and cookies served in the lobby. Another bonus is that most of Laguna’s shops, galleries and restaurants are within walking distance.

View of Laguna Beach from our hotel, the Inn at Laguna Beach

Our two favourite eateries were practically attached to the hotel. The first, Las Brisas, is arguably Laguna’s most famous brunch locale. The food and service are excellent, and the ocean views unmatched. We devoured the restaurant’s signature seafood tower, piled high with oysters, lobster, king crab and shrimp and then polished off an over-the-top dessert platter – garnering a huge thumbs-up from our little one.

Brooklyn loved the over the top dessert platter at Las Brisas next to the Inn at Laguna Beach

The other gem we stumbled upon was the tiki-chic Royal Hawaiian. With its lush Polynesian décor, live music and extensive keiki (kids) menu, this place is a total win with families. Head there for the daily Happy Hour to save on tropical drinks and snacks.

If you’re in Laguna on the third Sunday of the month, pre-register for the Family Art Studio hosted by the Laguna Art Museum, next door to Las Brisas. The free program, which is hugely popular with local families, begins with a parent-led exercise to analyze one of the museum’s exhibits. In addition to learning about the artist’s style and methodology, children are encouraged to think about how the art makes them feel and why. Afterwards, you’ll create your own interpretation of the masterpiece to take home as a keepsake. It’s a fantastic experience that our daughter loved, and I highly recommend for anyone with kids ages three and up.

Brooklyn’s art project at the Laguna Art Museum

We also explored downtown Anaheim’s arts and culture offerings at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Centre. The main gallery welcomes unique exhibitions from around the world, and it was the only west coast venue to host Dressing Downton – a costume chronicle from the PBS series, Downton Abbey. Visit in mid-November through early January for the annual Christmas display, Muzeo Express: Holiday Model Trains. In addition to showcasing trains and miniature scenes, the museum puts on two Polar Express Pajama Parties (advance registration required). Muzeo’s permanent exhibit, the History of Anaheim housed in the historical Carnegie Library, is also worth seeing. You’ll find everything from fossils and 19th century farming artifacts, to cool Disney memorabilia that your kids will love.

Muzeo was a great place to stop for a couple of hours in the afternoon

After immersing ourselves in local history we wandered over to the Anaheim Packing District for lunch. This foodie wonderland, located in a beautifully restored citrus packing house, features more than 20 grab-and-go style eateries serving up culinary delights designed to impress on Instagram.

The Anaheim Packing District was an eclectic mix of funky restaurants, stores and markets

Our favoured finds were the jambalaya at Georgia’s and the Pop Bar’s photo perfect handcrafted gelato. Downtown Anaheim is also a hotspot for craft breweries, which we found to be surprisingly family friendly. Top picks for kids include the patio at Anaheim Brewery, where they can play around in Farmer’s Park, and the comic inspired Unsung Brewing Co., for its superhero murals, action figurines, comics and board games.

Brooklyn goofing around at Unsung Brewing Co

Another hit with the littles – and adults alike – is Dave and Busters at the Outlets at Orange. Our plan was for my husband and kiddo to let lose in the arcade while I racked up our duty free allotment at the outdoor mall’s 120-plus shops. That didn’t happen. I hit the token jackpot on my first game and got the itch. Two-hours later I’d won a stuffed monkey, two-way radio set and Minions headphones (for my daughter of course). I felt euphoric and the high continued as I power shopped the outlets. It turned out to be my happiest place on earth. Bring the family though, you’ll find fun activities for all, including the Vans Skatepark, Lucky Strike Bowling and Thrill It Fun Centre, which features rock climbing, laser tag and a high ropes challenge.
Building in downtime outside of the parks definitely enhanced our Disneyland vacation. The only adjustment I’d make next time is to end with the beach, so that we return home feeling relaxed and rested.
If You Go
The Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance is an excellent choice for exploring the area. Larger families will love the hotel’s spacious rooms with two queen beds and twin bunk beds. Every room also comes with a small fridge, microwave and dining table, which makes it easy for quick pre and post-park meals.

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