In the early days, Anaheim was a rural community of not too many.
Originally settled by a handful of German immigrants, the name translates to "Home in the valley.
" The conditions here were perfect for growing fruit and produce and the area thrived.
Then a guy named Walt Disney came along and decided to see if he could capitalize on the beautiful terrain and weather in another way.
He did and ever since, Anaheim has been known for its association with Disney.
Nowadays, Anaheim really is a popular destination for families and those seeking thrills.
Roughly 43 million guests come visit the area annually.
Not that I would ever want to deter folks from enjoying all things Disney.
I do want to point out other things to do that are also fun in the event that you have some extra time while in town.
Anaheim Ice A nice cheap alternative to some of the areas other attractions.
Anaheim Ice is a great place to spend the afternoon with the family in a spectacular setting.
The Frank Gehry designed Olympic sized rink is reason enough to check it out.
With a full list of activities such as amateur hockey leagues, figure skating, and curling, the rink isn't always available for public skating.
So it would be wise to check ahead.
Generally, you'll find the rink available to the public from 11:30am-1:30pm and 3:30pm-5:30.
There are several more times available but the schedule does fluctuate.
The price of admission ranges from $5-$9 dependent on the age and skate rentals are only $3.
With these prices and the exceptional design you'll find Anaheim Ice well worth the trip.
Knott's Berry Farm/Soak City Water Park Disclaimer.
I actually lumped two attractions together in order to make room for others.
That is not to diminish the value of either park.
Let's get started.
Knott's Berry Farm is a great alternative to the high prices and long lines at Disney.
The rides are suited for the little ones as well as grown ups.
The food is several steps up from other parks in the country.
The variety of activities is perfect for all different ages and types of travelers which include rides, shows, shopping, and dining.
Soak City is steps away from Knott's Berry Farm and is the perfect stop on your trip to Anaheim if its water rides you want.
Great place for a hot day.
Soak City also offers a range of water related options for all ages.
Roller coasters or water slides.
You make the choice.
Or you can always do both.
Parking for each park is around $12.
Knott's Berry Farm will run you around $37 (adult admission) if you get your tickets online and Soak City is will cost around $27 online.
Yorba Regional Park A fantastic way to save money and get some peace.
The park offers about three miles of scenic landscape for hiking, jogging, or biking.
You can rent bikes and boats if you care to.
Have a picnic or play volleyball and more.
Parking is free near the softball fields or only a few dollars if you can't find them.
Although you are in suburbia you will find many signs of nature.
Do both your pockets and soul a favor.
Stop by Yorba Park.
Anaheim Garden Walk If you are looking for a place to shop, eat, and enjoy a little night life look no further.
Fine dining and casual eateries are abound for your dining pleasure.
Events regularly occur for you to stumble upon on your visit.
The Garden Walk is fully open from 11 am-9 pm daily with extended hours for restaurants and other entertainment venues.
Conveniently positioned blocks away from the convention center and Disneyland resorts.
Be in the mix while being out of the fray.
Flightdeck Air Combat Center Just so you know.
This might be one of the coolest places to go ever! This is as real as it gets without risking any lives.
The flight simulators are arranged so that you can get several different flight experiences.
You can jump in the cockpit of a fighter jet and learn a wide range of skills.
Advance along to get a Viper 1 certification after you've proven that you have the right stuff.
If it's the friendly skies that you desire then try out the 737 flight simulator.
This is the only place of its kind.
As you can imagine, the experience isn't cheap.
The prices start at around $70.
I assure you it is a great value.
Be sure to call ahead to schedule an appointment.
Walk ins will be grounded.
The staff and facility are great here and will insure that you have a memorable experience.
Fly on over for the ride of your life..
K1 Speed Need for speed? Then look no further than Anaheim's K1 Speed Go Kart race track.
With speeds that near 50 mph around twists and turns you will be sure to get the adrenaline flowing.
A clean environment and friendly staff round out a great adventure.
Challenge your family or friends to the checkered flag again and again.
Adults can spend $20 for a 14 lap race.
Or you can race three times for $50.
Prices are less for juniors.
With few exceptions the race track is open every day except Thanksgiving.
Opening no later than noon and closing no earlier than 10 pm.
Except Sundays(10am-7pm.
) A great value for the money and fun for the family or a few friends.
K1 is a great alternative to some of the more pricey excursions in Anaheim.
Adventure City The perfect place to go if you have wee ones.
Adventure City isn't as expansive or as expensive as most of the other parks in the area.
This is good for the pocket and the nerves.
Free parking and $15 for admission is perfect for those on a budget.
Keep in mind this is meant for younger children.
The teenager will not be amused.
The food options are best suited for the hot dog and pizza connoisseurs.
Wholesome and clean standards will ensure that your kids don't return from the park with any new bad words to try out.