Explore where to stay in Anaheim: a neighbourhood guide

When most people think of Anaheim, they imagine the charm of Disneyland – and for good reason. However, there’s much more to the city than the thrills of the theme park. Boasting a variety of neighbourhoods, including Anaheim Hills, Anaheim Resort and West Anaheim, each pocket of the city offers something unique. With so many options to choose from, we've made this comprehensive guide to help you discover where to stay in Anaheim during your next holiday.

What list of places to stay in Anaheim would be complete without including the base of Disneyland California? Ultimately, Central Anaheim is where the magic happens. Disneyland California sits centrally in this district, so if you’re here for the rides, characters and entertainment, this area has you covered.

Disneyland magic

Whether you want to travel to Disneyland as an adult or are looking to travel with the entire family, Anaheim is known for the magic of Disney. Standing as the original Disney theme park, this resort consists of Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, the Downtown Disney District and three official Disney hotels. 

Packed full of all the attractions you’d expect, some of the most popular rides include Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion. Meet the characters, grab the snacks and get the t-shirt – you’re sure to make unforgettable memories here. A stay at The Westin Anaheim Resort promises comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar and around a 25-minute walk to the theme park.

Entertainment hub

If you’re in search of entertainment that isn’t Disneyland, Central Anaheim has lots to offer. A popular spot for both locals and tourists alike is Anaheim GardenWalk. While this is only a block east of Disney, the entertainment on offer is much different. 

Here, you can expect a 30,000-square-foot outdoor entertainment hub filled with escape rooms, a board game cafe and a UFC gym. Not to mention, there are also a variety of eateries and shops too. Finish your day by staying at Embassy Suites by Hilton Anaheim-Orange, a ten-minute drive from the entertainment complex.

If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Disneyland, Platinum Triangle is just the place. As the area is home to two major sports stadiums – which also double up as concert venues – you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment. 

Baseball bustle

Avid baseball fans are sure to appreciate Angel Stadium, colloquially known as ‘The Big A’, found within the Platinum Triangle. Home to the Los Angeles Angels, this MLB stadium is a world-renowned spot for baseball. 

This stadium has also seen various global superstars play, including household names like The Rolling Stones, The Who, Pink Floyd and Madonna. A stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott puts you a mere ten-minute walk from the stadium. Also featuring amenities such as an outdoor pool and barbecue facilities, you’ll be able to soak up the Californian sun with ease. 

Hockey haven

The Platinum Triangle is the perfect spot for hockey fans to explore. Home to the Honda Center, where the Anaheim Ducks play, you’ll be able to catch a couple of matches on your getaway. The arena also hosts a variety of family events like KIDZ BOP concerts and Disney On Ice. 

For families with older children or couple getaways, there are more grown-up events too, including comedy shows and live music from popular artists like the Jonas Brothers and Luis R Conriquez. 

Get the best of both worlds in West Anaheim: it's close to Disneyland but far enough away to avoid the tourist bustle. Here, you’ll find a mix of eateries, cuisines, cultures and green spaces – it's a great change of pace from the bustle of the city.

A variety of cultures

If you’re looking to connect with a new culture on your holiday, West Anaheim is just the place to stay. The area is home to the cultural enclave of ‘Little Arabia’, an area full of Middle Eastern restaurants, cafés, hookah lounges and cultural markets. 

Try out Arabic foods like za’atar pie (a specific spice blend), tabbouli (a Levantine salad) and sambousek (crispy filo pastries filled with cheese or meat). Rest up for the night at ALO Hotel by Ayres, Orange, putting you a 15-minute drive away from Little Arabia. Continue experiencing a fusion of cultures at their French-Mexican restaurant, while enjoying the beer and wine list.

Green spaces

With its blend of urban and suburban pockets, you can easily connect with nature on your getaway to West Anaheim. Two main parks to visit on your holiday include Modjeska Park and Stoddard Park. 

Modjeska Park, named to honour the Polish actress Madame Helena Modjeska, offers 23.5 acres of greenery, children’s play zones and various sports courts. Whereas Stoddard Park, named in honour of Dr. Alexander J. Stoddard, offers over nine acres of greenery along with barbecues, exercise facilities and a play area. 

All in all, both these parks are the perfect place for a family holiday or for a solo trip (if you’re in search of some alone time). And a stay at Best Western Plus Pavilions puts you a 15-minute walk from Stoddard Park and a 45-minute walk from Modjeska Park.

For those in search of a high-end holiday destination, Anaheim Hills promises scenic views and a variety of attractions. From golfing to the Weir Canyon Nature Preserve, this is just the spot if you’re looking for an active stay.

Hiking trails

Anaheim Hills offers a variety of hiking trails. Popular routes include the eponymously named Anaheim Hills Riding and Walking Trail. Offering scenic, yet relatively uncrowded routes, you can explore various parts of Anaheim, including the Weir Canyon Trail. 

Other popular routes within the trail include Oak Canyon Nature Center – a four-mile path that winds through three canyons, offering outstanding views of the city. You can also explore the trails at the nearby Santiago Oaks Regional Park. This green space boasts well-maintained paths and varied terrain, so whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or you’re after a leisurely stroll, you’ll get the best of both worlds.

Fairway fun

Located in Anaheim Hills is Anaheim Hills Golf Course, a scenic 18-hole course with a par of 71. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding city, you can enjoy the well-maintained greens at your own pace. Whether beginner or pro, the course welcomes all abilities, making it the perfect place to try out something new. 

Not to mention, the on-site restaurant is a tasty choice if you’re looking for a snack while you golf. Offering an outstanding breakfast menu, you can choose from classics like pancakes, waffles and breakfast sandwiches. Rest up after a day on the green at the Residence Inn Anaheim Hills Yorba Linda. As one of the best hotels in Anaheim for its sports amenities, you can expect an on-site gym and a sports court.

Last, but certainly not least on our list of where to stay in Anaheim is Anaheim Resort: a district close by to Disneyland that offers an outstanding nightlife and shopping opportunities. 

Nighttime buzz

If you’re in search of one of the best areas in Anaheim for nightlife, look no further than Anaheim Resort. The area has plenty of sports bars and breweries that make for an unforgettable night out. Some popular spots include D'Arcys Tartan Room, OC Brewhouse and the Cave Sports Bar. 

Each of these spots offers refreshing drinks such as blueberry cocktails at OC Brewhouse, bloody marys at D'Arcys Tartan Room and microbrews at Cave Sports Bar. A stay at Delta Hotels by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove is sure to make for a comfortable evening, with the outdoor pool and on-site restaurant adding a finishing touch. 

Shop until you drop

Retail enthusiasts are sure to love the spread of shops available near this district. Though technically just outside of the district, The Outlets at Orange still had to make a feature on our list. Situated a mere five-minute drive away from the area, for bargain lovers, this spot is well worth the visit. 

The complex has plenty of stores to browse, including streetwear, high street and high-end brands. There are also a few entertainment outlets here, including escape rooms, a guitar centre and a family fun centre. Finish your day of shopping with a stay at the nearby Sheraton Garden Grove-Anaheim South, a comfortable hotel with an on-site restaurant serving classic cuisine from the States.

So, there you have it: when it comes to deciding where to stay in Anaheim, it’s just about choosing what matters most to you. From the magic of Disneyland in Central Anaheim to the cultural hotpot of West Anaheim, the city has so much to offer. Where will you explore next?