<- Back

The Most Unusual Attractions Near Anaheim

Unusual Attractions Near Anaheim - Flight Simulation
Headshot of Matt Claiborne
Matt Claiborne
September 17, 2021

If you're looking for something different and new to see in Anaheim, you're in luck. Anaheim may be home to world-famous landmarks like Disneyland and Angels Stadium, but there are also some much more obscure things you can find if you know where to look. Here are five unusual attractions near Anaheim.

Top 5 Unusual Attractions Near Anaheim

Jack Norworth Memorial Marker

Since 1908, one anthem has dominated baseball stadiums all across the country. "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" was written by Jack Norworth. Norworth passed in 1959 and was laid to rest just a half-mile away from where they would build Angels Stadium in 1966.

At the Melrose Abbey Cemetery in Anaheim, you'll find a memorial marker to the man and his legendary song. The black granite memorial sign is located about 100 feet from the headstone of his grave. It features a photo of the man himself and the lyrics to the catchy tune.

Anaheim Packing District

Anaheim Packing District

The Packing District is made up of four historical landmarks. There's the Packing House, the Packard Building, Farmers Park, and the MAKE Building. The buildings here center on Anaheim's historic citrus industry--from Sunkist's original 1919 packing hall to the MAKE Building, where they made marmalade.

Today, the buildings have been brought together to form a culinary destination like none other. The food hall is now a melting pot of flavors, featuring samplings from vendors of various cuisines.

This is certainly not just a place to grab lunch. Visiting the Packing District is an experience. It's located around the corner from Downtown Anaheim and just a few miles from Disneyland.

Flightdeck Simulation Center

Have you ever dreamed of being a pilot? If you have, we have only one further question--would you rather grab the stick of an F-18 fighter or take the helm of a 737 airliner?

At the Flightdeck Simulation Center, you can have your pick. After a quick briefing from an experienced pilot, you'll be allowed to take the controls of a state-of-the-art full-motion simulator. These are precisely the types of simulators that real pilots train in. The cockpits are exact replicas of those in the aircraft, and their hyper-realistic visuals place you right in action.

Flight packages are available for various lengths of stick time. Kids as young as ten can participate, so if you've got a little pilot that would like to earn their wings, check it out!

Oak Canyon Nature Center

Oak Tree

The Oak Canyon Nature Center encompasses 58 acres in the hills near Anaheim. There are over four miles of hiking trails through the three adjoining canyons that meet here.

The great thing about this park is that there are various easy hiking trails to choose from, and none of them are challenging. It's the perfect place to find some peace away from the city. A walk in the woods is good for the soul, and Oak Canyon is the ideal spot.

Trails range from 0.2 to 0.5 miles long so that you can complete many of them in under a half-hour. It's a great place to perambulate after lunch or just get some fresh air before you head out to other attractions.

The park is free, but they appreciate $5 donations which help them with the upkeep of the trails. Keep your eyes open for birds and wildlife, and remember to stay on the trails.

Brookhurst Community Park

Brookhurst Community Park

Are your kids Dr. Seuss fans? If so, they've got to check out the Brookhurst Community Park. This small area near the Anaheim Community Center has rippling cement play areas inspired by the famous author. Visitors can see stalagmites, bridges, arches, and craters, all forming a Gaudian moonscape.

See Something Different in Anaheim‍

If you're looking for a new experience, Anaheim is the place to go. And if seeing the sights has gotten you thirsty, be sure to check out the best Orange County brewery tours for a cooling libation.

Blog Archive

Recent