CALIFORNIA VACATIONS/ Anaheim Family Vacations
Anaheim Family Vacations
Anaheim, California is probably most famous as the home of
Disneyland, the first Disney theme park, known around the world as "The Happiest
Place on Earth, but there is much more family fun to be found in and around this
city in Orange County, California.
Anaheim Attractions
In addition to Disneyland with its many lands, rides, and attractions
which grow in popularity year by year, there is Disney's California Adventure.
This spectacular addition occupies about 55 acres of the original 100 acre Disneyland
parking lot. Located immediately to the south of the Magic Kingdom, this entirely separate
gated features all the best of California in condensed form, making it a great spot for anaheim vacations.
The themed areas within California Adventure include an authentic replica of a California
seaside resort, complete with a Boardwalk and "ocean front amusement park.
There is a roller coaster, aptly named California Screamin', and other rides. There is
"Cannery Row" area representing the Monterey area, a hint of Tinsel town in the
Hollywood Studios backlot, a high desert aviation area named Condor Flats, an agricultural
section called Bountiful Valley, and daily wine tasting with the Mondavi family from Napa
Valley. Finally, there is a wilderness area called Redwood Creek which features the symbol
for the entire park, Grizzly Peak. This outcropping in the shape of a bears head has
a white-water rafting adventure. Also included within the park itself is the Grand
Californian Hotel, themed as a wilderness lodge in the architectural style of the
historically significant National Parks lodges.
Enjoy sizzling steaks, seafood, exotic entrees, desserts, and a wide range of beverages,
including wine and beer at the cafes and restaurants in the Disney parks. From
All-American offerings to the authentic flavors of Asia, Mexico and Italy, finding a great
meal is easy!
In addition to the Disneyland theme parks, there is Knott's Berry Farm, which
began in the 1930s as a roadside stand offering Mrs. Knotts homemade pies and
delicious chicken dinners. Today, it is a theme park with over 165 shows,
attractions, and high tech rides for thrill seekers of all ages.
For film lovers, Universal Studios Hollywood (about 35 miles from Anaheim) features rides
based on many of its most famous films, such as Back to the Future, Shrek,
Jurrasic Park, and Spiderman. Knotts Soak City USA provides hours of family
entertainment with over 20 water rides. Medieval Times places dinner guests in the role of
medieval royalty. Jousting tournaments occur nightly as guests dine in the midst of the
pageantry and action.
After touring the theme parks, there are museums and cultural attractions to
enjoy. The local art museums offer original and rare works of art. The Crystal
Cathedral, the largest glass building in the world is located two miles from Disneyland.
Two memorable pageants, complete with live animals, are presented there each year.
SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, Catalina Island, Legoland, and the Long Beach Aquarium are
area attractions well worth visiting. For thrill rides, visit 6 Flags California near Los
Angeles.
Anaheim is located approximately 30 miles south of downtown Los Angeles and 90 miles north
of San Diego. Its central location makes it an excellent place to select as a base for a
Southern California vacation. Well-organized tours are available from Anaheim to top
attractions in every direction. An anaheim vacation will fulfill the childrens
dreams, and build a library of pleasant memories for the family that will last a lifetime.
Disneyland Vacations
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