Think Anaheim is all about Disneyland? Think again… Karryon catches up with Strong Water Anaheim Master Mixologist Robert Adamson for an insider’s view on the Orange County city he calls home.
From a devilishly good food and beverage scene to Angel Stadium, this laid-back SoCal city has nature, culture and an abundance of soul. It’s little wonder Aussies are visiting in droves and U.S. Travel recently announced the city as the host of America’s biggest travel trade event IPW, from 2030. So put down those Mickey ears and raise a glass to a town that’ll surprise you in more ways than one.
Everyone knows Disneyland… but what else must visitors to Anaheim do?
While Disneyland is the centrepiece, Anaheim offers a diverse array of attractions beyond the park gates.
The Anaheim Packing District stands out as a cultural and culinary hub, housing an assortment of exceptional eateries and charming shops within a renovated citrus packing house – its blend of history and diverse culinary offerings is remarkable.
Angel Stadium is another notable spot, particularly if you’re a sports enthusiast. Catching a game there with the Los Angeles Angels is an energetic experience.
Additionally, the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center offers engaging exhibits, delving into art, history and culture, providing a distinct perspective on Anaheim’s heritage.
Nature enthusiasts might appreciate Yorba Regional Park, offering serene landscapes and recreational activities like hiking trails and picnics.
Downtown Disney District, adjacent to the park, presents a vibrant mix of shopping and dining, creating an enjoyable atmosphere even for those not visiting Disneyland.
What is the food in Anaheim really like? What do travellers need to try while they’re in town?
Anaheim’s food scene is a blend of diverse flavours and culinary adventures that you’ve simply got to dive into while you’re here.
First up, the Anaheim Packing District is a treasure trove for foodies. From unique food stalls to international cuisines, it’s a culinary journey in itself. Don’t miss out on the handcrafted treats and fusion dishes – it’s all part of the experience.
If you’re into comfort food, Anaheim’s got killer burgers like an In-N-Out which the locals swear by, and some seriously good tacos.
For an authentic taste of the city, explore the local Mexican eateries. They serve up mouthwatering tacos, burritos, and flavourful salsas that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Oh, and while you’re here, grab a bite at some of the local breweries or gastropubs. They often pair delicious brews with creative menus that showcase the best of Anaheim’s flavours.
And of course, you can’t leave without trying some of the legendary theme park treats, like those iconic churros or the legendary Dole-Whip soft serve.
What about bars and nightlife? Is there anything that distinguishes the area from LA for example?
While LA is known for its bustling nightlife, Anaheim offers a more relaxed and laid-back scene. You’ll find a variety of bars, breweries and lounges here, each with its own charm.
Downtown Disney District has a fun tiki bar that’s open to the public and serves Disney Hotel Guests. And the Anaheim GardenWalk has great spots such as the House of Blues concert bar and restaurant if you’re looking for an exciting night out.
One thing that distinguishes Anaheim is its local breweries. There’s a burgeoning craft beer culture here, with several breweries showcasing unique brews and offering a more intimate setting compared to LA’s larger-scale nightlife venues.
Another standout is the variety of themed bars such as our shipwreck bar at Strong Water Anaheim and speakeasies, one of which we created in 2014 called The Blind Rabbit. These places have creative concepts, immersive themes and unique cocktails, providing a different kind of nightlife experience.
It’s all about finding the right spot that suits your mood for the evening!
What makes Strong Water Anaheim so special? What should one try there?
Strong Water Anaheim stands out for its unique blend of culinary excellence, vibrant atmosphere and immersive experience.
The standout feature is its fusion of flavours and mixology expertise. Our bar boasts an extensive selection of premium rums and creative cocktails as well as a food menu, which features dishes that blend traditional Asian flavours with modern culinary techniques.
But what makes Strong Water Anaheim most special is its immersive atmosphere. The ambience, inspired by the Caribbean, creates a lively and vibrant setting. So whether you’re seated at the bar or in the cosy Captain’s Quarters area, the experience is designed to transport you to a tropical paradise. Moreover, the staff’s expertise and passion for their craft add an extra layer to the experience.
Do you get a lot of Aussie visitors? What do they seem to like?
We get quite a few Aussie visitors, mostly airline crews passing through and occasional tourists. They love diving into our robust drink selection, exploring our rum collection and indulging in our beer offerings.
They’re big on capturing memories with lots of photos and never fail to depart with smiles wider than when they arrived!
Aside from visiting Strong Water Anaheim, do you have any other tips for travellers to the city?
Absolutely! Here are a few additional tips to make your visit to Anaheim a better experience:
Transportation: Consider using alternative transportation methods like Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) shuttles or ride-sharing services to navigate around the city and avoid parking hassles, especially when visiting popular attractions. You can also hop on F.R.A.N. (Free Rides Around The Neighborhood), a complimentary electric car service available in the area.
Theme Park planning: For theme park visits, use FastPasses or similar systems to minimise wait times for popular attractions. Download the park app for real-time updates and ride wait times.
Off-Peak times: If possible, visit Disneyland during off-peak times to avoid large crowds. Weekdays outside of school holidays often offer a more relaxed experience, otherwise, you could be shoulder to shoulder with large crowds and lolling wait times.
Weather preparation: Anaheim generally has mild weather, but it’s good to be prepared. Bring sunscreen, hats and stay hydrated, especially if spending long hours outdoors. Sunstroke can be a concern at the Disney Park.
Local events & local eateries: Go beyond chain restaurants and try local eateries for authentic flavours. Ask locals or check out the Instagram page @allthingsorangecounty – they have a pretty good handle on popular eateries and local events.
Anaheim Hills: If you’re seeking a break from the urban landscape, explore Anaheim Hills for hiking trails and scenic viewpoints offering a different perspective of the city.
Plan flexibly: While planning is essential, allow for flexibility in your itinerary. Sometimes the best experiences come from spontaneous discoveries or unexpected detours.
Remember, each traveller’s experience in Anaheim can be unique, so don’t hesitate to explore off the beaten path and discover what resonates with you personally!
And Anaheim is quite spread out, so be prepared to rely on Uber or Lyft to get around. Travel times can fluctuate based on your destination and the time you’re travelling, so plan accordingly.
