There’s a cool vibe that swept through downtown Anaheim recently. Thanks to the city’s revitalization project, visitors now have an almost endless list of things to do, see, and enjoy. Here are the top five places you won’t want to miss.
Anaheim Packing House
The restored packing house on Anaheim Blvd. is a food hall reminiscent of the great public markets of South America and Europe. The two-level Packing House features a large central atrium with communal dining area surrounded by cafes and kiosks of varying sizes, as well as outdoor picnic gardens and a dining porch throughout the building overlooking the outdoor market of Farmers’ Park. Be sure to check out The Kroft, Popbar, and Black Sheep, along with other great family-friendly spots. The Packing House opens daily at 10:30 a.m. And it serves lunch and dinner (you can have juice and coffee at 9 AM). The bars are open until midnight. Parking is limited, so come early and try to park on the street.
Anaheim Farmers Market
Located on Anaheim’s Center Street Promenade, the Anaheim Farmer’s Market offers a veritable abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, snacks and other edible delicacies from certified local California farmers. This gourmet food extravaganza includes a local music and craft fair. The fun-filled venue hosts a wide range of events for all ages and tastes. These include a vegan fair, a children’s festival, and Swingin ‘on the Promenade, an outdoor swing experience from the 1940s, where fans of the swing era take over the huge dance floor. And don’t miss the Art Crawl, a tasteful and visually stimulating arts festival that runs from 6pm to 10pm on the second Saturday in February, May, August and November.
Barbeer’s Store
This new barber shop has a vintage, almost nostalgic vibe. In the center of the three stores that included Barbeer, you will find a bar, where you can have a beer while you wait for your date or when you finish. Barbers Kevin and Luis may look “Rockabilly”, but they will cut just about any style you want. The clientele is primarily male, but women can get a great cut too. And while you get your share, you can enjoy the music classics of Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Credence Clearwater Revival. Men can shave with all the trimmings: hot lather and a hot towel, shaving with a razor, a checkup with a safety razor followed by an invigorating application of aftershave. The shoulder massage after your cut is totally relaxing. Call ahead to make an appointment for fast service.
Anaheim Ice
This state-of-the-art, world-class ice skating facility features Olympic-size and NHL rinks, a second-floor viewing area, a snack bar, changing rooms, and spectator seating for 1,000 guests. Put on some skates and try an Olympic move or two. It’s where the Anaheim Ducks train. The facility also hosts youth hockey, figure skating events, and public skating. Don’t you know how to skate? Anaheim Ice offers beginner classes for all ages and abilities. Whether you are a toddler (3-5 years old), a youth (6-16 years old), or an adult (17+ years old), Anaheim Ice has the class that will make you an ice rink star. . Class levels include Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. They also offer freestyle, power-skating and off-ice conditioning sessions for advanced skaters. Its outstanding youth and adult ice hockey programs include the widest range of competitive hockey for all ages and skill levels. The facility is perfect for birthday parties and group outings. Groups can rent private ice for exclusive skating parties or try Broomball – hockey in their shoes!
Muzeo
With an ever-changing program of exhibitions, events and activities, this cultural institution is home to everything from European fine arts to motorcycle culture. The Muzeo explores and celebrates our diverse heritage, culture and arts through creative programming. The museum hosts three traveling exhibits per year, and each exhibit is enhanced with special programs, events, and activities. Don’t miss the Heritage Center. Its history room has nearly a million articles organized and cataloged for use by academics, students, and researchers. Trained library staff are available to offer assistance.
When planning your trip to the hottest spots in Anaheim, consider staying in a vacation home. They offer all the comforts of home, including a fully equipped kitchen that allows you to cook special meals for your entire family, team, or group.
