Anaheim: Orange County Offerings

	Balboa Peninsula

Since the start of the 20th century, people have flocked to Anaheim for its climate, fertile soil and cultural landscape, all of which have helped to make this city a jewel in the crown of Southern California. Located just south and east from Los Angeles in Orange County, Anaheim was at one time best known as a major producer of citrus and fresh produce that was shipped all over the country. Today, Anaheim is perhaps most famous as the home of Disneyland, the theme park against which all other theme parks are judged. There are, however, more than enough attractions in the area to keep visitors entertained, as well as a large network of accommodations, restaurants and shopping to ensure that vacations go off without a hitch. With a reputation for family fun, Anaheim is well versed in what makes a successful holiday.

ORIENTATION

Anaheim is situated in Orange County, California, 20 miles southeast from Los Angeles and roughly 15 miles east from Long Beach. Santa Ana, Huntington Beach and Irvine are all nearby cities that offer alternative accommodations, restaurants, shopping and services.

HISTORY

The history of Anaheim is a varied one, and one that elicits a wealth of characters and events that have shaped the Orange County area. The city of Anaheim was started by German farmers and vintners who were looking for a fertile landscape in which to sow their future. The name Anaheim is derived from the nearby Santa Ana River and "heim", the German word for home, making this city a "home by the river". The original 200 acres were surveyed by George Hansen in 1857, an area that now comprises downtown Anaheim. By 1920, the population of Anaheim was over 5,000, made up primarily of farmers who shipped their citrus and other produce to New York, Washington and other points east via the railway. From there, the city continued to grow into a major cultural and farming community with a reputation as a popular vacation destination for travelers the world over.

In 1933, a massive earthquake struck Long Beach, the effects of which were felt for a 75,000 square mile radius. In Anaheim, businesses and homes were rocked and debris lined the streets, devastating the town. Residents banded together and rebuilt Anaheim based on more stringent building codes that were enacted after the earthquake.

The residents of Anaheim suffered another setback in 1938 with a flood that decimated many homes and businesses in the area. Some homes were completely washed off their foundations as the Santa Ana River burst its banks and water rose to envelop structures in and around the downtown core. This was the catalyst for the construction of the Prado Dam in Riverside County, a measure that has kept the floodwaters at bay ever since.

One reason for Anaheim's popularity as a vacation destination is due to a dream that Walt Disney had for a family oriented playground that would make visitors forget about life's daily pressures. The dream became reality in 1954 with the groundbreaking of Disneyland, which opened a year later on July 17, 1955. Less than seven weeks after opening, the millionth visitor passed through the gates, cementing Disneyland's place in history.

CLIMATE

Visitors to Anaheim will experience warm temperatures year round, permitting unfettered exploration of the area. Considered akin to a Mediterranean climate, Anaheim enjoys an average rainfall of less than 10 in. (254 mm) per year, with the bulk of precipitation falling from December to March. The average winter temperature in Anaheim is roughly 50°F (10°C), with summer temperatures easily rising into the 90s (32°C). With the warm weather, outdoor activities attract a large number of visitors.

TRANSPORTATION

Getting around in Anaheim is easy, with a number of choices that allow visitors to decide how they wish to experience the city and its attractions. From luxury travel in limousines to the affordability of the public transit system, visitors can rest assured that regardless of where they want to go, there is a mode of transportation that can take them there. For ground transportation, Amtrak and Greyhound both offer service to Anaheim and the surrounding area, with depots conveniently located to services and amenities. For air travelers, Anaheim is served by the Los Angeles International Airport and the John Wayne/Orange County Airport, both of which offer easy access to Anaheim. Rental cars can be obtained from a variety of sources in and around Anaheim, and offers visitors the freedom to travel when and where they wish. Highways and freeways in the area are easy to negotiate and make travel between destinations convenient and quick.

ATTRACTIONS

Disneyland Castle

Amusement & Entertainment

Naturally, many people visiting Anaheim are drawn to the city's major landmark, Disneyland. This colossal attraction is estimated to bring between 14 and 20 million visitors to Anaheim each year and is worth roughly $3 billion dollars(USD) a year to the local economy. Disneyland employs about 21,000 staff, reinforcing its importance to the area. Truly a force in Anaheim, the Disney Company is committed to many beautification and infrastructure projects that benefit both the residents of Anaheim and visitors eager to see the "happiest place on earth".

For music lovers, the House of Blues in Anaheim is the place to be. This venue hosts a myriad of concerts and musical events throughout the year, including a weekly Sunday Gospel brunch that features a buffet and live gospel entertainment. The House of Blues in Anaheim is located in the Downtown Disney area, making it a good destination after a day of amusement park fun.

Another popular attraction is the Anaheim Halloween parade. This event was started in 1924, and in its heyday boasted over 150,000 spectators gathered to watch the congregation of costumes parade through downtown Anaheim.

Sports

Sports fans won't be disappointed with the athletic scene in Anaheim, which boasts a National Hockey League team and a Major League Baseball team. The Mighty Ducks skate on the Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim, while the Angels slug balls and catch flies at Edison International Field. These teams allow residents of Anaheim to enjoy sports year-round.

Visitors looking to take advantage of the weather and hit the links can do so at the Anaheim Dad Miller Golf Course, a public course that features a lake, tree lined fairways and a snack bar, restaurant and cocktail lounge. Reservations at this course can be made up to one week in advance.

Another local course is the Anaheim Hills Golf Course, located on Nohl Ranch Road. This is an 18-hole course that also features a driving range, cart rentals, a pro shop and a large clubhouse that is capable of hosting several events at once.

Angel Stadium

Shopping

The local Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 9:30am to 1:30pm, featuring a number of locally produced fruit and vegetables in addition to arts and crafts. Sponsored by the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce, this weekly event takes place at the Center Street Promenade in Anaheim. Shopping can also be found at the Anaheim Indoor Market, a discount mall that features over 200 stores selling goods at 50-70% below retail prices. The shopping experience is enhanced on weekends with live entertainment offered as shoppers browse the bargains.

For fun in the sun and a raft of attractions, Anaheim is an ideal destination. With a commitment to hospitality, the sights and sounds of Anaheim beckon visitors from all over the world and has enough activities to keep them entertained for as long as they wish to stay. The surrounding area reveals further activities, from the western beaches to the ski hills just east of the city. Orange County has come a long way from the agriculture production days of the last century, and is one of the most enjoyed destinations in the state of California.