I came to Anaheim for D23, but stayed for the side quests. While visiting for D23, I was able to turn the Disney fan event into a full weekend getaway. The ultimate Disney fan convention provided the perfect chance to explore not only the Anaheim Convention Center, but the entire city. Between events and exhibit halls, I found so many memorable meals, magical must-do’s, and things only available in Anaheim.
The convention brought me to town, but the opportunity to eat, play, and explore made Anaheim an unforgettable destination. Take a peek at my itinerary so you can fill your next visit with the magic of Disneyland® Resort plus all Anaheim has to offer.
Friday: Fan Day with D23 & Angels Game
Every two years, Anaheim is host to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. It was my first time attending the multi-day expo, filled with the most magical news, unforgettable experiences, and the most passionate fans. While I’ve attended many comic cons and conventions, D23 is truly something special.
D23 gave us some of the biggest theme park news, including the announcement of a comprehensive reimagining of Tomorrowland and the expansion of Avengers Campus with two brand-new attractions.
With a homerun experience at the Anaheim Convention Center and Honda Center for D23, I wanted to keep the fun going. Does the “A” in the Big A stand for appetite? Because you seriously need to bring yours when catching a game at Angels Stadium. I was able to scarf down both loaded nachos and a hot fudge sundae, both served in the cutest souvenir helmets.
The love of the ballpark and seeing a game from the stands is an experience that brings me back to my childhood in New York watching games with my dad and brother. An Angels game should absolutely be on your Anaheim itinerary if you’re looking for a timeless experience, especially with kids.
Saturday: D23, Drinks, and Dinner
Powered by pixie dust, I got to explore D23 for a second day. I loved all the photo ops from Grogu to the Incredibles, plus more opportunities to see how passionate fans transform themselves into their favorite characters.
Anaheim is known for its theme park, but it’s also the hoppiest place on Earth with so many amazing craft breweries. Brewery X brought a laid-back vibe to my visit, which was much needed after a busy few days. I loved the Baja Sipper Seltzer with its tropical lime vibes and their slushies that made me glad it’s basically always summer in Anaheim. Add in lunch and balloon animals, and it was an absolute blast.
An Anaheim landmark that shouldn’t be missed is the Anaheim Packing District. My friends and I danced our way to Stone Groove Stillhouse where their DJ was playing groovy music and the bartenders served great drinks like Alex’s Whiskey Sour and In For the Kill.
Sunday: Downtown Anaheim & Downtown Disney® District
The heart of Anaheim has to be its vibrant downtown. Any animation or Disney fan needs to visit Muzeo Museum & Cultural Center to check out its new Walt Disney Archives exhibit, “Capturing Life, Creating Character: The Art of Live-Action Reference” before it closes November 1st. Watch the real-life inspiration behind your favorite characters, from Tinker Bell to Elsa.
Plus, there are two additional exhibits perfect for Disney fans, including memorabilia from Anaheim locals and Cast Members and also colorful retro-inspired artwork by SHAG.
It’s pretty much always sunny in Anaheim which made Villains Brewing Company’s Summerween Pool Party a blast and a half. The fun themed pool party combined with delicious food and refreshing drinks was the perfect mid-day break.
Just a few minutes away, another downtown was calling: Downtown Disney® District. You could easily spend a full day exploring, even without a theme park ticket. I stopped at Happy Ice for a cool treat and also the Parkside Market.
Here are a few things to add to your DTD itinerary:
- Bowling at Splitsville
- Shopping at World of Disney
- Dancing to live music
- EAT! There’s an array of cuisine from quick bites to fine dining
I ended the day at a Great Gatsby-themed dinner at Story Anaheim with a drink called the Gatsby Effect in hand. If you want to go home with a story to share and the Instagram pictures to prove it, make sure to check out what’s happening at Story Bar + Kitchen.
Monday: Pure Magic at the Disneyland® Resort
Do not sleep on the seasonal coffees during your next visit to the Disneyland® Resort! I’m a big coffee fan, and was delighted by these that I tried throughout my day at both parks:
- Cold Brew Black Caf
- Mud Cake Cold Brew
- Banoffee Pie Cold Brew
These were the fuel I needed to race from attraction to attraction. I loved the nostalgic attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight and the Storybook Land Canal Boats, and newer attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and, of course, Pirates of the Caribbean.
Not only was I able to view World of Color at Disney California Adventure® Park, but I finally got to see the Paint the Night parade for the first time. It’s truly spectacular and had us all dancing. Ending the night with the fireworks spectacular had an extra bit of magic for me personally as I’ve dealt with sensory issues, and this was the first time in seven years I’ve been able to watch the show in its entirety.
When the convention badge came off, the adventures in Anaheim were just getting started! Some days I had just a few hours between sessions while others I had a full day free. Either way, I made sure I made the most of every moment! D23 fed my Disney-loving heart with its people, news, and experiences; the city fed the rest of me with unique eateries, breweries, and sweet spots. The D23 convention brought me to Anaheim, but everything the city had to offer turned it into an unforgettable destination.