When people search for things to do in Anaheim, their minds usually drift to the bustling energy of theme parks, cheering crowds at sporting events, and the resort district, but just a few miles east of the coasters lies a serene, elevated escape: Anaheim Hills.
Tucked into the scenic foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, Anaheim Hills offers a laid-back, community-centric atmosphere where nature takes center stage. Whether you're a local craving a staycation or a visitor seeking a peaceful retreat from the Orange County crowds, here's your guide to the very best of Anaheim Hills.
Outdoor Adventures & Recreation
Anaheim Hills is a paradise for those who want to trade the concrete jungle for actual greenery and active living a favorite weekend escape for families and solo explorers alike.
Hiking & Trails: The region is laced with incredible trails for every skill level. Deer Canyon Park Preserve offers a tranquil network of equestrian, hiking, and mountain biking paths surrounded by native coastal sage scrub. For a more relaxed, paved route (great for strollers and little legs), the loop around Walnut Canyon Reservoir is scenic and highly accessible. Meanwhile, Oak Canyon Nature Center features 58 acres of shaded coast live oak groves and a year-round murmuring stream, a kid-friendly favorite for weekend nature walks in Anaheim.
Anaheim Hills Golf Course: Designed to highlight the natural terrain of the Santa Ana Mountain foothills, this 18-hole, par-71 championship course offers sweeping panoramic views. After sinking your final putt, the clubhouse is the perfect place to grab a refreshing cocktail.
OC Ropes Course: For adrenaline seekers, this facility offers an exciting physical and mental challenge. Navigate suspended obstacles and high-wire elements strapped safely into a harness while enjoying stunning canopy views, a memorable family activity that's just far enough off the beaten path to feel like a discovery.
The Morning Routine
Anaheim Hills takes its morning rituals seriously. The quiet mornings here are best enjoyed with a fresh, artisanal bite before you hit the trails or the golf course. Remarkably, this quiet Anaheim, California neighborhood is home to not one, but two establishments ranked in Yelp's Top 100 Places to Eat in the Nation.
Sunbliss Café: Earning a highly coveted spot on Yelp's Top 100 list, Sunbliss Cafe is a local favorite for its exceptional specialty lattes, refreshing acai bowls, and vibrant atmosphere. With baristas who know the regulars by name, it's the perfect spot for remote work or reading on a sunny patio.
LilyPopp Café: Sharing the prestigious honor of being named in Yelp's Top 100, this beloved community staple is all about the authentic, fresh-baked experience. Boiled and baked to perfection, their bagels have that ideal chewy exterior and soft inside. Try their classic everything bagel with house-made whipped cream cheese, or grab a loaded breakfast sandwich to fuel your day.
Midday Bites & Afternoon Escapes
When midday rolls around, Anaheim Hills offers lunch options that prioritize quality, freshness, and charm.
Campitelli Cookies & Sandwiches: Serving the community since 1987, this family-owned deli is famous for both its sandwiches and sweets. Their oven-roasted turkey breast sandwich and hot pastrami are massive local favorites. Whatever you order, you absolutely cannot leave without trying their award-winning cookies, buying a tin is a local rite of passage!
Sip & Sugar Co.: If you're looking for an Instagram-worthy escape, this chic cafe brings the timeless tradition of afternoon tea right to the heart of the Hills. Enjoy a multi-tiered spread of delicate tea sandwiches, fresh scones, and decadent desserts alongside their beautifully curated tea flights or an incredible Dirty Chai.
Elevated Dinners for Every Palate
As the sun sets, the neighborhood's dining scene truly comes alive. The culinary offerings here prove that you don't need to head to the resort district for an unforgettable Anaheim meal.
Masito Korean Dining: A spectacular bridge between traditional Korean techniques and a modern dining environment. Their classic Bulgogi and colorful Bibimbap are must-orders, and their comforting Kimchi Jjigae is perfect for a chilly Southern California evening.
STORY Bar + Kitchen: This visually stunning, high-energy spot offers creative American cuisine infused with brilliant Filipino influences. From unapologetically flavorful pizzas to elevated comfort food, the dishes pair perfectly with their inventive, gorgeous craft cocktails.
Rosine's Mediterranean: When you're craving rich, authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese comfort food, Rosine's is the ultimate destination in the Hills. With a warm, inviting atmosphere, this family-owned favorite serves up beautifully plated, vibrant dishes. From their famous rotisserie chicken with house-made garlic sauce to their flawlessly seasoned lamb chops and comforting mezze platters, Rosine's perfectly embodies the hospitable and sophisticated spirit of Anaheim Hills.
Anaheim will always be famous for its world-class entertainment, but for those willing to venture just a few miles east, the Hills offer a remarkably enriching addition to any Anaheim, California itinerary. Whether you're swinging a golf club, hiking the canyons, or indulging in a spectacular dinner with a view, the quieter side of Anaheim is waiting to be your new favorite escape, and it's easy to pair with a full weekend of things to do in Anaheim.
