06 Feb 2026
250 Years of America, 250 Reasons to Explore SoCal

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Visit Buena Park

Buena Park, CA (February 2026) – In honor of America's 250th birthday, consider this your official invitation to roam, explore, and make some memories in SoCAL's FUN City of Buena Park. After all, the best stories are made when we travel together. From iconic attractions and cultural landmarks to beaches, dining, and hidden gems, these 250 reasons showcase the very best spots in Southern California. And at the center of it all, Buena Park serves as the perfect basecamp—the birthplace of the boysenberry and home to California's first theme park—where a rich sense of history meets modern energy, classic Americana comes to life, and exploring Orange County feels both effortless and unforgettable as you celebrate a milestone that honors the past and inspires the journey ahead. So pack up your swimsuit, sunglasses and sense of adventure and order your FREE Travel Guide at VisitBuenaPark.com to start planning your epic SoCAL getaway. 

Theme Parks (Orange County and Los Angeles)

  1. Knott's Berry Farm (Buena Park)-Coasters, shows, Camp Snoopy, and boysenberry items  
  2. Knott's Soak City (Buena Park)-Wave pools, water slides, lazy river & gremmie lagoon 
  3. Disneyland Resort - Magical attractions and timeless Disney storytelling
  4. Disney's California Adventure Park - Pixar fun, Marvel heroes, and thrills
  5. Universal Studios - Movie magic, behind-the-scenes peaks, and blockbuster attractions
  6. Six Flag Magic Mountain - World-class roller coasters and nonstop adrenaline

 

Dinner Shows 

  1. Medieval Times (Buena Park) - Epic jousting, royal feasts, and daring knights 
  2. Pirates Dinner Adventure (Buena Park) - Swashbuckling stunts and interactive pirate fun
  3. Beach Boulevard Club (Buena Park) - Dueling piano speakeasy with a 1920's charm

Orange County Attractions 

  1. Olympic Golf Zone (Buena Park) - Golf simulators, batting cage and bites 
  2. Stage X Studio (Buena Park) - Premier dance and K-pop idol studio with classes 
  3. CVG Cinemas (Buena Park) - High-energy cinema with motion seats and sensory effects
  4. Daniel's Truth- (Buena Park) - Custom perfume making 90-minute class
  5. Life4Cuts (Buena Park) - Photo booth studio with props and more
  6. Photogram OC (Buena Park) - Self-portrait studio 
  7. Cooking classes @ The Bakery (Buena Park) - Hands-on baking classes 
  8. PlayPie (Buena Park) - Imaginative indoor play and toddler-friendly adventures
  9. Old World Village- Bavarian-style event space filled with shops, food, and cultural events
  10. Aquarium of the Pacific - Fascinating marine life and hands-on ocean exhibits
  11. Christ Cathedral - A Catholic glass cathedral celebrating faith, light, serenity
  12. Dave & Busters - A lively spot for ticket-dispensing games and entertainment
  13. K1 Speed - Race away with high-speed indoor kart racing
  14. Adventure City - Small park with kid-friendly rides 
  15. Camelot Golfland - Mini golf, arcade games, and classic family fun
  16. Flightdeck Rogue racing - Immersive flight simulators and virtual races
  17. Maverick Helicopter - Tours with breathtaking aerial views 
  18. Splitsville -Stylish bowling, dining, and social entertainment
  19. FunParx - Ninja-inspired arena with obstacle courses, challenges, and more
  20. Vans Off The Wall Skatepark - 35,000+ sq ft of rails, bowls, and more for skateboarding

Nearby LA Attractions 

  1. Hollywood Sign - Iconic California landmark with sweeping Los Angeles views
  2. Griffith Observatory - City panoramas, space exhibits, and scenic trails
  3. Hollywood Walk of Fame - Star-studded sidewalks (literally) and entertainment history
  4. Warner Brothers Studio Tour - Behind-the-scenes access and Hollywood storytelling
  5. Santa Monica Pier - Beachfront rides, dining, and ocean views
  6. Ripley's Believe or Not - Strange exhibits and fascinating curiosities
  7. Hollywood Wax Museum  - Lifelike wax celebrities and interactive photo opportunities
  8. The Huntington Library -  A cultural landmark featuring art, literature, and gardens

Relaxation and Spas 

  1. Elevation Spa (Buena Park) - Modern spa with deluxe head spa and facial packages  
  2. K Spa (Buena Park) - A Korean spa offering therapeutic pools, body scrubs, and saunas
  3. Bamboo Wellness Spa(Buena Park) -  A wellness spa known for its signature massages
  4. Burke Williams - A luxurious day spa with immersive amenities and treatments. 
  5. Spa Del Rio -  Relaxing spa offering rejuvenating facials and massage treatments 
  6. Spa Gregories - Upscale spa offering specialty treatments
  7. Montanya Spa - Boutique day spa offering services in a tranquil setting
  8. Blue Moon Head Spa - A relaxing head spa experience focused on scalp care 

 

Orange County Outdoors/Nature

  1. Ralph B. Clark Regional Park (Buena Park) - Park with trails, playgrounds and fishing
  2. Rick Gomez Park (Buena Park) - Family-friendly park with baseball-inspired play areas 
  3. Santa Ana Zoo - A charming zoo featuring wildlife and family-friendly exhibits
  4. Back Bay Loop Trail - A scenic loop for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing
  5. Black Star Canyon - A canyon hike with dramatic natural scener
  6. Top of the World -  Panoramic ocean views of Laguna Beach and rewarding hilltop hikes
  7. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary - Peaceful wetlands with abundant birdlife
  8. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve - Coastal trails through protected wetlands and wildlife
  9. Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve - A tranquil estuary for hiking and kayaking
  10. Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park - Shaded trails through rolling hills 
  11. Peters Canyon Regional Park - Easy trails surrounding a scenic reservoir
  12. Irvine Regional Park - Open green spaces with picnics and outdoor recreation
  13. Centennial Farm - Hands-on agricultural exhibits and seasonal experiences
  14. Oak Canyon Nature Center - Interpretive trails and native wildlife education
  15. Fullerton Panorama Trail - Elevated paths with sweeping city and mountain views
  16. Santiago Oaks Regional Park - Oak woodlands with challenging and scenic trails
  17. Yorba Regional Park - Lakeside paths ideal for biking and relaxing
  18. Fullerton Arboretum - Peaceful botanical gardens with diverse plant collections
  19. Great Park Orange Balloon Ride - A soaring balloon ride with panoramic views

Orange County Coastal Experiences/Beaches 

  1. Bike along the coast (Multiple trails in different OC cities)
  2. Kayak in Huntington or Newport Harbor
  3. Snorkeling in Fisherman's Cove
  4. Stand-up paddleboarding in the scenic Back Bay
  5. Surf iconic waves in Huntington Beach, Surf City USA
  6. Whale watching with Davey's Locker or Newport Landing
  7. Tide-pooling at Thousand Steps Beach
  8. Explore historic coastal cottages at Crystal Cove State Park
  9. Take the ferry across the harbor to Balboa Island
  10. Make s'mores on bonfires at Bolsa Chica State Beach 
  11. Cruise Newport Harbor aboard a private Duffy boat
  12. Drive the scenic Pacific Coast Highway along the coast
  13. Play beach volleyball on Orange County beaches
  14. Jet skiing through Newport Beach Harbor waters
  15. Watch massive swells at The Wedge in Newport Beach
  16. Let dogs roam free at Huntington Dog Beach
  17. Stroll oceanfront trails at Heisler Park, Laguna Beach
  18. Discover Pirate's Tower at Victoria Beach
  19. Take Catalina Express to Catalina Island for the day
  20. Enjoy brunch and dinner cruises in Newport Harbor
  21. Book a sunset live music or romantic cruise in Newport Beach
  22. Bodyboard classic breaks in San Clemente
  23. Shop the charming coastal town of Seal Beach
  24. Watch the sunset at Strands Beach in Dana Point 
  25. Explore Corona Del Mar beaches at night to spot grunions (April - June) 
  26. Listen for the happy hour horn at The Beachcomber Café 

Theater/Entertainment/Concerts  (Orange County and Los Angeles)

  1. GEM Theater - Historic theater hosting live performances and classic charm
  2. Garden Amphitheater (AMP) - Improv comedy theater producing comedy legends
  3. Grove of Anaheim - Indoor live music, comedy, and event venue
  4. Segerstrom Center for the Arts - Performances and Broadway-caliber productions
  5. South Coast Repertory - Acclaimed regional theater with contemporary plays
  6. The Pacific Amphitheater - Summer concerts under the stars in a scenic setting
  7. House of Blues - Live music venue and Southern-inspired restaurant dining
  8. Chance Theater - Intimate performances and an ensemble-driven theater company
  9. The Observatory - Popular venue for concerts and emerging artists
  10. Honda Center - Major concerts, professional sports, and live events
  11. Dodger Stadium - Venue for iconic baseball games, concerts and events 
  12. Sofi Stadium - Cutting-edge venue for sports, concerts, and events
  13. Angel Stadium - Home of Angels baseball  and family fun events 
  14. Wiltern - Historic Art Deco venue hosting live music performances
  15. Greek Theatre - Hillside amphitheater with legendary concerts and shows
  16. The Hollywood Bowl  - Iconic outdoor music venue with breathtaking views
  17. The Groundlings - Famous improv comedy theater producing comedy legends

Orange County Shopping 

  1. The Source OC (Buena Park) - Three-story dining, shopping, and entertainment hub
  2. South Coast Plaza - Indoor world renowned luxury shopping mall 
  3. Fashion Island - Coastal shopping with ocean views and upscale boutiques
  4. The LAB Anti-mall in - Trendy shops, creative vibes, and indie style
  5. Irvine Spectrum Center - Outdoor shopping and entertainment for all ages
  6. Outlets of Orange - Discount shopping with popular designer brands 
  7. Lido Marina Village - Waterfront boutiques and scenic marina views
  8. Old Towne Orange/The Orange Circle - Historic charm with antique shops 
  9. Downtown Disney District - Shopping, dining, and entertainment with a Disney touch
  10. Anaheim GardenWalk - Dining, nightlife, and entertainment in an outdoor setting

Orange County Dining

  1. Yelp Favorites: Top 100 places to eat in OC according to Yelp Elites: LINK
  2. Buena Park's Boysenberry Guide: LINK
  3. Top Food Halls in Orange County: LINK
  4. Must-Try Orange County Food Trucks: LINK
  5. Try over 90+ at Buena Park's popular Koreatown
  6. The Cauldron(Buena Park) - Spooky bar with French cuisine and wicked cocktails 
  7. Knott's Chicken Dinner(Buena Park)- Famous fried chicken, biscuits and pies
  8. Ramen & Tsukemen TAO (Buena Park) - Michelin Bib Gourmand Japanese spot 
  9. John's Incredible Pizza (Buena Park) - All-you-can-eat pizza, rides, games, family fun
  10. Porto's Bakery(Buena Park) -Famous Cuban pastries, sandwiches, and sweet treats
  11. Jin Cook (Buena Park) - Korean comfort food, sizzling homestyle dishes
  12. Atoyubu (Buena Park) - Serves Japanese-Korean fusion yubu
  13. Portillo's (Buena Park) -Chicago hot dogs, beef dips, famous chocolate cake shake
  14. Nobibi (Buena Park) - Creamy soft serve, playful flavors, picture-perfect swirls
  15. Izakaya Ichie (Buena Park) -Japanese small plates, skewers, sushi, cozy vibe
  16. Rock & Brews (Buena Park) -Rock-themed eatery, burgers,  and craft beers 
  17. Thirty Acres Kitchen (Buena Park) - American fare with boysenberry specialty items
  18. Dzert - Over-the-top milkshakes, desserts, sweet indulgent creations
  19. Gangnam Station -Lively Korean BBQ spot with street food vibes 
  20. Gaucho Grill - Argentinian steaks, chimichurri, grilled meats, bold flavors 
  21. Il Fiora (Buena Park) - Italian cuisine with a twist 
  22. KingChang (Buena Park) - Top spot for authentic Korean BBQ
  23. M Korean BBQ(Buena Park) -premium meats and tabletop grilling
  24. Misoolkwan OC(Buena Park) -Korean pub fare, soju, late-night drinking bites
  25. Miss Shabu(Buena Park) -Interactive hot pot, fresh veggies, endless dipping
  26. SUP Noodle Bar (Buena Park) - Flavorful broths, noodles, Asian comfort bowls
  27. Coffee Code(Buena Park) - Specialty coffee, pastries, cozy modern café vibes
  28. Yoshiharu Ramen (Buena Park) - Rich broths, ramen, and authentic Japanese flavors
  29. In-N-Out(Buena Park) - Classic burgers, fresh ingredients, and iconic secret menu
  30. Santa Ana Michelada Guide: Local spots serving bold, spicy beer cocktails
  31. SteelCraft - Outdoor shipping-container eateries
  32. Little Saigon - Vibrant Vietnamese dining, pho, banh mi, desserts
  33. Little Arabia - Middle Eastern markets, halal eats, rich cultural flavors
  34. The Blind Rabbit - Hidden speakeasy, craft cocktails, intimate vintage vibe
  35. Anaheim Packing District - Historic food hall, diverse vendors, lively atmosphere
  36. Lola Gaspar - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving Spanish tapas and  bold flavors, cozy
  37. CHAAK Kitchen - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving refined Yucatán cuisine,
  38. Pho 79 - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving legendary pho 
  39. Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving Indian cuisine
  40. Knife Pleat - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving modern French cuisine
  41. Amor y Tacos - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving regional Mexican dishes
  42. Fable & Spirit - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving seasonal dishes 
  43. Eat Joy Food - Michelin Bib Gourmand serving Taiwanese dishes
  44. Rebel Omakase - One Michelin Star serving Japanese creations 
  45. Heritage - One Michelin Star serves fresh, locally sourced seasonal ingredients

Historical/Museums/Art (Orange County and Los Angeles)

  1. Clark Interpretive Center (Buena Park) - Dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits
  2. Buena Park Historic District(Buena Park) - Architectural gems and historic buildings 
  3. Knott's Independence Hall (Buena Park) - Historic replica of Independence Hall
  4. Hilbert Museum of California Art - Showcasing California artists 
  5. The Broad Museum - Contemporary art and striking architecture in downtown LA
  6. The Museum of make believe - Imaginative exhibits and immersive storytelling 
  7. Wonderground Gallery - Disney-inspired art and collectible creations for all ages
  8. Center Gallery - Rotating art exhibits featuring local and contemporary talent
  9. Museum of Contemporary Art - Contemporary works and installations
  10. La Brea Tar Pits - Ice Age fossils and active excavation sites
  11. The Getty - World-class art, historic architecture, and hilltop gardens
  12. Lucas Museum of Narrative Art - Opening Sept 2026- Cinematic immersive art 
  13. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures - Film history and iconic Hollywood exhibits
  14. MUZEO Museum and Cultural Center - Local history, interactive exhibits, and displays
  15. Stanley Ranch Museum and Historical Village - Preserved ranch life and history
  16. Orange County Museum of Art - Contemporary California art in a coastal setting
  17. Laguna Art Museum - California-focused art with oceanfront inspiration
  18. Heritage Museum of Orange County - Historic homes and preserved local heritage
  19. International Surf Museum - Surf culture, history, and coastal lifestyle
  20. Bowers Museum - Global art and cultural exhibits
  21. Discovery Cube - Hands-on science, interactive exhibits, and family fun
  22. Richard Nixon Library - Presidential history and interactive exhibits
  23. The Queen Mary - Historic ocean liner with tours and dining experiences
  24. Mission San Juan Capistrano - Historic mission, gardens, and California heritage

Sporting Teams & Events (Orange County and Los Angeles)

  1. Anaheim Ducks - NHL team (fall - late spring)
  2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - MLB team (spring - fall)
  3. Los Angeles FC - MLS team (spring - fall)
  4. Angel City FC - National Women's Soccer League Team (spring - fall)
  5. Orange County SC - United Soccer League Team (spring - fall)
  6. Los Angeles Chargers - NFL team (fall - winter) 
  7. Los Angeles Lakers - NBA Team (fall - winter) 
  8. Los Angeles Clippers  - NBA Team (fall - winter) 
  9. Los Angeles Rams - NFL team (fall - winter) 
  10. Los Angeles Sparks  - Women's NBA (Summer) 
  11. LA Galaxy - MLS team (spring - fall)
  12. LA Kings - NHL Team (fall - late spring)
  13. Surf City Marathon - Annual marathon along the Pacific Coast Highway in February
  14. Pacific Airshow - Summertime airshow held annually in Huntington Beach
  15. US Open of Surfing - Annual surfing competition held in July in Huntington Beach 

Orange County Events & Festivals 

  1. Knott's Scary Farm(Buena Park) - Spooky mazes, thrilling scares, and monsters 
  2. Knott's Merry Farm (Buena Park) - Holiday lights, nightly snowfall and festive shows
  3. 17th Door Haunted Experience (Buena Park) - Most intense haunted house
  4. Knott's PEANUTS Celebration (Buena Park) - Activities with beloved characters
  5. Knott's Boysenberry Festival(Buena Park) - Boysenberry treats, food and beverages
  6. Ghost Town Alive!(Buena Park) - Interactive Wild West fun for the whole family
  7. Knott's Summer Nights (Buena Park) - Entertainment, fireworks and festivities
  8. Knott's Spooky Farm (Buena Park) - Halloween-themed fun for kids and families
  9. Pirates Take Christmas(Buena Park) - Pirate holiday show with interactive fun
  10. Vampirates (Buena Park) - Halloween show with pirates and vampire thrills
  11. Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney - Halloween-themed Disney fun 
  12. OC Fair - Rides, live entertainment, and fairground favorites
  13. Winter Fest OC - Ice skating, festive lights, and winter activities
  14. Newport Christmas Boat Parade - Iconic annual event with festively decorated boats
  15. 626 Night Market - Street food, shopping, and vibrant night festivities
  16. Surf City Nights - Evening beachside market with local food and art
  17. Sawdust Art Festival - Handmade art, live music, and coastal charm
  18. Holidays at the Disneyland resort - Magical lights, seasonal shows, and Disney cheer
  19. Strawberry Festival - Fresh strawberries, live music, and family fun
  20. Pageant of the Masters - Living art performances in a coastal setting
  21. OC Restaurant Week - Culinary delights and special tasting menus across the county
  22. Wondercon - Pop culture, comics, and fan convention for all ages
  23. Gardenwalk Taste of Japan - Japanese cuisine, culture, and festive entertainment
  24. Blizzcon - All things Blizzard gaming and more
  25. OC Pride Festival - LGBTQ+ celebration with performances and community events
  26. Vidcon - Creator meetups, panels, and digital entertainment experiences
  27. Doheny Festival - Music, beachside fun, and family-friendly activities
  28. Newport Beach Jazz Festival - Live jazz, coastal views, and vibrant music scenes
  29. Pasadena Rose Parade - Iconic parade with flower-covered floats and performances

Orange County Golf Courses

  1. Monarch Beach Golf Links - 18 holes with ocean views and challenging terrain 
  2. San Clemente Golf Club - 18 hole course with scenic cliffs and ocean views
  3. Pelican Hill Golf Club - 36 holes across two courses with 270-degree ocean views
  4. Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club- 18 holes nestled in rolling hills with mountain views
  5. The Ranch @ Laguna Beach Golf Course - 9 holes featuring laid-back fairways 
  6. Strawberry Farms Golf Club - 18 holes surrounded by lush hills and a charming feel
  7. Oak Creek Golf Club - 18 holes tucked away with lakes and tapered fairways
  8. Coyote Hills Golf Course - 18 holes with scenic views of both LA and The OC
  9. Talega Golf Club - 18 holes with Spanish colonial architecture
  10. Tijeras Creek Golf Club - 18 holes framed by lakes and dramatic hilltop vistas
  11. Black Gold Golf Club - 18 holes featuring wide fairways and stunning landscaping
  12. San Juan HillsGolf Club - 18 holes with rolling terrain and stunning hillside views
  13. Shorecliffs Golf Club - 18 holes along ocean cliffs with breathtaking coastal views

Affordable Buena Park Hotels 

  1. Knott's Hotel – Steps from Knott's Berry Farm theme park, this farmhouse chic hotel offers a pool with kids splash pad, free shuttle to Disneyland, gym with a sauna and steam room, a restaurant and bar, gift shop with boysenberry merchandise and new guestrooms. 
  2. Hilton Buena Park – Midcentury modern 4-star hotel with rooftop pool, on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, valet parking and attached to The Source OC. 
  3. DoubleTree by Hilton Buena Park – Large outdoor pool, onsite restaurant and bar, free shuttle to Disneyland and parking, gift shop, gym and welcome chocolate chip cookies.  
  4. Fairfield Inn & Suites– Reliable comfort with complimentary hot breakfast, large suites, pool, fitness center and across the street from The Source OC. 
  5. Courtyard Marriott Buena Park– Contemporary hotel featuring stylish guestrooms, outdoor firepit and pool, Bistro cafe with Starbucks coffee, gym and EV charging. 
  6. Hampton Inn & Suites Buena Park – Spacious rooms, free hot breakfast and parking, EV charging stations, outdoor pool and firepit. 
  7. For more Buena Park Hotels CLICK HERE 

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ABOUT VISIT BUENA PARK
Buena Park, California is a fun, affordable destination conveniently located just 5 miles from Disneyland®, award-winning beaches and Los Angeles landmarks. Named one of the 'Most Fun' Small Towns in America, Buena Park welcomes millions of visitors each year. Boasting five of Orange County's seven major attractions including California's first theme park, Knott's Berry Farm, Knott's Soak City Waterpark and three of the world's most interactive dinner shows - Pirates Dinner Adventure, Beach Boulevard Club, and Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. As the official destination marketing organization for the City of Buena Park, Visit Buena Park's mission is to become a recognized travel destination and increase visitors and overnight hotel stays to economically impact the city. For more information contact Visit Buena Park at 714-562-3561 or www.visitbuenapark.com.

 

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