TOP THINGS TO DO IN THE OC FREE & FUN ACTIVITIES BEACH GUIDE - OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE - Holiday Inn Buena Park
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INSIDE 6 13 26 38 SOCIAL MEDIA CALENDAR OF EVENTS TOP THINGS TO SEE BEACH GUIDE Share the Buena Park Every season offers There’s something for Head to the coast for love! Share and hashtag not-to-miss events for every interest whether miles of sandy beaches your visit for a chance all ages your focus is on family, and sun for days to be featured entertainment, nature or the arts 7 18 32 41 WHERE IS BUENA PARK ITINERARY ATTRACTIONS DINING Centrally located in Let us do the planning There’s a restaurant for Only in Buena Park can every palate from burgers Orange County, Buena for you. Enjoy five days you find these exclusive Park is your home base in the OC with our to ramen to Cuban fare for OC adventure must-do list attractions 10 22 37 49 SHOPPING GUIDE ACCOMMODATIONS PLAN YOUR VISIT FREE IN THE OC Make yourself at home How to get here Your vacation doesn’t Learn from an OC at these local hotels with and get around to have to break the bank. expert where to shop for perks like shuttle service maximize your time There are loads of free the signature OC style and free parking OC experiences waiting for you 4 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
WELCOME Visit Buena Park 800.541.3953 tourbp@buenapark.com Visitor Center Hours of Operation: The lively city of Buena Park is situated just 5 miles from Disneyland®, 15 miles Monday - Saturday 9am to 5pm from white sandy beaches, 20 miles from Los Angeles and a million miles away Sunday 9am to 12pm from your everyday life! 6601 Beach Boulevard Buena Park, CA 90621 What was once an agricultural area overflowing with dairy farms, orange groves and berry fields, has grown to become the entertainment capital of Southern California. The charming town is home to the lovable Snoopy, over 30 exhilarating rides and shows at Knott’s Berry Farm, a California beach-themed waterpark, exceptional international and award-winning casual cuisine, three interactive dinner shows and a California Welcome Center. The smell of fresh-baked pastries, the taste of famous fried chicken, the rush of adrenaline as you soar 300 feet in the air, the sight of pirates battling and the sounds of laughter are all waiting for you in Buena Park. Come and experience for yourself why Buena Park attracts millions of visitors each year. VisitBuenaPark.com Follow us at: #VisitBuenaPark BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 5
#VISITBUENAPARK Every great vacation starts by following @VisitBuenaPark on social media and ends with you sharing your pictures using #VisitBuenaPark for a chance to be featured on our social media or visitor guide! After all, if you don’t share your pictures, did it even really happen? Start snapping and sharing your vacation photos of what’s happening in Buena Park. Follow us on: When the restaurant is so good, The face you make when someone How you feel after a fun “knight” at even the food smiles back asks you if there’s a lot to do at #MedievalTimesBP #PortosBuenaPark #KnottsBerryFarm Photo @auntiescastle Photo @jennbarnes604 Photo @steinzie Look mom, I just got “TGEDF” – Thank Goodness I think I’m going to need sworn in as a real pirate Every Day is ‘Fry’ day at a bigger spoon…and pants #PiratesDinnerAdventureBP #SupNoodleBarBuenaPark #FarrellsBuenaPark Photo @iamjapam Photo @hungryhugh Photo @lizziebtv 6 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
whe re is Buena Park, California ? Nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, the City of Buena Park is a beacon for fun-loving travelers and the perfect base camp for a Southern California vacation. Comprised of approximately 10 square miles, this small town packs a big punch — boasting some of the world’s most well-known attractions. Buena Park/Orange County At-A-Glance CLIMATE ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER BUENA PARK HAS Average Temperature 70°F 8 Miles Away BEEN FEATURED ON... ACCOMMODATIONS NEARBY SPORTS TEAMS Jay Leno’s Garage 17 hotels, 2,300 rooms Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim CONAN Anaheim Ducks Hell’s Kitchen CLAIMS TO FAME Master Chef California’s First Theme Park OC ENTERTAINMENT VENUES Entertainment Tonight Largest Waterpark in the OC Honda Center America’s Next Top Model Boysenberry was Born Here House of Blues Bay Area Life Named One of the 'Most Fun' Segerstrom Center for the Arts The Morning Blend Las Vegas Small Towns in America The Grove of Anaheim Good Day Marketplace Chicago OC Fair & Event Center Colorado & Company BUENA PARK ATTRACTIONS Knott’s Berry Farm BUENA PARK/OC MUSEUMS Good Morning Arizona Knott’s Soak City Knott's Independence Hall Yolo TX Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Richard Nixon Library & Museum The Bold and the Beautiful Teatro Martini Discovery Cube Science Center The Cable Guy Medieval Times Mission San Juan Capistrano Bert the Conqueror Big Air Trampoline Buena Park Historic District Criminal Minds John's Incredible Pizza Bowers Museum A&E’s Storage Wars Olympic Golf Zone BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 7
Explore Buena Park CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER INTERSTATE 39 5 91
HOW TO GET HERE AIRPORTS John Wayne Airport (SNA) 18 miles away OCair.com • 949.252.5200 Long Beach Airport (LGB) 14 miles away LGB.org • 562.570.2619 Los Angeles Airport (LAX) JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT 25 miles away The gateway to Orange County, John Wayne Airport (JWA) offers more than LAWA.org • 855.463.5252 20 nonstop destinations throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. JWA is the airport of choice for more than ten million passengers each year. Regularly Ontario International Airport scheduled passenger service is provided by most major airlines, including Alaska, (ONT) American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, United, and WestJet Airlines. Within 35 Miles away the last few years, JWA has gone international and now offers nonstop service Flyontario.com • 909.937.2700 between Orange County and Vancouver, Canada as well as Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. TRAINS Amtrak Amtrak.com • 800.872.7245 Visitors can get to Buena Park without the hassle of driving from San Diego, Santa Barbara and the Central Coast by taking the Pacific Surfliner to the Anaheim or Fullerton stations – both are a short 5-mile drive from Buena Park. Taxi Service and ridesharing options are available at the station. Metrolink Metrolinktrains.com • 800.371.5465 8400 Lakeknoll Drive, Buena Park Ride the rail from the Buena Park Metrolink Station to Downtown Los Angeles or several other Orange County cities. AIRPORT SHUTTLES SuperShuttle Supershuttle.com 800.258.3826 ARTIC Prime Time Shuttle The Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, better known as ARTIC, Primetimeshuttle.com provides rail, bus, taxi and other services for visitors looking to explore Orange 800.733.8267 County and Los Angeles. The transportation hub is a short 5 mile drive from Buena Park or accessible by train by way of the Buena Park Metrolink station. BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 11
GETTING AROUND TOWN MAPS Get your free maps and travel guides for all major cities in California at the California Welcome Center Buena Park. Friendly staff can help you with directions to local and statewide landmarks. 6601 Beach Boulevard • 800.541.3953 CAR RENTALS IN BUENA PARK Enterprise Enterprise.com • 800.261.7331 6731 Beach Boulevard Enter code SCALHGL for 5% discount Hertz Hertz.com • 800.654.3131 7000 Beach Boulevard (inside the Holiday Inn Buena Park) HOTEL SHUTTLES Most of the major hotels in Buena Park offer complimentary shuttle DRIVING DISTANCE TO ATTRACTIONS FROM BUENA PARK service to local attractions including Average Drive Disneyland®. Check with your hotel Attractions Miles Kilometers for shuttle times. Time Disneyland® 5 8 10 min RIDESHARING OPTIONS Uber and Lyft offer ride sharing Outlets at Orange 9 14 15 min transportation throughout Southern California and at all major airports. Simply download their app and in just Huntington Beach 10 16 20 min a few steps, you can be on your way from point A to point B in a private car. Richard Nixon Library 16 26 25 min TAXI Newport Whales 20 32 30 min California Yellow Cab californiayellowcab.com South Coast Plaza 24 39 30 min 714.444.4444 Hollywood Walk of Fame 27 43 35 min Universal Studios 29 47 35 min Santa Monica Pier 38 61 50 min SeaWorld 98 158 110 min 12 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
BUENA PARK/ORANGE COUNTY CALENDAR OF EVENTS SPRING KNOTT’S BOYSENBERRY FESTIVAL Experience over 75 boysenberry dishes, live entertainment and interactive experiences Select days in March and April Knott’s Berry Farm NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL From late April through early May, see the latest documentaries and independent films Newport Beach WATERPARK OPENS From late May through early September, the California-themed waterpark is open for business Knott’s Soak City FAMILY FOSSIL DAYS On the first Saturday of May, archeologists lead a three-hour tour of prehistoric Orange County culminating in a fossil hunt at a real dig site Interpretive Center at Clark Regional Park BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 13
GHOST TOWN ALIVE! June through August, interact with the citizens of Calico by playing cards at the saloon, helping the sheriff stop bank robbers, getting a mustache at the barber shop and dancing at the evening hoedown Knott’s Berry Farm STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Carnival rides, games, shows and ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SUMMER From mid-July through mid-August food vendors selling Strawberry dishes Southern California’s largest event during the last weekend of May features live concerts, carnival eats, The Village Green rides, exhibits and a petting zoo OC Fair & Event Center SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK Free live concerts from local artists and cover SUMMER CONCERTS AT THE MALL bands every Wednesday in June at 7pm Free live concerts from local artists and Boisseranc Park cover bands every Wednesday at 7pm during July and August VIDCON Buena Park Downtown Mall In June, the internet’s biggest celebrities host meet-and-greets, panels VANS US OPEN OF SURFING and preview exclusive content The largest surf competition in the Anaheim Convention Center world runs from late July through early August FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW Huntington Beach Pier Dozens of attractions, live entertainment, specialty food and PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS fireworks spectacular The world’s most famous paintings Knott’s Berry Farm come to life with oversized sets and actors from July through September Laguna Beach
FALL KNOTT’S SCARY FARM VAMPIRATE’S DINNER SHOW Southern California’s original and Interactive Halloween dinner show most haunting Halloween event with with costume contest and 3-course monsters, dozens of mazes, scare zones feast throughout October and live shows rises from the dead Pirate’s Dinner Adventure from mid-September through October Knott’s Berry Farm SILVERADO DAYS FESTIVAL The three-day festival offers carnival FAMILY FOSSIL DAYS rides, games, food booths and contests On the first Saturday of September, the third weekend in October archeologists lead a three-hour William Peak Park tour of prehistoric Orange County culminating in a fossil hunt at a real MONSTER BREW FEST dig site Featuring over 100 craft beer samples, Interpretive Center at Clark live concerts, food and a costume contest Regional Park Rock & Brews Buena Park MICKEY’S HALLOWEEN PARTY OLDE TYME FALL FESTIVAL The private evening event features Haunted tours, Halloween crafts, trick-or-treating, Halloween local food booths and live fireworks, exclusive shows, and musical performances seasonal décor during select days in Buena Park Historic District September and October Disneyland® BLIZZCON Fans of Blizzard video games can KNOTT’S SPOOKY FARM join discussion panels, meet creators Family-friendly Halloween event with and cosplay trick-or-treating, fun-filled shows Anaheim Convention Center and costume contests during weekends in October Knott’s Berry Farm BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 15
WINTER MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTHS FAMILY FOSSIL DAYS In November and December, the City The first Saturday of December and of Buena Park honors military with February, archeologists lead a three hotel, attraction and dining deals. On hour tour of prehistoric Orange select days, Knott's Berry Farm offers County culminating in a fossil hunt at free admission for military personnel a real dig site VisitBuenaPark.com/Military Interpretive Center at Clark Regional Park KNOTT’S MERRY FARM The park transforms into a Winter NEW YEAR’S EVE COUNTDOWN Wonderland with nightly snow fall, live Ring in the New Year with exclusive shows and holiday food from the end entertainment, specialty food and a of November through early January midnight firework spectacular Knott’s Berry Farm Knott’s Berry Farm PIRATES TAKE CHRISTMAS FIRE AND POLICE DAYS Interactive Christmas dinner show and Free admission for fire, police and 3-course holiday feast all December long emergency personnel and one guest on Pirate’s Dinner Adventure select days in December and January Knott’s Berry Farm CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Yachts, ships and sail boats adorned PEANUTS CELEBRATION! with Christmas lights and festive décor On select weekends in January and parade the waters during December February, Knott’s offers Peanuts- Newport Harbor themed shows, rides, food and interactive experiences with your HOLIDAYS AT THE favorite characters including Snoopy, DISNEYLAND RESORT® Charlie Brown, Lucy and Pig Pen Christmas décor, nightly snow fall Knott’s Berry Farm and holiday fireworks from the end of November through early January SURF CITY MARATHON Disneyland® A picturesque full and half marathon along the beach in February Huntington Beach 16 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
5 DAYS OF FUN, FOOD AND FASHION IN ORANGE COUNTY Day One Spend your day at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park where the whole family can enjoy rides, shows and attractions in four themed areas. While there, fuel up at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, an 84-year-old tradition. Next to Knott’s Berry Farm, cool off at the newly-expanded California-themed Knott's Soak City, OC’s largest water park. After a day of excitement, cheer on your favorite knight at Medieval Times or head to Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour for sundaes and build-your-own burgers. 18 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
Day Two After grabbing award-winning coffee and pastries at Porto’s Bakery & Café, head over to the Disneyland Resort®, just five miles away from Buena Park. In the evening watch an Angels or Ducks game or take on the high seas at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure. Day Three Spend the day sunbathing, surfing and shopping in Huntington Beach, just 10 miles south of Buena Park. When the sun goes down the fun starts up at Teatro Martini in Buena Park. Visitors ages 18+ can experience OC’s hottest dinner show, featuring a two-hour vaudeville variety act with a five-course meal. Disney® BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 19
Day Four No trip to Orange County is complete without visiting South Coast Plaza, a global shopping destination with more than 250 extraordinary boutiques and critically-acclaimed restaurants like Din Tai Fung, Vaca and AnQi. Relax after a long day of shopping with a pedicure or massage at Spa Nordstrom, a well-kept local secret. Day Five Enjoy an OC favorite, Hornblower’s Champagne Brunch Cruise which features a buffet, free-flowing champagne and gorgeous views of Newport Harbor. Afterward, explore marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, with over 11,000 animals and 50 exhibits or take a whale watching cruise at Newport Landing. On your way back to Buena Park, take a free tour of Knott’s Independence Hall, an exact replica of the original but without the lines. For good food and tunes, head to dinner at Rock & Brews for classic American dishes, over 100 craft beers, and even a beach volleyball court. 20 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
PLAY THERE’S NO SHORTAGE OF FUN WHEN YOU STAY IN BUENA PARK
Red Rock Canyon FUN & FREE IN THE OC A trip to Orange County doesn’t have schedule and then head to Heisler to break the bank, there’s plenty to Park Reserve or Treasure Island do and see in The OC that doesn’t Beach, both in the town of Laguna cost a dime! The California Welcome Beach, to see tons of underwater Center should be your first stop if creatures like sea anemones, sea you need help planning your OC urchins and crabs. adventure. Centrally located in Buena Park, the center’s friendly staff can get Travel back in time and take you free brochures on all California advantage of the many historic attractions, directions, discounts, maps buildings and museums in Buena and more – everything you need to Park that offer free tours like the maximize your time and minimize Whitaker-Jaynes House, the Bacon your spending. House, the Tice House and the Stage Shop Hotel – currently home For a truly Southern California to a California Welcome Center. If experience, start your day at the you want to go even farther back in beach. Huntington Beach is a sun- time, the Clark Interpretive Center lover’s wonderland with miles of soft in Ralph B. Clark Regional Park sand, volleyball nets, fire pits and houses tons of ice age fossils including surfers galore. Bring your sunscreen, a nine million year-old baleen whale sunglasses and snacks and you are in skeleton. The park also has picnic for a day of relaxation. The Orange tables, walking paths and three County coast is also a great place to dinosaur-themed playgrounds. Ralph B. Clark Regional Park explore tide pools. Check the low tide 22 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
American history is featured at Knott’s Independence Hall – an exact replica of the Philadelphia landmark – where you can hear an audio retelling of the dramatic debate that led to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and the creation of the United States of America. Admission is free and you can even get a free hour of parking in the Knott’s MarketPlace Parking Lot. Breathe in the fresh air at one of the areas many parks as you take in the varied and beautiful landscape of Orange County. Laguna Canyon Wilderness Park in Laguna Beach will give you scenic coastal views and 42 miles of hiking trails. Head to the park’s Nix Nature Center to learn about the Native American population that once called this area their home. If you are Fullerton Aboretum bringing kids with you, ask a ranger for the scavenger hunt for Mary’s Trail – a Continue your outdoor education Got some city kids in your crew? Take half-mile loop near the center. at the Fullerton Arboretum, the them to the Centennial Farm at the county’s largest botanical garden. Kids OC Fair and Event Center in Costa You may be surprised to find the (and kids at heart) are encouraged to Mesa. This three-acre working farm majestic rock formations of Red touch and explore at the Sniff n’ Seek was designed to teach youth about Rock Canyon in Whiting Ranch Garden and the Weird and Wonderful agriculture and its importance in Wilderness Park. The 4-mile Do-Touch Garden. daily life. Visit the fruit and vegetable roundtrip hike through the sandstone gardens, then meet the pigs, chickens, canyon that was once under water If learning about the latest trends cattle and goats that make their homes rewards you with scenic vistas and in health and nutrition are more there. Another great stop for families is plenty of wildlife along the way. For your speed, then sign up for a free the Kids Rock Playground at Orange a different view, explore Southern 90-minute tour of the Nutrilite County Great Park in Irvine. This California’s largest redwood grove Experience Center in Buena Park. park teaches about the water cycle and at Carbon Canyon Regional Park. Here you can meet the scientists offers plenty of climbing opportunities Take the mile-long nature trail to see behind the Amway brand and ask and even some water misters that are the majestic trees, then play on the questions about supplements and the much needed on a hot day. playground or catch some fish in the benefits of phytonutrients. park’s four-acre lake. Nutrilite Experience Center Nix Nature Center BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 23
TOP THINGS TO SEE IN THE OC With activities for every interest, Orange County is the perfect spot to spend some time exploring. Choose your adventure whether it is Family Fun, Entertainment, Nature or Culture (or a combination). Follow the checklists to make sure you don’t miss out on anything! FAMILY FUN □ Knott’s Berry Farm Visit Snoopy, take on gravity-defying rides, watch Wild West stunt shows and enjoy tons of entertainment that changes with the season. Indulge in boysenberry-themed treats that you can only get here, the birthplace of this delicious berry. □ Knott’s Soak City Summer is cooler with 17 tube slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and The Wedge—a new family raft ride. Even the youngest sun lovers can get into the action with water sprayers and nozzles on the Gremmie Lagoon. □ Disneyland® and Disney California Adventure® “The Happiest Place on Earth” is even happier with new rides and the addition of Pixar Pier in 2018. □ Huntington Beach Visit “Surf City USA®” for miles of soft sand, surfing, sunbathing and sightseeing. Grab that quintessential OC style at one of the many surf shops along Main Street. □ Discovery Cube Science Center Spark your natural curiosity with over 100 hands-on science exhibits that are designed to get kids (and adults) thinking about the world around them. Take the Eco Challenge and become a green superhero or learn about the science of hockey when you challenge one of the Anaheim Ducks to a shootout. 26 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
ENTERTAINMENT ENTHUSIASTS □ Medieval Times Cheer on your favorite knights in jousting tournaments and sword fights during a two-hour show in a castle- style arena. Enjoy a four-course meal while you watch majestic horses join in the performance. □ Brea Improv Comedy Club □ Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Tickle your funny bone with Join in the swashbuckling good times performances by big-name and up- at the World’s Most Interactive Dinner and-coming comedians while you Show. Get sworn in to the pirate enjoy signature cocktails and a full crew and watch as buckaneers swoop menu that includes burgers, pasta and from the rigging of the 18th century other American favorites. Spanish galleon. □ City National Grove of Anaheim □ House of Blues This 1,700-seat venue offers an This 2,200-person venue offers big- intimate spot to enjoy musical name rock and blues performers. performances, family shows and Enjoy your po’ boys and jambalaya tribute bands for every taste. before the show at the on-site restaurant that serves Southern- □ OC Fair & Event Center inspired food. This 150-acre event venue is host to festivals and fairs, musical □ Segerstrom Center for the Arts performances, rodeos and more. Broadway shows, classical musicians, Comedians, tribute bands and ballet, and more are available at this international performance groups world-class performing arts center. grace the stage throughout the year. BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 27
NATURE □ Newport Landing Marvel at migrating whales and their friends on this coastal cruise that's available year round. With one of the largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay, whales and dolphins of all types can be viewed as soon as you leave the bay. □ Fullerton Arboretum □ Irvine Regional Park OC’s largest botanical collection Nestled among a grove of heritage invites visitors to explore its Oak and Sycamore trees, this 491-acre educational gardens and learn about park is home to walking trails, the OC the region’s agricultural heritage. Zoo and a variety of wildlife. □ Orange County Great Park □ Crystal Cove Tidepools Soar 400 feet high in the iconic Great Located in Newport Beach, explore all Park Balloon, ride a carousel, explore the undersea creatures when you visit Kids Rock and skate in the new ice Crystal Cove at low tide. Sea urchins, facility at this 1,300-acre park that is mussels and crabs make their homes the site of the former Marine Corps along the coastline and you may be Air Station El Toro. able to spot dolphins and sea lions frolicking just off shore. □ Ralph B. Clark Regional Park & Interpretive Center □ Butterfly Palladium See ice age fossils at the Interpretive Opening in 2019, visitors will be Center and join in fossil hunts with immersed in this tropical habitat with archeologists that are scheduled thousands of butterflies. It will also be throughout the year. Explore the home to the world’s largest jellyfish grounds that include walking paths and aquarium, a hummingbird exhibit, three dinosaur-themed playgrounds. a 3-D theater and cafe. 28 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
ART & CULTURE □ Mission San Juan Capistrano □ Laguna Beach Art Walk, Tour the “Jewel of the Missions,” its Gallery & Festivals grounds, garden, museum and chapel. Enjoy First Thursdays Art Walks, Learn about the mission’s history and 40 galleries and the Pageant of The the legend of the Cliff Swallows. Masters in this beachside town with a long history of art. □ Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum □ Bowers Museum Visit the 37th President’s memorabilia, This Orange County museum helicopter and childhood home. includes a permanent collection of Recently renovated, the museum over 100,000 art pieces and hosts includes a multi-media presentation numerous international exhibits that introduces Richard Nixon and his throughout the year. It is also home 50-year career in public service. to Bowers Kidseum, a high-tech and interactive children’s museum. □ Knott’s Independence Hall American history is featured at this □ The Queen Mary exact replica of the Philadelphia Explore this massive ship’s history that landmark. The free exhibit allows dates back to the 1930s with narrated visitors to explore a replica of the tours. You can enjoy a meal or drink Liberty Bell, view presidential artifacts at one of the on-site restaurants and hear the forefathers discuss the and bars, or indulge in their weekly Declaration of Independence. champagne brunch. BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 29
THEME PARK KNOTT’S BERRY FARM Knott’s Berry Farm is an iconic theme park with attractions and entertainment in four themed areas inspired by the history and culture of California. Starting as a working berry farm, every boysenberry in the world can trace its roots to Knott’s Berry Farm. As it evolved from a roadside berry stand to a world-class theme park, beloved classic attractions like the Timber Mountain Log Ride and the Calico Mine Ride are still guest favorites today. With newer attractions like the interactive 4-D ride Voyage to the Iron Reef; GhostRider, the longest, tallest, fastest wooden roller coaster in California; or the first dive coaster with the steepest drop in California, HangTime. Knott’s is a must-do for locals and tourists from around the world. ONLY IN BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA WATER PARK KNOTT’S SOAK CITY Knott’s Soak City is a separately-gated, recently-expanded, 15-acre water park immediately adjacent to Knott’s Theme Park. Soak City boasts 23 speed, tube and body slides including the newly-added Shore Break featuring 6 different waterslide experiences; the 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wavepool; the one-third mile Sunset River; and the three-story Beach House, featuring 200 water guns, nozzles, sprayers and other interactive surprises. Designed for maximum family appeal, Gremmie Lagoon is a hands on water playground for pint- sized surfers. Open select dates mid-May through mid-September 32 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Set sail for adventure at Pirates Dinner Adventure, a one-of-a-kind dinner theater fun for the whole family. Watch in awe as buccaneers swoop from the rigging of an 18th century Spanish galleon, battling each other with swords, knives, and fists. Savor the action while you enjoy a delicious, four-course feast, fit for a pirate king. And keep a sharp eye out for the Loch Ness Monster, last seen circling the waters of the dark lagoon. Lads, lasses, and scallywags of all ages are welcome. Up to 150 volunteers participate in this epic entertainment – the world’s most interactive dinner show. Laugh, cheer, and sing along as the talented crew regales you to a high-seas rollick DINNER AND A SHOW you’ll never forget. The show runs seven days a week. TEATRO MARTINI Orange County’s hottest dinner show awaits visitors ages 18+. The two-hour vaudeville variety act features a group of misfit performers seeking success. Be entertained with hilarious comedy, world-class musical performances, dazzling acrobatics and stunning magical acts. Meanwhile, you can dine on an upscale, five-course meal and signature cocktails from master mixologists. Shows are Friday, Saturday and Sunday MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER & TOURNAMENT Named “Best Tourist Attraction” by OC Weekly, the two-hour dinner show takes you back to the age of chivalry. Wander the castle corridors to discover indoor stables, elaborately-decorated Hall of Arms, and lush outdoor garden. Cheer on your favorite knight competing in authentic jousting tournaments and hand-to-hand sword fights, while trying to win the Queen's heart. Feast like a king on a three-course meal and a decadent dessert. The show runs seven days a week. BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 33
GAMES & ENTERTAINMENT OLYMPIC GOLF ZONE This one-of-a-kind experience combines state-of-the-art technology and sports. Grab a group of friends and a round of cold drinks before hitting the course for 18 holes of digital golf on some of the world’s most famous courses or hit one out of the park in the interactive batting cages. CGV CINEMAS Experience the biggest Hollywood blockbusters in unique, 4DX theaters complete with cutting edge sound, moving seats and special effects like rain, scents and smoke. The unique experience can be enjoyed with 3 flavors of popcorn, an expansive bar and full line up of snacks. BIG AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK Jump off the walls on Zero-Gravity Courts; test your climbing skills on Martian Mountain™; play above the rim on Space Slam; dip, duck, and dive on Haley’s Dodge-It; flip into foam cubes on The Launch Pad; saddle-up on The Big Bull; or battle friends on Galactic Gladiators Battlebeam®! And Li’l Air™ offers big fun for your kids! JOHN’S INCREDIBLE PIZZA This ultimate combination of arcade games and all-you-can-eat buffet is 55,000 square feet of amusement rides, ticket-dispensing games, and sensory entertainment. Food favorites include 20 kinds of pizzas, pastas with homemade sauces, fresh salad bar, soups, and made-from-scratch desserts. 34 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
HISTORY & CULTURE CLARK INTERPRETIVE CENTER Orange County was once home to mammoths, ring-tailed cats, giant ground sloths, and ancient llamas. Located inside Clark Regional Park, this nationally recognized venue provides prehistoric OC exhibits, programs and guided tours. Fossils include a complete 9-million-year- old baleen whale skeleton. Watch scientists and volunteers excavate and prepare fossil specimens for educational exhibits. Admission is FREE! KNOTT’S INDEPENDENCE HALL Located across the street from Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott's Independence Hall is an exact, brick-by-brick replica of the original in Philadelphia. Walter Knott's personal labor of love, it is the nation's only exact replica of the Philadelphia landmark. Consistent with Walter Knott's wishes, Knott's Independence Hall will remain a free-admission facility. The building is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Christmas. The free exhibit allows visitors to explore a replica of the Liberty Bell, view presidential artifacts and hear the forefathers discuss the Declaration of Independence. BUENA PARK HISTORIC DISTRICT Travel back in time by touring the Buena Park Historic District featuring several preserved buildings from the 1800’s. The Whitaker-Jaynes House NUTRILITE EXPERIENCE CENTER serves as Buena Park's local history Medical professionals, pro athletes museum; the Bacon House is one the and visitors from all over come oldest surviving structures in Orange here to learn about the latest County and the Stage Stop Hotel, is health and nutrition trends. Their currently home to the only California 90-minute, twice-daily, free tours Welcome Center in Orange County. teach you about Nutrilite’s history, its agricultural growing process, how To schedule a free tour of the historic scientists develop vitamins, and how buildings, call 714.562.3570 they’re manufactured. Reservations are a must! BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 35
OC SHOPPING GUIDE Shauna Jackson, When looking to score a bargain on Orange County is really all about the one of the top luxury brands, I always head to The surf culture. Those who want to take OC stylists for Outlets at Orange (just 10 miles home a bit of Orange County fashion destinations, away from Buena Park). It's home to should check out the surf shops in gives the Off Saks, Nordstrom Rack, Last Call Huntington Beach on Main Street and lowdown on Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s— at Pacific City. Grab a cool tee from how to find the lots of spots for finding hidden little Huntington Surf & Sport or a fun quintessential gems for the best price. bikini from one of the little bikini shops OC look. Check to remember your visit to the OC. out her tips for South Coast Plaza is my go-to spot where to find when I’m shopping for clients who surf style, luxury want high-end premium brands like brands, vintage gear and more. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes. I’m not going to go to a department While you might think of Southern store, I’m going to go to South Coast California style as laid back—jeans, Plaza where they have boutiques with a tee and flip flops—the OC style the best selection. What I also love would be more polished casual— about South Coast Plaza is that it jeans with heels. The perfect outfit offers the element of “fast fashion” for your Orange County visit would from stores like Zara and COS to be layers—think jeans, a cool pair bring a good mix of high-low price Pacific City of sneakers, sweater, sunglasses and points. It’s also a great spot to shop always sunscreen. for the kids as many of the stores offer their full kids’ line, like Gucci and Crewcuts from J.Crew. For a truly unique shopping experience, Lido Marina Village is the spot. You can shop at cool stores like Bailey44 and Cos Bar and then walk across the cobblestone street to grab a glass of wine and check out the boats in the marina. It’s just stunning. Outlets at Orange A few fun spots for those looking to score a great vintage find would be Elsewhere Vintage in the Orange Follow Shauna online: Lido Village Circle and Vintage Row on Fourth Website: styledbysj.com Street in Long Beach. Facebook/Instagram: @styledbysj BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 37
BEACH ROAD TRIPPING YOUR GUIDE TO DISCOVER ORANGE COUNTY BEACHES
These three nearby coastal communities offer you sun, sand, and the Pacific. HUNTINGTON BEACH X (10 miles from Buena Park) A straight shot south on Beach Boulevard takes you right to Huntington Beach and its world- famous pier. This wide, sandy beach has been touted for decades as one of best beaches in America—and the namesake for “Surf City USA®” Sunbathe, watch surfers, check out the World’s Largest Surfboard, ride a beach cruiser along the boardwalk, roast marshmallows over a bonfire, or get out on the water with a paddle board, kayak or Duffy boat. NEWPORT BEACH X (20 miles from Buena Park) Ten more miles south is the largest recreational harbor on the West Coast, Newport Beach. Surfers can enjoy 10 miles of sandy beach while families frolic in Marina Park’s sheltered waters. Don't miss the Ferris wheel and vintage arcade games at the Balboa Fun Zone. LAGUNA BEACH X (29 miles from Buena Park) Finish your coastal road trip in picturesque Laguna Beach. This resort area provides a year-round retreat for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and snorkeling adventurers at Shaw’s Cove. Seven miles of sand includes Heisler Park Reserve and Treasure Island Beach for tide pool exploring. BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 39
EAT INDULGE YOUR TASTE BUDS WITH THESE LOCAL FLAVORS
From award-winning cuisine to notable food to go, Buena Park has something for every palate and budget. LOCAL FAVORITES Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner MRS. KNOTT’S CHICKEN DINNER RESTAURANT ROCK & BREWS Serving their world-famous fried A rock & roll themed restaurant and chicken, mouth-watering biscuits, bar with over 100 craft beers, classic creamy mashed potatoes and American dishes and outdoor patio boysenberry pie since 1934 with beach volleyball court knotts.com rockandbrews.com PORTO’S BAKERY & CAFÉ THE CAULDRON SPIRITS & BREWS The Cauldron Spirits & Brews AWARD WINNER Authentic Cuban sandwiches, A witch-themed sanctuary with mind-blowing desserts and sinfully quality cocktails, craft brews, French delicious coffee drinks is why they Provincial-style bites and hearty were named Yelp’s #1 restaurant in the comfort food with a wicked twist. Try county. Their potato balls and cheese to find the hidden room or taste the rolls are worth the wait! Knotty Kid, made with boysenberry portosbakery.com cotton candy and vodka thecauldronbar.com Porto’s Bakery & Café 42 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
QUICK & TASTY BITES PORTILLO’S IN-N-OUT AWARD WINNER Portillo’s is an iconic Chicago eatery In-N-Out embraces a classic with signature hot dogs, world- Southern California drive-in with famous Italian beef sandwiches, mouth-watering burgers, hand-cut burgers, salads and milkshakes fries and their famous ice cream portillos.com shakes. Tap into the secret menu with Animal Style fries, topped THE HABIT BURGER GRILL with secret sauce, grilled onions and AWARD WINNER Named the “Best Tasting Burger melted cheese in America” and a Buena Park in-n-out.com favorite habitburger.com Portillo’s POQUITO MAS Find Mexican classics made with fresh tortillas, fire-grilled meats and homemade salsas. A ‘must have’ for seafood lovers is the Tacos San Lucas, made with marinated shrimp and melted jack cheese poquitomas.com SPENCER’S BISTRO Award-winning Chef Spencer Kim hand-crafts each dish on his seasonal menu, with Asian, South American and Indian influences spencersbistro.com THE KICKIN’ CRAB Pick your favorite seafood, Cajun seasonings and vegetables for a one-of-a-kind feast thekickincrab.com The Habit Burger Grill Poquito Mas Kickin' Crab BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 43
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FOOD FARRELL’S ICE CREAM PARLOUR AWARD WINNER Serving American classics, build- your-own burgers, table-side ice cream sundaes and interactive candy making classes. Try your hand at The Zoo, a 30 scoop ice cream sundae topped with fresh fruit, chocolate syrup and whipped cream farrellsusa.com FUDDRUCKERS Fuddruckers serves “The World’s Greatest Hamburgers” with some assembly required from an oversized produce bar and sauce station Pizza Studio fuddruckers.com JOHN’S INCREDIBLE PIZZA DICKEY’S BBQ PIT PIZZA STUDIO Indulge in their all-you-can-eat buffet Slow smoked ribs, brisket, chicken and Build-your-own pizza by choosing packed with a wide selection of pasta, sausage are served with all the fixins from several unique crusts, sauces, salad, desserts and of course, pizza! For and on Sunday, kids eat free! cheeses and an unlimited selection a unique eat, try their signature peanut dickeys.com of meats and vegetables butter pizza pizzastudio.com johnspizza.com Dickey's BBQ John’s Incredible Pizza Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour 44 / VISITBUENAPARK.COM
Yoshiharu FAR EAST EATS SUP NOODLE BAR Their delicious pho is made with slow simmered broth, premium meats and fresh vegetables that go perfect with a side of crab cakes, bacon brussel sprouts or their famous shaken fries supnoodlebar.com YOSHIHARU AWARD WINNER Yoshiharu is a top-rated ramen house with broth slow-simmered for 14 Sup Noodle Bar New Moon hours yoshiharuramen.com KANG HO-DONG BAEKJEONG D-POT AWARD Voted “The Absolute Best Korean Create your own Shabu-Shabu hot- WINNER BBQ” visitors cook high-quality pot with the highest quality meat, meat, corn smothered in cheese and vegetables and broth served with scrambled eggs on tabletop grills flavorful sides and sauces 678us.com dpotonline.com NEW MOON THE YELLOW CHILLI New Moon puts a modern twist on Enjoy traditional Indian cuisine by Chinese classics like Shelby beef, celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor Hunan crispy shrimp and their theyellowchilli.com world-famous Chinese chicken salad newmoonrestaurants.com Kang Ho-Dong Baekjeong BUENA PARK VISITOR GUIDE / 45
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