How to Find Hotels In Anaheim, California

Tourists flock to famous Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, the second biggest city in upscale Orange County. With Los Angeles just 28 miles away, a trip to Anaheim makes an ideal mini-getaway during a longer SoCal vacation.

Things You'll Need

• A computer with Internet access to book your accommodations

Instructions

Know Your Destination

1. Understand Disneyland's effect on the city. The park, opened in 1955, dramatically altered life in Anaheim, which until then had been a quiet, rather obscure town. The city was founded by Bavarian winemakers in 1857.

2. Appreciate that Anaheim, California appeals to adults as well as children. Believe it or not, Downtown Disney even has nightclubs. Hotels near Downtown Disney can offer parents easy access to entertainment after the kids have gone to bed.

3. Understand that Anaheim is landlocked. However, since it is located within Orange County, some of the best surfing and sunbathing beaches (not to mention the ritziest hotels) in California are just a short drive away.

Organize Transportation

1. Fly into the John Wayne Airport, which is just 15 miles away, or the larger Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is about 40 miles away. Larger hotel chains will offer shuttles from LAX to their establishment.

2. Rent a car if you plan to explore the world outside of Disneyland Resort. However, if your only goal is to enjoy the park, consider staying near the resort and simply shuttling to and fro.

Book Your Accommodations

1. To book accommodations, contact Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

2. Book your accommodations with a name you can trust. Familiar hotel chains are readily available, and many offer all-inclusive vacation packages with park admission. All are reasonably priced.

3. Enjoy a view of Neverland from the Disneyland Hotel, a high rise hotel located right in Disneyland. Rooms at this 4-star hotel average several hundred dollars per night.

4. Find surprisingly inexpensive accommodations in Anaheim, California. Popular and family-friendly inns often average just over $100 a night.

Research Local Information and Attractions

1. Indulge your child (inner or actual) at the many theme parks that put Anaheim on the map. Disneyland Resort is truly fabulous, with magical landscaping, sets and rides. Adventure City, Disney's California Adventure and nearby Knott's Berry Farm are also big hits.

2. Hit the beach by driving just a short distance west of Anaheim. Laguna Beach and other popular spots are nearby.

3. Star in your own version of Top Gun at the Flightdeck Air Combat Center, where visitors enjoy the simulated experience of fighting and flying like a fighter pilot.

Tips & Warnings

• Protect your skin from the sun, and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.