TRAVEL | Unexpected Anaheim | The KV Bijou Blog

TRAVEL | Unexpected Anaheim

We just got back from a 4 day whirlwind adventure in Anaheim. Like many in BC, prior to our trip, all I really knew about Anaheim was Disneyland (sorry Anaheim locals!) I've since learned there IS SO MUCH MORE!!! I've never really spent much time in Anaheim itself. In the past we've been there for a day or two to see Disney and I've never had the chance to explore much else.

Those of you following on @kvbijou instagram saw that we did an instagram takeover for Tourism Anaheim and it was incredible getting to know this beautiful place a bit more! Here's a glimpse at what we got up to during our trip.

South Coast Plaza

This is definitely a beautiful place to visit. South Coast Plaza is actually the largest mall on the West Coast of the United States. You'll find over 250 stores, including many highend luxury brands. If you checked out my insta-stories you saw me getting to experience their 'VIP treatment' which included the access lounge, champagne and trying on a 2 million dollar 7 carat Harry Winston diamond ring!! It's that kinda place. There's no shortage of beautiful shops and the staff at SCP are truly wonderful.

The Outlets at Orange

If you have the chance to check out the Outlets at Orange, I'd recommend starting your shopping day with a massage at Burke Willams! We did a couples massage before hitting the outlets and had the best day. If it says anything about the quality of stores in this outlet mall, Terry (who hates shopping) shopped until he dropped. This was probably the best outlet mall we've ever visited. Definitely a must-visit.

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Anaheim Packing House

We were lucky enough to check it out on a night they had live music! This place is really unique. The Anaheim Packing House is an upscale food court with amazing local vendors (with everything you can imagine) in a historic 1919 citrus-packing house. It's a great place to grab dinner, a beer or dessert (or all three!)

San Clemente

We met a local who described San Clemente to me as 'a sleeper surf town' and I'd have to agree with him. When I told him I was a travel blogger, he told me to tell you guys its actually a horrible place so that this charming place remains a secret. Ha! It's really a special place and it was easy to get to from Anaheim by taking the Arctic train. We spent time walking around the bluffs, watching the surfers and walking the picturesque pier.

Center Street Promenade

Right when we pulled up to Center Street Promenade I was excited. Adorable lights hung above the street promenade and there was SO MUCH GOOD FOOD. I will be back Center Street... I will be back.

Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel

Right across the street from Disney, our hotel was perfectly central for all our exploring. Our room was nice and spacious to unpack and feel at home in. Our only regret was we didn't plan enough pool time on the schedule! For the day that we enjoyed Disney, we took full advantage of their awesome shuttle service and if you saw my insta-story you know our room came with a castle! Need I say more?!

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Final thoughts: Anaheim is definitely on my list of places I'd like to return to, and not because just of Disney, but because our trip made me feel like I've only scratched the surface of all there is to explore. From the breweries, to the shopping, to the incredible food and (hello!!!) sunshine.... I previously under estimated Anaheim and I can't wait to plan my next trip. See you there!