Buena Park

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Buena Park's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Buena Park downtown area, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. After breakfast, take a stroll around the historic sites, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals that reflect the city's heritage. Don’t miss the Buena Park Historical Society Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich past.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby diner, head to the Buena Park Mall for some shopping and entertainment. Browse through a variety of stores, or catch a movie at the theater located within the mall. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps grab a snack at one of the many food stalls.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at one of Buena Park's famous restaurants, such as the Pirate's Dinner Adventure, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience with a live show. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll through the nearby Knott's Berry Farm, where you can enjoy the illuminated rides and attractions. Finish the night with a delicious dessert from a local ice cream shop.

day 2
Thrills at Knott's Berry Farm
morning
:

Start your day at Knott's Berry Farm, one of the most popular amusement parks in the area. Arrive early to beat the crowds and grab breakfast at the park's café, fueling up for a day full of excitement. Once you've eaten, head straight to the thrilling roller coasters and rides that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure at Knott's Berry Farm by exploring the various themed areas and attractions. Take a break for lunch at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant, where you can savor their famous fried chicken. Afterward, enjoy some live entertainment or catch a show while you rest your feet.

evening
:

As the park begins to light up, make your way to the Ghost Town area for some nighttime fun. Enjoy the ambiance and explore the shops before finding a spot to watch the evening fireworks display. End your day with a late-night snack or dessert from one of the park's many eateries.

day 3
Cultural Immersion at the Museum
morning
:

Visit the nearby Bowers Museum in Santa Ana to explore its diverse collection of art and artifacts. Start your morning with a guided tour that highlights the unique pieces and their cultural significance. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, offering fresh and local options before diving into the exhibits.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon engaging with interactive displays and participating in workshops that the museum often hosts. Take your time to appreciate the engaging stories behind the artifacts, particularly the Native American and Californian history sections. Afterward, head to the museum's gift shop for a unique souvenir to remember your experience.

evening
:

Return to Buena Park and unwind at a local wine bar or brewery, sampling some of the region's finest brews or wines. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while chatting about your cultural discoveries from the day. Consider indulging in a light dinner at a nearby eatery, reflecting on the rich history you explored.

day 4
Beach Day at Seal Beach
morning
:

Kick off your beach day with a drive to nearby Seal Beach, where you can enjoy the fresh ocean air. Arrive early to secure a great spot on the sand and have breakfast at a waterfront café, soaking in the beautiful seaside views. After breakfast, spend some time walking along the pier, watching surfers ride the waves.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, rent beach equipment like paddleboards or umbrellas and spend the day soaking up the sun and splashing in the waves. Grab lunch at one of the beachside taco stands for a taste of local flavors. Don't forget to take breaks and enjoy the vibrant beach culture, watching beach volleyball games and families playing in the sand.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach, capturing stunning photos of the changing sky. Decide on a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, where you can savor fresh catches of the day. Conclude your beach day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop before heading back to Buena Park.

day 5
Shopping and Dining Extravaganza
morning
:

Start your day at the Buena Park Downtown shopping center, where you can explore a variety of shops and boutiques. Have breakfast at a trendy café, enjoying a delicious selection of pastries and coffee. Afterward, browse through the stores, picking up unique items and local crafts.

afternoon
:

After shopping, treat yourself to a delightful lunch at a popular chain or local restaurant offering a diverse menu. Spend the afternoon continuing your shopping spree at the nearby Cypress Plaza, where you can find even more retail options. Take your time to explore the various shops, looking for sales and special deals.

evening
:

As the evening arrives, head to a fine dining restaurant in Buena Park for an exquisite dinner experience. Savor a multi-course meal with wine pairings, taking the time to relish each dish. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at a local bar or lounge, reflecting on your successful day of shopping and dining.

day 6
Adventure at the Great Wolf Lodge
morning
:

Begin your day at the Great Wolf Lodge, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet. After fueling up, head to the indoor water park for a day filled with splashes and thrills, enjoying the slides and wave pool. Don’t forget to explore the lodge's various attractions, including arcade games and interactive experiences.

afternoon
:

Continue your water park adventure, making the most of the amenities and attractions available. Grab lunch from one of the on-site eateries, offering a range of family-friendly options. Afterward, take part in the lodge's themed activities, from story time to crafts, ensuring fun for guests of all ages.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, enjoy a cozy dinner at one of the lodge's restaurants, where you can unwind and share your favorite moments from the day. Participate in evening activities like the nightly dance party or character meet-and-greets. End the night with a relaxing swim in the pool or a soothing soak in the hot tub.

day 7
Nature and Wildlife Excursion
morning
:

Take a refreshing trip to the nearby Santa Ana River Trail for a morning of nature exploration. After a quick breakfast, embark on a hike or bike ride along the scenic trails, enjoying the beautiful views and wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local fauna as you enjoy the fresh air.

afternoon
:

After your outdoor adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas along the trail. Spend the afternoon relaxing and soaking in the peaceful natural surroundings, or take a guided nature walk to learn more about the local ecosystem. Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Buena Park and unwind at a local park, perhaps catching a sunset. Consider having dinner at a nearby restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, allowing you to enjoy fresh, local ingredients. End your day with a stroll in the park, reflecting on your nature-filled adventures.

day 8
Culinary Tour of Buena Park
morning
:

Start your culinary adventure with a breakfast tour at a local artisan bakery known for its fresh pastries and coffee. Enjoy sampling a variety of baked goods while learning about the baking process and the ingredients used. After breakfast, take a short walk to a nearby gourmet market for some local treats.

afternoon
:

Join a guided food tour that showcases the diverse culinary scene in Buena Park, visiting various restaurants and eateries. During the tour, taste signature dishes and learn about the unique flavors that each establishment offers. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the stops, soaking up the vibrant food culture.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary journey with a dinner reservation at a renowned upscale restaurant featuring a multi-course tasting menu. Relish each dish, enjoying the expertly paired wines and the thoughtful presentations. After dinner, visit a local dessert shop for a sweet finale to your culinary experiences in Buena Park.

day 9
Family Fun at Pirate's Dinner Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Pirate's Dinner Adventure, where you’ll enjoy an exciting breakfast buffet. Arrive early to explore the pirate-themed environment, filled with fun decorations and playful activities for the kids. Engage in pirate-themed games and activities while you wait for the show to begin.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, participate in some of the interactive activities offered, including treasure hunts and pirate role-playing games. Enjoy a hearty lunch before the main show, where you can continue to soak in the lively atmosphere. Prepare for an entertaining afternoon filled with laughter and excitement.

evening
:

As the evening unfolds, settle in for the spectacular Pirate's Dinner Adventure show, featuring acrobatics, live music, and a thrilling storyline. Savor a delicious dinner served during the performance, making it a delightful dining experience. After the show, take some time to meet the performers and snap photos, creating lasting family memories.

Discover Buena Park

Read more in our Buena Park 2025 Travel Guide.

Buena Park Travel Guide