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Entertainment Guide to Anaheim

Discover great local attractions, activities and things to do in Anaheim, CA.

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California Adventure

Orange County's entertainment scene is crammed with endless possibilities for locals and visitors alike. Whether you like fine art or hard rock, the OC is the place for you. Its beautiful seaside surroundings and nearly perfect weather creates ample opportunities for your "things to do" list.

Art & Museums

The true beauty of Orange County is matched by equally exceptionally creative representations that celebrate California culture and contemporary art. Located at the popular Fashion Island Newport Beach, the Orange County Museum of Art features collections that concentrate on California art and late 20th century pieces. California impressionism can be seen at The Irvine Museum where they're dedicated to spreading awareness about the current condition California's natural environment. If you're interested in the works of local artists, check out the Art Institute of Southern California-Ettinger & Reynolds Galleries, that features works by students, and the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art whose emphasis is on freedom to express oneself through contemporary art. At the Irvine Fine Arts Center, you can see an array of innovative artistic expressions including ceramic, multimedia, photography, and much more.

For the seafaring enthusiasts, you will be happy to know that Orange County's proximity to beaches makes it a perfect place to see art about maritime history. The Vallejo Gallery is dedicated to portrayals of the American and British ships of the past. Also, at the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, you can see a historical boat that is docked at the harbor and learn about the history of Newport harbor while getting some fun-in-the-sun time too. While the art of Orange County is relatively California-based, the Laguna Art Museum features works that have a global reach as well. Here, you can find classic and modern art by both local and internationally distinguished artists. The Bowers Museum of Cultural Art has artifacts from Southeast Asian, Mexican, and Native American cultures.

Music


The music scene in Orange County offers about as much as you can imagine. An assortment of venues brings music to the ears of Orange County residents and visitors. Places such as Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre and Honda Center offers just about everything from Lollapalooza to classical concerts to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Jazz fans will appreciate the Steamers Cafe where jazz musicians from around the world grace the stage. For a night of the OC's local artists, stop by The Hub where you can sip on a latte while checking out some music performers. The Coach House is a favorite spot for those that enjoy seeing their favorite musicians in the most intimate of settings.

Theater & Film

Theater & film is a significant part of Orange County's entertainment field. For Broadway fans, be sure to visit the Orange County Performing Arts Center and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts which feature shows including "Cats" and "Miss Saigon." The South Coast Repertory and Costa Mesa Civic Playhouse features many classic and contemporary plays. The Brea Curtis Theatre puts on many comedies, dramas, and also has The Kids Culture Club which is ideal for family outings where you can see ballets and jugglers. Want to see modern plays such as "Grease"? Stop by the La Habra Depot Theatre. For a fun excursion with friends, check out Medieval Times. In addition, the Newport Beach Film Festival brings to film buffs a chance to not only watch films, but also an opportunity to meet with the screenwriters, directors, and cinematographers as well. Research Institutes & Exhibits

While Orange County's claim to fame is its all-the-rage beaches and shopping centers, the Orange County Natural History Museum offsets this representation by being a research facility dedicated to environmental preservation. The Ocean Institute of Dana Point also serves as an educational facility for students and tourists alike.

Nightclubs


Although there's a lot to do during the day, the OC is one happening place at night. The young, hip crowd of Costa Mesa likes to go to The Shark Club where they play pool and check out the 2000 gallon shark tank. For a wild time, after a day in Laguna Beach catching your rays, drop in at the Sandpiper Lounge for their "4 second poured" drinks and live music. For an even wilder night out, check out Club Rubber, located at the Galaxy Concert Theatre. Here, you can run amok among the most eccentric crowd of the OC and participate in one of the club's monthly themes such as "Catholic School Girl" and "60s Psychedelics." At Club M, sushi lovers can get their fill of "Spicy Tuna Rolls" and sake bombs before dancing the night away at the restaurant's club. The same goes for the China Beach Canteen. For those that like to try new things, this place breaks the mold by blending Chinese food and reggae music under one roof.

Outdoor Activities

Beautiful Orange County is also booming with outdoor activities. A day trip hot spot is the Newport Landing Boardwalk and Newport Pier, where friends, families, tourists, and locals enjoy shopping, eating, and taking in the splendor of the harbor. Take advantage of the harbor by doing some day fishing at Newport Landing Sportfishing. Balboa Island's relaxing atmosphere makes it a perfect place to spend the day on an island.

If you're an avid golfer, the OC's golf courses are certainly up to par. Come play all 18 holes at Westridge Golf Club or, if you're up for a challenge, play on the hills of the Anaheim Hills Golf Course. The Strawberry Farms Golf Club and Aliso Viejo Ice Chalet are also great places to practice your swing.

Last but certainly not least, Disneyland, is one of the OC's must-see spots. Dubbed the "Magic Kingdom," Disneyland brings visitors from far and wide to see attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and the Matterhorn.

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