What to Do Near Angel Stadium Before and After the Game
The Los Angeles Angels have called the city of Anaheim home since 1966. And no matter how many names the club has taken on in that time (California Angels, Anaheim Angels, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim), it’s remained Orange County’s baseball team with their stadium serving as a popular attraction for local and visiting fans alike.
While “the Big A” hasn’t hosted a playoff game since 2014, the Angels are still set to field an entertaining team this season and could contend for a playoff spot in the competitive American League West division.
Visitors can drive to the stadium, day or night. But there’s also easy public transportation to and from the Platinum Triangle neighborhood of Anaheim, where you’ll find plenty of activities to check out beyond just a baseball game. Want to plan your day or evening out? Here’s our guide to the best activities, food and drinks nearby (and no, we’re not including Disneyland, but here’s a guide if you’d like to head there instead).
Blue Bowl
Blue Bowl sits on the western edge of Old Towne Orange, offering a wide array of juices, acai bowls, coffee, and tea. While they’re not open on Sundays, it’s a nearby (less than two miles away) spot to grab a healthier breakfast or lunch before downing some hot dogs and/or beers. It’s a small spot with limited seating, though, so do allow some extra time if you’re headed that way before the game.
Calivino Wine Pub
The name may seem to suggest you’re limited to California wines at Calivino Wine Pub, however, there’s a lot more to this locally-sourced restaurant. Inside, there’s plenty of burgers, fries, craft beer from several nearby breweries, and other fresh food options as well. Try the bacon dates and/or the poutine for a delectable pre-game snack.
Flight Deck
If you have a considerable amount of time before or after the Angels game, Flight Deck flight simulation center lets visitors try out as many as three different fighter jets, and it allows you to dress in real flight gear too. You’ll need to make reservations in advance, but for those who may be a bit more wary of heights, it’s a fun way to get that experience without being thousands of feet in the air.
Hollingshead’s Delicatessen
Sure, you’re getting a great sandwich selection, but you’re also getting access to one of the best beer menus in Orange County. Hollingshead’s Deli has long boasted a lengthy list of Southern California’s best taps, featuring local favorites like Beachwood, Modern Times, and Bottle Logic, to breweries like Cigar City, Allagash, and Almanac (among numerous others). Hollingshead’s is not open on Sundays, however.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Karl Strauss won’t be anything new to visiting beer experts, given its numerous locations. But it’s also directly across the street from the stadium. That’s helpful for those who want to arrive early to grab a bite and some fresh-poured house beers or for heavier imbibers who may want to avoid the additional rideshare cost.
Mission Escape Games
Before or after the Angels game, it’s easy enough to add another “game” to your day. Mission Escape Games is located on the second floor of Anaheim GardenWalk and provides a fun escape room experience, whether you’ve tried them before or not. Small groups work just fine, if there’s just a few of you going. And there are both scary and not-so-scary options as well. In my own experience, “Escape the Hydeout” provides just the right amount of hoops for a family of five to jump through.
Noble Ale Works
Noble Ale Works is a popular spot at all hours — especially around game times for the Angels and Ducks — so expect a crowd when you arrive. But the brewery’s lot, a mile walk from the stadium, is an easy and free option for fans (as long as you buy a beer or two) to utilize. Noble’s most popular styles nowadays are their Hazy IPAs, but there’s plenty more on tap too, no matter your taste preferences.
The Outlets at Orange
Southern California has no shortage of outdoor malls, and one of the better options in Orange County is The Outlets at Orange, including a wide array of shopping options, many of which at outlet prices. There’s also plenty of food available, a skate park, a movie theater, and a fun center. Not a bad way to tire out the kids after sitting for much of the baseball game beforehand.
The Oyster Bar SKC
In an assuming spot within the Anaheim Transportation Center, The Oyster Bar SKC is a hip Cajun restaurant with oysters (of course) and enough TVs to make for a proper sports bar as well. It’s become a favorite of delayed travelers, but also works as a pre- or post-game meal for those avoiding your typical stadium fare.
Zov’s Anaheim
Zov’s Anaheim is a cool Mediterranean restaurant just a half-mile walk from the stadium, providing a quick bite for those that want it, and also more of a sit-down environment for those that would rather stay awhile. The presentation is no-frills, but there are plenty of favorites on the menu for fans of Mediterranean cuisine, with some Southern California flare to go with it.