Top 3 Anaheim story starters

1. Downtown Anaheim's Urban Revival
Located just a few miles from Disneyland Resort is Downtown Anaheim, the destination's original mother colony, which is getting a second lease on life. A number of innovative small businesses have recently opened in the walkable enclave and many are housed in historic buildings. From a contemporary food hall in Sunkist's original 1919 citrus packing plant to a brewery, BBQ joint and winery all under one roof in an old marmalade factory, these hot spots are newly revived and ready for the savvy traveler to discover. Around the corner is Center Street Promenade, a pristine twinkle-light-lined street boasting one-of-a-kind hot spots. A barbershop beer bar, mini food hall, comic book shop and circus school all call the stroll-able street home. Next up is Leisuretown, a historic craftsman house which is being reincarnated into a brewpub with a café, pool, and outdoor movie area. This is not the Anaheim you remember.

2. Anaheim's Original Beer History Comes Back
Anaheim's history is steeped in beer; the first founding colonists were from Bavaria and gave Anaheim its German name. Naturally, breweries cropped up throughout the 1800s and were beloved local treasures. When Prohibition hit, much to this dismay of the residents, all the breweries closed. Now with the full support of the city, Anaheim's craft brewery scene is booming again—even an original brand from the 1800s has been brought back to life. There are a dozen open for tastes and tours now and many more on the way. The craft beer industry has taken note with Anaheim breweries earning medals at Great American Beer Festival and at the World Beer Cup where one brewery earned best IPA in the world and small brewery of the year. Keep your eye on Anaheim's brew scene.

3. Four Diamonds Are a Destination's Best Friend
Anaheim's hotel collection is about to become even more flawless. Four AAA Four Diamond hotels have revealed plans to bring a bit of magic and sparkle to the Anaheim Resort district over the next few years. Orange County's first JW Marriott comes first which is a $150 million, 466-room property to be built adjacent to Anaheim GardenWalk. Disneyland has announced the addition of a luxury hotel, the first in nearly 20 years. The hotel will offer luxury amenities including two pools, alfresco dining with views of the park and more. The third will replace the Anaheim Plaza & Suites; the 580-room property will have two signature restaurants, swimming pools, meeting space and a lounge overlooking the Disneyland Resort. The fourth is a $225 million, over 600-room property which will replace the Anabella Hotel on Katella Ave. and will attract discerning business and convention clientele.

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