You could visit Disneyland on your birthday, or you could help the theme park celebrate its own birthday. The chance comes each year on July 17, which is also a great time to explore Anaheim.
The day marks the dedication of Disneyland back in 1955, when Walt Disney himself hosted special guests on a tour before the park's official opening the next day. While it's not an officially recognized event, the park often passes out special souvenirs to early arrivers, the Dapper Dans barbershop quartet sings "Happy Birthday" and many attendees dress in their 1950s finest.
The surrounding city of Anaheim, meanwhile, offers plenty to see and do, with museums, food and drink, sports and nature all within easy reach.
Using travel site Skyscanner, we’ve sifted through the cheapest flights between Phoenix and Anaheim, including some standout hotel options and other highly reviewed local attractions. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest Anaheim flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between Phoenix and Anaheim are if you leave on July 14 and return from California on July 18. American Airlines currently has tickets for $257, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had later in July. If you fly out of Phoenix on July 15 and return from Anaheim on July 18, American Airlines can get you there and back for $267 roundtrip.
Top Anaheim accommodations
To plan your stay, here are some of Anaheim’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do, and customer satisfaction.
The Disneyland Hotel (1150 W. Magic Way)
If you're looking to splurge on top quality, consider The Disneyland Hotel. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $198.
Close to Disneyland and Downtown Disney, this Anaheim hotel is situated in the suburbs. Additional attractions include Crystal Cathedral.
"Every staff member I encountered had the Disney charm," wrote visitor Jean. "Loved my deluxe room as it was super spacious. Easily accessible to downtown Disney and the theme parks."
The Ayres Hotel Anaheim (2550 E. Katella Ave.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, try The Ayres Hotel Anaheim, which has rooms for $109/night.
Set in the heart of Anaheim, this hotel is close to Honda Center and Grove of Anaheim, as well as Angel Stadium. Other attractions include Disneyland.
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel (1600 S. Disneyland Drive)
A pricer alternative is Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. With a 4.5-star rating on Skyscanner, the hotel is one of the most luxurious in the city. Rooms are currently listed for $266/night.
"The Grand Californian is a spectacular hotel! The rooms are beautiful, the views are stunning, the service is exceptional and the restaurants will definitely satisfy your palate," wrote reviewer Cindy.
Local restaurant picks
Anaheim has plenty of topnotch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
Brodard Restaurant (9892 Westminster Ave.)
One of Anaheim's most popular restaurants is Brodard Restaurant, which has an average of 4.5 stars out of 62 reviews on Skyscanner.
"Brodard is known for their spring rolls," wrote visitor Tim. "I was surprised how big this restaurant is. Most of the Vietnamese places feel very local and small. They put quite a few work in it to make it feel exotic and welcoming. The food was really good. We enjoyed every dish."
Cream Pan (602 El Camino Real)
Another popular dining destination is Cream Pan, with 4.7 stars from 36 reviews.
"Outside, this Japanese-French bakery doesn't look like much, but enter inside and you will find yourself in pastry heaven," wrote reviewer Briana. "Known for their strawberry cream croissants, Cream Pan has a long list of delectable desserts, breads and doughnuts, along with curry and sushi (you read that right). Come as early as possible, as popular items can sell out."
Roy's (321 W. Katella Ave.)
Finally, there's Roy's.
"Reminded me of a Hawaiian version of Fleming's," wrote Kim. This is a great date night/ special occasion restaurant to go to."
Featured Anaheim attractions
To round out your trip, Anaheim offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are a couple of top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
Disneyland (1313 Disneyland Drive)
First up is Disneyland.
Guests of all ages are enthralled by this whimsical, magical land of make believe. Mickey, Minnie, Cinderella and all your favorite Disney characters come to life here in eight extravagantly themed lands. Sail with pirates, explore exotic jungles, meet fairy-tale princesses, dive under the ocean and rocket through the stars on the most popular ride in the entire park: Space Mountain. There are rides galore.
"What can I say about the happiest place on earth," wrote visitor Pamela. "I never get bored of Disneyland even after all these years. You will always be a kid again here!"
Disney's California Adventure Park (1313 Disneyland Drive)
Disney's California Adventure Park is another popular destination.
Located right across the street from its older brother, Disney's California Adventure is a whirlpool of color, music and familiar Disney characters.
"California Adventure is kind of the cooler, hipper younger sister to Disneyland," wrote visitor Becky. "The magic, nostalgia and classic warm fuzzies can be found within the gates of Disneyland, but the adventure, the adult whimsy and the thrill can be found across the terrace at California Adventure."
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
