Buena Park is a bustling community full of attractions for the whole family located in the heart of balmy Southern California.
Buena Park is part of Orange County and the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, so you can expect many urban adventures.
But there are still pockets of natural reserves if you want a quick escape from busy city lives.
There’s something for everyone here with the town’s theme parks, golf courses, themed shows, and religious temples.
So if you’re an adventure seeker, spiritual individual, entertainment lover, or thrill-seeker, Buena Park has what you’re looking for.
Make it your destination for your upcoming vacation! Here are some of the best things to do in Buena Park
Fun Things to Do in Buena Park
1. Don’t Miss a Performance at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
If Pirates Dinner Adventure takes you on an adventure on the high seas, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament brings you the duels of armored knights.
This attraction is another of the evening shows in Buena Park.
This time the theme is medieval, so the main focus is on knights, horses, swords, and other era elements.
The stage is a sandbox surrounded by comfortable seating that allows diners to eat with an unobstructed view.
Knight battles, one-on-one duels, and sword fights are just some of the feats you can expect.
And don’t worry – all these incredible stunts and choreographed talented and experienced actors perform fights.
You can choose your favorite knight based on their colors and have a photo opportunity with them after their show!
2. Explore Henry Boisseranc Park
Henry Boisseranc Park is a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic, game, or viewing of seasonal action.
In addition to handball, basketball, and tennis courts, the park also offers several other court sports. Additionally, there is a baseball/softball field.
It is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy delicious food.
The park also hosts Silverado Days with several carnival rides and activities and various delicious food vendors.
During the summer, Henry Boisseranc Park hosts free concerts.
3. Have Fun at Buena Park Raceway
A fantastic 155-foot-long track king awaits you at Buena Park Raceway, one of the premier venues for toy car enthusiasts.
Play and try to beat Beuf Pederson’s current world record lap time of 1.404 seconds.
In addition to the King Course, Buena Park Raceway also features a flat circuit and Kingleman’s Track.
It’s one of the best tracks for honing your strategy and skills, so it’s a fascinating and enjoyable way to spend your time.
At Buena Park Raceway, you may probably find everything you need to build your slot machine at the racetrack, as they provide a comprehensive selection of slot machine items and services.
Things to Do in Buena Park at Night
1. Unwind at Beach Boulevard Club
Beach Boulevard Club is a fun destination in Buena Park. It has delicious food, fancy drinks, and a duet piano show.
Stepping into this classy cocktail bar will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into the Roaring Twenties.
The club’s experienced pianists will provide a relaxed atmosphere while you interact with friends.
The Beach Boulevard Club cash bar offers a wide selection of alcoholic beverages.
Dishes from several food categories are available at the club.
2. Have Dinner at Amber Waves
Amber Waves is a full-service restaurant and bar that you can visit for delicious all-American family food.
It is open to customers throughout the day, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast buffet, a light lunch, or a delicious dinner.
Some delicious entrees include made-to-order burgers, New York Steak, and handmade pizzas and pasta.
A popular favorite among Amber Waves regulars is the Boysenberry Chicken Pizza, topped with their famous Boysenberry Chipotle BBQ Sauce from Knott’s Berry Farm.
Be sure to try their homemade desserts, especially the Warm Apple Bomb.
3. Check Out Howie’s Game Shack
If you are a gamer visiting Buena Park, Howie’s Game Shack is a must-see attraction.
The center is North America’s largest interactive gaming center, offering over 800 gaming stations for PC and Xbox.
Since its opening, a whopping 6,000,000 hours have been played in Howie’s Play Shack.
The Shack is open from noon to midnight, so the gaming can go on well into the night.
Things to Do in Buena Park For Couples
1. Visit Whitaker-Jaynes House Museum
Stop by the Whitaker-Jaynes House Museum if you want to learn more about Buena Park’s history and see the remnants of its past.
It was initially built by Andrew Whitaker, brother of the town’s founder, James A. Whitaker.
The house’s solemn Victorian architecture has an understated quality that most people might miss.
But this historic home is as old as Buena Park, filled with artifacts that offer glimpses of simpler times.
It is maintained by the Buena Park Historical Society, which offers self-guided tours of the estate’s interiors and grounds.
When visiting the attraction, you will find perfectly preserved furniture, dinnerware, decorations, and other equipment that dates back to the 19th century.
Also outside is the Dreger clock, a masterfully crafted device that shows the time, phase of the moon, and the day and date of the week.
This unique clock is so remarkable that it has its own Wikipedia page, so be sure to check it out and learn about the unusual mechanism that powers it.
2. Test Your Golf Skills at Los Coyotes Country Club
The picturesque Los Coyotes Country Club is adjacent to Ralph B. Clark Regional Park.
The main attraction at the club is the 27-hole championship course, designed to blend seamlessly into the rolling terrain of the region.
And the intuitive layout makes the course ideal for both beginners and professionals.
It also has sparkling lakes, an abundance of trees, lush fairways, and greens that elevate the entire experience.
The country club has plenty of other facilities to try if you don’t like playing golf, such as fitness centers, tennis courts, and a Spanish Mediterranean-style clubhouse.
Los Coyotes Country Club also serves as a venue for weddings, events, and other special celebrations, mainly because it offers stunning views of the course and the surrounding area.
3. Visit the Huntington State Beach
The town of Huntington Beach is only 10 minutes from Buena Park, making visiting its famous beach a quick and easy drive.
The beach is a protected area that stretches for 2 miles and covers 121 acres.
With its golden sand and panoramic sea views, the destination attracts many beachgoers from all over the region.
Sunbathing and swimming are popular activities, but surfing is also popular, especially when conditions are right for big waves.
The area has many beach volleyball courts due to its relatively flat terrain where you can play a game or two with friends.
Some sections serve as a refuge for endangered birds and turtles, so be careful with wildlife whenever you encounter them.
Things to Do in Buena Park For Kids
1. Take Them For a Ride at Knott’s Berry Farm
Bringing more than four million visitors each year, Knott’s Berry Farm is the most visited attraction in the city.
This attraction started as a humble strawberry field in the 1920s and has grown exponentially into today’s modern amusement park.
In fact, in 2015, Knott’s Berry Farm was ranked the twelfth most visited location of its kind in the US.
It’s a sprawling destination covering 57 acres but retains an old-school charm that draws families and friends.
Four themed areas are to try: Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, The Boardwalk, and Camp Snoopy.
Among these sections, you would find dizzying roller coasters, thrill rides, towering Ferris wheels, theaters, and shops offering park memorabilia.
There are plenty of other things to experience, so you better make sure your itinerary is well planned.
2. Let Them Play at William Peak Park
Another popular outdoor attraction in Buena Park is William Peak Park, a 15-acre destination for the whole family.
The green area is dominated by vast grassy areas, with only a few trees present.
This feature makes William Peak Park an excellent place for those who like wide areas to run and play sports.
The park also has well-equipped tennis and basketball courts.
William Peak Park also has a skate park, one of the park’s most exciting parts.
Beginners and pro skaters can shred it here on the stairs, rails, and ramps.
You can also visit the horseshoe pit and play a few rounds with friends if you want a more relaxing activity that doesn’t require much physical effort.
3. Give Them the Time of Their Lives at Big Air Trampoline & Adventure Park
Looking for some exciting time with the whole family inside?
Big Air Trampoline & Adventure Park is an excellent alternative if the outdoor areas are closed or there is lousy weather.
This sprawling attraction is home to electric trampolines, obstacle courses, and many other attractions.
So you can float in the air, bounce until your legs get tired, and play other soft surface sports.
Trampolines have been adapted for dodgeball and basketball and combine two fun activities into one unforgettable experience.
In addition to trampolines, there are climbing walls, ninja obstacle courses, and foam pits.
So whatever your preferences, you will find something to enjoy in this attraction.
Indoor Activities to Do in Buena Park For Adults
1. Go on a Tour of the Jain Center of Southern California
This is an ancient religion that originated in India. It is actually the leading temple of its kind in the US.
So the Jains of various sects gather in this ceremonial building to perform the rituals and traditions of the religion.
And it’s not just members who are allowed – everyone is welcome.
Even if you are not religious, you would still appreciate the immaculate and intricate architecture of the interiors.
There are white alabaster stones, and intricate designs etched on altars, delicately patterned walls, and carved gods sitting on shrines.
It’s a fantastic experience to witness these handmade works of art, so make sure the center is on your itinerary.
2. Don’t Miss a Show at Pirates Dinner Adventure
Pirates Dinner Adventure is unusual because it is exuberant.
It combines food and entertainment to give visitors an exciting and unforgettable experience.
Pirates Dinner Adventure is a replica of an 18th-century ship, surrounded by comfortable seating, stands in the center of the venue, and serves as a stage for a spectacular show.
During dinner, talented actors perform different stories.
These pirates take the show to another level with dazzling special effects, aerial stunts, and perfectly choreographed swordplay.
It’s an action-adventure show that’s fun for the whole family!
3. Catch Some Fun at Teatro Martini
Teatro Martini is the perfect combination of fun, allure, and just a little bit of naughtiness.
Make no mistake; the adults-only entertainment is full of live music, stunning magic, and aerial ballet, all of which combine to provide one of Buena Park’s most distinctive live entertainment venues.
You’ll love the playful innuendos, risque jokes, and boisterous antics in one of the area’s best burlesque and cabaret shows.
The specials change every week, so you’ll have a different treat every time you go, and don’t forget a delicious four-course dinner to enjoy throughout.
Romantic Things to Do in Buena Park
1. Go Fishing at Ralph B. Clark Regional Park
This is one of the largest green spaces in this area of SoCal, covering 105 acres.
Located on the edge of the West Coyote Hills, it exhibits the desert landscape typical of the area.
However, the park has plenty of greenery thanks to human intervention and good irrigation systems.
Ralph B. Clark Regional Park has a large pond in the middle surrounded by lush grass and trees.
It is a good spot for recreational fishing as it is regularly stocked with catfish and trout all the time.
It also has trails winding across the road, often shaded by tall trees and full of runners.
Ice Age fossils and local geological exhibits give you a glimpse of California’s prehistoric features.
2. Beat the Heat at Knott’s Soak City
Knott’s Soak City has plenty of space for many attractions and activities, with a total area of 13 acres.
It has towering slides with up to six lanes, an expansive wave pool, and the Sunset River, a 4,780-foot lazy river.
You’ll find towering slides with up to six lanes, an expansive wave pool, and the Sunset River, a 4,780-foot lazy river.
Some sections are designed for the fun and safety of children, such as Gremmie Lagoon and Toyota Beach House.
If you want your own space during your visit, the park has cabins for rent that offer plenty of shade and seating.
So whenever you need to cool off during the hot summer days, Knott’s Soak City is the place to be.
3. Relax at Brenner Park
Brenner Park is one of the city’s premier outdoor recreation destinations.
This community park is spread over 4.5 acres, and in this small space, you will find many modern attractions and facilities for the whole family.
Surrounding the park are verdant basic plots, hiking trails, and tree beds that serve as a refuge from urban development.
In addition, there is a small paddling pool with crystal clear water.
You should come here to cool off when the sun is hot, or temperatures are not just comfortable.
One of the hotspots at the park is the four basketball courts.
These are lit so people can play even after the sun goes down – a feature usually only available on paid indoor courts.
Free Things to Do in Buena Park
1. Visit the California Welcome Center
The California Welcome Center was established in 1890 as a popular stop for weary traveling stagecoaches.
The Stage Stop Hotel, which houses a welcome center, continues the tradition of providing excellent service to guests in Orange County.
The center’s staff are happy to help visitors find their way around the city and suggest places to eat and see.
In addition to free computer use, Internet access, California souvenirs, and hotel reservations, visitors can pick up free area maps, local attraction brochures, and destination information.
Tickets for various attractions can be purchased at the Southern California Ticket & Tour Center, located in the California Welcome Center.
Avoid long queues and buy your tickets early in the center.
2. Go on a Tour of Knott’s Independence Hall
Perhaps you want a break from the extreme adventure of Knott’s Berry Farm Knott’s Independence Hall is the perfect place to go.
This structure is a replica of the historic Independence Hall building in Philadelphia.
When the thrill of the water parks and attractions wears off, you can pretend you’re hiding the Declaration of Independence.
Knott’s Independence Hall features a replica of the Liberty Bell, memorabilia from past presidents, and an interactive tour of the Founding Fathers.
It’s like extending your trip with a short visit to Philadelphia.
3. Visit Portillo’s
Portillo’s was founded by Dick Portillo, who opened a hot dog stand called ‘The Dog House’ in 1963.
After it became hugely successful, the stand was moved to a new building, given a new name, and even introduced one of the first Downers Grove drives.
From its humble origins in Illinois, you can now find hundreds of Portillo’s across the United States.
Portillo’s is filled with all sorts of delicious treats to satisfy even the most discerning of palates, young and old.
Kids love pairing a hot dog, sandwich, or hamburger with a delicious shake or chocolate cake for dessert.
Other patron favorites include the Tuscan Bacon Chicken Salad, the Grilled Portobello Sandwich, and their award-winning prime rib, which is marinated in a special rib sauce.
Cheap Things to Do in Buena Park
1. Spend Some Time at Carbon Canyon Regional Park
Carbon Canyon Scenic Regional Park is a sprawling 124-acre natural attraction.
It’s less than twenty minutes from Buena Park, which is across the river from Carbon Canyon Dam.
Well-maintained trails, grassy meadows, and large wooded areas make this an ideal place to feel nature and escape the city’s noise.
This park also contains Orange County’s only Redwood Grove, a protected area where the famous tall trees grow and bloom.
2. Remember Your Childhood at Disneyland
Disneyland is the dream of many American children and many adults too!
With its thrilling rides, iconic characters, and festive atmosphere, Disneyland deserves the crown as the number one theme park in the world.
It’s only 10 minutes from Buena Park, so you can quickly drive to the attraction whenever you have time.
3. Grab a Meal at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant
The restaurant first opened in 1934, when Mrs. Knotts herself, with the help of her children, served the first customers in their tea room.
Although Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant has expanded considerably over the years, the charm, customer service, and classic fried chicken dinner remain the same.
You will be able to bite into the crispy fried chicken made according to Mrs. Knott’s original recipe.
Each chicken dinner also includes handmade biscuits, mashed potatoes smothered in gravy, a side salad, and your choice of dessert.
Cool Places to Visit in Buena Park
1. Brea Creek
This is a tributary of Coyote Creek and is one of four.
The Brea Creek begins its journey in Brea Canyon and heads southwest before eventually crossing the Orange County-Riverside County border.
It is a great place to see the natural scenery of Buena Park while viewing some of the man-made structures along the creek.
Hiking is a popular activity along the creek, and there is also a popular golf course aptly named Brea Creek Golf Course.
2. Titanic: The Exhibition
Located in the Premier Exhibit Center, the Titanic exhibit offers an entertaining and educational investigation into the Titanic disaster.
The exhibition features an impressive collection of approximately 250 actual Titanic artifacts recovered from the icy depths where the ship now lies.
The exhibition also includes reconstructions of some of the Titanic’s rooms and some other things.
However, the museum is not stuck in the past and regularly expands its exhibitions with new discoveries and investigations related to the disaster.
3. Bodies: The Exhibition
This is a great place to learn about the human body by looking at natural bodies preserved for educational purposes.
The bodies have been dissected and displayed with respect and offer an unparalleled learning experience.
The exposed bodies allow a closer look into the human skeleton, muscles, nerves, and respiratory and digestive systems.
The Bodies exhibit is a must-see and dwarfs the average science museum.
Conclusion
Buena Park’s combination of history, family fun, and natural attractions has made it a charming destination for families and groups of friends.
Check out this list of things to do in Buena Park and have the best vacation ever!
Happy travels!
