Buena Park Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, best activities and tours, must-try dishes and local beverages, places to stay, buy souvenirs, and nearby destinations in Buena Park, California.


Introduction to Buena Park

Buena Park is a city located in the Orange County region of Southern California, United States. The city is a hub for entertainment and tourism, attracting millions of visitors every year. With world-class theme parks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders, Buena Park has something to offer to everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Buena Park

Here are some of the must-visit places in Buena Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Buena Park Historic District preserves the city’s historical architectural heritage and includes the Whitaker-Jaynes Estate, Tice House, and Bacon House.
  • Raquel’s Jazz Lounge is a cultural spot that hosts live music shows, open mic nights, and other events, inviting people to experience the jazz culture.
  • Medieval Times is a historical dinner theatre where visitors can watch knights compete on horseback while enjoying a four-course meal.

Natural Attractions of Buena Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boisseranc Park features a lake, a playground, a basketball court, and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot for a family outing or a serene escape.
  • Cerritos Park East is a well-maintained park with walking trails, basketball courts, tennis courts, two children’s playgrounds, and picnic shelters.
  • Pioneer Park features a playground, picnic tables, a decorative water fountain, and playground equipment.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buena Park

Buena Park offers a variety of trails for hiking, jogging, or biking. Here are some of the popular ones:

  • Smith-Murphy Park Trail is a 3-mile round trip trail that winds through lush greenery, a pond, and native wildlife.
  • Fullerton Loop Trail is a 12-mile trail around the edge of Fullerton, including several natural features and parks.
  • Belmont Trail is a 4-mile trail that runs east-west through the middle of Buena Park and connects two parks.

Best Things to Do in Buena Park: Activities and Tours

Buena Park has a lot to offer in terms of activities and tours. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Knott’s Berry Farm is an amusement park that offers thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious food.
  • Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is a swashbuckling dinner show featuring pirates, acrobats, and sea creatures.
  • Soak City Water Park is a refreshing way to beat the heat with water slides and other attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buena Park

Here is a week-long itinerary for Buena Park:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Buena Park and check into your hotel.
  • Day 2: Start your day with a visit to Knott’s Berry Farm, followed by lunch at Porto’s Bakery.
  • Day 3: Go for a hike in Smith-Murphy Park Trail and enjoy a picnic at the park.
  • Day 4: Visit Medieval Times in the evening, after spending the day exploring Buena Park’s museums and art galleries.
  • Day 5: Spend the day at Soak City Water Park.
  • Day 6: Take a tour of America’s Teaching Zoo and enjoy dinner at Pirates Dinner Adventure.
  • Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and local products before departing Buena Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Buena Park

Buena Park has a vibrant food and drink scene that reflects its diverse culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Buena Park:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buena Park Pizza & Wings offers some of the best Buffalo wings in town.
  • Rock & Brews serves American comfort food in a classic rock n’ roll atmosphere.
  • Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor serves massive ice cream sundaes that can satisfy any sweet tooth.

Local Beverages

  • Brewheim Brewing Co. is a local brewery that serves craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Le Mirage Cafe & Hookah Lounge is a popular spot for trying different flavors of hookah and sipping on Turkish coffee or tea.
  • The Cauldron Spirits & Brews serves unique cocktails based on famous books and movies, nicely complementing its Harry Potter themed decor.

Where to Stay in Buena Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Buena Park offers a range of accommodation options, catering to every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Buena Park:

  • Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel is a family-friendly hotel located right next to the amusement park.
  • Motel 6 Buena Park - Knotts Berry Farm/Disneyland is a budget-friendly option that is convenient to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland.
  • The Colony Inn offers cozy rooms with a homey feel, perfect for travelers seeking a quieter stay.

What to Buy in Buena Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local gifts, here are some great options:

  • Knott’s Berry Farm Marketplace offers a range of merchandise from Snoopy-themed souvenirs to handmade jewelry and clothing.
  • Christy’s Toy Outlet is a toy store that sells toys, stuffed animals, and other souvenirs for kids of all ages.
  • Buena Park Downtown is the city’s main shopping complex, offering a wide range of clothing, electronics, and other products.

Local Culture and Customs of Buena Park

Buena Park is a diverse town that prides itself on preserving its cultural heritage. You are likely to experience a blend of different cultures in every corner of the city. The residents of Buena Park are proud of their city’s history and hospitality, and they welcome visitors warmly.

Best Time to Visit Buena Park

The best time to visit Buena Park is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are relatively smaller. However, if you plan to visit any of the theme parks, be prepared for significant crowds and longer wait times during the peak summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buena Park

Do:

  • Do visit Knott’s Berry Farm, it is one of the most popular attractions in Buena Park.
  • Do wear comfortable walking shoes when exploring the city’s parks and trails.
  • Do be respectful of the city’s cultural heritage and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the city’s parks or streets.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car, as thefts in parking lots have been reported.
  • Don’t indulge in illegal drugs or other illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buena Park

Buena Park is considered a relatively safe city. However, visitors are advised to take safety precautions, such as avoiding secluded areas or dark alleys at night, not leaving valuables unattended, and locking their car doors and windows when parked. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Health in Buena Park

Buena Park has many health facilities, including hospitals, medical clinics, and pharmacies. Visitors are advised to carry their medical insurance card and consult their physician before traveling to the city.

Getting to Buena Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buena Park is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Buena Park

  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the closest airport to Buena Park, located about 20 miles away.
  • Long Beach Airport (LGB) is another nearby airport, located about 14 miles away.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the largest airport in the area, located about 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Buena Park

  • Buena Park Metrolink Station is a train and bus station located in the heart of the city that connects to other major cities and towns in the region.
  • Greyhound Bus Station is located about five miles from Buena Park and can be accessed via bus or taxi.

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in the city.
  • Rental cars, bikes, and scooters are also available for visitors who prefer self-transportation.

How to Get Around in Buena Park

Walking is a great way to explore the city’s parks and scenic spots, but visitors might want to relish in some of the city’s other easy to use transportation modes such as:

  • Public transportation: The Buena Park Metrolink Station and OC Bus offer transportation to and from all parts of Buena Park and nearby cities.
  • Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in Buena Park, providing visitors with reliable transportation to their desired destination.
  • Car rentals: Several car rental companies operate in the city and have stations conveniently located at popular tourist areas.

Where to Go Next from Buena Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Buena Park’s central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are some places you can visit:

  • Disneyland and the Disney California Adventure Park are located in Anaheim, just a few miles south of Buena Park.
  • Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA, is about 25 minutes south of Buena Park.
  • Laguna Beach is a charming coastal town located about 30 minutes south of Buena Park.
  • Los Angeles and Hollywood are about an hour’s drive away.

Conclusion

Buena Park offers a variety of attractions, activities, and experiences, making it the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. With its unique cultural offerings, natural wonders, and bustling theme parks, it has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a solo adventure, Buena Park is a city worth exploring.

Timber Mountain Log Ride, one of the classic attractions installed by Walter Knott. Timber Mountain Log Ride, one of the classic attractions installed by Walter Knott. ''Xcelerator'', one of a breed of rides that emphasize big thrills over theme and scenery. ''Xcelerator'', one of a breed of rides that emphasize big thrills over theme and scenery.