Anaheim is the ultimate destination for family fun, especially when it comes to its exciting California theme parks. Thrilling roller coasters and rides, well-loved characters who have come to life, fantastic food, and entertainment are the whimsical ingredients that make magical family vacation memories. Here’s what’s new at your favourite happy places.
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort | Visit Anaheim
The Walt Disney Company is celebrating a major milestone in 2023. Disney’s “100 Years of Wonder” will be the largest cross-company global celebration in its 100-year history, and the fun kicks off on January 27 at the Happiest Place on Earth in Anaheim, California.
Dazzling new platinum-infused décor will appear throughout Disneyland Park, including a glam wardrobe for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals, plus special food, beverages and more. Sleeping Beauty Castle will receive an elegant renovation, with platinum banners and bunting, and two all-new nighttime spectaculars are planned.
The “Magic Happens” parade and Mickey’s Toontown will return, plus a new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction will open.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm | Visit Anaheim
A full lineup of fun and seasonal events, plus a fully reimagined Fiesta Village is planned for Knott's Berry Farm in 2023. A Season Pass will allow guests unlimited visits to celebrations throughout the year.
Charles M. Schultz’s beloved Peanuts characters kick it off in late January, followed by Knott’s Boysenberry Festival in early spring.
Summertime brings the immersive western adventure Ghost Town Alive and Knott's Soak City Waterpark. Knott’s Scary Farm means select nights are super spooky in September through Halloween.
During the holiday season, Knott’s Merry Farm transforms into a winter wonderland with entertainment for all ages.
LEGOLAND California Resort
LEGOLAND California Resort | Visit Anaheim
With over 60 rides and attractions geared to little ones ages two through twelve – and parents who are still kids at heart – LEGOLAND® California Resort (located in Carlsbad) has a friendly vibe just right for families. Annual passes are available and a stay at the Legoland Hotel will complete your visit.
The world’s first LEGO City of San Diego will be unveiled in the spring and calls on guests to vote via Instagram on which San Diego landmarks should be featured – all built in LEGO brick form. The theme park’s master model builders have begun construction.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo | Visit Anaheim
The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance – which operates both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park – kicked off 2023 with a “Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation” float in the 134th Rose Parade,® recognizing the Safari Park's five decades of conservation work. The 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary (located in Escondido) has played an outsize role in the protection of condors, hornbills, rhinos and elephants. Those who missed the parade can celebrate the anniversary by booking a 90-minute Walk Through History tour (now through May) or a Roar & Snore sleepover.
Animal-lovers shouldn't miss a visit to the San Diego Zoo, either. The 100-acre wildlife park (located near downtown San Diego) is home to more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals, and situated in an accredited botanical garden with 700,000 individual plants.
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego | Visit Anaheim
The new straddle coaster, Arctic Rescue, will open this year and is the longest and fastest of its kind on the West Coast. The ride intends to bring awareness to the challenges and threats Arctic sea life faces due to climate change and global warming. Hop on the ride’s snowmobile-style seats and race at 65 km/hour (40 mph) through exhilarating terrain. This new ride adds to the lineup of SeaWorld San Diego rides that include Journey to Atlantis, Manta, Electric Eel, Tidal Twister and Emperor, voted one of 2022’s top best new attractions in the country by USA Today.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood | Visit Anaheim
Super Nintendo World’s new signature ride, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, will open at Universal Studios Hollywood on February 17, 2023. Inspired by the Mario Kart video games, this ride is an advanced tech wonder. Fusing augmented reality with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces, ride along a moving track in this fully immersed experience. Fans of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach will be transported to the Mushroom Kingdom in an eye-popping world of colour and fun.
Welcome to adventure! Anaheim offers the best theme park experiences for guests of all ages and thrill levels. From the magic of Disneyland to the awe of Universal Studios, your perfect vacation starts here!Plan your trip at Visit Anaheim
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