What is the Anaheim Packing District?

The Anaheim Packing District is a trendy food hall and cultural hub located in the heart of Anaheim, California. Originally a Sunkist citrus packing house from the early 1900s, this beautifully restored building now serves as a modern-day food hall, home to a variety of eateries, bars, and shops.

The Packing District includes not just the Packing House, but the Packard Building, Farmers Park, and the MAKE building which were all repurposed into what they are today.

The History of the Anaheim Packing House

Built in 1919, the Anaheim Packing House was one of the last remaining citrus packing warehouses from Southern California’s agricultural golden age. This historic building once played a crucial role in Anaheim’s economy, helping distribute locally grown oranges across the country.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the building was transformed into the bustling Anaheim Packing House, a unique food hall that opened its doors to the public in 2014. The restoration preserved much of the original architecture, including the white-painted wood exterior, high ceilings, exposed beams, and large windows, giving visitors a sense of stepping back in time while enjoying modern-day amenities.

Where is the Anaheim Packing District Located?

You can find the Anaheim Packing District at 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805. Nestled in the downtown Anaheim area, it is conveniently situated just about 2 miles from Disneyland, making it an ideal spot for a break from theme park adventures.

A quick 10-minute drive or an affordable rideshare trip will get you from Disneyland to the Anaheim Packing District, where you can immerse yourself in a completely different vibe—one that is equally enchanting but much more laid-back.

RideShare Discount Codes:
UBER – azv6ata6jk2y 
LYFT – Katelynn804354

While visiting Anaheim I purchased a day pass for the local busses so I took a bus from the main street by Disneyland and then walked about 7 minutes to get to the Packing House District.

Where to Park at the Anaheim Packing District

Parking around the Anaheim Packing District can be a bit of a challenge during peak hours, but there are several options to consider:

• Packing House Lot: The most convenient parking is located right next to the Packing House, but spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
• Center Street Promenade Parking: A larger parking structure located just a short walk away. This is a good option if the main lot is full.
• Street Parking: Available around the district, but be mindful of posted signs and time limits.
• Valet Parking: Offered in front of the Anaheim Packing House for a fee, this is the most hassle-free option for those who don’t want to search for parking.

Dining Options at the Anaheim Packing House

Foodies, rejoice! The Anaheim Packing District offers a wide variety of dining options that cater to every palate. From international cuisine and comfort food favorites to desserts galore! There’s something here for everyone. Here are some spots you can consider on your visit:

• The Kroft: Known for its indulgent comfort food like poutine and roast beef sandwiches, this place is perfect for those craving hearty meals.
• Urbana: This vibrant Mexican cantina offers fresh ceviche, tacos, and signature margaritas. The colorful decor is Instagram-worthy on its own!
• Mangal: Authentic Syrian food serving mouth-watering kebabs, fresh falafel, and delicious mezze platters.<- This is what I ordered!
• Black Sheep Grilled Cheese Bar: A must-visit for cheese lovers! Here you can enjoy gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with a twist.

For a full list, visit the merchants list on the Anaheim Packing District website. There’s also Fish and Chips, Noodles, Soul Food, Desserts and so much more! Come hungry!

Anaheim Packing District Instagram Account

I only had one meal at the Packing House, a mouth-watering gyro from Mangal, but if you want to see more plates, visit the Anaheim Packing District’s Instagram Account! You’ll be blown away!

Things to Do at the Anaheim Packing District

While food is the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to do at the Anaheim Packing District to make your visit even more memorable:

1. Shop for Unique Goods

Browse through a variety of small boutiques and pop-up shops that offer everything from handcrafted jewelry and locally-made candles to vintage clothing and quirky home decor. If you’re a fan of unique finds, you’ll love the mix of shops here.

2. Visit Farmers Park Across the Road

Right across the street from the Anaheim Packing House is Farmers Park, a serene green space perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or people-watching. The park often hosts community events, live music, and weekend farmers’ markets, making it a great spot to unwind after enjoying the bustling atmosphere of the Packing House.

While I was visiting, a pop-up Etsy shop was happening in the park. There were around 30 different tables of hand-made goods from candles, t-shirts, jewelry, bookmarks, and more that I loved browsing.

3. Enjoy People Watching

One of the joys of visiting the Anaheim Packing District is simply observing the diverse crowd that it attracts. From young couples on dates to families and solo travelers, the atmosphere is always lively and energetic. Grab a coffee, find a comfortable spot, and watch the world go by.

4. Have a Beer at Unsung Brewing Co.

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, make your way to Unsung Brewing Co. located within the Packing House. They offer a rotating selection of their own brews, often inspired by superheroes and comics, adding a playful twist to the experience.

5. Take Photos with Instagrammable Backdrops

The Anaheim Packing District is an Instagrammer’s dream come true! From the iconic swing bench hanging from the ceiling in the central atrium to the colorful wall murals and vintage decor, there are endless photo opportunities. Make sure your phone is fully charged because you’ll be snapping away!

Final Thoughts

The Anaheim Packing District is more than just a food hall; it’s a community gathering space that beautifully blends history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re here to explore the unique eateries, shop for one-of-a-kind goods, or simply relax and people-watch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And the best part? It’s just a stone’s throw away from Disneyland, making it a perfect addition to your Anaheim itinerary.

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If you’re staying in Anaheim longer and looking for other things to do, check out my related Anaheim blog posts:

• A Day at the BallPark: Your Guide to Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA
• Hilton Anaheim Hotel: Your Perfect Stay Near Disneyland
• A Simple, but Comprehensive Disneyland Packing List
• Exploring the GardenWalk Center in Anaheim, CA: A Complete Guide
• Getting Around Anaheim, CA as a Visitor Without a Car
• Visiting Disneyland for the First Time: Everything You Need to Know