Exploring the GardenWalk Center in Anaheim, CA: A Complete Guide
If you’re looking for a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment in Anaheim, the GardenWalk Center should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this place offers something for everyone. Let me walk you through my personal experience and share everything you need to know about making the most of your time at GardenWalk.
*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking through one of my links, I may receive a small commission for your purchase, so thanks in advance!
Where is the GardenWalk Center?
You’ll find the GardenWalk Center nestled in the heart of Anaheim, CA. Located just a few minutes from Disneyland Resort, it’s the perfect spot to hang out away from the park. The exact address is 400 Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802. It’s conveniently located near major hotels, making it easy to visit whether you’re staying nearby or just visiting for a day.
How to get to the GardenWalk Center
Arriving by Car:
Driving to the GardenWalk Center is straightforward. It’s accessible from the I-5 freeway, making it a quick trip from most parts of Orange County. Parking is available on-site, with plenty of spaces in the attached parking structure. Just follow the signs for GardenWalk Center, and you’ll find the entrance to the parking garage. Below you’ll find the current (as of Aug. 2024) rates but you can always access the GardenWalk Center’s Parking page for up-to-date rates.
Arriving by Bus:
Taking the bus is also a breeze. You have two valid options in Anaheim although the OCTA bus is a cheaper option. Both will require you to have exact change or to pay on your mobile phone before boarding.
The OCTA (Orange County Transportation Authority) operates several routes that stop near GardenWalk. Route 43 on Harbor Blvd is one of the most convenient, with stops just a short walk away from the center.
The ART (Anaheim Regional Transportation) operates mostly around Disneyland and local resorts and attractions.
Arriving via RideShare:
If you prefer using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, simply enter the address into your app, and your driver will drop you off right at the entrance. Rideshare drop-offs are common here, so it’s an easy and hassle-free option. Feel free to use my discount codes below!
RideShare Discount Codes:
UBER – azv6ata6jk2y
LYFT – Katelynn804354
The rideshare drop-off also offers a super cool aquarium-like digital feature! Click the post below to check it out.
Dining at the GardenWalk Center
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a more upscale experience, you’ll find something here. Here’s a list of a few of the restaurant options:
- Johnny Rockets – Burgers & Fries
- Casa de Pancho – Mexican Grill & Cantina
- The Cheesecake Factory – Comfort food and delicious cheesecakes
- California Pizza Kitchen – need we say more?
- P.F. Changs – Chinese
- Roy’s Restaurant – Hawaiian fusion
- Bubba Gump Shrimp – Classic southern foods and of course, Shrimp!
- McCormick & Schmick’s Grille – Upscale steakhouse & seafood
Quick Bites and Sweet Treats
If you’re not in the mood to sit down and have a full meal, there are plenty of options for a quick bite, coffee, or sweet treat at the GardenWalk Center too!
- Cafe Bulba – Coffee and Boba Tea
- Chaplus Modern Tea Room – Tea & Cafe
- AllMyTea Cafe – Tea and Cafe
- Starbucks – Coffee, Tea, and Cafe
- King Coffee – Coffee Shop
Shopping at the GardenWalk Center
Personally, I wouldn’t say the GardenWalk Center is a place for shopping unless you’re looking for some cool tourist shops and costume stores. A bunch of the “shopping” options were under construction and “coming soon”, so this may change in the future. At this time, you’ll still find some of these cool shops:
Meeples Family
Meeples Family is a board game lover’s paradise, offering a vast collection of tabletop games for all ages. Whether you’re into strategy games, card games, or family favorites, you’ll find something to bring everyone together for a fun-filled game night.
Factory Xtreme
Factory Xtreme is your go-to shop for fandom! You’ll find funko pops, t-shirts, keychains, wallets, purses, dolls, and so much more designed around your favorite films and characters. This is a no-photos allowed store and it’s definitely worth a visit.
Kpop Games
Kpop Games is a must-visit for fans of Korean pop culture and gaming. The store offers a unique blend of K-pop merchandise, collectibles, and popular video games, creating an exciting fusion of entertainment for enthusiasts of all ages.
Unfortunately, I forgot the name of the coolest store I saw at the GardenWalk Center and I can’t find it on Google Maps either, but there is a store that sells Disney costumes that are incredible! They had children’s and adult’s costumes of every Disney character I could think of including wigs, jewelry, crowns, shoes, and more.
Entertainment at the GardenWalk Center
What really sets GardenWalk apart is the entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a movie, or a night of bowling, there’s no shortage of things to do. It really could be called the GardenWalk Entertainment Center!
Live Entertainment
The House of Blues:
The House of Blues Anaheim is a premier live music venue where you can enjoy top-notch performances across various genres, all in an intimate setting that brings you up close to the action.
Kip Barry’s Magical Cabaret:
At Kip Barry’s Magical Cabaret, prepare to be dazzled by a unique blend of magic, comedy, and live music in an intimate theater setting that promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
There are two nightclubs in the GardenWalk Center, you can google them, but neither of them has good reviews and I did not visit so I will not be sharing information about them.
Fun and Games
Bowlero:
Bowlero takes bowling to the next level with neon lights, an arcade, and a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for fun-filled games and social gatherings.
Mission Escape Games:
Mission Escape Games offers a thrilling, immersive experience where you and your friends must solve puzzles and unravel clues to “escape” from creatively themed rooms within a set time limit.
AMC Anaheim GardenWalk 6 Movie Theatre:
Catch the latest blockbuster hits at AMC Anaheim GardenWalk 6, a modern cinema offering comfortable seating and state-of-the-art screens, perfect for a relaxing movie night.
Unique Experiences
Flight Deck Simulator:
Take to the skies with the Flight Deck Simulator, where you can experience the thrill of piloting a commercial or fighter jet in a highly realistic flight simulation environment.
Lower Level Aquarium Digital Display:
Explore a mesmerizing underwater world through the Lower Level Aquarium Digital Display, an innovative attraction that blends technology with marine life, offering a captivating visual experience.
S. Preston Art + Designs:
S. Preston Art + Designs showcases unique, minimalist sports-themed artwork, blending fine art with a passion for sports and Disney, making it a must-visit for fans and collectors alike. You can find the mural in the picture below painted on the walls of the GardenWalk Center:
Where to Stay Near the GardenWalk Center
Finding the perfect place to stay near the GardenWalk Center can make your visit even more enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a more luxurious experience, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby to suit your needs.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate
Located just a short walk from the GardenWalk Center, it offers basic amenities and clean rooms at an affordable price. It’s a great option for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the area and just need a place to rest at night. - Anaheim Islander Inn and Suites
This hotel offers complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, and is just a 10-minute walk from GardenWalk. The rooms are spacious, making it a good option for families or groups traveling together.
Mid-Range Hotels
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Anaheim Maingate
The hotel offers modern rooms, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It’s just a short drive or a 15-minute walk from GardenWalk. - Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Resort/Convention Center
Located close to both Disneyland and GardenWalk, Courtyard by Marriott offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. It’s ideal for families or business travelers looking for comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.
High-End Accommodations
- Disneyland Hotel
While it’s on the pricier side, the experience is unparalleled. The hotel is themed around the magic of Disney, with luxurious amenities, multiple dining options, and easy access to Disneyland Resort. It’s also just a short distance from GardenWalk, making it a convenient choice if you want to be near all the action. - Hilton Anaheim Hotel <– This is where I stayed, click for my review!
Located just a short walk from the GardenWalk Center, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a full-service spa, multiple dining options, and a stunning outdoor pool area. Whether you’re here for a convention or a family vacation, the Hilton Anaheim provides everything you need for a comfortable and upscale stay. - JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort
For a truly luxurious experience, the JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort offers top-tier amenities, including a rooftop bar with stunning views, a pool, and fine dining options. Located within walking distance of GardenWalk, this hotel is perfect for those who want to indulge in a high-end experience during their stay in Anaheim.
Final Thoughts
The GardenWalk Center in Anaheim is more than just a place to grab a bite or shop—it’s a whole entertainment district tucked away in the middle of the city. From diverse dining options and unique shopping opportunities to top-notch entertainment, there’s always something to enjoy. Whether you’re planning a day out or just stopping by, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit. So next time you’re in Anaheim, be sure to check out GardenWalk—you won’t be disappointed!
Final, final thoughts – The GardenWalk Center had a lot of construction going on during my visit in Aug. 2024. They were adding in multiple new stores and new entertainment venues so when you visit, there may be even more to do!
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
- A Guide to Visiting the Anaheim Packing District
- Getting Around Anaheim, CA as a Visitor Without a Car
- Visiting Disneyland for the First Time: Everything You Need to Know
Katelynn is a Texas-based writer and travel enthusiast who makes the most of her time exploring new destinations while balancing a full-time 9-5 job. She has visited 12 countries and 27 U.S. states. She describes herself as a weekend warrior and shares her passion for travel, outdoor adventures, and solo journeys on her blog, KatelynnOutLoud.
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This is so helpful! I have been traveling to various cities in California and always wait until the last second to look up things to do! Im going to save this!
Oh yay! Glad I could help. Definitely check out my other posts too for more things to do around Anaheim!
Garden walk center in Anaheim looks like a fun place to visit. Apart from the big choice of places to eat, it has a lot of gaming options like bowling and mission escape and even a movie theatre. I particularly like the Flight deck simulator!
Yeah, the flight deck simulator is definitely a unique attraction! I haven’t seen one of those anywhere else.
How awesome, there is so much fun stuff to do here! Thanks for sharing
There really is, and as I mentioned, it’s growing too! They’re filling in a bunch of the empty stores with new businesses (:
The Garden Walk Centre seems to offer a lot when you have had enough of Disneyland and are looking to shop, eat and maybe be entertained.
It really is! It’s a short bus ride from Disneyland too or walk if you’re feeling it.
I just moved near Anaheim and am always looking for new things to do. Thanks for this post! Super informative, I’m going to check it out.
Oh nice! It’s a fun place to walk around for a few hours even if you’re not intending to shop or do much else! If you have kids there’s also a bunch of things for them to climb on and areas to play while you’re walking around.