Travel

Getting Around Anaheim, CA as a Visitor Without a Car

by Katelynn Kellogg

When visiting Anaheim, California, there’s a lot to see and do! With Disneyland, the Anaheim Convention Center, and the vibrant GardenWalk Center, getting around efficiently can make or break your trip. I’m here to give you the inside scoop on the best ways to navigate Anaheim, whether you prefer public transport, renting a car, rideshares like Uber and Lyft, or simply walking.

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking through one of my links, I may receive a small commission for your purchase, so thanks in advance!

Why Planning Ahead Matters

As a visitor, you want to spend more time enjoying Anaheim’s attractions and less time stressing about transportation. Understanding your options ahead of time will save you both time and money. Plus, depending on where you’re staying, different options might be more convenient. Here’s a breakdown of all the best ways to get around Anaheim.

Public Transport Options in Anaheim

When it comes to public transport, Anaheim offers several options that are both affordable and convenient.

Anaheim California OC Bus pulling up to a stop.
OC Bus Anaheim, CA

ART (Anaheim Resort Transportation)

The Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) system is a great choice for tourists. ART buses connect most major hotels in the Anaheim Resort District with popular destinations like Disneyland, the Anaheim Convention Center, and the Outlets at Orange.

Here are some things to know:

  • Frequency: Buses run approximately every 20 minutes.
  • Cost: A single-ride adult pass is $4.00 or you can get a whole-day pass for only $6.00. Children and seniors get discounted tickets at only $2.50 per day pass.
  • Convenience: ART buses are clean, air-conditioned, and wheelchair accessible, making them a comfortable option.

Local Buses

Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) buses serve Anaheim and the surrounding areas. They are budget-friendly and can get you to various locations around Orange County, but they might not be as direct as other options.

  • Cost: A single ride is $2, and day passes are $5. You can get a discounted day pass if you order ahead on the mobile app, which is $4.50.
  • Coverage: OCTA buses have extensive coverage but can be slower due to multiple stops.

I chose to ride the OC bus during my stay because there was a stop directly in front of my hotel. Most of the places I wanted to visit had stops along this route that would get me within a block or two of my destination making it incredibly convenient at only $4.50 a day for unlimited rides.
The app portrayed exactly where the busses were on the route and it was very accurate. There were a lot of stops along the way, but everything I wanted to visit was within a 15-minute ride. The staff on the buses were very nice and helpful as well.
I had a great experience and it was much cheaper than rideshare options.

Inside view of the OC bus in Anaheim.

If you’re looking to explore beyond Anaheim, consider using Metrolink or Amtrak. Both train services have stations in Anaheim, and they provide access to other parts of Southern California, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and more.

  • Metrolink: Great for regional travel, with lines connecting Anaheim to Los Angeles and San Diego.
  • Amtrak: Offers a more comfortable, longer-distance option. You can take Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner for scenic coastal trips.

Rideshare Options: Uber and Lyft

Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are abundant and affordable in Anaheim. I looked on both apps for the best deal and booked a ride to the Angels Stadium for a baseball game. I could have gotten to the game by public transport, but it would have taken much longer than I wanted to wait.

  • Availability: Both Uber and Lyft are widely available in Anaheim and can take you to all major destinations in the area.
  • Cost: Prices can vary depending on demand, but a typical ride within the Anaheim Resort District usually costs between $6 and $15.
  • Convenience: You don’t have to worry about parking or navigation, making it a stress-free option. You may also already have these apps on your phone and therefor will not have to download a new app.
Image of cell phone screen opening the Lyft appCell phone screen opening the Uber app.

RideShare Discount Codes:
UBER – azv6ata6jk2y 
LYFT – Katelynn804354

Tips for Using Rideshares in Anaheim

  • Plan for Peak Times: Prices can surge during peak times, such as after Disneyland’s nightly fireworks show, during sporting events, or major events at the Convention Center.
  • Use Designated Pick-Up/Drop-Off Spots: Most hotels and attractions have designated areas for rideshare pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a smooth experience.

Renting a Car in Anaheim

If you’re visiting Anaheim for the main purpose of going to Disneyland, a rental car is not really necessary. However, if you’d like to head over to the beach or up to Los Angeles, renting a car may be more affordable or convenient.

  • Rental Locations: Most major car rental companies, like Hertz, Enterprise, and Alamo, have locations near the Anaheim Resort District, and some hotels even have rental desks. If you’re flying in, there’s options at both the LA and Santa Ana airport. If you’d like to plan ahead, I’d suggest using rentalcars.com to compare all your options.
  • Cost: Most rentals in the area start at $50 a day.
  • Parking: Be prepared for parking fees everywhere around town, especially around popular destinations. Parking at Disneyland, for example, costs about $30 per day.

Search the dates you’re planning to visit on rentalcars.com in the box below:

Walking Around Anaheim

If you’re staying near Disneyland or the Convention Center, you’ll find that many attractions, shops, and restaurants are just a short stroll away.

  • Walkability: The area around Disneyland and the Convention Center is pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and plenty of signage.
  • Safety: I never felt unsafe walking around Anaheim, even at night, as there were always other people out and about. There were homeless people sleeping at some of the bus stops at night, but they never bothered me or anyone else waiting on the bus to arrive.
Group of people walking across the Street to Disneyland.

Final Tips for Getting Around Anaheim, CA

  • Check for Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in the Anaheim area offer complimentary shuttles to major attractions, saving you time and money.
  • Stay Updated on Traffic Conditions: Anaheim can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Check local traffic updates to avoid delays.
  • Download Transportation Apps: Make sure to download the ART or OCBus app, rideshare apps, and any relevant local transportation apps to help you navigate easily. Unfortunately, you can’t really get around downloading an app or two when visiting new cities either for rides, or parking.

Conclusion

Getting around Anaheim, CA, doesn’t have to be stressful. With plenty of options ranging from public transport and car rentals to rideshares and walking, there’s a mode of transportation for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to explore the city leisurely on foot or zip from one attraction to another via Uber or Lyft, Anaheim makes it easy for visitors to get around and enjoy all it has to offer. So, plan your routes, choose your transport wisely, and have an amazing time in Anaheim!