Knott’s Berry Farm may get all the attention for its thrilling rides and old-school charm, but there’s a whole world of free fun waiting just steps from this popular theme park. Whether you’re keeping an eye on your vacation budget or just love discovering local hangouts, Buena Park and its neighbors really deliver. We’re here to let you in on the best things to do for free near Knott’s Berry Farm, from vintage architecture to quirky history, peaceful escapes and cultural gems. All you’ll need for this list is your curiosity (and maybe a camera, because you’ll want to remember these finds). Get ready to fill your itinerary—without emptying your wallet.
Buena Park Downtown Art Walk
If you fancy yourself a bit of an art fiend (or just need a break from coasters and funnel cakes), you’ll want to check out the Buena Park Art Walk. This collection of colorful murals and street sculptures begins practically on Knott’s doorstep, with Beach Boulevard and La Palma Avenue as your creative trailheads. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and spend some time exploring artwork that captures the city’s vivid personality—a blend of California sunshine, historic roots and fresh, youthful energy.
What makes this open-air gallery so appealing is the way it connects you to the community. No admission fees, no velvet ropes—just you, your camera and a whole sidewalk filled with splashes of color and creativity. Look for the art honoring the city’s farming history, including tributes to Walter Knott and his early berry fields, as well as contemporary pieces inspired by pop culture and local heroes.
Along the way, take a seat on one of the benches for a people-watching break, or pop into one of the independent shops, galleries or taquerias that line the street. The best part? You can make your route as long or short as you like. The Art Walk loops right back to Knott’s, so it’s easy to fill an hour—or spend an entire afternoon soaking up Buena Park’s diverse expression, all for free.
Knott’s California Marketplace
Knott’s California Marketplace
You don’t need a theme park ticket or a roller coaster wristband to step back in time at Knott’s California Marketplace. This charming bundle of shops and eateries sits right outside the main gates, free to browse and filled with California spirit. The Western storefronts, wooden sidewalks and flower pots set the scene for a relaxing stroll, all within sight of the park’s famous Old West Ghost Town.
Taking a walk here feels a bit like exploring a village from another era. On one corner, you’ll spot a genuine train car; on another, you’ll hear three generations of families debating if they should join the (always tempting) queue for Mrs. Knott’s Fried Chicken. But you don’t need to spend a dime to enjoy the century-old ambiance. Peek inside the Berry Market for a complimentary sample of boysenberry jam, or take in the details of the preserved Western architecture—spot the hand-painted signage, quirky windmills and original 1940s touches on every storefront.
At sunset, soft lighting and twinkle lights bring the marketplace to life for a magical, family-friendly evening. Grab a bench, sip the free water infused with fresh berries from the outdoor cooler, and let yourself drift back to the days when Buena Park was just a handful of berry fields.
Independence Hall Replica
You may not expect to find American Revolutionary history in the middle of Orange County, but the Independence Hall replica, commissioned by Walter Knott himself, sits proudly just opposite the theme park. It’s accurate to the very last brick—a full-scale, meticulous recreation of Philadelphia’s world-famous landmark, built in the 1960s. Walter Knott gifted it to the state as a testament to the country’s values, and a visit here sets a completely different mood from the roller coasters across the street.
A walk through its lamplit halls immerses you in stories of liberty, democracy and national pride. The experience starts as soon as you step onto the manicured lawn and see the grand colonial façade, complete with the clock tower and brick arches. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the Founding Fathers, a gorgeous replica of the Liberty Bell (the perfect selfie spot if you’re a history nerd), and displays detailing the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The rooms are filled with American flags, oil paintings, and thoughtful artifacts—ideal for both quick visits and deep dives into US heritage.
Buena Park Historic District
Take a step into the past with a leisurely exploration of the Buena Park Historic District, a hidden slice of 19th-century Southern California located a short, pleasant walk from Knott’s Berry Farm. Whitaker Street and the surrounding blocks are where the city’s first settlers built their ranch homes, and today you can stroll among Victorian-era houses and rustic storefronts, and stand beneath the shadow of the original Stage Stop Hotel, which first opened its doors to stagecoach travelers in the late 1800s.
No ticket is required—this is open, walkable history, lined with free-to-read storyboards that reveal quirky details about the town’s former blacksmiths, schoolteachers, pioneers and more. You’ll discover cast-iron fences, colorful gardens trimmed with old-fashioned roses, and shaded porches that look ready for rocking chairs and root beer. On weekends, volunteers sometimes lead free guided tours, offering extra layers of storytelling and even letting visitors peek inside some of the buildings, which have been lovingly restored with authentic décor.
Bellis Park
Bellis Park
Sometimes, you just need a sprawling green space to spread out a blanket and recharge. That’s where Bellis Park comes in—a community favorite that’s easy to reach from Knott’s and well worth a visit for anyone seeking a taste of local life. This spacious park, located right on Beach Boulevard, serves as a gathering spot for Buena Park residents and offers plenty of room for visitors to claim their own patch of grass.
You’ll find wide walking trails circling the lawns, a duck pond where you can watch ducks (and turtles!) basking in the sun, and a charming little gazebo perfect for shade (and impromptu photo shoots). Nature lovers will appreciate the landscaping, with its mix of palms, bougainvillea, and native shrubs, as well as the quiet corners where you can spot hummingbirds and squirrels going about their busy lives. The vibe here is relaxed; on weekends it fills with families tossing frisbees or lounging under mature trees. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the playground areas and open fields that practically beg for a game of tag or catch. Looking to unwind? Nap under the willows or settle in with a good book while the breeze rustles through the leaves.
Fullerton Arboretum
Nature lovers, welcome to paradise—just a 15-minute drive from Knott’s Berry Farm. The Fullerton Arboretum straddles 26 lush acres on the Cal State Fullerton campus, and while donations are appreciated, admission is always free. Once inside, you’re enveloped by a wave of vibrant greenery—California native plants, towering redwoods, bamboo forests and desert cacti gardens await. Meander along peaceful paths shaded by enormous trees, each section of the arboretum themed to show off a different climate and plant community.
Part of the fun is simply wandering. Spot hummingbirds flitting between vibrant blooms one minute, and turtles sunning themselves by the tranquil pond the next. There are benches everywhere, inviting you to pause, soak up the serenity, and maybe even sketch or read under a jacaranda tree. Kids love the natural scavenger hunts and the hands-on Children’s Garden bursting with sunflowers, herbs and pint-sized pathways. The onsite farmhouse museum—sometimes open for free tours—lets you peek into Orange County’s agricultural history, complete with antique tools and vintage photos.
Heritage Park
Tucked behind stately trees and lush lawns, Heritage Park delivers pure small-town charm around a mile south of Knott’s Berry Farm. The star attractions are the authentic heritage buildings: there’s a tiny early 1900s schoolhouse, a blacksmith workshop, a restored windmill and even an old church with charming stained-glass windows. Each tells a story of Buena Park’s pioneer days.
The park’s tranquil rose garden is a local favorite for quiet picnics, while children gravitate toward the shaded play areas in the corner. Stroll around and you’ll likely find history displays with fascinating trivia—did you know the city used to be a stagecoach hub? Free community events fill the calendar, including outdoor movie nights, holiday singalongs, and occasional open house days when volunteers in period dress demonstrate old-school crafts or blacksmith skills. Heritage Park is a peaceful place to unwind, slow down and savor views you won’t find anywhere else in Orange County—all for zero cost.
El Dorado Nature Center
You won’t believe such a serene oasis sits on Long Beach’s northern edge, barely 20 minutes’ drive from rollercoaster central. El Dorado Nature Center is a dreamy 105-acre retreat crisscrossed by walking trails through woods, beside slow-moving streams, and around peaceful ponds. It’s open to wander for free—bring a friend, a camera, or just your curiosity.
As you explore, you’ll notice a natural soundtrack: birds chirping from the trees, frogs croaking in the reeds, and soft breezes rustling the willows. Pause at scenic viewing decks to spot turtles basking, or watch herons strut through the marshes on long, skinny legs. Shady benches and picnic islands promise respite for hot afternoons.
The visitor center offers interpretive displays on local wildlife, plus free discovery packs filled with nature guides and activities for kids. Trails are mostly flat, so they’re perfect for strollers or wheelchair users. The Nature Center feels like a secret garden for everyone who ventures here and is a breath of fresh air if you need a break from crowds and city noise. Bring some water and your sense of wonder—you’ll leave feeling calmer than when you arrived.
Downtown Fullerton Historic Walking Tour
Downtown Fullerton Historic Walking Tour
Fullerton’s walkable historic downtown is a feast for architecture buffs, vintage lovers, and anyone craving classic SoCal ambiance—all without the price tag. Pick up a free walking map from Fullerton Train Station or online. It guides you to vintage banks, art-deco theaters with neon marquees, Spanish Colonial gems, mid-century retailers, and quirky businesses filled with stories. Don’t miss the restored Fox Theatre—its terra cotta ornamentation and soaring sign are photo favorites.
Hidden plaques reveal tidbits about Fullerton’s early citrus-packing pioneers, plus the jazz musicians and painters who gave the area its artistic spirit. Sidewalk cafés and bookstores line the stroll, and there’s always somewhere to pause for a free water refill or to rest tired feet.
For families, the scavenger hunt for historic details is a great way to keep kids engaged. Weekends sometimes feature car shows or sidewalk art displays—check local calendars or simply let your route unfold naturally. Snap pictures beneath the ancient Moreton Bay fig tree, enjoy the buzz from local buskers, and let the charm of old-town Orange County unfold.
Hillcrest Park
This rambling park offers classic SoCal scenery with free perks at every turn. Located in Fullerton, Hillcrest Park is famous for its curving trails up gently sloping hills dotted with giant sycamores, pine trees and dramatic city views. The newly restored fountain near the park’s central plaza is a local gathering spot, with gentle splashing and tiled steps leading to panoramic overlooks that make every sunset magical.
You’ll find several themed gardens: native plant landscaping, cactus gardens and a ‘memory walk’ honoring local history. The playground area is shaded by heritage trees and framed with soft mulch—perfect for energetic young travelers. If you’re a fitness buff, climb the park’s stately ‘grand stairs’ and join the locals jogging at sunrise or dusk. Photo ops abound: the Spanish-influenced stonework, ornate benches and public art installations give the place a nostalgic charm.
Laguna Lake Park
If you’re craving a slice of nature with a lakeside twist, Laguna Lake Park in Fullerton is a delightful discovery. The park centers around a glittering man-made lake lined with shady trees, wildflowers and the occasional family of ducks.
Joggers, walkers, and cyclists glide by as anglers try their luck from scenic piers and grassy banks (catch-and-release only, if you wondered). There’s an equestrian area on-site, so don’t be surprised if you spot a few happy horses trotting along the bridle path. Benches and picnic tables, many nestled under old oaks and sycamores, offer perfect spots to picnic or simply sit and watch the sunlight dance on the water.
Kids gravitate toward the large playground and open lawns for games. If you’re an early riser, morning mist on the lake is a magical sight—photographers, take note! Interpretive signs throughout the park introduce you to the local flora and fauna, and there’s often a free fitness or wellness class happening beneath the trees.
Looking for more stuff to do in Los Angeles? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets.
Step up your sightseeing with Go City®
We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.
See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!
