Beyond Knott’s: Adventure, Eats, and Fun Near Buena Park

Finished with the thrill rides? Keep the fun rolling with these top picks near Knott’s.

Published: May 22, 2026
Rollercoaster at Knott's Berry Farm

Let’s be honest: Knott’s Berry Farm packs enough roller coaster action, Wild West shows, and boysenberry snacks to keep anyone entertained for days. But if you’re venturing out to Buena Park or planning a Los Angeles adventure, don’t just stop at the gates. The neighborhood and surrounding Orange County serve up everything from beach-bound bike rides to world-class aquariums to epic eats—without the theme park crowds. Whether you’re traveling with kids, thrill seekers, or foodies, we’ve rounded up the best things to do near Knott’s Berry Farm to help you make the most of every moment. 

Our picks for the best things to do near Knott’s Berry Farm include: 

  • Knott’s Soak City Water Park 
  • Aquarium of the Pacific 
  • Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales 
  • Richard Nixon Library 
  • Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking 
  • The Source OC 
  • Porto’s Bakery & Cafe 
  • Buena Park Historical Society 

Knott’s Soak City Water Park 

When you need a break from theme park thrills but still crave splashes and slides, Knott’s Soak City Water Park promises a wet and wild day out. Right next door to Knott’s Berry Farm, this colorful water wonderland is perfect for cooling off during Southern California’s sunniest months. From high-octane slides like Banzai Falls to the winding lazy river, there’s something to suit every pace and age. 

We always love relaxing on the beachy wave pool, where families can drift or body surf under the lifeguards’ watchful eyes. Little ones have their own mini water playground (with plenty of fountains and shade), while thrill seekers will want to test their courage on the Pacific Spin—a four-story funnel slide that’s total bragging rights material. With private cabanas and snack stands, Soak City makes it easy to turn a regular summer day into a pool party. 

Aquarium of the Pacific 

Head down the 605 to Long Beach, and you’ll hit one of our absolute favorite day trips: Aquarium of the Pacific. This world-class aquarium offers the chance to get up close with over 12,000 creatures—from skittish sea otters to rainbow-bright reef fish—across immersive galleries dedicated to the Pacific Ocean. 

Walk through the lush, open-air Lorikeet Forest, explore touch pools with moon jellies and epaulette sharks, and stare up in awe as awe-inspiring sharks and rays glide overhead in massive tanks. We especially love the playful sea lions and the educational, hands-on exhibits about California’s coastline. The setting itself—a glass-and-steel wonder just steps from Rainbow Harbor—makes you feel like you’re visiting a mini oceanside paradise, even on a drizzly day. 

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales

Whale Tail with Tour Boat in the Background

Craving a real-life adventure on the Pacific? Newport Beach’s Whale Watch & Dolphin Tours set sail daily and promise unforgettable sightings. Depending on the season, you could see gray whales, blue whales, finbacks, or giant dolphin pods leaping alongside the boat. Knowledgeable guides make sure you don’t miss a thing, delivering fun facts and pointing out celebrities—of the finned variety. 

The vibe is relaxed but exciting, perfect for families or friends who want to swap city traffic for sea breezes. For us, nothing compares to spotting a breaching whale just off the bow or soaking in ocean views with the Orange County coastline as a backdrop. Bring a camera and bundle up: even in the sunshine, that ocean wind is part of the magic. 

Richard Nixon Library 

History buffs can make a quick journey east to Yorba Linda for the Richard Nixon Library, where presidential artifacts and stories come to life. The library sits on the picturesque grounds of Nixon’s childhood home and features interactive exhibits covering everything from the Apollo moon landing to the president’s famous China trip. 

You’ll get to tour the meticulously restored farmhouse where Nixon was born, plus step inside Marine One—the presidential helicopter—for a true “White House on wheels” experience. What sets this spot apart? It’s both a monument to American history and a serene garden oasis, with reflective pools and fragrant roses. After soaking up the exhibits, unwind on a bench among the citrus groves and retrace one of America’s most turbulent eras. 

Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking 

For those itching to swap roller coasters for Pacific breezes, the Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour is a SoCal classic. Pedal along the famous Santa Monica Pier, under swaying palms, and down the buzzy Oceanfront Walk, with plenty of time for photo stops and people-watching. 

Guided by local experts—and fueled by the ever-present sound of surf and skateboards—this ride blends outdoor exercise with the sheer fun of Venice’s murals, Muscle Beach vibes, and endless beachside scenery. We especially recommend parking your wheels at a street performer’s circle or a hidden taco stand for that perfect tour break. It’s the best way to see LA’s lively coastlines while dodging the city’s notorious traffic jams. 

The Source OC

Couple in a Shopping Mall

Foodies and shopaholics, this one’s for you: The Source OC in Buena Park is a vibrantly modern lifestyle complex minutes from Knott’s. Spread across several stories, you’ll find everything from unique dessert cafes to K-beauty shops to dramatic rooftop dining—making it the perfect spot for downtime, even when you’re not on a shopping spree. 

We love the energy here: sample on-trend Korean street food, sip matcha lattes, snag a bubble waffle, or catch a live performance in the airy event atrium (yes, K-pop dances happen). Whether you need souvenirs, a caffeine recharge, or that after-dinner churro, The Source is a fantastic place to refuel, hang out, and sample Orange County’s ever-evolving foodie scene. 

Porto’s Bakery & Cafe 

No trip to Buena Park is complete without visiting Porto’s Bakery & Cafe—a legendary Cuban bakery that’s become an LA essential. Even if there’s a line, locals know it moves fast thanks to the super-efficient, always-smiling staff. Inside, glass cases overflow with guava-and-cheese-filled pastries, potato balls, flaky meat pies, and mile-high cakes for every celebration. 

The energy buzzes whether you’re there for breakfast sandwiches, savory empanadas, or an afternoon box of cheese rolls to go. Grab an iced dulce de leche latte, settle in by the floor-to-ceiling windows, and watch as families and road-trippers alike snap “unboxing” pics of Porto’s famed specialties. Warm, welcoming, and always delicious, Porto’s hits the perfect sweet (and savory) spot for any itinerary. 

Buena Park Historical Society 

Step into Buena Park’s fascinating past with a stop at the Buena Park Historical Society’s Whitaker-Jaynes House, just a few blocks from Knott’s Berry Farm. This beautifully restored Victorian home sits surrounded by peaceful gardens and houses a treasure trove of local artifacts, memorabilia, and vintage photographs that tell the story of Buena Park’s early ranchers, groves, and railroad days. 

Take a guided tour to peek at rooms decorated in period furnishings (keep an eye out for the dazzling vintage hats and antique radios!) and discover how the community was shaped by everything from orange farming to the famous chicken dinner. We think the friendly volunteers truly make this spot special—they love sharing the city’s fun, quirky secrets and answering kids’ burning questions about the past. With rotating displays and regular events, it’s a great place to take a leisurely break from thrill rides, snap some history-laden selfies, and connect with this unique slice of Southern California heritage. 

 

Around Knott’s Berry Farm, adventure doesn’t have to end when the roller coasters roll to a stop. With beach bike rides, ocean encounters, time-travel dinners, and flavors to please every palate, the attractions nearby serve up just as much excitement and local color. Whether you’re planning a low-key afternoon or looking to fill a whole extra day, these picks ensure your Buena Park trip goes way beyond the park gates. Grab your sense of adventure and discover more of what makes this corner of LA an all-ages crowd-pleaser! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes  

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February in LA: Sun, Stars and Surprises Await

Dreaming of an LA getaway but not sure if February is up for the challenge? Good news—Los Angeles delivers its signature sunshine, plenty of big events, and just enough cozy moments to make this short month sing. Whether you crave a crowd-free stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, want to soak up Pacific views on a bike, or can’t wait to eat your way through Lunar New Year festivals, LA is bursting with energy just when the rest of the country needs it most. With awards season in full swing, romantic Valentine’s Day vibes and adventures from whale watching to museum-hopping, February in LA has its own special magic. Come chase it with us!  Here’s our lineup of must-do February activities in Los Angeles:  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  GRAMMY Museum  Griffith Observatory Tour  Lunar New Year Celebrations  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Battleship IOWA Museum  Hollywood Museum  Enjoy Oscar buzz at the Dolby Theatre guided tour  Cozy up at Café Gratitude  GRAMMY Museum  What goes on behind the glitz and glamour of the world’s biggest music awards? This is the spot to find out. The GRAMMY Museum in downtown Los Angeles is vibrant, interactive, and packed with jaw-dropping memorabilia from the legends who have shaped music history. Think Michael Jackson’s sparkly glove, iconic outfits, lyric journals, plus installations for every major genre.  February is the museum’s moment to shine, with fresh buzz from the annual GRAMMY Awards. You’ll find limited-time exhibits highlighting nominees, music innovation labs, and listening booths where you can experience the power of Grammy-winning performances. The mood here is energetic—expect to find families, music nerds, and selfie-snapping friends alike.  Fans of pop, rock, country, jazz, hip hop (and everything in between) are guaranteed to discover something memorable. You can step into a replica recording booth, test your DJ skills, or feel the weight of a GRAMMY trophy. Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or just want a dose of that special LA soundtrack, the museum delivers.  Griffith Observatory Tour  February is LA’s secret stargazing season—the air’s fresh, skies are clear, and (thanks to winter’s early sunsets) the stars pop in the lavender dusk above the city. Where better to take it all in than the legendary Griffith Observatory? Perched on Mount Hollywood, it offers panoramic views over Downtown, the Hollywood sign, and right out to the sweep of the Pacific.  Join a guided tour for a fun, info-packed look at historic telescopes, clever exhibits, and celestial wonders. The planetarium shows are unforgettable, especially when they cap off a sunset hike. Even if you’re not an astronomy buff, the architecture alone—classic Art Deco flourishes and sun-drenched terraces—make you want to linger. The surrounding parkland bursts with wildflowers this time of year, so bring your walking shoes for a loop along the West Observatory Trail.  Feeling romantic? Evening visits here are surprisingly dreamy—a low-lit walk around the terraces with the city sparkling below is pure LA movie magic.  Lunar New Year Celebrations  February means it’s time for the city’s most dazzling festivities: Lunar New Year. LA’s Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities celebrate with vibrant parades, delicious food, lion dance performances and more. Head to Chinatown, the San Gabriel Valley, or the big street festivals around the city for a taste of the action.  The Golden Dragon Parade is a local institution: dragon dancers weave through crowds, confetti flies, and food stalls tempt you with everything from dim sum to mouthwatering BBQ. Don’t miss the nightly light installations and lion dances by Central Plaza—the atmosphere sizzles with hope and happiness for the year ahead.  We especially love the family-friendly feel: kids can get their faces painted and adults can sample traditional nian gao (sticky rice cake for good luck). It’s one of LA’s most vivid, photogenic winter traditions, and no trip in February is complete without soaking it up.  California Science Center IMAX Movie  If February throws you a rare rainy day, we’ve got the perfect indoor fix: immerse yourself in a next-level film at the California Science Center’s IMAX theater. This is not your average cinema—expect massive screens, heart-thumping surround sound, and a lineup of science and nature films that launch your imagination into orbit.  The experience is cinematic but also hands-on. Before or after your IMAX adventure, wander through the Space Shuttle Endeavour Pavilion or test out interactive exhibits about the universe, biology, and more. It’s educational and wildly fun for everyone—from families with curious kiddos to adults who just want an out-of-this-world escape.  The theater often debuts new releases in February, ranging from deep-sea documentaries to thrilling astronaut stories. Afterwards, refuel at the center’s café, or walk over to the nearby Natural History Museum for a second shot of discovery.  Battleship IOWA Museum  LA’s harbor comes alive with history at the Battleship IOWA, a floating museum docked in San Pedro. Step aboard “the Battleship of Presidents” and you’ll be walking the decks where Eisenhower, Reagan, and even Roosevelt all made history.  The tours (both self-guided and with friendly staff) take you from the top deck’s panoramic views to below-deck cabins and gun turrets. You’ll find interactive installations that explain everything about life on board—from radar systems to the crew’s favorite mess menu items. Kids love climbing up and down ladders, testing out the captain’s chair, or scanning for dolphins off the side.  The nautical vibe is matched by knockout harbor views, and if you visit in February, you’re likely to dodge the biggest crowds. The museum sometimes hosts special military heritage events or shipboard movie nights—so check ahead for fun surprises.  Hollywood Museum  Step into four floors of Hollywood magic just steps from the Walk of Fame. From February’s hustle and bustle of awards season, the Hollywood Museum is a can’t-miss for any film or TV fan eager to get the inside scoop. Here, the drama of cinema past and present surrounds you at every turn.  Expect fabulous exhibits on classic stars—Marilyn Monroe’s makeup case, Indiana Jones’ whip, Hannibal Lecter’s actual jail cell from “Silence of the Lambs”—but also plenty of up-to-the-minute costumes and props. Themed exhibits often focus on Oscars’ history in February, letting you see vintage statuettes, iconic fashion, and much more.  The pink Art Deco Max Factor building, with its lavish décor and maze of secret rooms, adds an extra thrill to the experience. Don’t be surprised if you lose track of time sifting through nostalgia in the TV memorabilia basement—it’s packed with rare gems. The staff love to chat film trivia, so come ready with questions!  Enjoy Oscar Buzz at the Dolby Theatre Guided Tour  Every February, LA buzzes with awards show excitement. The Dolby Theatre crowns this glitzy season—the real home of the Oscars since 2002. On a guided tour, you get a proper taste of the Hollywood A-list treatment: stand on the stage where stars have given their emotional speeches, explore VIP lounges, and check out behind-the-scenes stories of nerves, gowns, and golden statues.  The guides know all the showbiz secrets, and the lavish Art Deco lobby sets the mood. Whether you fancy yourself a future star or just want to snap a red-carpet selfie, this tour is made for making memories. And if you’re in town during awards week, you’ll feel the electric buzz all over Hollywood—leading up to the big night itself.  Stick around for people-watching outside or catch a movie at the adjacent Chinese Theatre. Awards season brings special pop-up exhibits, rooftop parties, and themed cocktails to Hollywood’s bars and cafés. Soak up the star-studded atmosphere—there’s nothing else quite like it.  Cozy Up at Café Gratitude  After a full day of LA adventures, reward yourself with a meal that feels as good as it tastes. Café Gratitude is a beloved local chain known for nourishing plant-based dishes, warm ambiance, and a welcoming, laidback vibe that melts away the city’s noise.  Each dish has a playful, affirming name (order the “I Am Grateful” for a classic rice bowl with spicy tomato sauce—or the “I Am Thriving” mushroom risotto for winter comfort). Bright walls, creative murals, and lots of indoor plants set the scene for easy conversations and plenty of “where did you get this recipe?” moments.  Drinks—from fresh juices to organic wines—arrive with a smile, and the menu always features something seasonal. February means plenty of winter vegetables, vibrant root soups, and blissfully rich desserts. Whether you’re vegan, health-focused, or just want to feel like an LA local, this is the cozy, delicious reset you’re looking for.    February in Los Angeles is anything but ordinary. One visit and you’ll see why locals think of this month as a secret sweet spot—short lines at star attractions, outdoor adventures in t-shirt weather, spirited festivals, fresh music and movie magic everywhere you turn. LA comes alive with a rhythm all its own: whales breaching off sun-kissed beaches, street parades full of color and kindness, cozy moments in artsy cafés, and just enough glamor to remind you that you’re in the entertainment capital of the world. So pack your layers, your camera, and a sense of adventure—February here is open for exploration.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Things to Do Near Knott’s Berry Farm.    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! 

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