Make a Splash: Fun Adventures Near Knott’s Soak City

Dry off after Soak City and get ready for these awesome local experiences!

Published: May 22, 2026
Water Slide at Knott's Soak City

So, you’ve wrapped up a day of water slides and wave pools at Knott’s Soak City Water Park—now what? Turns out, this corner of Buena Park isn’t just about making a splash. Whether you want quirky eats, big thrills, fascinating museums, or an escape to the beach, the area surrounding Knott’s Soak City dishes up plenty to keep your adventures going strong. Let us show you all the ways you can turn a quick day at Soak City into an action-packed LA escape! 

Our favorite things to do near Knott’s Soak City include: 

  • Knott’s Berry Farm 
  • The Original Porto’s Bakery & Cafe 
  • Buena Park Historic District 
  • The Source OC 
  • Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach (Laguna Beach) 
  • Aquarium of the Pacific 
  • La Mirada Community Regional Park 
  • The Hollywood Museum 

Knott’s Berry Farm: Thrills Next Door 

You can’t visit Knott’s Soak City without popping next door to Knott’s Berry Farm—California’s first theme park and still brimming with retro charm and rollercoaster energy. From pulse-pounding coasters like GhostRider to family rides in Camp Snoopy, there’s adrenaline for every age group. Not to mention that Wild West ghost town feel—there’s even a real blacksmith and old-timey photo studio! 

What makes Knott’s Berry Farm so unforgettable is its blend of nostalgia and new thrills. We always make time for Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner, with its crispy golden crust and gooey boysenberry pie for dessert. In spring, the Boysenberry Festival is a celebration of all things sweet and tart. Whether you’re a coaster fanatic or just want to soak in charming Americana, Knott’s Berry Farm is the perfect next stop when you’re ready for dry clothes and high-flying fun. 

The Original Porto’s Bakery & Cafe: Sweet (and Savory) Rewards 

Hungry after hitting the slides? Porto’s Bakery is a Southern California legend, and their Buena Park outpost is a foodie’s dream—just a 5-minute drive from the waterpark. The vibe is always happy chaos: locals queuing for guava pastries, potato balls, and superflaky cheese rolls. 

Standout bites include the potato balls—think crispy mashed-potato goodness filled with seasoned beef—and the Cubano sandwich, stacked with juicy pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles. The pastry case will make you weak in the knees, so grab a box for the road! With breezy patio seating and coffee that’ll keep you running, Porto’s is where we go to refuel and indulge before the next leg of our adventure. 

Buena Park Historic District: Step Back in Time

Buena Park

History buffs, this one’s for you. Just a few blocks away, the Buena Park Historic District is a lovely little stroll, with perfectly preserved 19th-century buildings tucked under leafy trees. Visit the Whitaker-Jaynes House, now a museum filled with Victorian-era treasures and stories from Buena Park’s first families. 

If you’re lucky, you can catch a docent-led tour of the district. The storytelling really brings the old days to life, plus there’s a rose garden that’s pure Sunday afternoon material. Whether you’re resting up between thrills or looking to sprinkle a little history into your day, the Buena Park Historic District is a charming way to slow down and savor SoCal’s roots. 

The Source OC: Shop, Dine, Play 

Looking for a modern contrast to your waterpark fun? Head to The Source OC, a contemporary shopping and entertainment hub just a few minutes’ drive away. There's something for everyone: K-pop fans will love the themed gift shops, foodies can dive into sizzling Korean BBQ or bubble tea, and Instagrammers will find plenty of colorful art and neon hidden corners for the perfect pic. 

What really stands out is the energetic, communal vibe—weekly pop-ups, K-drama screenings, live music, and late-night eats make The Source OC buzz well into the evening. Whether you’re on the hunt for a unique souvenir, crave some Korean fried chicken, or just want to soak in local culture, this spot is full of unexpected fun. 

Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach: Secret Local Legend 

Ready for something wild and whimsical? Take a short drive down to Laguna Beach and hunt for the Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach. This fairy-tale-looking structure stands right on the sand, with waves crashing at its feet. Built back in 1926, it feels like it’s straight from a storybook and has all the mystery and magic you want in a SoCal adventure. 

Low tide is best for a close-up look, so check ahead. The walk down is part of the fun—stairs cut into the cliffside and hidden paths make the “journey” even more exciting. Pack your swimsuit and snap a selfie by the tower, then chill out on the sand with some of the best ocean views in the area. It’s a fantastic way to finish a busy theme park day with a real slice of California magic. 

Aquarium of the Pacific: Ocean Wonders

Sea Lions at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Not far from Buena Park, you’ll find the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach—a must for anyone who dreams of sea turtles and sharks. Spread across multiple galleries, this world-class aquarium is as fascinating for adults as it is fun for little ones. You’ll come face-to-face with playful sea otters, wandering rays, and a rainbow of coral reef fish. 

What keeps us coming back? The touch pools! You can safely feel everything from moon jellyfish to bamboo sharks, and the helpful staff make learning about marine life a breeze. From interactive exhibits to jaw-dropping underwater tunnels, this aquarium makes for an awe-inspiring day out—and a solid break from theme park crowds. 

La Mirada Community Regional Park: Peaceful Green Escape 

Sometimes, you need a pause from the action. La Mirada Community Regional Park, less than a 15-minute drive away, is the perfect spot to recharge. Stretch out among shady trees, let the kids loose on playgrounds, or take a peaceful stroll around the lake where ducks float by and locals cast for trout. 

We love grabbing picnic supplies and claiming a bench with a view. The vast green lawns are perfect for tossing a frisbee or catching a sunny nap. There are also tennis courts, a disc golf course, and fitness stations—a little something for everyone. It’s a refreshing contrast to the high-octane thrills of Knott’s, and a great place to slow down and savor LA’s endless good weather. 

The Hollywood Museum: Step Into the Movies 

If you’re willing to venture a bit north, The Hollywood Museum is a movie buff’s dream. This art deco treasure trove, set in the historic Max Factor building, showcases four floors of original props, costumes, scripts, and photographs from Hollywood’s golden age to today’s blockbusters. 

The star power here is hard to beat—peek at Marilyn Monroe’s dresses, Hannibal Lecter’s cell, and rare Star Wars memorabilia. Each exhibit feels immersive and the whole museum has that backstage energy you usually only get with a studio tour. Fans of film history will geek out over the makeup rooms (where legends like Lucille Ball got camera-ready), while families can trace decades of Hollywood magic through every floor. It’s well worth the drive if you want to sprinkle your trip with vintage stardust and celebrity secrets. 

 

Ready to turn your Knott’s Soak City adventure into a legendary LA day? With wild rides, foodie hotspots, castles, pirates, and a dash of California history, there’s plenty nearby to turn a simple waterpark visit into a memory-packed trip. Follow your curiosity—from splashy slides to hidden towers to dazzling movie relics—and you’re sure to discover that the magic in this corner of LA doesn’t end when you dry off. Happy exploring! 

Enjoyed this? Check our Things to Do Near Knott’s Berry Farm or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes 

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!   

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

couple on roadtrip
Blog

Sundays Done Right: Top Activities for LA Adventurers

Wake up, LA! It’s Sunday—the city’s best day to slow down, try something new, and discover why everyone falls in love with Los Angeles. Whether you’re an early riser or a brunch connoisseur, the city is buzzing with adventure. From the Pacific coastline’s salty air to the star-studded hills of Hollywood, LA rolls out the red carpet for weekend explorers. You’ll find colorful farmers’ markets, world-class museums, outdoor adventures, and the kind of food that’s worth writing home about. So, whether your style is mellow and beachy or you’re up for movie magic and city thrills, we’ve rounded up the ultimate Sunday itinerary. Ready to make your Sunday one for the memory books? Let’s dive in!  Los Angeles Sunday: Essential Experiences  Looking for the best ways to spend your Sunday in Los Angeles? Here are our top picks:  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour  Griffith Observatory Tour  Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking  Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker  Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk  Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour  If you want to see a mix of neighborhoods and sights, the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour is your flexible ticket to LA’s highlights. Sundays are made for exploring, and this open-top double-decker bus lets you curate your own adventure at your pace. Cruise through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Downtown, hopping off when something grabs your attention—be it the flash of a mural, the allure of a boutique, or the smell of food drifting from the market.  The vibes on board are super friendly, with guides offering entertaining commentary packed with fun facts and local legends. Take in the sights: the glitter of the Walk of Fame, the architectural drama of Walt Disney Concert Hall, or the lush greenery of urban parks. Stop for spontaneous detours—a coffee here, a quick photo opp there. No need to stress about traffic or parking; you can just sit back and soak up the city. For first-timers, this tour brings Los Angeles’ many personalities together in a single (relaxing) Sunday experience.  Griffith Observatory Tour  There’s something magical about spending a Sunday surrounded by the serenity of Griffith Park, high above the city at Griffith Observatory. Mornings and early afternoons are perfect for the guided Griffith Observatory Tour. As you walk up that iconic hill, LA’s cityscape unfolds beside you, and on clear days the view stretches from the downtown skyline all the way to the Pacific.  Inside, you’ll find fascinating science and astronomy exhibits—the Tesla coil, the funky Foucault pendulum, and interactive displays that are as fun as they are educational. Climb up to the rooftop for a closer look at the Hollywood Sign and to peer through the Zeiss telescope; you might spot a planet or two, even in daylight!  The tour guides here are enthusiastic and love sharing behind-the-scenes stories—about the Observatory’s role in film history and its place in the city’s collective imagination. And the feeling of standing under the Art Deco rotunda, surrounded by curious minds, is pure LA magic. Whether you’re an astronomy buff or just love panoramic views, this spot brings out your inner explorer.  Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking  Sunshine, flat paths, and beautiful views—Santa Monica is a cyclist’s dream on a Sunday. With Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking, you can roll from the legendary Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach, soaking up everything the coastline has to offer. Stop for street performers on the pier, watch skateboarders carve up Venice Skatepark, or just cruise the beach path until you find a spot for a snack.  These bikes are built for comfort and style, so you can ride for miles without a care. The energy is laid-back and friendly—fellow cyclists, rollerbladers, and joggers all share the path, and there’s always something to watch. We love grabbing an iced coffee at Perry’s Café right on the sand, or stopping at the original Muscle Beach for people-watching.  A Sunday bike ride in Santa Monica isn’t just exercise, it’s a celebration of the great LA outdoors. Expect sun, sea breeze, and tons of photo ops—this is California at its most relaxed.  Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market  Sometimes the perfect Sunday starts with food. The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax has been feeding LA locals and visitors since 1934, and its Sunday vibe is unmatched. Think dozens of open-air stalls and permanent eateries heaped with California’s best produce—sweet strawberries, vibrant citrus, and avocados so fresh they’re practically begging to be mashed into toast.  Beyond the fruits and veggies, this is a true world food bazaar, with everything from Brazilian barbecue at Pampas Grill to Parisian crêpes at The French Crepe Company. There’s live music, friendly crowds, and the happy buzz of food discovery around every corner.  Find a communal table, order something you’ve never tried before (the corned beef at Magee’s is legendary), and soak up the laughter and chatter. This is LA’s melting pot at its friendly best—and a great way to fuel your Sunday for more exploring.  Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard  If your idea of a fun Sunday is a blend of window shopping, people-watching, and discovering LA’s creative heart, Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is calling your name. This mile-long stretch is the city’s unofficial trend capital—lined with indie boutiques, stylish cafes, galleries, and one-of-a-kind street art.  Here’s the deal: you could start with gourmet doughnuts from Blue Star, browse for handmade jewelry, or sample house-roasted coffee at Intelligentsia. The energy is relaxed, creative, and effortlessly cool—local artists chat with shoppers, friendly dogs wag outside storefronts, and food trucks pulse with the scent of global street food.  Every Sunday, it seems, Abbot Kinney reveals something new: a pop-up vintage clothing sale, a street fair, live music, or maybe a celebrity sighting if you keep an eye out. Even if you’re not in shopping mode, the creative buzz is contagious and makes for a perfect LA afternoon.  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Perched on a hilltop with skyline views, The Getty Center is a Sunday treat for art, architecture, and garden lovers alike. Take the tram up from the parking area—it sets the tone for an experience that’s both inspiring and utterly unique to LA.  The guided tours bring the Getty’s art and architecture to life, highlighting everything from Renaissance paintings to modern photography, all in light-filled galleries. Guides are engaging and happy to answer your questions. Don’t skip a stroll in the Central Garden—created by artist Robert Irwin, it’s a living sculpture of meandering paths, reflective pools, and creative plantings.  Even if you’re not a hardcore art buff, the atmosphere is serene yet stimulating, with terraces overlooking the mountains and the sea. People linger over coffee and pastries at the café, or find a shady spot to sketch or read. It’s the kind of place where you can be both energized by culture and calmed by nature—an unbeatable LA combo.  Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker  No LA Sunday is complete without brunch, and The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (a/k/a BBCM) is the place to do it in style. Located in West Hollywood, this hotspot is famed for its pastel-hued espresso drinks and a brunch menu that has LA foodies queuing up all weekend.  If you’re feeling classic, the eggs benedict are pillowy and perfectly sauced. Those after something a bit more colorful should try the signature “Colorburst” lattes—swirled with rainbow hues and almost too pretty to drink (almost). The lemon ricotta pancakes are a must, too—fluffy, bright, and topped with berry compote.  BBCM’s décor is as photo-worthy as the plates: lush greenery, sun-drenched atriums, and buzzy with a crowd of brunch fans from morning till the late afternoon. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two, but the real stars are the creative cocktails and the welcoming staff. Make a reservation if you can—it’s worth waking up a bit early.  Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk  Round off your LA Sunday with a stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk. As golden hour approaches, the atmosphere hits peak LA: skaters zip past mural-painted walls, bodybuilders flex at Muscle Beach, and street performers entertain kids and grown-ups alike. The energy here is electric—quirky, irreverent, and joyful.  Stop into one of the old-school snack shacks for a lemonade or coconut water, rent a pair of roller skates from one of the local shops, or browse pier-side stalls for handmade art and jewelry. If you’re hungry for a sunset treat, Great White just across from the boardwalk serves up fresh, beachy plates—give their breakfast burrito or fish tacos a try. Their airy, minimalist vibe pairs perfectly with salty air and views of the ocean.  As the sun dips into the Pacific, the boardwalk lights up with an only-in-LA mix of beach lovers, cruisers, musicians, and artists. End your day here, soaking up the ever-changing scene, and you’ll understand why so many people call LA the city where summer never ends.    There’s no wrong way to do a Sunday in Los Angeles, but there are some extra-fun ways to make the most of it. Whether you’re gazing at whales, dining on artful brunches, biking beside the Pacific, or soaking in culture high above the city, there’s always a new adventure around the corner. LA’s neighborhoods glow with personality, and Sundays show them all at their vibrant, laid-back best. We hope this roundup helps you fill your day with stand-out experiences, delicious food, and plenty of sunny memories. Here’s to your perfect LA Sunday—where fun is as endless as the California sky!    Enjoyed this? 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! 
ET at Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Blog

Beyond the Wax: Things to Do After Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Land in the heart of Hollywood and don’t stop at wax figures!
Sea Lion at the Aquarium of the Pacific
Blog

Dive Into Fun: Top Activities Near Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium’s just the start—wait till you see what’s nearby!

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.