Millions of people visit Anaheim, California for Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure theme parks, but most parents don’t realize one of the most family-friendly cities is right next door. Buena Park is home to “America’s First Theme Park” Knott’s Berry Farm, a waterpark, and a ton of options for kid-friendly shows and restaurants.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is known for its epic roller coasters. I grew up going here in high school, and I have so many memories riding Ghost Rider and Supreme Scream. Despite my many visits as a teenager, I had no idea they had an ENTIRE section for little kids. My 3 toddlers had a blast at Camp Snoopy, and we easily fit in 7 rides before nap time.
Watch us ride those 7 rides here!
Locals may even tell you they prefer the Knott’s Berry Farm annual pass to the Disney pass. Not only is this theme park more affordable, but the toddler rides are all in the same area and all outside. Of course, we LOVE Disneyland, but some of the kid rides are dark and kind of scary for young kids.
Knott’s Berry Farm history & Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner
Knott’s Berry Farm celebrates California’s history and its theming highlights Old West mining, berry farming, Spanish missions, and a ghost town. There are tons of stores and activities for kids like geode cracking, farm animals, and a train ride.
Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner is historic and family-friendly. It is located just outside the park and includes a full meal with chicken, salad, corn, and pie! Make dinner reservations ahead of time and plan to pop outside of the park for an early dinner before heading back inside Knott’s for more rides!
Knott’s Soak City
I love this water park for kids because they have 2 massive splash pad areas dedicated to kids. One is more focused for babies and toddlers and the other is bigger for older kids. They also have epic water slides and a lazy river. This is a great way to spend a warm morning in Buena Park with toddlers!
There is a huge grassy area near the toddler splash pad, and most families brought large blankets and even umbrellas to set up a spot like you would do at the beach!
Where to Eat in Buena Park with Kids
Porto’s Bakery
Porto’s Bakery is well-known and popular for a reason. They have a huge assortment of pastries, desserts, sandwiches, and coffee. They are opening a new location in Downtown Disney too!
I was shocked how affordable Porto’s was considering it is so popular and located in Southern California. Pro tip: go early before one of your days at the theme parks to beat the crowds! The lines can get extremely long at Porto’s, but they have a great system and it moves quickly.
We may or may not have bought an entire key lime pie and took it home…
Nobibi
This cafe and dessert spot is right by Knott’s Berry Farm. This is a great way to cool off with a fun drink or ice cream!
What We Missed in Buena Park, California
Knott’s Hotel
This hotel shares a parking lot with Knott’s Berry Farm and makes visiting the theme parks so much easier!
Medieval Times
We didn’t take our kids here, but I grew up going to Medieval Times for birthday parties and field trips. This dinner and a show is so fun for kids and definitely worth considering!
IncrediPizza
This is like a classic pizza parlor with arcade games but super-sized!
Knott’s Berry Farm and Buena Park are just minutes from Disneyland, so it is worth adding a day or two to explore this city to your California Disney trip!
Buena Park is considered one of America’s “most fun small towns”!
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