1. Mini Monster Café
   Location: Anaheim Packing District, Anaheim, CA
   A charming café in the Anaheim Packing District, Mini Monster is known for its aesthetically pleasing drinks served in their signature lightbulb bottles. From boba teas to coffee, the whimsical presentation adds a playful touch to your beverage experience.

2. Los Cotijas Taco Shop
   Location: Garden Grove, CA
   A local favorite for authentic Mexican food, Los Cotijas Taco Shop serves up flavorful tacos, burritos, and more. Perfect for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal in Garden Grove.

3. Soup Shop
   Location: Anaheim, CA
   A cozy spot specializing in pho and other comforting Vietnamese dishes, Soup Shop is ideal for satisfying your craving for rich, flavorful soups. Their warm atmosphere makes it a go-to for a comforting meal.

4. Anaheim Packing District
   Location: Anaheim, CA
   A bustling food hall and cultural hub featuring a variety of eateries, shops, and unique spaces like the SEED Welcome Room. The Packing District blends historic charm with modern dining, making it a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. This space is reminiscent of Lexington Market in Baltimore, Mount Vernon Marketplace, or Reading Terminal in Philly—not so much for the historical aspects, but for the lively, bustling vibe filled with people eager to explore all the delicious options to eat and drink. Located in Downtown Anaheim, it’s within walking distance to the Muzeo Museum. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to visit the museum since it was closed due to holiday and weekday hours during my trip.
5. Blue Daisy Café
   Location: Melrose District, Los Angeles, CA
   Nestled in the Melrose District, Blue Daisy Café offers a mix of fresh, flavorful dishes with Mediterranean influences. Known for its relaxed and cozy atmosphere, it’s an excellent spot for a leisurely brunch or lunch while exploring LA.

6. Eggbred
   Location: Long Beach, CA
   A fun and creative breakfast spot specializing in egg-based sandwiches and brunch staples. Eggbred is a must-visit for those who love hearty, comfort-food-inspired meals with a twist.

7. The Den Café
   Location: Santa Ana, CA
   A welcoming café offering a mix of coffee, light bites, and a creative atmosphere. The Den Café is a perfect spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment in Santa Ana.

8. Okayama Kobo Bakery & Café
   Location: Anaheim, CA
   A Japanese bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and desserts with authentic flavors. Okayama Kobo is a treat for those who appreciate quality baked goods and unique offerings.

9. Georgia’s Restaurant
   Location: Anaheim, CA
   A family-owned eatery serving soul food classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. Georgia’s Restaurant brings Southern comfort to SoCal with hearty, flavorful dishes in a warm, welcoming environment.

10. Disneyland – Earl of Sandwich Tavern
    Location: Disneyland, Anaheim, CA
    As Disneyland newbies, we arrived hungry and without a plan, so Earl of Sandwich became the first stop to fuel up and strategize for the day. This casual spot offers quick and satisfying bites to help you start your park adventure right.

11. Disneyland – Lamplight Lounge
    Location: Disneyland, Anaheim, CA
    Located in Disney’s California Adventure Park, Lamplight Lounge offers fun and flavorful bites in a lively atmosphere. I tried tempura fried chicken wings for the first time here—highly recommend using the app for walk-up reservations!

Museums & Attractions 

Bowers Museum
Location: Santa Ana, CA
A cultural treasure in Orange County, Bowers Museum showcases world-class exhibits featuring art and artifacts from around the globe. From Native American art to rotating international collections, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and artistic expression.

Crystal Cove State Beach
Location: Laguna Beach, CA
This scenic state beach offers stunning ocean views, tide pools, and sandy shores perfect for a peaceful escape. Open from sunrise to sunset, there’s a small fee to park, but it’s well worth it to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of this coastal gem. Pack a blanket and some treats, park facing the ocean, and bask in the stunning views. We arrived close to sunset, so we weren’t able to make the short trek to the beach itself, but it’s easily accessible for those with more time.

Mission San Juan Capistrano
Location: San Juan Capistrano, CA
A historic landmark and cultural icon, this mission is often called the "Jewel of the Missions." Known for its stunning gardens, preserved architecture, and fascinating history dating back to 1776, it’s a place to reflect on California’s rich cultural heritage.

Disneyland
Location: Anaheim, CA
Woooh, Disney wore. me. out. While I screamed and laughed like a kid, we made solid progress seeing both Disneyland parks and the Downtown Disney District, even with just one day to explore. Purchasing the Lightning Pass helped us save time, but I have mixed feelings about the sheer amount of stuff they sell everywhere, the crowds, lines, and the extra surcharges to access a “shorter” line. Still, there’s plenty left to experience if we return in the future!

Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University
Location: Orange, CA
A hidden gem, this museum focuses on California art, including scenes of the Golden State's unique history, landscapes, and culture. Free to visit, it’s a quiet and inspiring spot perfect for art lovers looking for something off the beaten path.

Bowlero Bowling Alley
Location: Various Locations (visited in SoCal)
A modern, upscale bowling alley that combines fun and flair. With great music, trendy decor, and a lively atmosphere, Bowlero is more than just bowling—it’s an experience. Perfect for a casual outing with friends or family.

Stay

Westin Anaheim Resort
Location: Anaheim, CA
Situated directly across from Disneyland and adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center, the Westin Anaheim Resort offers a luxurious and convenient stay for both leisure and business travelers. With modern amenities, spacious rooms, and stunning views of the Disney parks (perfect for catching fireworks), it’s a relaxing retreat after a busy day of exploring. The hotel also features a rooftop bar, multiple dining options, and a resort-style pool, making it a great choice for a memorable Anaheim visit.

Places, spaces, and sites added to my California guide that I couldn’t visit this time around—next time, SoCal!

1. 6th and Detroit – Boutique, Long Beach, CA
2. Anneise – Boutique, Long Beach, CA
3. Anonymous Ism – Boutique, Los Angeles, CA
4. Arboretum and Botanical Garden – Nature, Arcadia, CA
5. Bel Canto Books – Bookstore, Long Beach, CA
6. California African Museum – Museum, Los Angeles, CA
7. Colossus – Bakery, San Pedro, CA
8. Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden – Garden, Long Beach, CA
9. Great Maple – Restaurant, Pasadena, CA
10. Holy Roly – Ice Cream Shop, Los Angeles, CA
11. Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen – Restaurant, Fullerton, CA
12. Leimert Park – Cultural District, Los Angeles, CA
13. LibroMobile – Bookstore, Santa Ana, CA
14. Lisa Says Gah – Boutique, Los Angeles, CA
15. Long Beach Museum of Art – Museum, Long Beach, CA
16. Makes Collective – Artisan Market, Costa Mesa, CA
17. Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center – Museum, Anaheim, CA
18. Museum of Latin American Art – Museum, Long Beach, CA
19. Oak Canyon Nature Center – Nature, Anaheim, CA
20. OCMA Costa Mesa – Museum, Costa Mesa, CA
21. Orange Circle Antique Mall – Shopping, Orange, CA
22. Palihotel – Hotel, Los Angeles, CA
23. Prims Boutique – Boutique, Fullerton, CA
24. Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Performing Arts, Costa Mesa, CA
25. The Bowery Beer Bar – Bar, Fullerton, CA
26. The Last Bookstore – Bookstore, Los Angeles, CA
27. The Scratch Room – Restaurant, Anaheim, CA
28. The Win-Dow – Restaurant, Venice, CA
29. Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature, Silverado, CA
30. Yorba Regional Park – Park, Anaheim, CA

What About You?

Have you visited any of these spots, or are you planning a trip to SoCal soon? I’d love to hear your thoughts or any recommendations for places to check out next time. Drop a comment and let’s share some travel inspiration!

And of course, no adventure is complete without the right essentials. Here are a few products from the shop that are perfect for your next getaway.

Here’s to discovering even more thoughtful spaces, delicious bites, and inspiring spots—until next time, SoCal!