Beaches, Fireworks & Castle Comfort
Make the most of your long holiday weekend with thoughtful planning, local adventures, and a relaxing stay at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel.
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer, and Anaheim is the perfect place to celebrate. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or looking for a solo escape, a well-planned itinerary will help you beat the crowds, enjoy SoCal sunshine, and tap into the patriotic spirit of the holiday. Here’s how to make the most of your Memorial Day weekend getaway, with Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel as your home base.
1. Tackle Disneyland® Resort Like a Local 
Memorial Day weekend brings energy and excitement to Disneyland® Parks, but with a few strategic moves, you can enjoy the magic without the stress.
Insider tips from Anaheim regulars:
- Disneyland® Resort’s 70th Anniversary: The celebration will be in full swing over Memorial Day weekend, with festivities kicking off mid-May. Expect special entertainment, themed merchandise, limited-edition treats, and magical touches honoring seven decades of Disney magic. It’s a once-in-a-generation moment—arrive early, and keep an eye on show schedules and surprise pop-ups!
- Rope Drop + Royal Retreat: Head straight to Fantasyland first—it fills up fast! After a few early rides, head back to the hotel for a mid-morning recharge. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Evening magic: Locals know the lines drop significantly during parades and fireworks. Want shorter waits? Skip the show one night and ride instead.
- Underrated eats: Don’t sleep on the fried chicken at Plaza Inn or the grilled cheese & tomato soup at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café—it’s a local’s comfort combo.
- Park-hopper hack: Start your day at Disney’s California Adventure® Park (lighter crowds), then hop over to Disneyland® Resort after 3 p.m. for the ambiance.
And remember: Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel offers a free, private shuttle to Disneyland® Parks—no parking stress, no Uber fees.
2. SoCal Beach Escapes, No Tourist Traps 
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse to swap your sneakers for flip-flops—and from Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel, you’re just a short drive away from some of the most iconic (and chill) stretches of Southern California coastline.
Beach day done right:
- Huntington Beach (“Surf City USA”): Just 30 minutes away, it’s perfect for bonfires, volleyball, and people-watching along the pier. Pack a blanket and stay for sunset—you won’t regret it.
- Newport Beach: Ideal for families and foodies. Grab a frozen banana on Balboa Island, rent bikes to cruise the boardwalk, or hop on a harbor cruise.
- Laguna Beach: A bit artsier, a bit quieter—locals love the tide pools at Heisler Park and the scenic hike from Top of the World for panoramic ocean views.
- Seal Beach: Quaint and less crowded, with a cozy Main Street full of shops and cafes—perfect for a slower-paced beach day.
- Little Corona del Mar: Hidden cove vibes, tide pools for kids, and epic photo ops. Pack a picnic with goodies from our on-site restaurants and enjoy a serene afternoon.
- Crystal Cove State Park: A local favorite for hiking trails with ocean views and historic beach cottages you can explore or rent.
Need help choosing your coastal adventure? We’ve put together a handy beach guide here with driving distances, activity highlights, and tips for making the most of your day by the water.
3. Patriotic Moments & Family-Friendly Events 
Beyond fireworks and flags, Memorial Day in Orange County offers genuine, community-based events that honor the holiday’s meaning.
Local, memorable experiences:
- Anaheim Cemetery Ceremony: A moving tribute with speeches from veterans, a rifle salute, and local scout troops placing flags. It’s a beautiful reminder of what Memorial Day is truly about.
- Yorba Linda Veterans Park: Stop by for a quiet walk through the memorial garden, or time your visit to coincide with the annual service, featuring live music and local dignitaries.
- Garden Grove Strawberry Festival: It’s technically about strawberries, but locals know it’s the unofficial kickoff to summer—carnival rides, pie-eating contests, and a hometown parade vibe.
- LA Fleet Week®: It’s a bit of a drive (about 40 miles), but well worth it for military ship tours, live music, food trucks, and a festive harbor-side atmosphere. This event draws families and military enthusiasts alike for a full day of patriotic fun on the waterfront.
- Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum: Just a 20-minute drive from the hotel, this presidential site offers a rich dive into American history, with special Memorial Day programming, exhibits on the Vietnam War, and access to the president’s childhood home and memorial site. A thoughtful and educational outing that pairs well with patriotic reflection.
Want to avoid parking headaches? Use the hotel as your home base and ask the front desk for the best route or rideshare tips.
4. Eat Like a Local: Off-the-Beaten-Path Bites 
Skip the tourist traps and taste what locals love.
🍴 Top picks within reach:
- Hanagi Japanese Restaurant (on-site at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel): Skip the drive and indulge in one of Anaheim’s most authentic Japanese dining experiences—without leaving the hotel. From sushi crafted with precision to Shabu-Shabu, a true dining experience, Hanagi blends traditional technique with a touch of theatrical flair. It’s a favorite for both locals in the know and hotel guests craving a standout meal just steps from their room.
- Book a table early—holiday weekends fill up fast.
- Baci di Firenze Trattoria (Anaheim): Tucked into an unassuming strip mall just 10 minutes from the hotel, this family-owned gem delivers the kind of Italian hospitality and handmade pastas you’d expect in Florence. Our team raves about the osso buco, house-made gnocchi, and attentive service that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit.
- Pro tip: It’s small and intimate—make a reservation, and don’t skip the tiramisu.
- The Scratch Room (Anaheim): Just minutes from the hotel, this cozy brunch spot is a true hidden gem, known for its massive portions. Enjoy red velvet pancakes, savory chorizo hash, and house-made cinnamon rolls the size of your head. Family-run and full of heart, it’s a favorite among locals who know to show up early—because once they’re out of cinnamon rolls, they’re out.
- Arrive before 9 a.m. on holiday weekends to avoid the line—and get first dibs on those red velvet pancakes.
- Strong Water Anaheim (Downtown Anaheim): This speakeasy-style tiki bar is part immersive experience and part cocktail artistry. Hidden behind a nondescript door, Strong Water serves up tropical drinks with a twist, vintage nautical vibes, and a menu of Caribbean-inspired bites that go way beyond bar food. It’s a go-to for date nights, group hangs, or anyone who appreciates a cocktail with a story behind it.
- Don’t forget to ask your server for the origin story behind your drink!
5. Relax in Royal Comfort at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
After a full day of park-hopping, beach-hopping, and event-chasing, you’ll want a place to rest and recharge—and Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel is more than just a place to sleep. It’s a Memorial Day weekend destination in itself, thoughtfully decorated in honor of those who’ve served the United States.
Why locals and savvy travelers love staying here for Memorial Day weekend:
- Storybook charm: From castle-themed architecture to lush gardens and koi ponds, the hotel feels like something straight out of a fairytale—perfect for creating magical moments before you even hit the parks.
- Spacious hotel rooms and family-friendly suites: Unlike many nearby hotels, the rooms here are truly spacious. Perfect for families who need space to spread out or couples looking for a quiet retreat.
- On-site dining at Hanagi Japanese Restaurant and more: Whether you’re in the mood for incredible authentic Japanese flair or a relaxed sit-down dinner without leaving the hotel, delicious options await.
- Free private shuttle to Disneyland® Resort: Save time, money, and stress—skip the parking lot chaos and enjoy direct rides to and from the magic.
Outdoor pool & hot tub: Cool off after a beach day or soothe tired feet from all that theme park walking.- Live like royalty (literally): Meet Princess Corinne, the hotel’s resident royalty, during her occasional appearances for storytelling and photo ops—a delight for kids and kids-at-heart.
- Game room & gift shop: Keep the fun going with arcade-style games and grab last-minute souvenirs or snacks right on property.
- Memorial Day weekend specials & packages: Book early to snag seasonal rates and themed weekend perks!
✨ Bonus: With plenty of quiet corners and shaded walkways, the hotel offers a rare sense of peace and privacy during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
Plan Ahead, Relax More: Your Memorial Day Adventure Starts Here
Memorial Day is one of Anaheim’s busiest weekends, but with a little local know-how and a comfy home base, you can enjoy the best of it without the hassle. Whether you’re hopping between park rides and beach waves or simply enjoying slow mornings in the gardens, Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel sets the scene for a long weekend you’ll never forget. Learn more about our vacation packages and promotions, then give us a call at 1-844-227-8535 or book your stay online.