What’s new in Anaheim? Destination updates shared at Western Canada roadshow

Visit Anaheim wrapped up its Western Canada roadshow on Thursday (Nov. 9), concluding a series of special events that engaged with travel advisors and partners in select cities in Alberta and British Columbia.

The tradeshow and presentation, which involved 18 delegates representing Southern California hotels, attractions, transportation companies, and destinations, began in Calgary on Nov. 6, and then moved on to Edmonton, Langley and then finally Vancouver.

The events showed appreciation for the trade, showcased all that is new in Anaheim, and gave attendees, including media, an opportunity to make new contacts.

Participating brands included Anaheim Marriott & JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort, Anaheim Transportation Network, Aquarium of the Pacific, Best Western Stovall's Hotels, Clementine Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort & Courtyard Anaheim Resort/Convention Center, Desert Palms Hotel & Suites, Disneyland Resort in California, Hilton Anaheim, Holiday Inn & Suites Anaheim, Howard Johnson Hotel & Water Playground, Karmel Shuttle, LEGOLAND California, Residence Inn and Springhill Suites Anaheim Resort/Convention Center, San Diego Zoo / San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort, The Westin Anaheim Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood and Visit Buena Park.

What’s new in Anaheim?

There’s a lot going on in Anaheim, which is the second-largest city in Orange County, located just outside of Los Angeles.

Canadian travellers can look forward to the grand opening of the Pixar Place Hotel on Jan. 30, 2024 at the Disneyland Resort, making it the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States.

“Pixar Place Hotel will evoke the inspiration and humour that goes into every Pixar film, while celebrating the artistic process,” said Bre Flores, communications manager at Visit Anaheim.

Additionally, the ultimate Disney fan event, D23, will be celebrating more than 100 years of magic from brands including Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel when it returns to the Anaheim Convention Centre on Aug. 9 – 11, 2024.

Next year’s event promises exhibits, shows, entertainment, shopping and lots more.

The top points of interest in Anaheim for Canadians include Disneyland Resort, local beaches, John Wayne Airport and the Anaheim GardenWalk, an outdoor entertainment and shopping centre.

Anaheim attracts lots of families, Flores said, “but also welcomes all visitors to experience the diversity of the destination.”

“Anaheim has something for everyone from sports, theme parks, breweries, shopping, luxury hotels, a diverse culinary scene and lots more,” Flores said.

There are several direct flights available from John Wayne Airport (which is approximately 20 minutes from Anaheim) via WestJet and Air Canada to several Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Calgary and more.

How should Canadian travel advisors position Anaheim to their clients?

“With more than 300 days of year-round sunshine, Anaheim is the ideal getaway to soak up the sun and experience the diverse offerings the destination has to offer,” Flores said.

Known for family attractions, the Disneyland Resort attracts lots of visitors for its nighttime spectaculars, parades, beloved characters and nostalgic rides.

Anaheim is also home to more than 20 breweries, making the ideal pairing of beer and sports a simple and fun outing for everyone in the family.

Home to the Anaheim Ducks and Angels Baseball, Anaheim is also a hub for sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts.

“Additionally, Anaheim is home to three new AAA luxury hotels that opened in 2020, where every guest can feel like a VIP with high quality amenities including roof top bars and restaurants with stunning views of the Disney fireworks,” Flores said.

For trip-planning ideas, go to Visit Anaheim’s website here.

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