If you are new to the Anaheim area, or if you have never lived here at all, then you might know about the city for only one reason: Disneyland. Indeed, Anaheim is well known for this theme park as well as other amusement parks in the area. So important are these businesses that they are major concerns for the municipal government; many an architect in Toronto was disappointed when a council decision to allow residential development in the Resort Zone of town was recently overturned.

However, as those who have lived in an Anaheim zip code for a long time know, even the biggest amusement parks can get boring after a while. Fortunately, there are lots of other highlights in the Anaheim area, things you can do which won't mean you have to get money for gold jewelry in order to do them. Here are a few of the most important.

Sports

Anaheim is home to two Major League Sports teams. The Anaheim Angels of major league baseball are the most popular game in town. City wide, you will find everything from car bumpers to vanity cabinets sporting Angels related paraphernalia. The city was thrilled when, in 2002, the Angels took the World Series.

The other professional sports team in Anaheim are also champions. The National Hockey League team The Anaheim Ducks took home the hockey's biggest prize, the Stanley Cup, in 2007. The team is one of the most popular hockey franchises in the United States, with season ticket sales increasing every single year.

ESPN Zone

One of the most unique attractions offered in Anaheim is a chain of huge restaurants located in the resort section of town. When you think ESPN Zone, think BIG. There are huge televisions, huge video games, and huge stars present at the restaurants every single day. The atmosphere includes wall quotes from some of America's greatest athletes as well as broadcast booths and of course, televisions showing live sports action all day, every day.

House of Blues

Music lovers, such as Dennis Gartman, will appreciate the presence of the pioneering House of Blues in the downtown Anaheim area. Take in a meal and a few drinks while listening to some of the most cutting edge, live music to be found in the country.

Conventions

Anaheim is the home of the largest convention center on the west coast of the United States in the aptly named Anaheim Convention Center. From entertainment options such as Star Trek to business meetings, this is the place to go if you're looking for a big get together in California.

Outdoors

And of course, with a location right on the Pacific Ocean, no one should overlook the Anaheim outdoor recreation potential. There are several beaches located on the edges of the city, where one can play beach volleyball, surf, swim, and soak up the sun.

Golfing, hiking, and other activities can also be enjoyed in the city. Whether you like to exercise or spend a few hours shopping, there are plenty of things to do within the Anaheim area's many highlights.