Anaheim Convention Center – Photo Ops

California is often associated with the glitz and glam of Hollywood, but it’s a big state with distinctive cities, neighborhoods, parks, and beaches. You’ve probably seen your fair share of celebrities, YouTubers, and Instagram models posting pictures from all over the state, from Los Angeles to San Francisco. The pictures often feature stunning backdrops and beautiful scenery.

Now you can join in on those picturesque Instagram posts. Next time you’re visiting the Anaheim Convention Center, take the time to explore Anaheim and check out some Instagram-worthy spots. Below are our top five recommendations for where to get the best photo ops in Anaheim.

Also, while it’s not officially mentioned in the list below, don’t forget to include the Anaheim Convention Center itself in your possible Instagram feed of photos. It originally opened in 1967, but the center has gone through multiple expansions and renovations since then. The building doesn’t show its age either with its modern look. Taking a photo of the Anaheim Convention Center is capturing history and modern innovation all in one.

 

Fireworks at Disneyland Park

Of course, anywhere in Disney could be considered worthy of a snapshot, but why not stick around until nighttime and get a picture of the impressive firework display? Fireworks have been a staple of Disneyland Park since the 1950s. Over the years, the show has become more creative and elaborate in scope. It is truly something magical to view the fireworks light up the sky above Sleeping Beauty Castle.

There are a few places you can situate yourself to get the best photos of the fireworks. First, if you want to see the show close up and feel like those fireworks are for you, you’ll want to stand as close to the safety line set up by the staff as you can. With a front-row view, you will get some amazing pictures without people’s heads or trees in the way.

If you don’t want to worry about arriving too early for that front-row spot, you can stand a little farther back by “the hub.” This area is between the end of the Main Street buildings and Sleeping Beauty Castle. Just make sure you don’t have buildings and trees blocking your shot before the fireworks begin.

Another option is to stand behind Partners, which is a statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse standing side by side. People tend to avoid this spot because they think the statue will obstruct the view of the fireworks. However, this isn’t the case. In fact, the statue could be a feature of some of your pictures.

No matter where you plan on capturing the moment, the good news is Disneyland Park is roughly a mile from the Anaheim Convention Center, so it is easy to visit at any point during your stay. Keep in mind that fireworks will happen only on weekends and select holidays. If you’re there when there are no fireworks taking place, you can still get some great shots of the park itself and Sleeping Beauty Castle lit up at night.

 

Center Street Promenade

Just over three miles from the Anaheim Convention Center is an undoubtedly Instagrammable strip, Center Street Promenade. This is the historic center of Downtown Anaheim has had a new surge of life and vibrancy. Today, local businesses are proud to serve the surrounding neighborhood and tourists coming to Anaheim. Visitors will find shops, eateries, and attractions like Healthy Junk, House of Chimney Cakes, Pour Vida, J. Mac Jewelers, Pop! Comics & Culture Emporium, The Rinks Anaheim ICE, and SwingIt Trapeze.

Center Street Promenade is lined with palm trees, which makes for a cool capture. You can get pictures of the line of palm trees in the sunlight or palm trees with colorful building backdrops. Some of the food is quite Instagram worthy as well. A chimney cake from House of Chimney Cakes is a sweet treat and a pretty cute picture… before you bite into it, of course.

 

Anaheim GardenWalk

It might seem odd to be recommending an open-air mall as a photo op spot, but there’s more to this place than you think. Anaheim GardenWalk supports artists, so they have murals, art installations, and art in windows along their Art on the Walk section. Since it’s only a 15-minute walk from the Anaheim Convention Center, there’s no reason to pass up a chance to come and enjoy great artwork for free.

At GardenWalk, they believe everyone should be able to enjoy art, so this artwork is open for the public to view and appreciate. When you walk through the Art on the Walk, feel free to take pictures of the murals. Make sure that when you upload your photo, you tag the artist in the post. Not only do the artists love to see people enjoying their work, but it gives credit and exposure, which allows them to continue their passion.

 

MAKE

MAKE used to be a marmalade factory, but now it serves as a venue for guests to come and try craft beer, wine, and barbecue dishes. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment like comedy shows and music. It’s a good place to unwind after a convention, and it’s only a 10-minute drive from the Anaheim Convention Center.

The inside of the building is hip with modern seating arrangements and decor, including some unique artwork lining the walls. Additionally, the architecture is definitely worth admiration and some photos. Don’t stop with pictures of the architecture though! During your visit, take some snapshots of the food, drinks, and decor as well. You can also take some selfies out in the courtyard as you soak in the California sun. A bonus for those of you with four-legged friends is that the courtyard at MAKE is pet-friendly, so you can take some adorable pictures of you and your fur baby while you’re there.

 

Fullerton Arboretum

If you’re looking to get out of the city and take some pictures of nature, Fullerton Arboretum is a great option. By taking a 20-minute drive from the Anaheim Convention Center, you can go explore 26 acres of lush greenery with over 4,000 types of plants and a ton of walking trails. There is also a museum on site if you wish to learn more about agriculture

The park is split into different sections by types of greenery and plant life. You can walk around and see the Cultivated Collection, Mediterranean Collection, Desert Collection, or Woodlands Collection. If you enjoy taking pictures of landscapes, scenery, and foliage, the Fullerton Arboretum is a must-see spot for you. Even after taking a ton of pictures, you’ll want to stay to bask in the tranquil gardens and listen to the peaceful trickling of the waterfall.