Your Ultimate Guide to the Anaheim Packing District

After we came home from California in 2018, I was already planning my trip back. While researching, I found the Anaheim Packing District and immediately added it to my list. In June 2024, we finally got to go and it was one of those places that I can’t wait to go back and visit again.

If you’re spending a few days in Anaheim, the Anaheim Packing District deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just a few minutes from Disneyland, this historic citrus packing house has been transformed into one of Southern California’s most charming food and social hubs. From craft coffee to live music, the Packing District blends Anaheim’s agricultural roots with modern-day foodie flair.

Where Is the Anaheim Packing District?

While it’s only a two-mile drive from Disneyland, it takes about 5–10 minutes to get there. This is partly because most of the drive is through town. Make plans to stop there before catching your flight home. Or, if you can squeeze it in, plan for an extra day in the area and make this one of your stops- that’s what we did!

Address:
440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805

Getting There:
You can drive, take a quick ride-share, or even hop on the ARTIC train station nearby for a fun transit option.

Where to Park at the Anaheim Packing District

Parking can get busy, especially on weekends. Here’s what to know:

There’s a free parking structure right next to the Packing House.
Overflow lots are available nearby — look for clearly marked signs.
Street parking is limited but possible during off-peak hours.
Tip: Arrive before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. for the easiest parking experience.

We went on a Thursday and got there right after they opened. Naturally, we had no trouble finding parking! We even managed to park in the parking lot that touches the side entrance to the building.

A Brief History of the Anaheim Packing District

Built in 1919, the original Anaheim Packing House was constructed for the Anaheim Orange and Lemon Association. In its early days, the facility received oranges and lemons from local groves, packed them into crates, and loaded them onto railcars for transport across the country.

After its life as a citrus factory ended, the building sat empty for about 30 years. But in 2014, the building was painstakingly taken apart and restored using its original materials and floors. The Anaheim Packing District was officially reborn as a modern food hall and public space.

In addition, the nearby Packard Building, which was originally a luxury car showroom built in 1925, was also restored. The complex features a two-acre park, Farmers Park, which provides a gathering space for the community (and is so Instagrammable!).

Layout of the Anaheim Packing District

Here’s what makes up the full district:

The Packing House: The Anaheim Packing House is a bustling two-story food hall featuring an extensive variety of restaurants, specialty food vendors, and unique bars. The vendors inside offer a wide range of cuisines, from international street food to gourmet comfort dishes, alongside several bars and shops.
Farmers Park: A two-acre green space between the Packing House and MAKE building, often hosting yoga, concerts, and outdoor markets. The park is equipped with picnic tables and benches, providing an outdoor seating area for visitors to enjoy food and drinks purchased from the Packing House and other nearby eateries.
Interesting tidbit: A repurposed section of railroad track runs through the park, a historical nod to the area’s past as a crucial transportation hub for the citrus industry.
The MAKE Building: The MAKE building was once an industrial warehouse, and its original structure and character have been preserved. The MAKE building is a more intimate and event-focused part of the Packing District, offering a different experience than the main food hall.
- Pali Wine Co.: A tasting room where visitors can sample wines and order tapas.
- The Hive Bar: A cocktail lounge featuring a variety of drinks in a distinctive setting.
- Live entertainment: The venue often hosts a range of events, including flamenco music and dance performances and other live music.
The Packard Building: Originally constructed in 1925, it served as a showroom for luxury Packard automobiles. Its elegant architecture reflected the high-end nature of the cars sold there. The Packard Building adds another layer to the Anaheim Packing District’s experience, providing visitors with more dining options beyond the food hall and contributing to the overall historic, yet modern, feel of the area. Today, the Packard Building houses tenants that contribute to the district’s reputation as a culinary destination:
- Monkish Brewing Co.: A popular brewery with a location in the Packard Building, serving a rotating selection of craft beers.
- Umami Burger: Known for its creative gourmet burgers, Umami Burger is another restaurant located within the building.

Where to Eat at the Anaheim Packing District

This is where the real fun begins. Whether you’re craving comfort food, craft cocktails, or dessert, there’s something for everyone.

Top Picks to Try:

Georgia’s Soul Food: Fried chicken, collard greens, and mac & cheese — all cooked with love.
The Kroft: Known for creative poutine and elevated comfort food.
Adya: Indian street food favorites like tandoori chicken and naan wraps.
Kettlebar: Cajun-style seafood and gumbo in a lively, New Orleans-inspired space.
The Blind Rabbit: A hidden speakeasy (reservations recommended).
Mini Monster: Boba drinks and ice cream in fun mason jars — perfect for photos.
Kaffebar: Smooth espresso drinks and pastries for a mid-day pick-me-up.

Shopping & Local Finds

While the Packing House itself focuses mostly on food, the surrounding area includes:

Pop-up shops from local artisans.
Vintage and handmade goods in the MAKE building.
Seasonal markets in Farmers Park, often featuring small-batch jams, soaps, and handmade jewelry.

Encourage readers to support local — every purchase tells part of Anaheim’s story.

Events at the Anaheim Packing District

The district hosts events all year long, many of them free or family-friendly:

Live Music Nights: Local artists perform on the main floor or outdoors in the park.
Farmers Park Market: Seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and community fun.
Yoga in the Park: Relaxed morning sessions for locals and visitors.
Holiday Celebrations: Christmas décor, summer movie nights, and themed festivals.

Tip: Check the official Anaheim Packing District events calendar before your visit for up-to-date happenings.

Best Times to Visit

Weekdays: Quieter and easier to park.
Weekends: Livelier atmosphere with music and pop-ups, but more crowds.
Evenings: Great for date nights, cocktails, and twinkle-light patio dining.

Pro Tip: Try to visit around golden hour (5–7 p.m.) — the whole district glows beautifully for photos.

Travel Tips for Visiting

Before you go, come hungry and ready to explore.

The Anaheim Packing District is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace; it’s one of those places where you’ll want to sample a little bit of everything. If you only have a short amount of time this trip, I recommend sharing small plates from a few different vendors so you can taste the full range of what the Packing House has to offer.

It’s also a photographer’s dream. Between the white beams of the historic building, the string lights, and the colorful dishes, nearly every corner begs for a photo. If you can, time your visit for golden hour. The late afternoon sunlight filters through the windows, giving everything a warm, inviting glow.

You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes since you’ll likely wander between the Packing House, Farmers Park, and the nearby MAKE building. And if you’re visiting during a weekend or event night, expect crowds — the lively energy is part of the fun. I mean, when it comes to people watching in Southern California, what can be better?

That said, if you arrive early, there is a good chance you will find good parking and a relaxed seat.

And, of course, don’t skip dessert. Whether it’s a mason jar drink from Mini Monster or a custom pop from Popbar, ending your visit on a sweet note feels like the perfect Anaheim send-off.

Final Thoughts on the Anaheim Packing District

The Anaheim Packing District is more than just a place to eat — it’s a taste of Anaheim’s history and creativity. Whether you’re winding down after Disneyland or planning a foodie afternoon (from which we were doing both), it’s one of those stops that makes you fall more in love with Southern California’s blend of old charm and new energy.

While you’re at it: Keep your Anaheim adventures going — check out my other guides, including one-day Disneyland itineraries, and coffee stops around Los Angeles, for even more travel inspiration.