Are you seeking a family-friendly fall retreat that includes a visit with Mickey? Or how about a more grown-up-geared getaway with a rock ’n’ roll past? Whatever your pleasure, here are three distinct stays in California to consider before hitting the road.
Disney Dreaming
After a $25 million remodel, Hyatt Regency Orange County is one of Anaheim’s premier hotels for those wanting close proximity to Disneyland as well as a few bells and whistles that are sure to keep Mom and Dad—and the kiddos—grinning from ear to ear. Upon arrival, guests check into one of 654 rooms or 241 suites (87 of which are kids’ suites). Each suite boasts cool, contemporary design and plenty of space for rest and relaxation between park visits. The popular kids’ suites include a conjoined bedroom that is made specifically for the little ones to enjoy, with a bunk bed that can fit up to three tykes, and a kid-size table, perfect for coloring or mealtime.
Apart from the kid-friendly accommodations, dining is a huge draw to the Hyatt Regency Orange County. The hotel is home to OC Brewhouse, which offers ice-cold local beers and pre-game eats. Angels of Anaheim fans are even invited to the hot spot prior to baseball games for dining specials and a $10 shuttle ride to the park. TusCA dishes up California-meets-Tuscany cuisine in a welcoming, light-drenched atmosphere. (Both restaurants are part of the resort’s open-air atrium/lobby.) The seasonal gnocchi is a must-try while the breakfast buffet is sure to cure just about any craving.
During warmer months, a spot to see and be seen at Hyatt Regency Orange County is at one of its pools—one that is surrounded by palm trees for shade-filled family fun and another that is a bit more private that grown-ups are sure to enjoy for some peace and quiet. If that’s not enough to keep you busy on hotel grounds, it is also home to a 24-hour fitness center and tennis and basketball courts (equipment can be borrowed from the hotel).
While getting to hang out on bunk beds in the kids’ suites and playing by the pool are enough to get any parent a No. 1 Mom or Dad prize, the O.C. retreat is less than one mile away from the land of It’s a Small World and Splash Mountain. To make things even more convenient, the resort has a Disney concierge to assist in guests’ theme park pursuits as well as a complimentary shuttle that brings visitors to and from Disney every half hour. Happiest Place on Earth, indeed.
