HOUSTON – Have you heard of the urban basecamp? It’s a growing travel trend — mid-size cities positioning themselves as one-stop destinations for culture, food, sports, nightlife and nature.
Travel expert Gabe Saglie joins Houston Life from Anaheim to show how this Orange County city is doubling down on the concept with walkable neighborhoods, rooftop bars and curated experiences that let visitors stack multiple vacations into one trip.
Eat, drink and rooftop: culinary as a calling card
Culinary experiences are a major driver of the urban basecamp idea. From bustling food halls and craft breweries to chic rooftop bars, Anaheim is serving up options for families and grown-ups alike. The Anaheim Packing District has become a magnet for food lovers, while a new generation of rooftop spots is drawing visitors for sunset cocktails and skyline views. Local breweries and small-batch producers add another layer to the city’s taste profile.
Connected and convenient: transit that matters
One of the biggest selling points of an urban basecamp is connectivity. Anaheim’s transit hubs make it easy to arrive and then explore without a car. The ARTIC station provides regional rail and shuttle access to local attractions, shortening travel time and letting visitors spend their stay doing, not commuting.
Sports, culture and year-round events
Vacationing around sports and live entertainment is another part of the movement. Anaheim hosts professional sports, concerts and cultural venues that book events across seasons, giving travelers plenty of reasons to return. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ getaway or a friends’ weekend, Anaheim’s mix of venues and calendar-packed events helps stretch one visit into many memories.
Plan your visit online — visitanaheim.org.