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When making plans to attend the 55th Annual Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Congress (March 30 to April 3), be sure to include some time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and exciting adventures available to you in Anaheim and the surrounding southern California region.

 

So many parks, so little time

Anaheim, Calif. boasts more theme parks in the area than most states!! Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, Calif., is the oldest themed amusement park in the United States. Once an actual berry farm, the park now features 160 acres of rides, shows, and many other attractions for all ages. In addition, Knott's Berry Farm also offers its MarketPlace Emporium and year-round Christmas store, selling everything from fine art and collectibles to Knott's famous jams and jellies.

 

Of course, no discussion of the theme park scene in Anaheim is complete without mentioning Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure. Featuring rides, parades, shows, and a spectacular fireworks display, the original park is a must-see when visiting southern California.

 

The dining experience

Networking and educational sessions, along with a visit to one of the local theme parks, will make visitors hungry for any of the award-winning restaurants in the area.

 

The Cellar Restaurant in Fullerton has been serving up delicious European cuisine and service for 35 years. The recipient of numerous awards, including the Wine Spectator Grand Award, the restaurant is a romantic hideaway open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.

 

For contemporary American selections and delicious drinks, visit Sorrento Grille and Martini Bar in Laguna Beach. Known for its wood grilled steaks and fresh seafood, Sorrento patrons can enjoy their food in the comfortable fireplace dining room or in a private wine room.

 

Your hotel's concierge will help you locate these and other delicious restaurant choices in the Anaheim area.

 

Fun in the sun

With over 42 miles of coastline, be sure to soak in the active California lifestyle with a trip to one of six local beach cities in the area. Newport Beach, the inspiration for the popular TV series, The OC, is a beach lover's dream with miles of beautiful beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and upscale boutiques.

 

To the North is Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA, where surfing is the name of the game. Featuring the Surfing Walk of Fame, the International Surfing Museum, and several shops, the area offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in the locals' favorite sport.

 

If time permits, be sure to check out other area beaches including Seal Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and San Clemente.

 

Relax!!

Whether it's dining out, surfing, or enjoying feeling like a kid again, make your trip to AORN's 55th Annual Congress a memorable experience. After enjoying the educational and networking events the conference has to offer, let yourself discover the Anaheim area and all of the entertainment opportunities that can be found in southern California. OR