Oh, Anaheim Hills. A bubble of a community located in the heart of Orange County about 20 minutes from Disneyland. Besides a few things here and there, this city has not changed much in the past 19 years of my life. Some days you love it and other days you hate it, but in the end, it is home. If you have finally moved away from this town, let the nostalgia kick in. Here are 21 trademarks of this suburban city:
1. Fireworks
You are laying in bed around 9:30 p.m., when all of a sudden you hear gunshots from outside of your window. Right before panic takes over, you remember Disneyland. Those gunshots were simply fireworks.
2. Anaheim Hills Buzz
If you enjoy middle-aged moms creating pointless drama, then this is the webpage for you!
3. Denny’s
Ahh high school memories. This was the place to be after Canyon’s dances, formal or casual.
4. The Pharmacy (Canyon High School)
Speaking of Canyon, most people in the hills attended this high school. Students could be found vaping in class or getting ratchet at “warped welcome.” Apparently there was a drug problem hence the nickname. Okay it really wasn't that bad, but the school had its moments. Go Comanches!
5. Cinema City
When going to the movies and eating Golden Spoon after was the coolest thing to do in middle school. (No parents!)
6. Foxfire
Although I have never been, older women have given this bar a certain reputation.
7. Campitelli’s
These cookies are to die for.
8. El Rancho
The glory days: middle school. Nothing looks better than polos tucked into blue pants with a belt. The cool kids left their shirts untucked, while others lived in fear of getting “lunch detentions.” Oh, and getting rice after school was the highlight of your day.
9. The White House
Once you see the white house on top of the hill while driving on the freeway, then you know you are home.
10. Bagel Me
This place has ruined all other bagels for me. Absolutely no other bakery will ever compare to their sourdough or cinnamon toasted glazers. Whether you are hungover or want an after-school snack, Bagel Me will definitely do the trick.
11. Nickel Nickel
It should have never closed down.
12. Wind
Everyone dreads the week when the Santa Ana winds decide to hit. Trees fall over and people forget how to drive. It’s a wonderful time.
13. The Rock
Also known as the “Top of the World.” Located behind Anaheim Hills Elementary School, most people have trekked up here at some point during their lives.
14. The Reservoir
A common place to exercise. Although people stopped going for a time due to a crazy person, it is a great way to catch up with old friends while walking about two miles.
15. Disneyland
Everyone and their mom has a pass (literally).
16. Nature Center
If you didn’t grow up having your birthday parties here, then you did something wrong.
17. The Fiesta
As a 14 year old, this weekend was LIT. What can be better than carnival rides and funnel cakes at a church?
18. Yogurtland
Beware: if you go here past 8 o'clock at night, it can pretty much be a high school reunion.
19. Peralta Park
The place to be on the Fourth of July. Also, if you participated in Little League, then you lived here on weekends.
20. Hibachi Steak House
The food is so good that you don't mind smelling like the restaurant for the next few hours after your meal is finished.
21. Fires
Most people who grew up here have evacuated from their houses or schools due to a fire at least once.
