Exploring Anaheim and Buena Park isn’t just about theme parks and shopping; these cities also offer engaging workshops and classes that bring local culture and creativity right to your hands. Whether you’re interested in mastering the art of Thai cuisine or jamming with local musicians, you’ll find options that stand out for their authenticity and fun. The best part? These experiences give you a deeper connection to the area beyond just sightseeing.
California State University and nearby neighborhoods host some excellent classes. For instance, you can learn to cook authentic Thai dishes or learn about the local music scene with a jam session. These classes are perfect for travelers who want a memorable, hands-on experience that’s both educational and fun. They also make unique souvenirs—like a new recipe or a musical recording—to take home.
Quick Overview
This list highlights two standout workshops in Anaheim and Buena Park: a Thai cooking class that teaches you to prepare flavorful dishes from scratch, and a jam session in Santa Ana where you can make music with local artists. Both are tailored for different interests but share a focus on authentic, engaging experiences.
1. Thai Cooking Class in Fullerton, California
At number one on our list is the Thai Cooking Class in Fullerton. This class offers a true taste of Thailand’s rich culinary tradition, and it’s conveniently located near California State University. The class lasts about three hours, with the first part dedicated to learning how to prepare pineapple curry, wing bean salad, and galangal soup from scratch. You’ll be guided by a host who is passionate about Thai food and culture, making the experience both educational and lively.
What makes this class particularly appealing is the opportunity to sit down and enjoy the meal you’ve cooked together. The instructor, Young, is praised for being patient, knowledgeable, and engaging, making everyone feel comfortable regardless of skill level. Plus, the class is vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian friendly, which broadens its appeal. The price is $66 per person, offering a solid value considering the hands-on experience and the homemade meal.
Guests consistently praise the experience for being “memorable” and “well-paced,” with detailed conversations about Thai regional cuisines. It’s ideal for food lovers who want more than just eating—they want to learn and cook. The class’s focus on authentic Thai hospitality and cuisine makes it a standout choice.
Bottom line: If you want to master Thai cooking in a friendly setting and enjoy a home-cooked meal afterward, this class delivers excellent value and memorable moments.
2. 3-Hour Jam Session Class in Santa Ana
Coming in at number two is the 3-Hour Jam Session Class in Santa Ana. Unlike typical music lessons, this experience takes place in a lively rehearsal space filled with local musicians, giving you a genuine taste of the Orange County music scene. For about $259, you’ll spend three hours immersed in making music, jamming alongside local artists in an energetic environment.
The setting is far from sterile recording studios. Instead, it’s a buzzing hub of creativity, where you can expect unexpected musical interactions and lively conversations. The experience is designed for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned musician or a complete beginner. Plus, the highlight is capturing the session’s best moments on a recording, so you can relive your musical “magic” afterward and share it with friends.
This tour is ideal for those who love music and crave authentic, behind-the-scenes insight into a local scene. Since reviews are limited, it’s best to think of this as a unique, immersive experience rather than a polished concert. It’s a bit pricier but offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect through music in a vibrant setting.
Bottom line: For music lovers eager to jam with local artists and keep a recording of their session, this class offers genuine fun and a memorable musical encounter.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two workshops, consider your interests and budget. If you’re passionate about food and want to learn a new skill, the Thai cooking class provides a hands-on, authentic experience at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for cooks of all levels who enjoy sharing a meal afterward.
On the other hand, if music is your thing and you’re excited about making live sounds with local musicians, the jam session offers a lively, immersive encounter. Keep in mind the higher cost, but anticipate a truly unique cultural highlight.
Consider your schedule, budget, and interest in culinary arts or music. Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular cooking classes, which fill quickly. Both experiences are best enjoyed when you have some flexibility to participate fully and enjoy the local vibe.
To sum it up, Anaheim and Buena Park offer more than theme parks—these workshops provide authentic ways to connect with local culture. The Thai cooking class is perfect for foodies and those eager to learn new recipes in a friendly environment. Meanwhile, the jam session suits musically inclined travelers looking for a lively, participatory experience.
For those with a flexible schedule or specific interests, both options are well worth considering. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these rewarding activities—so pick what excites you most and dive in. Either way, you’ll come away with a new skill or story to tell long after your trip ends.