Historic Icons of Buena Park, CA

Buena Park, California is a city steeped in history with iconic landmarks that tell the story of its past and growth into the entertainment destination that it is today. From California’s First Theme Park to historic homes and educational centers, join us on a journey through time as we explore some of the must-visit historic places that make Buena Park a truly special town.

Whitaker-Jaynes House in Buena Park Historic District

Ralph B. Clark Interpretive Center
The Ralph B. Clark Interpretive Center stands out as a fascinating window into the ancient past of Buena Park and the surrounding region. The center's collection includes a variety of fossils, with highlights such as the impressive skeletons of prehistoric bison, camels, and whales. Visitors can enter for free and explore exhibits that detail the area's geological history, showcasing the diverse range of plant and animal life that once thrived here. The center's location within Clark Regional Park adds to its appeal, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the park's natural beauty and explore where these beings once lived. Hours of operation are 10am to 2pm from Wednesday to Saturday.

Buena Park Historic District
In the Buena Park Historic District, visitors can explore two magnificent Victorian-era homes that offer a glimpse into the city's rich history. The Whitaker-Jaynes Estate, built in 1887 and once home to Buena Park's founder, James A. Whitaker, stands as a testament to the city's early elite. Guided tours (by appointment) showcase its late 19th-century furnishings and decor, providing a peaceful glimpse into Buena Park's past. Similarly, The Bacon House, formerly owned by local farmer Robert D. Bacon, is another meticulously restored Victorian architectural gem. This house, too, offers guided tours (by appointment) that transport visitors back in time with period furnishings and intriguing stories about its former residents, providing a deeper appreciation for its craftsmanship and detailing.

Exterior on Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner in Buena Park, CA

Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant
Beyond its mouthwatering fried chicken, Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant holds a special place in Buena Park's history as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders, Walter and Cordelia Knott. What began as a small tea room in the 1930s quickly gained popularity, with people often waiting hours just to taste Mrs. Knott's famous fried chicken. This overwhelming demand led the Knotts to expand their operations, eventually opening California’s First Theme Park, Knott's Berry Farm, in 1940 to entertain waiting guests. Today, the restaurant is still a beloved dining establishment, serving up comfort food classics to generations of visitors. Reservations are available on OpenTable and should be booked in advance, as they can fill up quickly. Hours of operation vary, so it's best to check ahead of your visit.

Knott's Independence Hall
Knott's Independence Hall stands as an ode to Walter Knott's deep admiration for American history and his desire to educate and inspire others. The full-scale replica of the original in Philadelphia offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the birth of the United States. The hall's exhibits and displays provide a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. One of the most remarkable aspects of Knott's Independence Hall is that, true to Walter Knott's wishes, admission has always been and will always be free. It is open daily from 10am to 4pm.

School House at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

Old School House at Knott's Berry Farm
The Old School House inside Knott's Berry Farm offers a charming glimpse into 19th-century educational practices. Originally opened in 1879 in Mitchell County, Kansas, the Old Schoolhouse in Ghost Town served generations of children until its closure in the 1940s. In 1952, Walter Knott transported this authentic one-room schoolhouse to Knott's Berry Farm, where it stands today. Furnished with authentic desks, chalkboards, and other period items, the schoolhouse gives visitors a vivid sense of what school life was like for children in the 1870s. Step inside, and an on-site teacher historian will guide you through a typical day for schoolchildren of that era.

After a long day of excitement, choose from over a dozen comfortable and affordable hotels in Buena Park. Check out our ‘suite’ hotel and ticket deals. To start planning your SoCal vacation, order your FREE Buena Park Travel Guide.

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Two bed room at Holiday Inn in Buena Park, CA

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Riders on Hangtime ride at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

Historic Icons of Buena Park, CA

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