🚄 Great news: High-speed rail is (finally) gaining steam!

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We’re deep into back-to-school, but the city’s not slowing down. Anaheim’s packing in food, fun, and even future-forward transportation updates.

We’ve rounded up the best of it, from spicy shawarma to quiet art nights. Make space on your calendar, and maybe leave room for extra pickles.

🔥 Juicy Shawarma, No Shortcuts

If you want shawarma that’s straight-up authentic, Kimo’s is the place. This family-run gem brings the bold flavors of Gaza with juicy, spice-kissed chicken (or beef on Fridays) wrapped in fresh pita, balanced with tangy pickles and house-made sauces.

Generous portions, late-night hours, and Kimo’s famously warm hospitality make it feel like you’re being fed by family, not a franchise. Bring a friend, order extra pickles, thank us later. Learn more here.

🎁 Blind Boxes, Gacha Joy, and Geeky Treasures

If you love collectibles, The ARToy is pure treasure. The shop is bright, roomy, and full of surprises: think blind boxes, Pokémon figures, anime crossovers, and rows of gacha machines.

Families rave about the kid-friendly vibe, with tokens that make picking out toys extra fun. The owner’s passion shines through, whether he’s teaching newcomers about Labubu or carefully bagging your finds.

It’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back to discover more. Learn more here.

🚄 High-Speed Rail Picks Up Speed

The Gist: California’s high-speed rail project just hit a milestone. State leaders approved $507 million in track materials, fast-tracking installation of the nation’s first electrified high-speed rail system in 2026. With 463 of 494 miles already environmentally cleared, the line will eventually connect San Francisco to Los Angeles and Anaheim.

Why it matters: This step keeps the long-awaited rail project moving forward, promising cleaner travel, good jobs, and better connections for communities across the state. Bidding for track and system materials begins this fall. Learn more here.

🚠 Anaheim Floats Gondola Idea to Link Hotspots

The Gist: Anaheim city staff are exploring ways to connect the Honda Center’s growing entertainment district with Disneyland. One concept on the table: a gondola system that would glide over the 5 and 57 freeways, offering a unique ride between the two hubs. Other possibilities include autonomous shuttles or trackless trams.

Why It Matters: If approved, the project could make it easier for locals and visitors to move between Anaheim’s busiest destinations. Plans are still very early, with no proposals yet before City Council.

Dakota is a pint-sized ball of sunshine wrapped in a Lab mix coat. 

Always ready for mischief, fetch, or a cozy cuddle. Medium-sized and housebroken, she’s friendly with dogs, gentle with kids, and quick to learn. This playful pup is looking for her forever family in Orange County or the Inland Empire.

To learn more about this beautiful girl, click HERE.

🎤 Karaoke Friday | Food court at Indoor Marketplace | Anaheim | 09/12 | More
A family-friendly, open-mic karaoke hour to kick off the weekend and grab a bite too!

🖼️ Fall Exhibits Opening Reception | Muzeo Museum | Anaheim | 09/13 | More
Expect easygoing vibes while you wander fresh galleries just steps from Center Street.

🔥 HEAT Saturday | Heat Ultra Lounge | Anaheim | 09/13 | More
Special-guest DJs keep two rooms moving with mix of glam and good vibes.

🦎 Reptile Super Show | Convention Center, Hall A | Anaheim | 09/13-9/14 | More
Thousands of captive-bred reptiles and amphibians, expert breeders, supplies & habitats!

🍷 Wine Down Wednesdays | California Vintage Wine Bistro | Anaheim | 09/17 | More
Take a midweek breather in Anaheim’s Platinum Triangle and toast the good life!

🛋️ Design Edge Orange County | Convention Center, Hall A | Anaheim | 09/18-09/19 | More
The design world’s pop-up Main Street: top Home Furnishings and Kitchen & Bath brands

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.