14 Best Things to Do in Cypress (CA)

Think of Southern California, and your mind might jump straight to sun-drenched beaches or the glitz of Hollywood. But tucked away in Orange County, you’ll discover Cypress, a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of laid-back charm and surprising adventures. It’s a place where family fun meets thrilling entertainment, where serene parks sit alongside buzzing nightlife, and where culinary delights range from fusion masterpieces to classic comfort food.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer exploration, Cypress truly shines in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and perfect for enjoying everything from outdoor activities to theme park thrills. You’ll find it’s incredibly accessible, making it an ideal base for exploring not just the city itself, but also the wider wonders of Southern California. Get ready to dive into a guide that uncovers the 14 best things to do in Cypress, each offering a unique slice of this charming Californian gem. From high-stakes excitement to tranquil escapes, prepare to be inspired to craft your perfect Cypress itinerary.

Try Your Luck at the Gardens Casino

If you’re feeling lucky or just want to experience the thrill of the game, a visit to the Gardens Casino is an absolute must-do in Cypress. This isn’t your average slot-machine-heavy casino; instead, it prides itself on being one of the largest and most elegant card casinos in California, focusing on exhilarating table games like poker, blackjack, baccarat, and pai gow. You can expect a sophisticated atmosphere, whether you’re a seasoned player looking for high stakes or a curious beginner wanting to learn the ropes.

Beyond the gaming floor, the casino also offers several dining options, from casual bites to more refined meals, perfect for refueling between hands or enjoying a night out even if gambling isn’t your main goal. It’s a fantastic spot for adult entertainment, offering a lively buzz, especially on weekend evenings when tournaments are in full swing and the energy is palpable. You’ll find a diverse crowd here, from serious poker faces to groups enjoying a fun night out, making it a unique social hub.

Head to Seal Beach

While Cypress itself is inland, one of its greatest appeals is its proximity to stunning coastal gems, and Seal Beach is undoubtedly one of the best. Just a short drive away, you’ll discover a quintessential Southern California beach town, refreshingly laid-back compared to its bustling neighbors. What makes Seal Beach truly special is its charming Main Street, lined with independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and delightful restaurants, all leading directly to the historic pier.

You can spend hours strolling the wooden planks of the pier, watching surfers catch waves, or simply enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. The beach itself is clean and family-friendly, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking a refreshing dip in the Pacific. It offers a genuine sense of community and nostalgia, feeling like a step back in time to a simpler, more tranquil era of beach life.

Explore St Isidore Plaza

For a taste of local history and a quiet moment of reflection, make your way to St Isidore Plaza. This unassuming yet significant spot pays homage to the area’s agricultural roots and the St. Isidore Historical Plaza, which dates back to 1926. What makes it unique is its preservation of a piece of Cypress’s past, offering a glimpse into the community that once thrived on farming.

You’ll find beautifully maintained grounds, often featuring a small chapel or a historic building, surrounded by serene gardens. It’s not an attraction with thrilling rides or loud entertainment; instead, it’s a place for quiet contemplation, learning about local heritage, and appreciating the peaceful ambiance. This plaza is particularly appealing to history buffs, those seeking a tranquil escape, or anyone interested in understanding the foundational elements of the Cypress community. It’s a wonderful place for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or simply to take a moment to pause and reflect amidst your travels.

Cool Down at Knott’s Soak City

When the Southern California sun heats up, there’s no better way to cool down and have a blast than by heading to Knott’s Soak City, located just a stone’s throw from Cypress. This expansive water park is a splash-tacular paradise, boasting an incredible array of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers designed to thrill every member of the family. What makes Soak City stand out is its fantastic variety; from towering, adrenaline-pumping water slides that send you plummeting down twisting chutes to the massive Tidal Wave Bay where you can ride the swells, there’s an aquatic adventure for every comfort level.

Younger visitors will adore the interactive play areas and pint-sized slides. You can easily spend a full day here, soaking up the sun, laughing with friends and family, and enjoying refreshing dips. It’s the ultimate summer escape, promising endless hours of wet and wild fun for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking to beat the heat in style.

Play Some Rounds at the Navy Golf Course

For golf enthusiasts seeking a top-tier experience, the Navy Golf Course is an unexpected gem conveniently located near Cypress. This isn’t just any public course; it’s a beautifully maintained 36-hole facility that offers two distinct championship courses: the Destroyer and the Cruiser. What makes it unique is its pristine condition, lush fairways, and challenging layouts that appeal to golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.

You can expect meticulously manicured greens, strategic water hazards, and mature trees that provide both shade and a picturesque backdrop. Beyond the greens, the facility includes a driving range, practice putting greens, and a pro shop stocked with all your golfing needs. There’s also a clubhouse with dining options, perfect for grabbing a meal or a drink after your round. It’s an ideal spot for solo golfers looking to improve their game, friends enjoying a competitive round, or even a corporate outing.

Cycle the San Gabriel River Bike Trail

If you’re craving some outdoor activity and a scenic escape, hop on your bike and explore the San Gabriel River Bike Trail. This extensive paved trail offers a fantastic opportunity to cycle, jog, or even rollerblade through a diverse landscape, far from the hustle and bustle of city streets. What makes this trail unique is its sheer length and continuous path, stretching for miles along the San Gabriel River, connecting various cities and parks.

You can expect a relatively flat and smooth ride, making it suitable for all fitness levels and ages, from casual family outings to serious long-distance training. Along the way, you’ll pass through natural riparian habitats, urban parks, and under numerous bridges, offering changing scenery and plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the views. It’s a wonderful way to experience the local environment, get some exercise, and enjoy the fresh air. This trail is perfect for active individuals, families with children, and anyone looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure.

Solve the Puzzles at Cinema Escape Rooms

For a dose of thrilling mental challenge and collaborative fun, look no further than Cinema Escape Rooms. Located conveniently in Cypress, this attraction elevates the escape room experience by integrating cinematic themes and storytelling into its puzzles. What makes Cinema Escape Rooms unique is their dedication to immersive narratives and high-quality set designs that truly transport you into a movie-like scenario.

You and your team will be locked in a themed room, tasked with solving a series of intricate puzzles, deciphering clues, and uncovering secrets to “escape” within a set time limit, typically 60 minutes. It’s an incredibly engaging activity that requires teamwork, logic, and creative thinking. You can expect a heart-pounding race against the clock, plenty of “aha!” moments, and lots of laughter. This attraction is perfect for groups of friends, families with older children, corporate team-building events, or even a unique date night.

Ride the Roller Coasters at Knotts Berry Farm Theme Park

No trip to the Cypress area would be complete without experiencing the thrills and charm of Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park. Just a short drive away, this iconic park offers a unique blend of exhilarating roller coasters, classic family rides, and a rich historical charm rooted in its berry farm origins.

What makes Knott’s special is its distinct themed areas, from the Old West Ghost Town, complete with gunfights and stagecoach rides, to the vibrant boardwalk with its thrilling coasters like Xcelerator and GhostRider. You can expect a full day of excitement, whether you’re screaming on the tallest drops, enjoying the nostalgia of Camp Snoopy with younger kids, or indulging in their famous fried chicken dinner. It’s a park that truly has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families, teenagers, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a memorable day of fun and entertainment.

Catch Some Sports at the Campus Billiards Craft Sports Bar

When it’s time to unwind, catch a game, or just enjoy a lively evening out, the Campus Billiards Craft Sports Bar is your go-to spot in Cypress. This isn’t just a pool hall; it’s a vibrant sports bar that combines the fun of billiards with an impressive selection of craft beers and a fantastic atmosphere for watching your favorite teams. What makes it unique is its welcoming, energetic vibe, making it perfect for both serious pool players and casual groups looking for a good time.

You can expect numerous well-maintained pool tables, dart boards, and plenty of large-screen TVs broadcasting all the major sports events. Their extensive craft beer menu ensures there’s a brew for every palate, and they often feature delicious pub-style food to keep you fueled. It’s an ideal spot for a night out with friends, a casual date, or simply to immerse yourself in the excitement of a big game while enjoying quality drinks and good company.

Try Italian-Japanese Fusion at Café Hiro

Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary journey at Café Hiro, a Cypress institution renowned for its unique Italian-Japanese fusion cuisine. This isn’t your typical restaurant; what makes Café Hiro truly special is its innovative menu that seamlessly blends the delicate flavors of Japanese cooking with the comforting familiarity of Italian dishes. You can expect beautifully presented plates that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate.

Think pasta dishes infused with Asian ingredients, or traditional Japanese fare given an Italian twist. The atmosphere is often described as cozy and intimate, yet bustling, making it perfect for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or simply an adventurous meal with friends. It’s a culinary experience that consistently earns rave reviews, attracting foodies and locals alike who are seeking something truly distinct and memorable.

Take a Trip to Disney California

While not directly in Cypress, a trip to Southern California wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the magic of Disney California Adventure Park, just a short drive away. This park offers a distinctly Californian experience, celebrating the Golden State’s diverse landscapes, industries, and pop culture, all with that signature Disney flair.

What makes it unique is its blend of thrilling rides, immersive themed lands, and fantastic entertainment, often featuring beloved Pixar and Marvel characters. You can expect to soar over iconic California landmarks on Soarin’ Around the World, shrink down to toy size in Toy Story Midway Mania!, or brave the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! It’s a park that appeals to all ages, with plenty of thrilling coasters, charming family rides, spectacular parades, and dazzling nighttime shows. It’s an absolute must-do for families, Disney fans, and anyone looking for an unforgettable day of fantasy and fun.

Karaoke at the Starting Gate

For an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and perhaps a few off-key notes, head to The Starting Gate for some lively karaoke. This local favorite in Cypress isn’t just a bar; it’s a community hub where everyone is encouraged to unleash their inner rock star, regardless of vocal talent. What makes The Starting Gate unique is its genuinely welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere, where regulars and first-timers alike feel comfortable grabbing the mic.

You can expect a diverse crowd, a massive song selection, and enthusiastic support from your fellow patrons. It’s the kind of place where friendships are forged over shared renditions of power ballads and pop anthems. Beyond the singing, it’s a full-service bar offering a wide range of drinks. It’s the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends, a birthday celebration, or simply to blow off some steam and embrace the joy of collective performance.

Chill Out at Oak Knoll Park

Seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the urban landscape? Oak Knoll Park in Cypress offers a serene escape, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. This charming neighborhood park is a true community asset, known for its well-maintained green spaces and family-friendly amenities. What makes Oak Knoll Park special is its tranquil ambiance and thoughtful design, providing a welcoming environment for various outdoor activities.

You can expect lush lawns ideal for picnicking, a playground where children can burn off energy, and walking paths perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. It’s a wonderful spot to simply relax on a bench with a book, enjoy the fresh air, or let the kids play freely. This park is particularly appealing to families with young children, individuals seeking a quiet moment, or anyone looking for a pleasant outdoor space to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

Visit T-One Hookah lounge

For a unique and relaxing social experience, consider visiting T-One Hookah Lounge in Cypress. This spot offers a contemporary and comfortable setting where you can unwind with friends over flavorful hookah. What makes T-One Hookah Lounge stand out is its inviting atmosphere, often featuring modern decor, comfortable seating, and a wide selection of premium hookah flavors.

You can expect a laid-back vibe, often accompanied by ambient music, making it an ideal place for conversation and relaxation. Beyond the hookah, they typically offer a selection of non-alcoholic beverages and sometimes light snacks. It’s a popular destination for those looking for an alternative to traditional bars, providing a chill environment for catching up with friends, enjoying a unique sensory experience, or just unwinding after a long day. It’s particularly appealing to young adults and groups seeking a relaxed social setting.

Plan Your Visit

As you can see, Cypress, California, is far more than just a dot on the Orange County map; it’s a vibrant hub brimming with diverse experiences waiting to be discovered. From the high-stakes excitement of the Gardens Casino to the tranquil shores of Seal Beach, and from the adrenaline rushes at Knott’s Berry Farm to the peaceful paths of Oak Knoll Park, this city truly offers a slice of something special for every traveler.

You’ll find that Cypress serves as an ideal base, allowing you to seamlessly blend local charm with easy access to world-class attractions. So, whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a solo exploration, let this guide inspire you to delve into the unexpected delights of Cypress. Start planning your unforgettable Southern California journey today, and prepare to create lasting memories in this hidden gem.