Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are approximately 15 minutes away from campus. For those who love roller coasters, Knott's Berry Farm, which bills itself as American's first theme park, is also approximately 20 minutes away. The parks have roller coasters--which are not for the faint hearted--as well as other amusement park rides such as gravity drops, swings and Ferris wheels. Visitors to Knott's Berry Farm can test its famous chicken dinners, plan a catered party or just enjoy the rides.
Popular restaurants in the area include Papa Hassan's Cafe, Tokyo Cafe, Beach Pit BBQ, and the Perfect Circle Cupcakery. These restaurants are within walking distance of campus by five to six blocks, and are along North Glassell Street. Farther down on South Glassell Street, past Plaza Square, you can find more restaurants including PJ's Abbey and Haven Gastropub. As for bars, the District Lounge on West Chapman is popular and well-known among students, as is Elks Lodge on East Chapman.
The beach is only about 30 minutes from the Chapman University campus, so surfing, swimming and sunbathing are close by. In the opposite direction are Chino Hills State Park, Limestone Canyon Regional Park, and Orange County Great Park, which are ideal for running, frisbee, biking, rock climbing or picnicking. Rock City Climbing Center, Anaheim Golf Course, and Anaheim Garden Walk are all within 30 minutes of Chapman University as well.
MainPlace Mall in Santa Ana is less than 10 minutes from campus. Orange Town and Country North Shopping Center is also located nearby. Williams Mall is on the edge of campus, and stores such as Army Navy and Barnes & Noble dot the streets of Orange and Anaheim, so visitors can stroll the streets, enjoy a coffee and a meal, and shop at the same time.