Fun Things to Do in Long Beach: Top Activities & Sights
Long Beach, a lively California city, sits 20 miles south of Los Angeles. It boasts five miles of beautiful beaches and a rich history. This coastal gem offers countless experiences for every visitor.
Long Beach has grown from its early 1900s boom to become a diverse cultural hub. It’s now a must-visit spot for travelers seeking unique adventures.
The famous Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner, reopened for limited tours in April 2023. Its hotel will welcome guests again in May. Rosie’s Dog Beach, the only off-leash dog beach in LA County, is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The East Village Arts District hosts a monthly art walk, showcasing local creativity. The Aquarium of the Pacific offers over 100 exhibits across 19 major habitats. Naples’ calm canals provide perfect conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Long Beach’s diverse food scene reflects its multicultural roots. It has the largest Cambodian population outside Cambodia. Sophy’s Restaurant has served Thai and Cambodian cuisine for over 20 years.
Visitors can explore attractions, enjoy water activities, and savor local flavors. This Southern California gem promises unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Discover Long Beach’s Iconic Waterfront
Long Beach’s waterfront blends history, nature, and creativity. It boasts 11 miles of sandy shores and sparkling bays. This iconic destination offers diverse experiences, from historic landmarks to outdoor adventures.
The Queen Mary: A Historic Landmark
The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner, showcases the golden age of transatlantic travel. This floating museum completed its final voyage in 1967. Visitors can explore its art deco interiors, enjoy guided tours, or stay overnight in renovated staterooms.
Shoreline Aquatic Park: Outdoor Fun
Near the Queen Mary, Shoreline Aquatic Park offers green spaces and harbor views. It’s perfect for picnics or watching sunsets. The park enjoys 20 days of annual rainfall, ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
Long Beach Museum of Art: Creativity by the Sea
The Long Beach Museum of Art sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. Its collection spans centuries and continents, offering a unique cultural experience. The museum’s oceanfront café serves delightful cuisine with breathtaking views.
| Attraction | Key Feature | Year Established |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Mary | Floating Museum | 1967 (in Long Beach) |
| Shoreline Aquatic Park | Panoramic Harbor Views | 1982 |
| Long Beach Museum of Art | Oceanfront Location | 1950 |
Explore Local Arts and Culture
Long Beach boasts a vibrant arts scene, brimming with creativity and cultural events. The city’s dedication to artistic expression shines through its thriving arts community. Local entertainment options abound, offering diverse cultural experiences for all.
The Arts District: A Creative Hub
The Arts District in the East Village is Long Beach’s artistic heart. Over 1,000 artists are registered with the Arts Council for Long Beach. This area buzzes with galleries, studios, and public art installations.
The city’s Mural Program enhances the district’s visual appeal. It supports local artists while beautifying public spaces. This initiative creates a positive impact for both the community and creatives.
Performing Arts at The Long Beach Civic Center
The Long Beach Civic Center hosts a variety of performing arts. The Terrace Theater showcases Broadway shows and concerts. Nearby, the Beverly O’Neill Theater offers intimate productions and experimental works.
Long Beach nurtures young talent through programs like the Youth Poet Laureate. The Arts Council provides grants to fund local artists and organizations. These efforts ensure a constant flow of fresh, innovative works.
| Venue | Capacity | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|
| Terrace Theater | 3,000 | Broadway shows, Concerts |
| Beverly O’Neill Theater | 800 | Local productions, Experimental works |
| Long Beach Museum of Art | N/A | Exhibitions, Art workshops |
Family-Friendly Activities in Long Beach
Long Beach is full of exciting activities for families. From marine adventures to outdoor fun, this coastal city offers something for everyone.
The Aquarium of the Pacific: A Marine Wonderland
The Aquarium of the Pacific is a top attraction in Long Beach. It houses over 11,000 animals from 500 species across 50 exhibits. Kids love the shark and ray touch pools.
The jellyfish gallery amazes visitors of all ages. The Pacific Visions exhibit offers an immersive journey through ocean ecosystems.
Lorikeet Forest is a unique 5,400-square-foot aviary. Here, you can feed colorful birds and make lasting memories.
Adventure at El Dorado Park
El Dorado Park is a 105-acre green space perfect for outdoor activities. The Nature Center has a quarter-mile paved trail for exploring local plants and animals.
Families can enjoy fishing in stocked lakes, disc golf, and archery. These activities blend learning with outdoor adventure.
- Enjoy train rides, a hit with younger children
- Explore nature trails teeming with local wildlife
- Pack a picnic and spend a day in the sunshine
These attractions mix education with fun, sparking curiosity about nature. Watch sea otters play or spot birds in El Dorado Park.
Long Beach offers experiences that create lasting memories for families. These activities foster a love for nature and science in visitors.
Relax and Unwind at the Beach
Long Beach’s waterfront is a paradise for sun-seekers and beach lovers. Its 5.5-mile sandy coastline offers many chances to relax and have fun. Let’s check out some top Long Beach attractions that make it a great coastal spot.
Long Beach City Beach: Sun and Sand
Long Beach City Beach is perfect for soaking up the California sun. Its soft sand is great for sunbathing, sandcastles, or volleyball. The calm waters are ideal for swimming.
The nearby Shoreline Pedestrian Bikeway offers scenic rides along the coast. With so much to do, Long Beach City Beach is a top choice for recreation.
Belmont Shore: Shopping and Dining by the Shore
Belmont Shore blends beach life with urban fun. This charming area has both seaside relaxation and lively street scenes. After sunbathing, visitors can explore Second Street’s boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Outdoor patios are perfect for dining while enjoying the beach vibe. Belmont Shore hosts events year-round, like a chocolate festival and Christmas Parade.
| Beach Feature | Long Beach City Beach | Belmont Shore |
|---|---|---|
| Main Activities | Sunbathing, Swimming, Volleyball | Shopping, Dining, Events |
| Nearby Amenities | Bike Path, Volleyball Courts | Boutiques, Restaurants, Cafes |
| Best For | Beach Day, Water Activities | Urban Beach Experience, Shopping |
Long Beach’s shores offer fun for everyone. You can be active or just relax. Long Beach City Beach and Belmont Shore show why this city is great for beach lovers and city explorers.
Thrilling Outdoor Adventures
Long Beach is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts exciting activities for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. From water sports to scenic bike rides, Long Beach offers endless recreation options.
Kayaking in Alamitos Bay
Alamitos Bay is perfect for kayaking adventures. Its calm waters suit beginners, while experienced paddlers can explore nearby Naples canals. Rent a kayak and glide through the bay, spotting sea lions and herons.
Biking along the Shoreline Bike Path
The Shoreline Bike Path offers an exhilarating coastal exploration. This well-maintained path stretches for miles, providing stunning ocean views. Rent a bike and cruise along the beach, stopping at Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier.
The flat terrain makes it accessible for riders of all skill levels.
| Outdoor Activity | Location | Difficulty Level | Rental Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kayaking | Alamitos Bay | Beginner to Intermediate | Yes |
| Biking | Shoreline Bike Path | All Levels | Yes |
| Surfing | Long Beach City Beach | Intermediate to Advanced | Yes |
| Paddleboarding | Alamitos Bay | Beginner to Intermediate | Yes |
These activities offer a unique view of Long Beach. They blend exercise with exploration, creating unforgettable experiences. Paddle through calm waters or cycle along the coast to discover Long Beach’s coastal beauty.
Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment
Long Beach comes alive after dark. The city offers a diverse array of venues for nighttime fun. From cocktail lounges to dance clubs, there’s something for everyone.
Bars and Clubs in Downtown Long Beach
Downtown Long Beach is the heart of the city’s nightlife. The Pike Outlets area features bars and restaurants with stunning views. The Queen Mary hosts the Observation Bar, open nightly until 10:30 p.m.
The East Village Arts District has indie bars like Mezcalero Long Beach and House of Hayden. Sweetwater Saloon welcomes LGBTQ+ patrons. Dance lovers can enjoy Sevilla Nightclub’s Latin vibe or line dancing at Cowboy Country.
Live Music Venues to Check Out
Long Beach’s music scene is thriving. DiPiazza’s and Alex’s Bar host local and touring bands across various genres. Harvelle’s Cabaret has entertained since 1931 with blues, jazz, and burlesque shows.
The Richard and Karen Carpenter Performing Arts Center hosts renowned artists. Comedy fans can catch shows at the Laugh Factory. Long Beach’s nightlife offers inclusive and diverse entertainment options.
Unique Shopping Experiences
Long Beach offers diverse shopping experiences, blending modern retail with vintage treasures. These unique activities cater to all tastes and budgets. Shopping in Long Beach is an exciting adventure for locals and tourists.
Long Beach Antique Market: Treasure Hunting
The Long Beach Antique Market is a monthly event at Veterans Stadium. It’s a paradise for vintage enthusiasts with over 45 dealers spread across 7,500 square feet.
Since 2014, it has grown significantly. You can find mid-century furniture, retro clothing, and more. This market helps combat disposable culture while appreciating history.
The Pike Outlets: Waterfront Shopping
The Pike Outlets in Downtown Long Beach is a must-visit tourist spot. This open-air complex houses numerous stores and restaurants. It offers a perfect blend of retail therapy and waterfront ambiance.
After shopping, visitors can enjoy a 45-minute harbor cruise. This allows them to see the Long Beach waterfront from a different perspective.
Boutique Bonanza
Long Beach’s shopping scene is enriched by unique boutiques. MASAYA, opened in 2022, focuses on responsibly made goods. Anneise, operating since 2011, offers weekly hand-selected affordable items.
Burke Mercantile, established in 2018, specializes in sustainable products from independent brands. Maral Designs has been a local favorite since 2005, offering designer samples at wholesale prices.
These diverse options showcase Long Beach’s vibrant retail landscape. It’s a prime destination for both seasoned shoppers and curious explorers.
Culinary Delights and Dining
Long Beach’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors. It reflects the city’s diverse community and coastal location. Downtown boasts over 100 quality restaurants in an eight-block radius.
Long Beach offers a range of dining options. From hot wings to fancy cuisine, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Local Favorites: Essential Eats
Long Beach’s culinary landscape is thriving. In 2023, Heritage restaurant earned the city’s first Michelin star. It kept this honor in 2024.
Gusto Bread, an artisanal bakery, gained recognition too. It was a finalist in the 2024 James Beard Foundation awards. These achievements showcase Long Beach’s rising food status.
The city’s food scene is incredibly diverse. It features farm-to-table concepts, barbecue joints, and Mexican eateries. Long Beach also hosts the largest Cambodian community outside Cambodia.
Local chefs work together and support each other. This teamwork creates a vibrant culinary community in Long Beach.
Food Tours: Taste the City’s Best Bites
Food tours are a tasty way to explore Long Beach. The yearly Taste of Downtown Long Beach showcases over 40 restaurants. Seafood fans can enjoy the Long Beach Seafood Festival in September.
Plant-based eaters have options too. The Vegan Street Fair hosts 200+ vendors offering global vegan cuisine. Other popular events include BBQ, Lobster, Taco, and Beer and Wine Festivals.
These events do more than please taste buds. They support local businesses and bring the community together. Dining in Long Beach is truly a shared experience.
Events and Festivals to Attend
Long Beach’s event calendar is packed with exciting festivals and celebrations. These events showcase the city’s diverse culture and entertainment offerings. From racing to parades, there’s always something happening in this coastal gem.
Long Beach Grand Prix: Racing Excitement
The Long Beach Grand Prix turns the city into a racing paradise each April. This thrilling weekend features IndyCar races, concerts, and family activities. It attracts thousands of motorsport fans and casual spectators alike.
Long Beach Pride: Celebrating Diversity
Every May, Long Beach Pride brings rainbow colors to the city. This joyous celebration includes a vibrant parade, music festivals, and inspiring speakers. It showcases Long Beach’s inclusive spirit and highlights the city’s entertainment scene.
Long Beach offers a variety of festivals throughout the year. The Long Beach Craft Beer Festival in September showcases local breweries like Beachwood Brewing and Ten Mile Brewing.
Food lovers can enjoy the Original Lobster Festival, serving Maine lobster to about 3,000 attendees. Wine enthusiasts can sample over 200 beverage options at the LA Wine Fest in May.
The Los Angeles Design Festival brings creative flair in June. The Long Beach Family Arts Festival offers free performances and activities for all ages. These events keep Long Beach buzzing with excitement year-round.
FAQ
What are the best family-friendly attractions in Long Beach?
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers an immersive marine experience for families. El Dorado Park, a 450-acre oasis, provides fishing, nature trails, and train rides. Both venues educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
Can you visit the Queen Mary in Long Beach?
Yes, the Queen Mary welcomes visitors. This historic ocean liner offers guided tours and exhibitions. You can even stay overnight in renovated staterooms. It’s a fascinating look into the golden age of transatlantic travel.
What outdoor activities are available in Long Beach?
Long Beach offers kayaking in Alamitos Bay and biking along the Shoreline Bike Path. You can sunbathe and swim at Long Beach City Beach. Exploring Shoreline Aquatic Park is another great option.
These activities showcase the city’s beautiful coastal landscape and mild climate.
Where can I experience Long Beach’s art scene?
The Arts District in the East Village is Long Beach’s art hub. It features murals, galleries, and boutiques. The Long Beach Museum of Art offers a diverse collection with ocean views.
For performing arts, visit the Terrace Theater and Beverly O’Neill Theater at the Long Beach Civic Center.
What are some unique shopping experiences in Long Beach?
The monthly Long Beach Antique Market offers vintage finds and collectibles. The Pike Outlets mix brand outlets and local boutiques in a waterfront setting. Retro Row on 4th Street is known for eclectic boutiques.
Belmont Shore features upscale shops for a different shopping experience.
Are there any notable events or festivals in Long Beach?
Long Beach hosts several major events yearly. The Long Beach Grand Prix is a thrilling racing event. Long Beach Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the country.
Various cultural festivals and art shows also showcase the city’s diverse and vibrant community.
What dining experiences are unique to Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a diverse culinary scene. Try local favorites like Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles. For seafood, visit waterfront restaurants like The Boathouse on the Bay.
The city is known for farm-to-table dining and food tours. These explore different neighborhoods and cuisines.
