Any city such as Long Beach, which is located along the California coast, is a traveler`s haven.
There are plenty of things to do in Long Beach; however, the city is mostly known for having some of the best beaches, nature trails, hotels, and nightlife.
It is also on the bucket list of nature enthusiasts, watersport lovers, daredevils, and beach fanatics.
Things To Do In Long Beach
Long Beach is the perfect getaway destination with a coastline of about 5.5 miles, excellent boardwalk views, fascinating marine life, historical sites, and a bursting nightlife.
Some of the places that you must visit include:
- Downtown Waterfront
- Junipero Cherry Beach
- The Queen Mary
- Shoreline Village
- Long Beach Museum of Art
- El Dorado East Regional Park
- Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center
- Aquarium of the Pacific
You will be amazed by the many things you can do while at Long Beach; stick around, and we will guide you on how to have the most memorable weekend gateway at Long Beach.
What to Expect? The city can get extremely hot, so pack enough water, sunscreen, a hat, and a pair of sunglass.
Tour Educational and Historical Sites
Long Beach prides itself on having the only Museum in the United States dedicated to preserving the cultural and artistic heritage of the Oceania people.
There are iconic monuments and subject-specific museums that are entertaining and highly informative.
1. The Queen Mary
Considered the grandest ocean liner of its era, The Queen Mary was once used as a luxurious passenger ship. However, during World War II, it was used as a troopship.
It was later converted into a passenger ship before being retired and permanently anchored at Long Beach port.
Today, the ship is a hotel that hosts several events, including Sunday brunches, romantic dinners, murder mystery dinner shows, and many more.
2. Rancho Los Alamitos
The Rancho Los Alamitos ranch has a history of more than 200 years. The ranch has historical evidence of the culture and lives of the Native Americans from circa 500 CE.
There is also a ranch house that was converted into a museum in the early 19th century.
While at the ranch, you can tour the farm, take a guided tour of the Museum, and enjoy the Italian garden.
Make sure that you have your camera to take some memorable pictures.
3. Museum of Latin American Art
This is the only Museum in the United States dedicated to preserving contemporary Latin art.
At the Museum, you will learn about the splendor of the different transitions of Latin America Art. The Museum has over 1,300 exhibits, including outdoor sculptures.
Besides enjoying the art collection, you will also get a hands-on workshop perfect for understanding the elements and inspirations of the artwork.
For summer visitors, the Museum usually holds concerts at the sculpture gardens. Entry on Sundays is free.
4. Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum
This Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the culture of the people of Oceania.
The Museum focuses on the ancient and modern culture of Oceania through artwork. There are also performances by the islanders.
To make the museum tour exciting for everyone, there are craft-making sessions for kids during the tours.
With its rotating exhibits, most visitors yearn to visit again to understand the diverse culture of the Pacific Islands communities.
5. Long Beach Museum of Art
The art museum is home to over 3,000 art collections showcasing the history of American and European art over 300 years.
What is on display includes furniture, ceramics, and many more. The Museum also has a blend of urban and street art in its collection.
The majority of the artwork on display is mainly from local Californians.
Therefore, the Museum is a great place to learn about Californians’ cultural and artistic heritage. It has a sculpture garden and a relaxing space facing the ocean.
If you’re planning a trip to Long Beach and want to find the best deals on hotels, we suggest you either book well ahead of time or try for last minute deals.
Explore Long Beach Natural Heritage
Long Beach also has beautiful natural spaces where you can enjoy nature as you take a hike along the well-manicured trails.
Take a day trip away from the city and enjoy the desert landscape that is excellent for stargazing, picture-taking, and hiking.
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1. Catalina Island
Catalina Island is perfect for hiking, picnicking, snorkeling, and bison spotting.
The island is only an hour’s ferry ride from Long Beach and provides a serene environment away from the bustle and hustle of the city.
While on the island, visit local museums and go on eco-tours. Additionally, the island has golf courses, a ranch, and a casino, alongside hosting many events throughout the year.
Some of the famous events hosted here include wine missing, triathlons, music, and film festivals.
2. El Dorado East Regional Park
The park is heavenly and very close to the city, making it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The park provides a natural reserve for wild animals and plantations. The park is a marvel to behold with its visitor center, nature walking trails, trees, lake, and streams.
While at the park, take a hike and enjoy the cool and fresh air of the forest.
The visitor center provides informative information about the park, including local artwork. You will also have access to a dog-friendly venue at the El Dorado Dog Park.
3. Aquarium of the Pacific
Located on the Downtown Waterfront, the Aquarium hosts more than 12,000 exhibits.
The most popular sites for tourists are the Shark Lagoon and Lorikeet forests. There are more than 500 species, including sharks, jellyfish, rays, and penguins.
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While at the Aquarium, you can touch sharks’ skins or stroll the Lorikeet Forest and feed the birds.
Other special treats include interacting with sea animals and attending science discussions.
Visit The Beaches
There are several beaches in Long Beach, each with a different vibe.
Some beaches are excellent for water sports, while others are perfect for swimming.
1. Rosie’s Dog Beach
Rosie`s Beach is the only beach where dogs are let off the leash in Los Angeles.
This is thanks to a local dog’s rights advocate and a local bulldog from where the beach derives its name. Here dogs are allowed to run freely and even swim in the water.
The beach is designed to meet a dog’s needs, including water-drinking fountains. However, it is prohibited to bring more than one dog.
2. Alamitos Bay Beach
The beach has calm and gentle waters, making it perfect for kids and swimming.
It also has pedestrian walking paths with excellent views of the city skyscrapers.
You can also have a picnic as you gaze at the ocean waves and feel the ocean’s cool breeze.
Although there are picnic tables on the beach, you should pack your picnic gear to avoid disappointment.
3. Long Beach City Beach
Also referred to as Junipero Cherry Beach, Long Beach City Beach is a perfect spot for almost every water-related activity.
The beach also has separate motorized and non-motorized user paths.
Parking at the beach is free, but you must get there early. However, there are extra parking spaces along the streets but at a fee.
4. Mother’s Beach
The calm waters at Mother’s Beach make it the perfect place to take your kids.
You can hike along the shoreline pedestrian path or enjoy a family picnic at the grassy areas of the beach.
The beach also has sand volleyball courts for those daring to engage in extreme sports.
Being a family-friendly beach, Mother’s Beach has free movies screening during summer.
Final Thoughts
There are endless things to do in Long Beach, making it perfect for a weekend gateway spot.
It is the ultimate place to learn about Latin, American, European, and Oceanic people’s cultures and traditions, as well as relax along the beach.
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