Long Beach, California, has a rich history dating back to the Tongva people, who inhabited the area for centuries before European settlers arrived. The city was founded in 1888 and quickly became a major port and transportation hub. Today, Long Beach is a thriving city with a diverse population and a vibrant culture. There are plenty of things to do in Long Beach, from exploring its beautiful beaches to visiting its many museums and attractions.
1. Visit the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner that is now permanently docked in Long Beach. The ship was built in the 1930s and was once the largest and most luxurious passenger ship in the world. Today, the Queen Mary is a floating hotel and museum. Visitors can take a tour of the ship and learn about its history, or they can stay overnight in one of the ship’s staterooms. The Queen Mary is a must-see for any visitor to Long Beach.
2. Explore the Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest and most comprehensive aquariums in the United States. The aquarium is home to over 11,000 animals from over 500 species. Visitors can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins, and sea otters. The Aquarium of the Pacific is a great place to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.
3. Go for a walk or bike ride along the beach
Long Beach has a beautiful beach that stretches for over three miles. The beach is a great place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride. Visitors can also swim, surf, or sunbathe on the beach. The beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
4. Visit the Long Beach Museum of Art
The Long Beach Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum that is located in downtown Long Beach. The museum features a variety of exhibitions, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video art. The Long Beach Museum of Art is a great place to see some of the best contemporary art in the world.
5. Take a gondola ride through the Naples canals
The Naples canals are a series of man-made canals that are located in the Naples neighborhood of Long Beach. The canals are lined with beautiful homes and gardens. Visitors can take a gondola ride through the canals and enjoy the scenery. Gondola rides are a popular activity for couples and families.
6. Visit the Japanese Gardens
The Japanese Gardens are a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The gardens are located in the El Dorado Park and feature a variety of traditional Japanese gardens. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the scenery, or they can take a tea ceremony in the tea house. The Japanese Gardens are a great place to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
7. Go to a concert or show at the Long Beach Arena
The Long Beach Arena is a large indoor arena that is located in downtown Long Beach. The arena hosts a variety of events, including concerts, shows, and sporting events. Visitors can see some of the biggest names in entertainment at the Long Beach Arena.
8. Visit the El Dorado Nature Center
The El Dorado Nature Center is a 104-acre nature preserve that is located in the El Dorado Park. The nature center features a variety of interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the local environment. Visitors can also hike through the nature preserve and see a variety of plants and animals. The El Dorado Nature Center is a great place to learn about nature and the environment.
9. Go shopping at the Pike Outlets
The Pike Outlets is a large outdoor shopping mall that is located in downtown Long Beach. The mall features over 100 stores and restaurants. Visitors can find everything from clothes to electronics to souvenirs at the Pike Outlets. The Pike Outlets is a great place to go shopping for a day or an afternoon.
10. Take a day trip to Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a beautiful island that is located just off the coast of Long Beach. The island is a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways. Visitors can take a ferry from Long Beach to Catalina Island and enjoy the island’s many attractions. Catalina Island is a great place to go hiking, biking, swimming, and snorkeling. The island is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels, and Conclusion
Long Beach is a city with a rich culture and a diverse population. The city is home to a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries. Long Beach also has a vibrant music scene and a variety of festivals and events are held throughout the year. The best months to visit Long Beach are April through October, when the weather is mild and sunny. Long Beach is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. The city is served by the Long Beach Airport and the Metro Blue Line.
Long Beach has a variety of local food options, including seafood, Mexican food, and Asian food. Some of the best local restaurants include: The Boathouse on the Bay, Guisados, and SteelCraft.
There are a variety of hotels in Long Beach, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the best hotels in Long Beach include: The Hyatt Regency Long Beach, the Hilton Long Beach, and the Hotel Maya.
Long Beach is a great city to visit for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation. The city has something to offer everyone, from beautiful beaches to world-class museums. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting city adventure, you’re sure to find it in Long Beach.
