Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, Long Beach, California, is the perfect destination.
With its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and endless activities, Long Beach has something for everyone.
For adventure seekers, there’s jet skiing, parasailing, and surfing. Or, if you prefer to take it easy, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, build sandcastles on the beach, or simply relax in the sun.
No matter what your interests are, Long Beach is sure to have something that will make your visit memorable.
With that said, here are 19 things to see and do in Long Beach California.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Long Beach, California, today!
1. Spend the Night Aboard the Queen Mary
Looking for a unique place to spend the night? Why not try aboard the Queen Mary?
This historic ship is docked in Long Beach, California, and offers a variety of different accommodations, from staterooms to suites.
You can even stay in the same room that Winston Churchill once occupied!
The Queen Mary is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, shops, and museums, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
And of course, there are ghost stories galore.
So if you’re feeling adventurous, spending the night on the Queen Mary is sure to be a memorable experience.
2. Learn About Marine Life at the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
It’s a terrific idea to learn about aquatic life at the Pacific Aquarium in Long Beach.
The Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest public aquariums in the country and one of the top tourist attractions in Long Beach.
Over 11,000 creatures of 500 different kinds are displayed at the aquarium.
The Aquarium’s exhibits include tropical reefs, kelp forests, a shark lagoon, and more.
You can also see live shows, such as penguin feedings, seals, sea lions, and otters.
The Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific is a great place to learn about marine life and have a fun day out.
3. Check Out the Museum of Latin American Art
The Museum of Latin American Art is one of the premier art museums in Long Beach.
The museum features a wide variety of artwork from Latin American artists, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and film.
Along with tours and talks, the museum also provides a range of educational activities.
In addition, the MOLAA hosts a number of special events throughout the year, making it a great place to visit for both art lovers and educators alike.
So if you’re looking for a unique and culturally enriching experience, be sure to check out the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach.
4. Stroll Along The Shoreline Village
Shoreline Village in Long Beach is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll.
With its scenic views of the waterfront and lively atmosphere, the village is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
You can enjoy a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as entertainment options such as live music and street performers.
The village also has a rich history, having been founded in the early 1980s as a redevelopment project for the city’s waterfront.
Today, Shoreline Village is a thriving community that offers something for everyone.
So whether you’re looking to explore or just relax, be sure to add Shoreline Village to your list of must-see places in Long Beach.
5. See a Show at The Long Beach Playhouse
The Long Beach Playhouse is the perfect place to see a show.
It is an intimate theater with great acoustics. The staff is very friendly, and the concessions are reasonably priced.
I have seen several shows at the Long Beach Playhouse, and each one was excellent.
I’d heartily advise going to a performance here. There is no chance of being let down.
6. Visit Rancho Los Cerritos
Rancho Los Cerritos is a historic ranch house in Long Beach, California.
The ranch was originally part of a land grant given to the Dominguez family by the Spanish Crown in 1784.
Today, the ranch house is a museum that is open to the public for tours and events.
The ranch grounds include a beautiful garden, which is perfect for a picnic or a stroll.
The Rancho Los Cerritos Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Southern California and the people who have called it home.
So whether you’re looking for a fun day trip or a place to explore Long Beach’s rich history, be sure to add Rancho Los Cerritos to your list!
7. Get Your Fill of Fun at The Pike Outlets
The Pike Outlets in Long Beach are the perfect place to find a bargain and have some fun.
The open-air mall features over 100 stores, including popular brands like Nike, Gap, and Forever 21.
In addition to great shopping, The Pike Outlets also offer a variety of dining options, from fast food to casual sit-down restaurants.
And for those who want to enjoy the California sun, the mall has a beautiful outdoor seating area overlooking the water.
Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or just a place to relax and people-watch, The Pike Outlets is sure to please.
8. Shop ’til You Drop at Second Street Long Beach
Looking for a unique shopping experience? Look no further than Second Street in Long Beach!
This historic street is home to a variety of shops, from vintage clothing stores to art galleries.
There’s something for everyone on Second Street!
And if you work up an appetite while shopping, there are plenty of great places to grab a bite.
Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or just a fun afternoon out, Second Street is the place to be!
9. Take a Hike Through El Dorado Nature Center
El Dorado Nature Center is a great place to take a hike and explore the outdoors.
The nature center has over five miles of trails that wind through the hills and valleys of the property.
There are also several educational displays along the way that provide information about the plants and animals that call El Dorado home.
The best time to take a hike is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too hot.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
10. Relax at Bixby Park
Bixby Park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
With its beautiful views of the ocean, ample seating, and wide open spaces, the park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
On any given day, you can find people relaxing on the grass, enjoying a picnic lunch, or reading a book in the shade.
And on weekends, the park comes alive with families and friends playing games, flying kites, and soaking up the sun.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an active place to play, Bixby Park is sure to please.
11. Play a Round of Golf at Recreation Park Golf Course 18
Few places offer the beauty, peace, and challenge of a game of golf.
If you’re looking for a great place to play a round or two, Recreation Park Golf Course 18 is the perfect spot.
Located in Long Beach, California, the course offers stunning views of the cityscape and the Pacific Ocean.
And with 18 holes to choose from, there’s plenty of challenge for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time golfer, you’re sure to enjoy your time at Recreation Park Golf Course 18.
So come on out and enjoy a round or two… it’s sure to be a good time!
12. Watch a College Basketball Game at The Walter Pyramid
The Walter Pyramid is one of the most iconic college basketball arenas in the country.
Situated on the campus of Long Beach State, the Pyramid has been home to the 49ers basketball team since 1989.
With a capacity of 12,000, it is the largest arena in the Big West Conference.
The Walter Pyramid is known for its unique architecture; the exterior is covered in over three acres of tile, and the interior features a giant pyramidal skylight.
Even if you’re not a big college basketball fan, watching a game at the Walter Pyramid is a truly unique experience.
13. Take A Walk Through The Long Beach Museum of Art
The Long Beach Museum of Art is a hidden gem in California.
The museum is located in a renovated 1915 Hollywood Hills mansion that overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
A wide variety of works of art, including photographs, sculptures, and paintings, are on display at the museum.
The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, which means there is always something new to see.
And best of all, admission is free.
So next time you find yourself in Long Beach, be sure to take a walk through the Long Beach Museum of Art. You won’t be disappointed.
14. Catch A Movie at The Long Beach Cinemark
The Cinemark in Long Beach is the perfect place to catch a movie.
With its convenient location and wide selection of films, it’s easy to find something that everyone will enjoy.
The cinema also offers a variety of concessions, so you can indulge in your favorite snacks while you watch the latest blockbuster.
Best of all, Cinemark offers discounted tickets on Tuesdays, making it easy to catch a flick without breaking the bank.
So whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a family-friendly movie experience, the Cinemark at Long Beach is sure to deliver.
15. See the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra
There’s nothing like live music to get your toes tapping and your soul singing.
And there’s no better place to experience live music than at the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra.
The Long Beach Symphony Orchestra is one of the most respected orchestras in the country, and it frequently features world-renowned soloists.
Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or a casual listener, you’re sure to enjoy experiencing the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra in person.
So grab your friends and head to the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra for an evening of unforgettable music.
16. Visit The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is one of the most beautiful places on campus.
It’s a great place to visit when you need to take a break from studying or just want to enjoy some time outdoors.
The garden is filled with beautiful plants and flowers, and there’s even a koi pond.
If you’re lucky, you might even see a turtle basking in the sun. The garden is also a great place to relax and clear your mind.
Whether you’re looking for a place to meditate or just want to enjoy some peace and quiet, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is the perfect place for you.
17. Get Your Exercise at El Dorado Park
El Dorado Park is the perfect place to get your exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.
The park has a wide variety of activities to choose from, including hiking, biking, and bird-watching. There are also plenty of places to picnic and relax.
And best of all, the park is just a short drive from Long Beach.
So whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing walk in the park, El Dorado Park is the perfect place to get your exercise.
18. Take A Dip in Belmont Shore
Nestled on the southern coast of California, Long Beach is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors.
From lively festivals to world-class museums, there is something for everyone in Long Beach.
And of course, no visit to the city would be complete without spending some time at the beach.
Belmont Shore is one of the most popular beaches in Long Beach, and it’s easy to see why.
The sand is soft and golden, and the waves are perfect for swimming and surfing.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, Belmont Shore is the perfect spot.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your towel and sunscreen and head to Belmont Shore for a day of fun in the sun.
19. Visit The Long Beach Towne Center
The Long Beach Towne Center is the perfect place to spend a day shopping, dining, and enjoying entertainment.
With over 150 stores, there is something for everyone.
The mall also features a food court with a variety of options, as well as full-service restaurants.
In addition, the Towne Center has a movie theater and an outdoor amphitheater for live music.
And if you’re looking for something fun for the kids, there is an indoor playground and arcade.
So whether you’re looking for a new outfit, a bite to eat, or some entertainment, the Long Beach Towne Center is the place to be.
