Long Beach is a coastal city in Southern California, where travelers can enjoy sunny days, sea breezes, and plenty of fun. Whether you’ve just booked your stay there or you’re looking for the perfect getaway, check out the list below for five things you must do when visiting Long Beach, California.
The Queen Mary
Image via Flickr by Averain
Visiting the Queen Mary is a one-of-a-kind experience. The ship’s history is full of adventure, action, romance, and even paranormal activity. In her time, the Queen Mary was the most luxurious and technologically advanced ship around. Today, visitors can explore from bow to stern while learning unique facts and hearing interesting stories from expert tour guides. The Queen Mary hosts monthly events, such as live music, ghost hunting, art shows and more. The ship also houses multiple lounges and bars, like the Chelsea Chowder House and Bar and the Observation Bar and Art Deco Lounge.
Beach City Food Tours
Image via Flickr by powerplantop
Fall in love with the Long Beach food scene by taking a Beach City Food Tour and visiting some amazing local restaurants. A food tour is a great way to get to know the real Long Beach. The downtown tour lasts up to three hours and runs Monday through Sunday. The weekday tour cost is $65, and the weekend cost is $68. The tour includes at least seven tastings and also offers discussions on the downtown area’s culture, history, and architecture.
First Fridays
Image via Flickr by Spherical Bull
First Fridays Long Beach started in 2006 and remains a popular monthly event. It takes place on the first Friday of every month from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and visitors have the chance to see live music and art while visiting local businesses. The goal of First Friday is to promote and support local musicians and artists by giving them a place to showcase their work. Bixby Knolls businesses join together each month and extend their operating hours to host this event. It’s located on Atlantic Avenue from Bixby Road to San Antonio Drive.
The Aquarium of the Pacific
Image via Flickr by mattd8n
The fourth most popular aquarium in the nation, the Aquarium of the Pacific houses 11,000 animals and has over 50 exhibits. The aquarium is open every day except Christmas from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Visitors can purchase tickets online or upon arrival. General admission costs $29.95 for adults, $17.95 for children, and $26.95 for seniors. You can also purchase tickets to the 4-D movies and Behind-the-Scenes tours for an additional fee.
Moonlight Movies on the Beach
Image via Flickr by Defectos Especiales
Moonlight Movies on the Beach is an annual outdoor event that’s free to the public. The film screenings take place in Belmont Shore, at Granada Beach. The series runs from June through August and usually plays classics like “The Sandlot,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” and “Jaws.”
If you’re visiting Long Beach, be sure to add some of these to your bucket list. You’ll be glad you did!
