30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Long Beach (California)

Lately, Long Beach is getting the recognition it’s deserved for so long as one of the best cities in California.

It’s not hard to see why, especially not when you see all the fun things to do in Long Beach.

With a beautiful seaside setting and excitement during the day and at night, Long Beach is a true paradise.

These are 30 of the best and most fun things to do in Long Beach, California.

1. Long Beach Antique Market

One of the best weekend activities in Long Beach is to visit the Long Beach Antique Market.

While this only happens once a week, the exclusive nature makes it more of a treat.

At this antique market, you’ll find some of the coolest things you’ve ever seen for sale.

You’ll see people arriving at this market before the sun has fully risen.

It’s no surprise this is one of the most popular activities, as there’s so much good stuff for sale.

You can find great antiques to put up in your home while browsing this market.

The Long Beach Antique Market is one of the top places to see in California.

It’s open on the third Sunday of each month, from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

General admission is $8, and early admission is $12.

Children younger than 12 get in for free.

Address: 4901 E Conant St, Long Beach, CA 90808, United States

2. Long Beach Museum of Art

One of the best ways to experience culture in this city is by visiting the Long Beach Museum of Art.

You can see incredible and thought-provoking works at this institution.

It’s one of the most enticing Long Beach attractions, and there’s always something exciting happening.

There are thousands of amazing pieces at this museum.

Some of them are hanging on the wall, while others are out on the floor.

You can see pieces from abroad and from California.

The unifying theme is great art, coming from different places and times.

Going to this art museum is one of the best things to do in this city.

There’s also a wonderful Sculpture Garden outside.

The museum is open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from Fridays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: 2300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803, United States

3. Naples

Sharing a name with one of the most gorgeous Italian cities, Naples is a portion of Long Beach you won’t want to miss.

This island-set neighborhood is luxurious living at its finest.

Being here can actually feel like you’re taking a trip to Italy in the midst of your California vacation.

There are great activities all around you in Naples.

To keep up with the Italy theme, try taking a ride with the Gondola Getaway.

Otherwise, there are amazing restaurants and stores.

The Pacific Ocean also looks especially gorgeous when you’re here.

Naples demonstrates how lovely Long Beach, California is.

This might remind you of Italy, but it’s also its own special thing.

There are so many ways Naples can astonish you.

Be sure to spend at least a few hours there.

Address: Long Beach, CA 90803, United States

4. The Queen Mary

The R.M.S. Queen Mary was more than a ship.

Bigger than the Titanic, it brought in some of the 20th century’s most notable figures, including Winston Churchill and Clark Gable.

Although it’s no longer a vessel, it can still be explored, docked in Long Beach.

You can still spend a few nights on the Queen Mary.

It currently operates as a very high-end hotel.

Should you just want to learn about this ship and its amazing story, it’s also a museum.

Plus, there are restaurants and stores here as well.

Talk about making the most out of a potentially tricky situation when the ship was taken out of service.

The Queen Mary started as one of the most impressive vessels ever built and has ended up as one of the best things to see in Long Beach California.

If you really fall in love with it, you might want to book a room.

This is one of the best parts of this awesome city.

Address: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

5. Museum of Latin American Art

Contributions from the Latin American community are rightfully recognized at the Museum of Latin American Art, one of the top places to visit in Long Beach, California.

Here, you can learn about some of the most distinguished figures in the Latin American art scene and their inspired works.

This is a colorful and exciting museum with so much to enjoy.

It’s especially important as there are no other museums like this in the United States.

The MOLAA has grown since it first opened in 1996.

Exhibitions focus on significant parts of Latin American culture, such as Day of the Dead.

Come to the Museum of Latin American Art this weekend if you want to learn more about this subject.

It’s one of the coolest places to go to in Long Beach, California.

Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, and free for children younger than 12.

Address: 628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

Visiting other parts of California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Santa Cruz & fun things to do in Orange County!

6. Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site

Another of the top places to visit for learning about other cultures in Long Beach is the Los Cerritos Ranch House.

This shows how Mexican and Spanish culture impacted ranches in the late 19th century.

This goes into a part of American history that you might’ve not been aware of, but which is very helpful to know about.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site is great for learning about and experiencing history.

The building itself dates back to 1844.

Inside are plenty more impressively aged items.

You can see legal documents, clothes, and other important things here.

Going to Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site is one of the top things to do in Long Beach if you love history.

This is one of the top free things to do in Long Beach.

It’s open on Sundays and from Wednesdays to Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Address: 4600 Virginia Rd, Long Beach, CA 90807, United States

7. Downtown Long Beach

Some of the most fun things to do in Long Beach, California are in the city’s downtown.

You’ll find awesome nightlife, great outdoor attractions, and more.

Downtown Long Beach is teeming with great things to do, and your presence can make them all the better.

Everything you’d hope to find in a city is in downtown Long Beach.

Among the best things to see is the Waterfront area.

You’ll find excellent streets all around here, as well as great places to eat.

This is also a great place to explore on foot or by bike.

Downtown Long Beach, California has lots of great attractions.

You can see annual events or just enjoy a day taking in the sights and the magnificent environment.

Whatever you choose, a good time can be yours.

Address: Pine Avenue E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA, United States

8. The Laugh Factory

One of the most important places to visit if you love comedy is in Long Beach.

The Laugh Factory has had some of the biggest names in comedy perform on its stages across the country.

Spend a night at the Long Beach club, and you might find yourself guffawing in ways you didn’t know you could.

Among the people who’ve performed at the Laugh Factory clubs are Dave Chappelle, Bobby Lee, Daniel Tosh, and Tiffany Haddish.

The club’s reputation makes it one of the hottest comedy environments today.

You should definitely come to the Long Beach venue for some serious laughs.

You might be able to see one of your favorite comedians in action.

The Laugh Factory is one of the biggest Long Beach attractions for entertainment.

See if there’s any show you want to see happening there this weekend.

It’s open on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9:45 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.

Address: 151 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

9. Ferry to Catalina Island

There are many great things to do and places to see near Long Beach.

Catalina Island is a place surrounded by enchantment and water equally.

Take a ferry out to this wonder, and spend the day soaking in its attractions.

The ferry trip is efficient and pleasurable.

Once you get there, you may start rubbing your eyes in disbelief.

This is a place that’s gorgeous in ways that can’t be easily put into words.

Just know that there are golf courses, a casino, and luxury hotels.

To go to Catalina Island is to be living it up.

A ferry ride to Catalina Island is definitely one of the most satisfying activities in this city.

Although you’ll be away from the city, the attractions here are just as grand.

Get a ferry trip to Catalina Island booked so you can see as many gorgeous sites as possible.

10. Harbor Breeze Cruises

This is another great way to spend time out on the water.

Harbor Breeze Cruises let you see the luminous blue of the Pacific Ocean and the activities of some of the most amazing creatures to call it home.

These are experiences that will leave you speechless and totally captivated.

On these cruises, you can watch whales and dolphins come up to the surface.

It’s also a great place to learn more about them and their behaviors.

These species can certainly teach something about how intelligence can come in different forms.

Harbor Breeze Cruises are wonderful events for the whole family.

It’s so exciting to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment.

Whale watching cruises take place at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Address: 100 Aquarium Way # 2, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

Going on a road trip around California? Don’t miss our lists of fun things to do in San Jose & the top Palm Springs attractions!

11. El Dorado East Regional Park

One of the most fun free things to do in Long Beach is to go to El Dorado East Regional Park.

This is the biggest park in the city and one of the greatest attractions.

Those seeking outdoor entertainment in as many forms as possible should come to this park.

It’s like the best of community and nature came together.

As you’d expect with a park, there are places to walk and bike, as well as play areas for kids and places for picnics.

However, there are also places to fish and fly model planes.

Nearly 370 acres of land make up this park, and they let people make the most of it

El Dorado East Regional Park shows you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time in Long Beach, California.

Be sure to come out here and experience the great activities they have to offer.

It’s open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Address: 7550 E Spring St, Long Beach, CA 90815, United States

12. Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum

Like MOLAA, the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum spotlights the importance of the Pacific Islands and its people.

The art here is powerful in execution and emotions.

Located near MOLAA, the PIEAM is a great place to go to enhance your cultural understanding while in this city.

Opened in October 2010, PIEAM came from the passion of doctor and Pacific Islands lover Robert Gumbiner.

His founding of FHP International was a major boost to healthcare in Guam and the rest of the islands.

While he passed before the museum opened, his contributions must be acknowledged.

The Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum is a wonderful tribute to a great place, spearheaded by a devoted man.

It’s open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, ages 62 and older and students, and free for children younger than 12.

Address: 695 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

13. Long Beach Waterfront

The Long Beach Waterfront has some of the best attractions in the city.

If you want to find great sights and restaurants, be sure to come here.

It captures so much about what makes Long Beach such a great place to visit.

This area wouldn’t have the reputation it does without its oceanside location.

Long Beach Waterfront is great for coming with a specific purpose, but it’s also wonderful for just looking out on the water.

You can see dolphins frolicking or just enjoy the ambiance of it all.

Try taking in a dinner a Parkers’ Lighthouse, one of the finest seafood restaurants in the state.

Any attraction that comes to the waterfront is enhanced by the setting.

We hope you can find awesome things to see and places to go to at the waterfront.

It’s got so many tourist attractions, you’re sure to see something you like.

Address: 54th Place and Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA, United States

14. El Dorado Nature Center

You wouldn’t stumble upon the El Dorado Nature Center just wandering downtown.

That’s the point, as this attraction is secluded and all the more special because of it.

Here, you can have the privacy and solitude that you might’ve been looking for.

At the El Dorado Nature Center, you can enjoy a walk in the woods that really clears your head.

There are so many incredible indigenous tree and flower types to see here.

Get yourself a good pair of hiking shoes and choose the trail that most appeals to you.

There’s lots of great stuff to do downtown or in other active areas of Long Beach, California.

However, spending some time in quieter areas like the El Dorado Nature Center is also important.

Come here so you can embrace nature and its many positive qualities.

The trails are open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Address: 7550 E Spring St, Long Beach, CA 90815, United States

15. Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

Going to Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is another one of the best things to do in Long Beach, California if you’re looking for some time to yourself.

It’s one of the main points of interest for people curious about Japanese culture.

At this center, you can bring yourself into a new line of thinking, hopefully learning some important things about yourself along the way.

You don’t need to have any prior knowledge about Japanese gardens to visit this one, located on California State University Long Beach’s campus.

However, it’s easy to gravitate to the tranquility of things like their koi pond and pagodas.

If you practice meditation, this can be a good place to focus your attention and observe your thoughts.

Going to the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is one of the best things to do in Long Beach if you want to experience some peace, even for just a few hours.

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $2 for children, ages four to 18.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Address: Earl Warren Dr, Long Beach, CA 90840, United States

Got more time? Check out the best things to do in Santa Barbara & fun things to do in Sacramento!

16. The Great Sand Sculpture Contest

If the only sand sculpture you’ve ever made is a rudimentary castle, primarily made with overturned buckets of sand, prepare to be amazed.

The Great Sand Sculpture Contest is an event that shows creativity and determination with the tiniest of particles.

For over 80 years, this contest has been something to look forward to.

These sculptures have as much detail as the finest of marble or bronze figures.

In addition to the sculptures, there are also great musical performances and the excitement that’s always happening at Granada Beach, where it takes place.

The Great Sand Sculpture Contest truly is as grand as its name suggests.

Taking place for two days in August, the Great Sand Sculpture Contest is something that people in and out of Long Beach, California anticipate.

This is where to go if you want to see something really incredible that you’ve likely never seen before.

Every year, these sculptures are some of the most significant Long Beach attractions.

17. Long Beach Bayou Festival

Some of the best things to do in California are going to annual events in Long Beach.

The Long Beach Bayou Festival is one of these amazing experiences.

It’s what to do in Long Beach if you want to see how this city tributes other regions.

For one June weekend, Long Beach becomes New Orleans, and there’s hardly a missed step.

As you’d hope for from a Bayou Festival, this one has incredible food and music.

It’s a lively environment that summons the feeling of being on Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras, complete with a Mardi Gras-style parade.

Young guests can love exploring the “Kids Corner,” learning to dance and getting their faces painted.

The Bayou Festival is lots of fun and very heartwarming when you see how much effort is put into it and how much guests, performers, and vendors are enjoying it.

If you’ve never been to New Orleans, you can get a good idea of what the fuss is like.

If you have been, this festival should serve as a very positive reminder of the good times you had.

Address: 3505 Long Beach Blvd #2g, Long Beach, CA 90807, United States

18. Aquarium of the Pacific

There are so many amazing creatures residing in the depths of the Pacific Ocean around Long Beach, California.

However, it’s unlikely you’ll get to see them there unless you book a scuba diving or snorkeling trip.

However, there’s another great way to get an up-close look at these spellbinding specimens.

Come to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, and you can be in their presence, learning all kinds of impressive things about them.

There are thousands of creatures at the Aquarium of the Pacific, which is also the biggest and most popular aquarium in Southern California.

Its exhibits are carefully curated, helping to show how different species thrive in certain environments.

This is a very fun way to introduce your kids to the thrilling world of marine life.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the top travel destinations in Long Beach.

Admission is $19 for all guests, ages three and up.

It’s open from Mondays to Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

19. Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center

Visiting the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is one of the best things to do in downtown Long Beach.

It’s a gorgeous venue that plays host to some very notable events.

At this center, you can have lots of fun, enjoying events that bring out thousands of spectators.

Being right on the waterfront is another reason this is one of the city’s greatest points of interest.

Awesome trade shows and conferences take place here.

If you’re looking to host a conference in California, consider reserving space here.

The Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is what to see if you’re looking for a venue that’s as impressive as the events it hosts.

Even if you don’t have any specific events to see, it’s still a great place to see.

With its glass exterior and expansive construction, this center is a work of art.

This is a convention center that’s anything but conventional.

Address: 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

20. Long Beach Crawfish Festival

Louisiana fun returns to the list with the Long Beach Crawfish Festival.

As with the Bayou Festival, this festival celebrates Long Beach, California while also bringing some southern culture into the mix.

If you’ve ever been to a crawfish festival in Louisiana, your expectations may be raised for this experience, and rightfully so.

However, it’s even better than you’d hope,

For more than 20 years, the Long Beach Crawfish Festival has been one of the most-enjoyed summer events.

Not only is the food delicious, featuring all the favorites of Cajun cuisine, including crawfish, but it’s also got some incredible entertainment.

This festival has hosted musicians and magicians, and it’s a good time always.

Consider booking a trip tonight so you can make it to this great event.

The Long Beach Crawfish Festival is a great way to feel southern while you’re in California.

The food is as mouth-watering as the entertainment is exciting.

It’s a great time, even if you’ve never had a single bite of jambalaya.

Visiting other areas of California? Take a look at the fun things to do in San Francisco & the best things to do in San Diego!

21. Walter Pyramid

Who knew there were remarkable pyramids outside of Egypt?

The Walter Pyramid should be part of your sightseeing agenda.

It’s one of the most impressive Long Beach attractions on sight alone, and it only gets better the more time you spend around it.

This pyramid functions as an indoor arena for Long Beach State University.

Here, you can see lots of fun sporting events, such as basketball and volleyball games.

It’s also a beautiful thing to see from the outside, especially when set against a cloudless sky.

Going to a game at Walter Pyramid is one of the cool things to do in this city.

See if there are any events happening there this weekend.

It’s one of the best venues in California today, and it should hopefully influence other architects to be equally innovative.

Address: 1250 N Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840, United States

22. Shoreline Village

Going to Shoreline Village is what to do if you want to see a place to get lost in.

It’s one of the most endearing places to go in California.

Whatever kind of fun you’re looking for, it’s probably at Shoreline Village.

Situated on the waterfront, Shoreline Village is a great example of boardwalk beauty.

You can look through their amazing independent shops and restaurants.

Plus, your children can have an awesome time, as there are games and activities like skating to enjoy here.

Try to get a glimpse of the sunset when you’re at Shoreline Village as well.

You’re sure to have a good time when you’re at Shoreline Village.

It’s a great place to spend free time and go sightseeing in the form of shopping.

Shoreline Village helps to make this city one of the most beautiful places to see in the US.

Address: 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

23. Bluff Park

There’s no bluffing when we tell you this is an outstanding park.

While Bluff Park has a pretty simple design of palm trees and grass, the ocean view does a lot.

Used by the military during World War II, Bluff Park is a place for centering yourself as the waves recede and as the palm trees stand tall and proud.

However, they still do a good job today of honoring the people who fought.

There’s a memorial that goes into the impact of the Navy on Long Beach, California.

The Museum of Art is also located in Bluff Park.

If you plan on visiting the museum, be sure to see its surroundings as well.

Bluff Park shows the absolute glory of land and sea.

Come here if you’re looking for fun but cheap things to do. Bluff Park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: Ocean Blvd & Redondo Ave, Long Beach, CA 90803, United States

24. Bixby Knolls Art Walk

Bixby Knolls is a fun neighborhood with a big emphasis on the arts.

Once a month, it hosts the Bixby Knolls Art Walk.

This is what to do if you want to see some amazing creative works.

Hosted by the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association, these events bring together the community.

Sharing their retail businesses, musical performances, great food, and art, they show just how much pride they have in their neighborhood, as well as their city.

It’s a blast no matter how many times you’ve been.

The Bixby Knolls Art Walk is one of Long Beach’s most pleasurable tourist attractions.

It lets you see such a cool part of a very cool city.

These art walks take place on the first Friday of every month.

25. Surfing Lessons

Surfing is one of the most fun things to do, and this city is a great place to do it.

You’re probably not ready for the bigger waves, but you can definitely find a class that helps you get acquainted with waves.

Check out a class so you can learn why surfing is so popular here.

The quality of the waves should show you why.

There’s also great surfing culture here in general.

In addition to learning how to surf, see if there are any competitions happening during your visit.

Surfing is a thrilling sport that’s easier to pick up than you think.

These classes are what to do if you want to pick up a great new skill.

Look up some surfing classes and get ready to brace some awesome waves.

Have even more time? Why not check out the fun things to do in Los Angeles & the top Monterey attractions!

26. Bake n Broil

Among the many charming aspects of Bixby Knolls is this long-running restaurant.

Bake n Broil has been serving up homestyle cooking for more than 50 years.

Bringing love to every dish, you’ll see why Bake n Broil attracts so many people.

While everything is high-quality, Bake n Broil is perhaps best-known for their pies.

These are offered on a seasonal basis, ensuring that ingredients are at the peak of their quality.

It’s unfortunate to know your desired pie might not be available, but it shows how much this places cares about their integrity.

Bake n Broil is a truly great place to eat.

It can remind you of eating at a beloved relative’s home, but in a restaurant environment.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Address: 3697 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, United States

27. Grand Prix of Long Beach

If you feel the need for speed, Long Beach is where to be.

In April, they host a street race that turns downtown roads into a racetrack.

It’s an incredible way to see the city and experience serious excitement.

Held by IndyCar Series, the Grand Prix has been featuring amazing cars and drivers for more than 40 years.

In addition to the race, there’s also plenty to eat, terrific music, and a chance to see fanastic cars up-close.

It’s a three-day experience, so try to come for at least one day.

The Grand Prix of Long Beach is so much fun, even if you’re not into car racing.

The track and cars both look stunning, and there’s so much else to do.

Seeing cars go this fast in a downtown area is an unbelievable experience.

28. Boat Tours

The Pacific Ocean is such a magnificent body of water.

It looks great from any vantage point, but the best to experience it is via boat.

Long Beach’s boat tours are some of their top tourist attractions.

Look for the boating experience that would most appeal to you.

Some boat tours are great for families, such as whale-watching experiences.

There are also ones that offer more intimacy, such as dinner boats.

Whichever you choose, savor the experience and the transfixing beauty of the water, especially if you’re seeing the sun reflect upon it.

Boat tours can be fun and meaningful.

They let you see parts of the world you might otherwise only imagine.

Check out the ones in Long Beach, and get ready for a magical time.

29. L’Opera Ristorante

Every vacation should have at least one meal that leaves you astounded by how good it is.

There are lots of places to have that experience in Long Beach, California.

However, L’Opera Ristorante stands out in a city with incredible culinary offerings.

Located downtown, it merges the past and the present to create dishes that are comforting but also highly creative.

Executive Chef Walter Cotta creates masterpieces out of his ingredients, with presentation so beautiful, it can feel like a shame to dig your fork into his work even a little bit.

However, once you take the first bite, you’ll be itching to take the second and so on.

L’Opera Ristorante is an absolutely phenomenal restaurant that deserves all of its accolades.

It’s open from Mondays to Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., on Fridays from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and on Sundays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Address: 101 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

30. Dominguez Gap Wetlands

If you care about conservation, be sure to see the Dominguez Gap Wetlands.

There are also lots of great activities to enjoy here.

The Dominguez Gap Wetlands are gorgeous all around and you can enjoy them in many ways.

Take a hike around their loop trail, go birdwatching, or take a horseback or bike ride.

It’s lots of fun to explore and see all of the amazing life around here.

Check out the Dominguez Gap Wetlands if you want to be near nature in a really meaningful way.

You’ll have lots of great photo opportunities as well.

The wetland are open 24 hours a day.

Address: Long Beach, CA 90807, United States

Planning an awesome road trip around California? Check out some of the fun things to do in Santa Monica & things to do in Pasadena!

Start Planning Your Trip To Long Beach

Long Beach is one of the most fun cities in California and also one of the most gorgeous.

Between its great food, festivals, water, and so much more, you should be planning your trip right now.

Throughout the year, Long Beach has great things to do and see.

Happy travels!