Location: Long Beach
Top Things to do in Long Beach
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The 10 Best Things to do Good for Couples in Long Beach, California (CA)
For some, a tour of the Queen Mary, docked here since its retirement in 1967, evokes waves of nostalgia for the days of the huge ocean liner with its opulent rooms, 1930s deco décor and teakwood decks. Others, particularly the younger set, are entranced by the spine-tingling haunted ship stories on the nighttime ghost tour. But for everyone, a visit to this floating hotel and museum is a must on any trip to Long Beach. At one time a less-than-appealing place to visit, Long Beach has transformed itself into an upscale tourist resort, with many waterfront attractions, including a new, state-of-the-art aquarium with a fabulous shark exhibit, two excellent art museums, charming shops, public golf courses, the annual April Grand Prix international auto race and lots of recreational activities along its eight-mile stretch of beach. Take the kids to the waterfront entertainment complex with rides and live performances or to the farming demonstrations at Rancho Los Alamitos. Feeling romantic? Cruise the canals of Naples (that's right, Naples Island in Long Beach) in a genuine Venetian gondola. One thing is for sure: tensions and stresses dissolve in this laid-back, friendly city.
Restaurants in Long Beach
1. International City Theatre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By LuckyRN3 - Temecula, United States
I love this theater! I just wish I lived closer so I could be a season ticket holder! The acting and singing was amazing! There is a charge for parking. I arrived early and crossed the entry drive-way and went up the stairs to a fountain area. From there, one can access a second story walk-way. I followed that for approx. a city block and took a walkway/bridge over to the convention center and went down stairs. There are a bunch of restaurants in the area. Really a great time!
2. Rancho Los Alamitos
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 94 reviews
Rancho Los Alamitos, the “Ranch of the Little Cottonwoods,” is a Long Beach City Landmark and is twice listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rancho has a continuous history of habitation that stretches back for more than 1500 years and reflects the many people who have called it home – from the first people, the Tongva, to the Spanish and Mexican colonists, right up to the Yankee farmers of the mid-twentieth century. The 7½-acre site includes four acres of nationally significant historic gardens, a ranch house (1790-1933), and a restored barnyard of the early 20th-century working ranch. There are farm animals including horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits in the barns area.
Reviewed By labonvoyer
My traveling partner was attending a conference so I decided to catch the city bus from the Westin and visit this beautiful property. I mainly went for the gardens but was delighted with the whole experience! First of all, the docent Camille was incredible. You may wander around the property unescorted, but in order to visit the adobe home you must tour with a docent. Perhaps because it was a weekday in February, but there was only one other person on the adobe tour with me, so it felt like a private tour. Camille gave us the history from the Native Americans through the last owners-the Bixby Family. She was very interesting and informative. After, the adobe house tour, I began wandering the gardens and met Janet who I believe is in charge of the gardens. I say gardens because there are different garden sections. Although she was working, she took the time to answer some of my questions and gave me a mini tour. Even though it was February and there wasn't much in bloom, the gardens were still incredible. They have a very nice succulent/cactus garden. Would love to return to see the roses and Jacaranda trees in bloom! They have a gift shop. There is a large green lawn. I'm not sure if you are allowed to bring food in, but this would be a great family outing. In addition to the adobe house and gardens, they have a big red barn that houses a big draft horse, a couple of ponies and goats with hens free ranging. They also have a blacksmith that apparently comes and does demonstrations. The day I visited, all the docents were very welcoming. The rancho is located in a gated subdivision and only allows you in when it opens at 1pm. As an aside to home gardeners, there are 2 giant ficus trees with 2 giant palm trees growing through the canopy of the ficus trees. I was told when Mrs Bixby planted them around 100 years ago, the trees seem spaced adequately. Who hasn't planted trees in their sapling states in distances that seemed far enough but then in their maturity were much too close. Check it out when you go! So, if you love: gardens, history, farm animals, great docents and a fabulous bargain price, this is one of the big item tickets in Long Beach to visit!
3. SkyThrills!
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 154 reviews
SkyThrills!, established in 1999, has taken over 15,000 guest pilots up in our amazing fleet of exotic aircraft. Our goal? To make our guest feel safe as we thrill them like never before. We have succeeded in our mission. We have made a name for ourselves as the leader in aerobatic thrill rides and aerobatic training. We also provide vintage tours and charters for up to 6 passengers in our vintage airliner - 1957 Beech E18S for special trips like flights to Catalina Island, Las Vegas, Paso Robles, Napa Valley, or Mammoth Lakes. Come fly with us to see why we are so passionate about aviation. You will be thrilled like never before and glad you gave us a try.
4. Learn2Rip Surfing and Ocean Academy
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Learn2Rip Surf & SUP(L2R) specializes in all levels of Surf SUP lessons. Whether you've never been on a board or if you are just looking for that little extra tip to boost your skills, L2R is for you. We are experienced, safe & affordable. L2R can help you carve up any wave! L2R has successfully taught over 10,000 students. Call or text us any time, 24/7. We are here to help you 949-300-0737
5. Beach City Food Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 112 reviews
The goal of beach City Food tours is to help tourists and locals fall in love with Long Beach, and all it has to offer. We hope to educate people in a fun and unique way about what makes Long Beach one of California's top tourist destinations. By highlighting local restaurants and vendors, Beach City Food Tours paints a picture of Long Beach as seen by actual locals. The partnerships we've created with these establishments help promote the city's local businesses and entrepreneurs. We're excited to show you what our great city has to offer...because life's too short for tourist traps!
6. Jetski2Catalina
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
Jetski Adventure Tour from Long Beach to Catalina Island. We focus on exposing you to native marine life at their level. Ride your jetski with Dolphins just inches away. Snorkel in world class water at The Blue Caverns. Have lunch on a tropical beach. Experience the Pacific Ocean a whole new way. Everything is included: Jetski, Snorkeling Gear, Wetsuit, Safety Equipment, Guides. Always stay warm with our 5mm wetsuits.
7. Aquarium of the Pacific
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,171 reviews
Take a journey of discovery through the world’s largest ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California.
Reviewed By Banana427 - Clearwater, United States
We went when the outside was open only and weren't disappointed! The jelly fish touch tank was our favorite part! They had a shark aquarium, ray touch tank and birds too!! Worth the visit! Lots of workers Wondering around to answer questions too!
8. IEX Helicopters
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 44 reviews
Family owned and operated since 1982. We offer aerial tours, private charters, custom experiences, and daily flights to Catalina Island.
9. Long Beach Waterfront
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,093 reviews
Reviewed By 191erlindac - Long Beach, United States
The Long Beach Waterfront has many activities to enjoy. Shoreline Village, The Aquarium, Whale Watching & Sailing excursions, restaurants, colorful shopping, and other entertainment activities. The Long Beach Waterfront can be viewed from many observation points. Walking distance to see the skyline is from the working Lighthouse near the Aquarium. Further out, the stunning Long Beach Waterfront Skyline can be seen from the Queen Mary, Reef Restaurants, and other Hotels across the water.
10. Anthelion Helicopters
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Anthelion Helicopters offers Los Angeles helicopter tours over the beautiful Catalina Island, Hollywood Sign, Downtown Los Angeles, Venice Beach, Huntington Beach, West Hollywood, Palos Verdes, Universal Studios, Santa Monica Pier, and much more. We have eight helicopter tour routes to choose from, as well as the option for you to customize your own helicopter tour over Los Angeles or Long Beach. Book your tour today!
