It may be in the title, but surfing is definitely not the only activity you can enjoy during a visit to Long Beach. Located in Los Angeles County, it’s part of the southern metropolitan district of the largest city in California, but definitely stands on its own two feet as a tourist destination. It’s in the name really, Long Beach is certainly surf-ready, but there are plenty of other attractions for visiting guests from Good Nite Inn hotels to visit.
From San Francisco locals to guests of San Jose hotels, many California road trippers gravitate towards Long Beach because of its southern sunshine, vibrant community and plethora of attractions. This blog will explore some of the best things to do in Long Beach.
History Of Long Beach
But first, a little about the area. Afterall, Los Angeles is a huge city, spanning 1299 square kilometers and Long Beach has its own unique identity within it. Having been colonized by Europeans since the 1780s, the original inhabitants of Long Beach were the Tongva people, whilst later Spanish settlers started ranches in the area. After a significant portion of land – Ranchos Los Cerritos – was sold by Juan Temple to the Public Land Commission in 1866, Long Beach began to take form, officially being incorporated in 1897. Now bordered by Huntington Beach and Torrance, the area has become a thriving port industry and community.
Museum Of Latin American Art
On the subject of Spanish influence, the Museum of Latin American Art dates back to the mid-90s when it was founded on the shores of Long Beach to showcase the area’s history of Latin American culture. The museum is home to touring exhibitions alongside permanent works over four gallery spaces. Alongside these, there is also a sculpture garden and a contemporary project space.
Belmont Shore
Guests of the best hotels in Calabasas CA may be closer to Santa Monica Beach, but they shouldn’t miss out on Belmont Shore further south. With surf spots, annual car shows and the Long Beach Sea Festival every summer, Belmont Shore encompasses the community spirit and vibrant energy of the Long Beach area.
Aquarium Of The Pacific
Though guests of Good Nite hotels near San Mateo will have plenty of seafaring options in the Bay area, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is nearly comparable to SeaWorld when it comes to aquatic spectacle. The five acres of land on which the aquarium is built is home to more than 11,000 marine animals and 500 species.
The Queen Mary
Though a British ocean liner, the Queen Mary has a fascinating American history, having won the Blue Riband prize for ocean liners crossing the Atlantic, and was later used to ferry Allied troops during the Second World War. With its home now being beside Long Beach Port, the Queen Mary now serves as a museum, restaurant and all-round tourist attraction, adding a splash of glamor to the otherwise industrial harbor area.
9 Nov, 2022
