Hey, neighbor! Long Beach is buzzing this week with a mix of high-octane thrills and chill seaside vibes. From the roar of Formula DRIFT to the soothing ocean breeze, there's something for everyone to soak up in our vibrant city. Let's dive into the best of what's happening!
Enjoy a breezy bike ride along the 3-mile Shoreline Pedestrian Path, perfect for soaking up the sun and fresh ocean air. Rent a surrey or traditional bike at Wheel Fun Rentals in Shoreline Village. You'll get great views of the harbor and maybe even spot some sea lions!
Tip: Start your ride early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the best light for photos.
Take a leisurely pedal boat ride on Rainbow Lagoon in a giant swan! It's a fun and quirky way to see the sights, including the Long Beach Convention Center's whale mural. Perfect for a romantic date or a family outing.
Tip: Go at night for an unforgettable experience with the LED illuminated boats and beautiful evening views.
Escape the city bustle at this 105-acre nature preserve, home to trails, lakes, streams, and diverse wildlife. It's amazing how quickly the center allows you to escape the urban din while re-regulating yourself to nature's rhythms.
Tip: Bring some bread to feed the turtles near the entrance bridge, but be prepared to linger—the kids will love it!
Embark on a thrilling marine adventure with a whale-watching tour in Long Beach. Get an up-close encounter with majestic whales and possibly dolphins, seals, and seabirds, set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Naturalists on board provide insights into the marine ecosystems.
Tip: Book your tour during the winter months (gray whales) or summer (blue whales) for the best chances of spotting these magnificent creatures.
Indulge in a Michelin-starred dining experience at Heritage, a family-owned restaurant offering a tasting menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative sustainability practices. It's nestled in a century-old craftsman house in the historic Rose Park neighborhood.
Tip: Reservations are a must, and be aware that they cannot accommodate individual allergies or dietary restrictions due to their zero-waste practices.
A Long Beach favorite known for its chill atmosphere and creative comfort food, including a must-try mac and cheese with a twist. Their brunch is also a local highlight. It is located on Broadway.
Tip: Arrive early for brunch or be prepared to wait, as it's a popular spot!
Satisfy your sweet tooth at one of Long Beach's many doughnut shops. From classic crullers to creative concoctions like Oreo Crumb and Cream Cheese & Hot Cheetos doughnuts, there's a flavor for everyone.
Tip: Explore shops whose creations are definitely worth the dough.
Enjoy waterfront dining with gorgeous views of the marina, Lion's Lighthouse, and the Queen Mary. Though seafood is always top of mind at waterfront spots, it's the Garlic Cheese Bread Burger at Parkers' that was named one of Long Beach's most iconic dishes.
Tip: Make a reservation for sunset to enjoy a memorable dining experience with stunning views.
Experience the excitement of Formula DRIFT as it kicks off its 2026 season on April 10 and 11. The event brings top drifting drivers together to compete in high-energy races filled with skill and style.
Tip: The venue opens to the public at 10 a.m. each day. Get there early to secure a good spot!
Head to Retro Row on 4th Street to visit The Stache Bar, known for its high-end bottles and affordable prices. Enjoy a variety of traditional and organic cocktails, including Moscow mules blended with house-made ginger beer.
Tip: It's surrounded by a scattering of other bars and nightlife spots walking distance away, so it is perfect for bar-hopping.
For some cocktail chic in Long Beach, visit the Observation Bar at the Queen Mary. This 1930s-style Art Deco lounge was once the first-class lounge on the Queen Mary. Today, you'll find the original artwork, along with a menu of signature cocktails and a calendar of live entertainment featuring everything from jazz to Latin music.
Tip: It's perfect for an after-dinner nightcap with your special someone.
Dance the night away at Alegria, a Latin dance club featuring reggaeton, bachata, salsa, merengue, cumbia, and hip hop. The club hosts DJs and live entertainment every Friday and Saturday.
Tip: Located on Pine Avenue, it's a hot spot for those looking to groove to Latin rhythms.
Experience Downtown as it becomes an open-air creative district. With art, design, and interactive experiences spread across the East Village Arts District, the Promenade, and Pine Avenue, all exploring themes of renewal and our relationship to the world around us.
Tip: Unveiling of “Long Beach Lights” (6 to 7 p.m.) on the Promenade between Broadway and 1st Street.
Immerse yourself in the dynamic culture of Latin American art at MOLAA. Explore its collection of modern and contemporary works, and enjoy the museum's beautiful sculpture garden.
Tip: Visit on a Sunday for free admission!
Stroll through this eclectic district and discover independent boutiques, restaurants, art museums, and small businesses amidst unique historic, modern, and Art Deco architecture. It's a great place to shop, dine, and experience the creative culture of Long Beach.
Tip: Check out the Long Beach Art Walk, which takes place every second Saturday.
Enjoy a million-dollar ocean view atop the bluffs at the Long Beach Museum of Art. Housed in a historic Craftsman mansion, the museum features contemporary art exhibitions and extensive educational programs.
Tip: Don't miss the museum café and gift shop.
Enjoy a free yoga session with breathtaking ocean views on the bluff above Junipero Avenue. It's a great way to start your day with some exercise and relaxation.
Tip: Bring your own mat and water, and arrive early to secure a good spot.
Explore this 105-acre urban oasis for free. Wander along the trails, observe local wildlife, and escape the city bustle. There's a visitor center with educational displays and an art gallery.
Tip: The nature center is located at the easternmost tip of El Dorado Park.
Step back in time at this historic ranch and explore the lush gardens, restored barns, and adobe home. Admission and parking are free.
Tip: Visit on a Wednesday through Sunday to enjoy the full experience, including the animals.
Visit the Long Beach Museum of Art's satellite location downtown for free Thursdays through Sundays. Check out the art on view in the gallery space.
Tip: There is dedicated drawing time in the gallery on the first Sunday of the month.
Discover the wonders of the Pacific Ocean at this world-class aquarium, home to over 11,000 animals from 500 species. Interactive exhibits and diverse marine life make it a must-visit for families.
Tip: Don't miss the Lorikeet Forest, where you can feed colorful birds.
Enjoy the carnival atmosphere of this waterfront shopping and dining destination. With games, rides, and harbor cruises, there's something for all ages.
Tip: Rent bikes and explore the area or take a spin on the carousel.
Families can enjoy Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Got Moves on Thursday, April 9, at the Terrace Theatre at 6 p.m. The interactive show invites kids to dance, play, and sing along with Elmo and friends.
Tip: Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets start at $42.
Explore Long Beach history and learn about early California life at this historic rancho. With its adobe buildings and beautiful gardens, it's a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Tip: Check out the weekly storytime on Tuesdays at 10AM as well as a bilingual storytime every third Saturday at 10AM.
See what's happening in Long Beach today