Top Free Things to Do in Long Beach
Long Beach is a city that offers a variety of activities, events, and attractions for visitors and locals alike. The best part? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great time here. In this section, I’ll share the top free things to do in Long Beach, from enjoying the beautiful beaches to discovering the city’s vibrant street art scene.
Whether you’re looking to relax by the ocean, explore the city’s history and culture, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Long Beach has something for everyone. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and let’s get started!
Key Takeaways:
- Long Beach offers numerous free activities for visitors and locals.
- The city’s beaches, street art, museums, and parks are all great options for free entertainment.
- There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure.
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches of Long Beach
Long Beach’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in California. What’s even better is that they’re all free for everyone to enjoy! Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the ocean breeze, Long Beach has something for you.
If you’re looking for a bustling beach with plenty of activities, head to Belmont Shore. This popular spot is perfect for volleyball, paddleboarding, and people-watching. If you’re in the mood for a more peaceful atmosphere, Bluff Park Beach offers stunning views of the ocean and a serene setting.
| Beach | Location |
|---|---|
| Belmont Shore Beach | 3939 E. Shoreline Dr. |
| Bluff Park Beach | Ocean Blvd. and Junipero Ave. |
Both of these beaches, along with the others in Long Beach, offer plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. Bring a beach towel, pack some snacks, and enjoy a day at the beach.
Explore the Vibrant Street Art in Long Beach
If you’re a fan of colorful murals and vibrant graffiti, then Long Beach is the place to be. The city is home to a thriving street art scene, with stunning artworks adorning walls throughout the city. As you walk through neighborhoods like the East Village Arts District or the Downtown area, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of styles and subject matter.
Many of these incredible murals and graffiti are created by local artists and reflect the unique culture and spirit of Long Beach. One of my personal favorites is the “Long Beach Is For Dreamers” mural located at 228 E Broadway. It’s a colorful and inspiring piece that captures the essence of the city.
If you’re interested in exploring the street art scene in Long Beach, I recommend taking a guided walking tour. There are several tour operators that offer tours of the city’s murals and graffiti, providing insight into the history and meaning behind each piece. Alternatively, you can simply wander around and discover the art on your own.
Tip: Remember to respect the artwork and the property it’s on while you’re exploring the street art scene in Long Beach.
Visit the Fascinating Museums of Long Beach
If you’re a history buff or art lover, Long Beach has several museums worth visiting. The best part? Some of them offer free admission or have specific days and times when you can enter for free. Here are some of the museums I recommend checking out:
| Museum | Location | Free Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach Museum of Art | 2300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803 | Free on Thursdays from 3 PM to 8 PM |
| Queen Mary | 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802 | Free to tour the ship’s outdoor decks and exhibits. Admission for the interior exhibits is free for children under 4 years old. |
| Museum of Latin American Art | 628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802 | Free on Sundays |
| Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum | 695 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802 | Free on the first Wednesday of each month |
From art exhibitions to maritime heritage, these museums offer a range of topics and exhibits that are sure to pique your interest. Don’t miss the chance to explore Long Beach’s rich culture and history for free.
Discover the Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Long Beach
Long Beach is blessed with a variety of parks and outdoor spaces where you can take in the natural beauty of the city and participate in outdoor activities for free. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, looking for a peaceful spot to relax, or wanting to enjoy some exercise while on vacation, Long Beach has several options to meet your needs.
The Best Parks in Long Beach
One of the most popular parks in the city is Rainbow Lagoon Park. Located right in the waterfront, it boasts stunning views of the Marina and rental options for pedal boats and kayaks. If you are looking for a more serene and quiet spot, El Dorado Regional Park is a great option with its peaceful lakes and wooded areas where you can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Moreover, dog owners can take their furry friends for a walk at the Long Beach Recreation Park which features a dog park and several sports fields.
Free Outdoor Events in Long Beach
Several parks host free events and activities throughout the year, ranging from concerts to cultural festivals, providing visitors with more ways to enjoy Long Beach’s outdoor spaces. Wardlow Park and Marina Vista Park are among the many parks that organize free summer concerts, while Shoreline Aquatic Park hosts the annual Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival, which features dragon boat races, food booths, and live performances.
Discovering Nature in Long Beach
If you want to explore the natural beauty of Long Beach, make sure you visit the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, a hidden treasure on the campus of California State University, Long Beach. This serene and enchanting garden features a stunning koi pond, tea house, and beautiful Japanese landscaping. Furthermore, The Nature Center at El Dorado Park is another must-visit attraction where you can explore the city’s flora and fauna and learn about Long Beach’s natural history.
Long Beach has plenty of outdoor spaces to explore, and the best part is that most of them are free. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day at the park, attend a free concert, or discover the natural beauty of the city, you’ll find no shortage of options in Long Beach’s parks and outdoor spaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Long Beach offers a plethora of free activities for visitors and locals alike to explore and enjoy. From the beautiful beaches and vibrant street art to the fascinating museums and expansive parks, there’s something for everyone.
As someone who loves discovering new places and experiences, I highly recommend taking advantage of these free activities and making the most of your time in Long Beach. You don’t have to break the bank to have fun in this exciting city.
FAQ
Q: Are all the activities mentioned in this article really free?
A: Yes! The top free things to do in Long Beach mentioned in this article are completely free of charge.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the parks and beaches?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks to the parks and beaches in Long Beach. It’s a great way to have a picnic or enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Q: Are there any parking fees associated with these free activities?
A: Some parking areas may have fees, but there are also plenty of free parking options available in Long Beach. Be sure to check the parking signs and directories for any restrictions or fees before parking your vehicle.
Q: Are the museums mentioned in this article open every day?
A: The museums in Long Beach have varying opening hours and some may have specific days/times when entry is free. It’s a good idea to check their websites or contact them directly to confirm their opening hours and any admission fees.
Q: Can I take pictures of the street art in Long Beach?
A: Absolutely! Taking photos of the street art in Long Beach is allowed and encouraged. It’s a great way to capture the vibrant and creative spirit of the city.
