Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Long Beach, California, United States
1. RMS Queen Mary
A retired ocean liner moored in Long Beach. Explore its art deco cabins and rich maritime history.
- Maritime History: Offers a glimpse into the golden age of ocean travel
- Art Deco Architecture: Features intricate art deco design elements throughout its interiors
- Haunted Atmosphere: Known for its ghostly experiences and paranormal tours
2. Art Theatre Film Center
A historic movie theater showcasing independent films and classic cinema.
- Independent Cinema: Highlights unique, thought-provoking films not commonly shown
- Art Deco Design: Features beautiful art deco architecture with a stunning ceiling mural
- Community Events: Hosts film festivals, Q&A sessions with directors, and educational workshops
3. Rossmoor Village
A unique planned community with a small-town feel within Long Beach.
- Small-Town Ambiance: Provides a peaceful, close-knit neighborhood atmosphere
- Age-Restricted Community: Designed for active adults aged 55 and older
- Private Amenities: Includes golf courses, tennis courts, pools, and parks exclusive to residents
4. The Vault of Midas
A speakeasy-style bar hidden beneath a coffee shop in Long Beach.
- Hidden Speakeasy: Provides an exclusive, secretive atmosphere
- Craft Cocktails: Serves unique, artisanal cocktails with a modern twist
- Prohibition Era Decor: Features vintage decor inspired by the 1920s and 30s
5. Pike Industrial Street
An industrial-chic neighborhood filled with murals, boutiques, and studios.
- Murals and Street Art: Showcases vibrant, large-scale street art by local artists
- Unique Boutiques: Home to independent retailers offering unique finds
- Art Studios: Allows visitors to see local artists at work and purchase their pieces
6. Long Beach Animal Care Services Art Park
An outdoor art gallery featuring works created by local artists using discarded materials from the animal shelter.
- Repurposed Art: Promotes creativity and sustainability through unique, upcycled art
- Community Engagement: Encourages collaboration between artists, the community, and animal shelters
- Animal Welfare Advocacy: Raises awareness about pet adoption and the importance of supporting animal welfare organizations
7. The Molecule Cocktail Bar
A science-themed bar offering creative cocktails inspired by molecular gastronomy.
- Molecular Cocktails: Serves visually stunning, innovative cocktails made with advanced techniques
- Educational Experiences: Offers workshops and classes teaching molecular mixology skills
- Unique Atmosphere: Features a lab-inspired decor with beakers, test tubes, and white lab coats
8. The Last Bookstore
A used bookstore with a gallery space showcasing artwork, installations, and events.
- Unique Selection of Books: Offers an extensive collection of rare, out-of-print, and collectible books
- Artistic Installations: Showcases innovative and thought-provoking book-related installations
- Community Events: Hosts author readings, book clubs, and art exhibits
9. The Art Council of Long Beach
An organization supporting the arts and cultural community in Long Beach.
- Community Support for Arts: Provides funding, resources, and opportunities for local artists
- Cultural Events: Organizes performances, exhibitions, and workshops showcasing various art forms
- Public Art Tours: Offers guided tours of Long Beach's public art installations and murals
10. The Attic on Broadway
A vintage shop selling furniture, home decor, and clothing from the 1950s to the 1980s.
- Vintage Finds: Offers a wide selection of unique, quality vintage items
- Affordable Prices: Pricing is reasonable and competitive compared to other vintage shops
- Knowledgeable Staff: Sales associates are friendly, helpful, and passionate about the products
11. The Wrigley Mansion
A Spanish Colonial Revival-style mansion built by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the lavish lifestyle of a prominent business figure
- Beautiful Grounds: Surrounded by lush gardens, fountains, and breathtaking ocean views
- Private Events: Available for weddings, corporate events, and private parties
12. The Hangar at the Queen Mary
A warehouse event space featuring live music, art exhibits, and pop-up markets.
- Live Music Venue: Hosts concerts, DJ sets, and live performances showcasing various genres
- Art Exhibits: Showcases works from local and international artists
- Pop-Up Markets: Offers opportunities for independent businesses to showcase their products
13. The Dockweiler State Beach Campground
A beachside campground offering a unique glamping experience in Long Beach.
- Beachfront Glamping: Offers luxurious, pre-set tents with comfortable beds and amenities
- Convenient Location: Located near restaurants, shops, and recreational activities in Long Beach
- Environmental Education: Promotes sustainable practices and ocean conservation education
14. The Long Beach Farmers & Artisans Market
A weekly market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music.
- Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of organic, locally-grown fruits and vegetables
- Artisanal Goods: Features unique handmade products from local artisans
- Community Gathering Space: Serves as a gathering place for the community and visitors alike
15. The Nautical Museum of Long Beach
A maritime museum showcasing artifacts from Long Beach's rich nautical history.
- Nautical History: Offers insight into the city's role as a major port and naval hub
- Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to engage with various nautical artifacts and displays
- Community Events: Hosts lectures, workshops, and educational programs for all ages