
How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Long Beach, California, United States
1. Queen Mary
Historic ocean liner turned hotel offers tours, events, and dining. Meet locals while exploring its unique history.
- Rich History: Offers a chance to learn about Long Beach's maritime past.
- Unique Events: Features various events like ghost tours, art shows, and live music.
- Diverse Dining: Offers multiple dining options showcasing different cuisines.
2. Rossmoor Community Center
Active adult community center with various classes, activities, and events. A great place to meet friendly locals.
- Activities for All: Offers a wide range of activities such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, and educational programs.
- Community Events: Hosts events like concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
- Fitness Facilities: Includes a fitness center, pool, tennis courts, and more for active adults.
3. Long Beach Farmers & Artisans Market
Weekly market offering local produce, artisanal goods, and live music. A vibrant atmosphere to connect with locals.
- Locally Sourced Goods: Supports local farmers and artisans, showcasing fresh produce and unique creations.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Features live music performances and interactive activities for visitors.
- Community Gathering Spot: Serves as a community gathering spot, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
4. The Pike Outlets
Waterfront shopping center with stores, restaurants, and regular events. Meet locals while enjoying the beautiful views.
- Waterfront Location: Located on the Long Beach waterfront, providing stunning views of the ocean.
- Unique Shops & Restaurants: Features a variety of shops and restaurants, many offering unique finds and local flavors.
- Regular Events: Hosts regular events like outdoor movies, concerts, and festivals.
5. Bluff Park
Beautiful park with panoramic views of the ocean, trails, and picnic areas. A popular spot for locals to relax and socialize.
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach skyline.
- Trails & Picnic Areas: Offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a dog park for outdoor activities.
- Community Events: Hosts events like concerts, art exhibits, and yoga classes.
6. Bike the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trail
Scenic bike trail through a wetland reserve. Meet other cyclists and locals while enjoying nature.
- Natural Beauty: Passes through a beautiful wetland reserve, offering opportunities for birdwatching.
- Active Community: Popular among cyclists and joggers, fostering a sense of community.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational signs about the wetland ecosystem and its importance.
7. Long Beach Pride Parade & Festival
Annual LGBTQ+ celebration with a parade, festival, and events. A great opportunity to connect with the local community.
- Celebration of Diversity: Embraces and celebrates the diversity of Long Beach's LGBTQ+ community.
- Fun & Entertainment: Features live music, dance performances, and vendor booths selling artisanal goods.
- Community Support: Raises funds for local LGBTQ+ organizations and provides a supportive environment.
8. Long Beach Comic Con
Annual comic convention featuring artists, celebrities, and cosplay. A fun way to connect with locals who share similar interests.
- Pop Culture Celebration: Celebrates pop culture, comics, movies, and television.
- Artist Alley: Showcases artists selling their work, providing opportunities to meet creators.
- Cosplay & Events: Features cosplay contests, panels, and Q&As with celebrities.
9. Long Beach Bicycle Kitchen
Community bike shop offering workshops, repairs, and rentals. Connect with locals who share a passion for cycling.
- Bike Education: Offers workshops on bike maintenance, safety, and advocacy.
- Community Workshops: Hosts community events like bike rides, potlucks, and movie nights.
- Bike Rentals & Repairs: Provides bike rentals, repairs, and sales for tourists and locals alike.
10. Long Beach Beer Lab
Craft brewery offering tours, tastings, and events. A lively atmosphere to meet fellow beer enthusiasts.
- Craft Brews: Features rotating taps showcasing unique and creative beers.
- Tours & Tastings: Offers tours, tastings, and educational workshops about the brewing process.
- Community Events: Hosts events like trivia nights, live music, and food truck gatherings.
11. Music Tastes Good Festival
Annual music festival pairing gourmet food trucks with live music performances. Connect with locals who love good music and food.
- Gourmet Food Trucks: Showcases a variety of delicious food trucks serving unique dishes.
- Live Music Performances: Features performances by local and nationally recognized musicians.
- Community Gathering Spot: Serves as a community gathering spot, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
12. East Village Coffee House & Gallery
Coffee shop and art gallery showcasing local artists. A welcoming environment to meet locals and enjoy great coffee.
- Local Art Showcase: Showcases work by local artists, providing opportunities to learn about the local art scene.
- Coffee & Food: Serves coffee and light fare in a comfortable environment.
- Community Events: Hosts events like open mic nights, art shows, and live music performances.
13. Long Beach Art Walk
Monthly event showcasing local artists and galleries. A chance to connect with the artistic community in Long Beach.
- Art Showcase: Showcases artwork by local artists, providing opportunities to learn about the local art scene.
- Community Gathering Spot: Serves as a community gathering spot, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
- Unique Art Spaces: Features various art spaces, including galleries, studios, and pop-up exhibitions.
14. Long Beach Roller Derby
Women's flat track roller derby league offering bouts, practices, and workshops. Connect with passionate locals who love roller derby.
- Sports & Skating: Offers exciting roller derby matches, as well as skating workshops and practice sessions.
- Community Involvement: Supports charities and local community initiatives through events and fundraisers.
- Unique Atmosphere: Features a lively, vibrant atmosphere that celebrates empowerment and camaraderie.
15. California State University, Long Beach
Large university with a diverse student body. Join campus events or volunteer opportunities to connect with students and locals.
- Diverse Community: Features a diverse student body, representing various cultures and backgrounds.
- Campus Events: Hosts events like concerts, art exhibits, and speakers series open to the public.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Offers volunteer opportunities through campus organizations and community service projects.