Top Family Vacation Spots in Long Beach, California, United States

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Top Family Vacation Spots in Long Beach, California, United States

1. Queen Mary

Explore a historic ocean liner with interactive exhibits and ghost tours, offering an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
  • Historical Significance: Steeped in history as a luxury liner from 1936 to 1967.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Discover various themed rooms and artifacts on the ship.
  • Ghost Tours: Join guided tours to learn about its haunted reputation.

2. Shoreline Village

Enjoy a picturesque waterfront district with shops, restaurants, and boat rentals for a fun-filled day of family activities.
  • Unique Shops: Browse local boutiques, gift stores, and art galleries.
  • Waterfront Dining: Choose from a variety of waterfront restaurants with outdoor seating.
  • Boat Rentals: Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or boats for a memorable day on the water.

3. Rainbow Harbor

Experience marine life up close at the Aquarium of the Pacific or embark on a boat tour to explore Long Beach's beautiful harbor.
  • Aquarium of the Pacific: Explore over 11,000 ocean animals in more than 50 habitats.
  • Boat Tours: Choose from various boat tours, including harbor cruises and whale watching excursions.
  • Ferry Service: Take a ferry to Catalina Island for a day trip full of adventure.

4. Long Beach Marine Institute (LBMI)

Engage in hands-on marine science programs, aquarium exhibits, and guided tours for a fun and educational experience.
  • Marine Science Programs: Participate in workshops, labs, and field studies related to marine life.
  • Aquarium Exhibits: Visit various aquariums showcasing local marine life and habitats.
  • Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn about Long Beach's marine ecosystem.

5. Escape Room Long Beach

Test your problem-solving skills and work together as a family to escape from challenging rooms filled with puzzles.
  • Variety of Themes: Choose from different themed escape rooms like Sherlock Holmes or Pirates.
  • Interactive Experience: Work as a team to uncover clues and solve puzzles to escape the room.
  • Fun for All Ages: Designed for both kids and adults, offering a memorable family bonding experience.

6. Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens

Discover the history of Southern California's ranching culture at this historic site with gardens, exhibits, and guided tours.
  • Historic Buildings: Tour restored buildings that date back to the early 19th century.
  • Gardens: Explore beautiful gardens featuring native plants and heritage roses.
  • Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn about the ranch's history and significance.

7. El Dorado Park

Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities for the whole family at this sprawling park with sports facilities, picnic areas, and nature trails.
  • Sports Facilities: Play soccer, baseball, or basketball on well-maintained fields.
  • Nature Trails: Explore miles of scenic nature trails through the park's wooded areas.
  • Picnic Areas: Enjoy a family picnic in one of the park's many designated areas.

8. Nickel Beer Garden

Spend an afternoon enjoying games, food trucks, and craft beer at this family-friendly outdoor venue.
  • Outdoor Games: Play ping-pong, cornhole, or giant Jenga while savoring local beers.
  • Food Trucks: Choose from a variety of delicious food options from rotating food trucks.
  • Live Music: Listen to live music performances by local bands on weekends.

9. Long Beach Museum of Art (LBMA)

Appreciate a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art at this museum, with educational programs for kids.
  • Permanent Collection: Explore over 6,000 works by local, national, and international artists.
  • Temporary Exhibits: View rotating exhibitions showcasing different artistic themes and movements.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in family workshops, tours, and artist talks.

10. Belmont Pier

Fish, dine, or simply enjoy the scenic views at this iconic pier with a historic carousel and gift shop.
  • Fishing: Buy a fishing license and try your luck catching fish from the pier.
  • Historic Carousel: Ride this classic carousel with beautifully restored horses and animals.
  • Dining Options: Choose from various food vendors along the pier for a bite to eat.

11. Adventure Island Waterpark

Cool off and enjoy water slides, wave pools, and other attractions at this family-friendly water park.
  • Water Slides: Experience a variety of thrilling water slides for all ages.
  • Wave Pool: Relax and play in the large wave pool or smaller splash areas for kids.
  • Attractions: Enjoy additional attractions like laser tag, mini-golf, and arcade games.

12. Long Beach Botanical Garden

Discover over a dozen themed gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers at this peaceful oasis.
  • Themed Gardens: Explore themed gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Desert Garden, and Rose Garden.
  • Educational Programs: Join guided tours or workshops to learn about the garden's plants and conservation efforts.
  • Scenic Walkways: Stroll along beautiful walkways throughout the garden.

13. Pike Park Skatepark

Bring your skateboard or inline skates and test your skills at this expansive skate park.
  • Skatepark Facilities: Find ramps, rails, and bowls for both beginner and experienced skaters.
  • Scenic Location: Enjoy views of the ocean while practicing your skills.
  • Community Events: Participate in skate competitions, demos, and other community events.

14. Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site

Step back in time at this beautifully restored ranch house with gardens and historical exhibits.
  • Historic Ranch House: Tour the historic ranch house filled with antiques and period furniture.
  • Gardens: Explore the gardens, featuring native plants and flowers.
  • Historical Exhibits: Learn about the history of Southern California's ranching culture through exhibits and artifacts.

15. Long Beach Bike Trail

Explore Long Beach on two wheels by renting bikes and riding along the scenic bike trail with views of the ocean.
  • Ocean Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean while riding.
  • Rental Options: Rent bikes from local shops or use a bike-share program.
  • Family-Friendly Trails: Choose from various trails suitable for all ages and abilities.