Weird & Unusual Attractions in Long Beach, California, United States

Long Beach, United States, Long Beach, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

Weird & Unusual Attractions in Long Beach, California, United States

1. RMS Queen Mary

A retired ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach, offering historical tours and ghostly encounters.
  • Historical Artifact: One of the grandest ocean liners ever built, with an extensive history dating back to 1936.
  • Haunted Attraction: Said to be haunted by crew members and passengers who perished during its service.
  • Hotel & Event Venue: Now a hotel and event venue, providing unique accommodation and function experiences.

2. Art Theatre

A historic movie theater showcasing independent films, concerts, and events in an art-deco setting.
  • Art Deco Architecture: One of the last remaining art deco movie palaces in Southern California.
  • Independent Film Screenings: Offers a diverse selection of independent films, documentaries, and foreign cinema.
  • Live Music & Events: Hosts live music events and performances throughout the year.

3. Ruby's Diner

A diner with a vintage car hop service from the 1940s and '50s, located on the Long Beach waterfront.
  • Car Hop Service: One of the few remaining diners in the U.S. still offering car hop service.
  • Waterfront Views: Offers stunning views of the Long Beach waterfront and Queen Mary.
  • Retro Atmosphere: Features a retro atmosphere, taking you back to the iconic diners of the mid-20th century.

4. Rossmoor Village

A unique, self-governing neighborhood with its own post office and a strong sense of community.
  • Self-Governance: One of the few remaining self-governed communities in the U.S.
  • Private Post Office: Has its own private post office, managed by residents.
  • Active Community Life: Known for its active community life and events throughout the year.

5. Naples Island

A group of man-made islands connected by bridges, featuring unique homes and boat access.
  • Man-Made Islands: One of the few remaining man-made island communities in Southern California.
  • Boat Access: Many homes have boat access, making it popular among boating enthusiasts.
  • Unique Homes: Features a variety of unique and colorful homes, reflecting the island's laid-back lifestyle.

6. Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)

A museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art from Latin America and Latino artists.
  • Focus on Latin American Art: One of the few museums in the U.S. solely dedicated to Latin American art.
  • Rotating Exhibits: Hosts rotating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, workshops, and lectures for visitors of all ages.

7. Alamitos Bay Landing

A popular fishing spot with a unique floating pier, offering boat rentals and seafood restaurants.
  • Floating Pier: One of the few floating piers in California, providing easy access to fishing and boating.
  • Boat Rentals: Offers boat rentals for recreational fishing and exploring the bay.
  • Seafood Restaurants: Features seafood restaurants serving fresh catch of the day.

8. Rainbow Harbor

A busy harbor with a colorful array of shops, restaurants, and boat tours.
  • Colorful Shops & Restaurants: Features an array of colorful shops, restaurants, and cafes along the waterfront.
  • Boat Tours: Offers boat tours to nearby destinations such as Catalina Island.
  • Marina Activities: Home to a marina with yacht rentals, sailing lessons, and other water activities.

9. Pike's Place Fish Market Replica

A replica of the famous Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle, offering fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere.
  • Seattle-Inspired Attraction: One of the few replicas of the iconic Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle.
  • Fresh Seafood: Offers fresh seafood, including fish tossed to customers as a tradition.
  • Lively Atmosphere: Features a lively atmosphere with friendly staff and entertaining customer interaction.

10. The Wrigley Mansion

A Mediterranean-style mansion built by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr., now serving as a venue for events.
  • Mediterranean Architecture: Features stunning Mediterranean architecture, designed by R.I.P. Johnson.
  • Historical Significance: Built by the founder of the Wrigley Chewing Gum Company, showcasing his success and influence.
  • Event Venue: Now serves as a popular event venue for weddings, corporate events, and private functions.

11. Long Beach Murals

A collection of large-scale murals and street art throughout the city, showcasing local talent.
  • Local Talent Showcase: Features artwork by local and international artists, promoting Long Beach's creative community.
  • Urban Art Exploration: Provides opportunities for urban art exploration throughout the city.
  • Changing Landscapes: The murals and street art are constantly evolving, offering a fresh visual experience.

12. The Art Council of Long Beach

A non-profit organization promoting the arts through exhibitions, workshops, and events.
  • Arts Promotion: Promotes the visual and performing arts in Long Beach through a variety of programs.
  • Community Engagement: Engages local artists, schools, and community groups in its programming.
  • Arts Education: Offers arts education programs for all ages, fostering creativity and artistic development.

13. The Long Beach Cruise Terminal

A busy cruise terminal offering departures to popular destinations, such as Mexico and Alaska.
  • Cruise Destinations: Offers cruise destinations including Mexico, Alaska, and the Caribbean.
  • Departure Point: Serves as a departure point for major cruise lines, providing travelers with convenient access to cruises.
  • Cruise Ship Tours: Offers tours of the cruise ships docked at the terminal.

14. The Long Beach Airport Observation Deck

An observation deck providing views of airplanes taking off and landing, with a museum on-site.
  • Airplane Viewing: Offers stunning views of airplanes taking off and landing at the airport.
  • Museum on-site: Features an aviation museum showcasing historical aircraft and artifacts.
  • Photography Opportunities: Provides great opportunities for photographing airplanes and their takeoffs/landings.

15. The Pike Outlets

An outdoor shopping center featuring unique stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
  • Unique Shops: Features a variety of unique shops not found in typical malls.
  • Outdoor Dining: Offers outdoor dining options, taking advantage of the pleasant Long Beach climate.
  • Entertainment Venues: Features entertainment venues such as a movie theater and live music performances.