Getting Country in the LBC

We’ve got the beach and we’ve got the sunshine; we’ve also got boots, barns, and biscuits. Don’t let the city slicker vibes fool you–Long Beach is a little bit country. And folks will be able to celebrate all things twangy at the Coastal Country Jam in Long Beach this fall, featuring some of the biggest stars in country music. Of course, you don’t have to wait for the show to get your boots scootin’. Whether dancing, shopping or eating, here are places around town where you can Go Country!

Credit: Coastal Country Jam

COASTAL COUNTRY JAM

See acts like Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Brooks & Dunn, and Maren Morris at the Coastal Country Jam on September 16 and 17 at Marina Green Park (386 Shoreline Dr). This outdoor festival also features local food, line dancing, a car show, Ferris wheel, and cornhole. One- and two-day passes are on sale now. Pit passes, reserved seating, and luxury suites are also available.

Credit: Coastal Country Jam

COWBOY COUNTRY SALOON

If you want to polish your two-step and learn some line dances in time for the concert, stop by Cowboy Country Saloon (3321 South St), where they offer dance lessons on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7 and 8 p.m. While at Coastal Country, be sure to visit the Cowboy Country booth next to the line dancing hall, where they will also be leading dances throughout the festival.

HATS, BOOTS, AND BELT BUCKLES

You will definitely need the proper country outfit for the concert. Village Hat Shop (429-A Shoreline Village Dr) is walking distance from the concert venue and stocks a wide variety of cowboy hats, from a more casual straw hat to genuine Stetsons. If your closet is lacking in western wear, you can stock up on denim, cowboy hats, and western shirts, as well as vintage clothing, at The Hangout (2122 E 4th St) on Retro Row.

COUNTRY GRUB

At Country Kitchen (2041 E Spring St), grab a cozy booth and try the Country Boy breakfast special: a split homemade biscuit topped with sausage patties, smothered in gravy, and served with home fries. Missing your grandma? Check out MeeMa's (4276 Atlantic Ave), decorated with charming antiques and even a fridge with children’s artwork. Plus, there’s a “Grandkids” section on the menu. Their Briskets & Gravy dish features buttermilk biscuits covered with smoked brisket gravy and an egg, sunny side up.

A COUNTRY ADVENTURE

Take the kids to El Dorado Frontier (7550 E Spring St), an amusement park inside El Dorado East Regional Park reminiscent of a California Gold Rush mining town. You can practice your prospector skills at the Panning for Goldie’s Treasures attraction and discover treasures like rose quartz, pyrite, and amazonite. General admission includes unlimited rides on the historic train ride, carousel, and mine buggies.

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for nearly 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.