Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Long Beach
The first month of the new year is coming to a close and before you know it, summertime will be upon us. If you haven't already, why not start planning your 2017 vacation today?! It is National Plan A Vacation Day as a matter of fact!
Long Beach, CA is a great place to spend your well-deserved time off, so we're helping you set an itinerary with a list of things to do in order to have an unforgettable trip to the Beach With Benefits!
If flying, make it easy on yourself and fly in & out of the Long Beach Airport. Traveling can sometimes be stressful, but LGB’s shorter security lines and laid-back, SoCal setting will help ease your mind.
Take a tour of one of the biggest attractions in Long Beach, the historic Queen Mary. Learn about the history of the ship, find out which first class passengers enjoyed their stays, and admire the craft that went into the building of the ship. If you’re brave enough, join their paranormal tour for an adventure throughout the ship that you’ll never forget! When you need a break from walking, reset in one of the delicious on-site restaurants or wine taste at the popular Malibu Wines Tasting Room!
Visit the 11,000+ ocean animals that call the Aquarium of the Pacific home. Wander through the diverse exhibits to learn more about each species and ocean conservation. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience for your trip here, plan for an animal encounter experience!
Take a walk through the colorful shops & restaurants that make up Shoreline Village. Once you’re ready for a break, stop for a waterfront lunch at Parkers’ Lighthouse. This restaurant with an incredible view is a great spot to enjoy seafood eats and a cold drink.
Head to Belmont Shore to take in beach town vibes that will surely put you in vacation mode. Be active on the water and try SUP, kayaking, or hydrobiking in the bay. As a matter of fact, with summer coming to an end, Long Beach Waterbikes has an incredible deal! Purchase discounted e-gift cards that will never expire. This way you and your honey can experience this water sport together or with friends!Now if you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, but still want to explore the beautiful canals on the water, jump on a romantic gondola cruise or rent a duffy. After your day on the water, stroll the boutiques on 2nd Street and stop in for dinner at any of the delicious restaurants that catch your eye. George's Greek Cafe is always a great choice!
Visit the popular stretch of 4th Street, called Retro Row, in search for some great vintage finds. Look through the same shops that costume & set designers visit when on the hunt for that perfectly unique piece.
Long Beach has become a foodie town with its array food options. Downtown alone boasts 120 restaurants within a mile radius! With so many great options, it’s impossible to try even the top ones in one trip. However, when you jump in to a Beach City Food Tour you can try dishes, treats, and drinks from 7+ popular spots downtown. This is a great way to taste your way through the city, all while learning more about downtown’s history culture, and architecture.
As we’ve mentioned, Long Beach has countless dining options that you really can’t go wrong with, but The Attic is a definite must! This house turned restaurant features dishes inspired by the South with a Southern CA twist. It is also the location that brought us Mac N’Cheetos (Macaroni and Cheese topped with Hot Cheetos), which is completely life-changing! Plan to visit for brunch and try their epic Bloody Mary’s & Mac N’Cheetos, but get there early as this is a popular spot.
The Pie Bar creates truly delicious sweet & savory pies that are not to be missed on a visit to Long Beach. Try a slice or opt for their Cutie Pies, which are a great take & go option. We’re sure that anything you order here will exceed your sweet tooth satisfaction, but the S’more Cutie Pie is a definite fave!
The craft beer craze is prominent in Long Beach and Beachwood BBQ & Brewing seemed to be at the forefront of it. This brewery has won several awards and when you taste their beer, you will understand why. Whether you’re into IPA’s, ales, stouts or lagers, Beachwood brews will keep you refreshed on a sunny day in the city.
When visiting Long Beach, you’ll notice that art is featured around the city. We are home to tons of talented artists and we love to show that off. That’s why we were thrilled to welcome Pow! Wow! and their incredible group of mural artists to make their mark throughout the city.
Check out the map of murals or download the passport from the 2016 event and take a self-guided tour to view the large pieces of street art. You may just find your new favorite artist.Take home a locally made Long Beach souvenir from MADE by Millworks to remind you of your time in this sunny SoCal beach city.