What's New: Long Beach Attractions

Long Beach’s many and varied cultural/educational spaces are buzzing with fresh energy this fall, offering a wide range of new exhibits and events for all ages. From historic ranchos and contemporary art to ocean wonders and cultural festivals, there’s something for every curious mind. Whether you’re drawn to hands-on history, innovative art, or immersive nature experiences, these local institutions invite you to explore and celebrate.

RANCHO LOS ALAMITOS/RANCHO LOS CERRITOS

Explore Long Beach’s iconic ranchos on the same day by participating in the 7th Annual Ranchos Walk, Sept. 20. This free, family-friendly urban hike takes place along the scenic Crest Trail connecting Rancho Los Alamitos (6400 E Bixby Hill Rd), with its lush gardens and working barnyard, to Rancho Los Cerritos (4600 Virginia Rd), known for its own thriving grounds and educational programs such as its Water/Ways exhibit–on view through Nov. 9–exploring the vital role of water and conservation on our culture. You can choose a 9‑, 6‑, or 3‑mile walk route while enjoying a guided audio tour rich in local history. Cap the day with a celebration at Rancho Los Cerritos featuring music, food and fun.

LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

The California Effect at the Long Beach Museum of Art (2300 E Ocean) features inventive, handcrafted books by members of the California Chapter of the Guild of Book Workers, reflecting on the state's outsized impact on culture, environment, and design. From sculptural bindings to letterpress prints, the exhibition celebrates the book as both object and idea. On view Oct. 4 to March 8, 2026, at the museum known for its bold exhibitions and stunning oceanfront setting.

Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way) hosts a lineup of cultural festivals, including the Moompetam American Indian Festival (Sept. 13-14), Southeast Asia Day (Oct. 12), and the Autumn Festival (Nov. 15-16) celebrating Asian cultures. These lively events feature music, dance, storytelling, and art from diverse communities. In addition to the festivities, visitors can enjoy the Aquarium’s stunning wildlife exhibits—jellies, otters, and more—including the Stars of the Sea exhibition, a dazzling new addition for 2025.

Robin Riggs

MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART

This fall, the Museum of Latin American Art (628 Alamitos Ave) presents the 2025 CIFO Grants & Commissions Program exhibition, showcasing bold new works by seven award-winning artists from five Latin American countries. On view October 19 through March 2026, the exhibit features innovative pieces from emerging voices and established figures, highlighting the dynamic and diverse perspectives shaping contemporary Latin American art today.

CAROLYN CAMPAGNA KLEEFELD CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM

This fall, the Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum at Cal State Long Beach (1250 Bellflower Blvd) reopens in September with multiple exhibitions: Solastalgia, exploring eco-grief through multimedia works by nine artists; Emergence of the Kelp Deer, a luminous photographic installation by Christine Nguyen, and Species in Danger from Jennifer Celio, featuring graphite portraits of endangered local wildlife and their cultural threats.

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.