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Long Beach is a great destination for families looking to take some well-deserved time off together. With its year-round sunshine, vibrant attractions, and world-class activities, this coastal paradise has something for everyone! From kid-friendly museums and aquariums to outdoor adventures like kayaking or paddleboarding in the Pacific Ocean, there are plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained during your visit. Whether you’re looking for educational opportunities or fun entertainment options with stunning views of Long Beach’s coastline – we’ve rounded up the best places and activities that will make sure your family has an incredible experience exploring this wonderful city!
Long Beach, California is a great place to take kids for fun and educational activities. One of the top things to do in Long Beach with kids is to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, located right on the waterfront. Here, visitors can view more than 11,000 animals from over 500 different species, including penguins, sea otters, jellyfish, sharks, and rays. Kids will also have access to interactive exhibits that teach about ocean conservation and ecology. For example, they can explore the live animal nursery and touch tanks as well as watch shows at various outdoor amphitheaters. There are also a number of hands-on activities such as participating in shark and ray feedings or taking part in age-specific educational programs.
Queen Mary in Long Beach, California is an iconic attraction in the heart of downtown. The legendary ship first set sail in 1936 and has been hosting guests on board ever since. After being retired from service and becoming a permanent fixture in Long Beach, the Queen Mary was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Today, visitors can explore the ship’s vast decks and grand staterooms, take a tour of the engine room, and stroll through the onboard museum to learn about its rich history. In addition, the Queen Mary offers a variety of fine dining options, entertainment events, and special occasions throughout the year. This majestic vessel truly offers something for everyone – from history buffs to luxury seekers alike!
Rosie’s Dog Beach, located along the glistening Huntington Beach coastline, is one of Southern California’s most beloved destinations for dog owners. Here dogs are allowed to roam and play off-leash in a picturesque setting with unparalleled ocean views and fresh sea air. It’s no wonder why this beach has been so popular over the years! But it’s not just about enjoying the scenery – there are plenty of activities for both pets and kids. Activities include playing games such as Frisbee or fetch, walking along the sandy shoreline, and taking a dip in the cool water. Rosie’s Dog Beach also offers educational classes, agility courses, and obedience training as well as special events throughout the year. With its beautiful setting, hospitable atmosphere, and wealth of activities, Rosie’s Dog Beach is an ideal spot to spend quality time with your furry friends.
Bluff Park in Long Beach is an amazing spot for families, boasting incredible views of the ocean and plenty of outdoor activities. With winding pathways suitable for walking or cycling, a playground packed with swings and slides, and tidepools to explore on the beach, no one will be left out. In addition to recreation, education opportunities also abound. The Interpretive Center provides interactive displays about local marine life and coastal habitats, as well as an observation deck from which birdwatchers can spot migrating birds and other wildlife. Those looking for something even more immersive can join a guided nature or kayaking tour – there truly is something for everyone at Bluff Park!
The Catalina Express is a great way to explore Long Beach with kids. The sightseeing trips provide breathtaking views of the harbor, while the onboard activities like movies and live music will keep your little ones entertained. For those looking for more interactive fun, there are plenty of exciting kid-friendly attractions in Long Beach, such as Rainbow Pier, Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Queen Mary. With its sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, Long Beach is an ideal destination for family vacations. Whether you’re taking a dip in the pool or strolling along Belmont Shore Beach, there are plenty of things to do with kids in Long Beach that will make your trip both fun and memorable.
Shoreline Village in Long Beach is a perfect destination for families with children looking for fun and adventure. The village offers plenty of activities, such as paddle boating, fishing, bike rides on the beach, and even whale-watching tours. Kids can also explore the interactive exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific or take a guided tour of the historic Queen Mary. With numerous cafes, restaurants, shops, and a carousel, Shoreline Village provides endless entertainment and education for kids of all ages. During certain times throughout the year, special events such as fireworks displays are even held in the village to make it an even more exciting experience for children.
Rancho Los Alamitos is a historical site and nature preserve located in Long Beach, CA. Kids of all ages can explore the site and discover its history while engaging with nature – from horseback riding to bird watching, there are countless activities to choose from. Visitors can also explore the gardens and enjoy live performances, as well as learn about the local flora and fauna. For a truly unique experience, you can join one of their educational programs that focus on topics such as Native American history, California’s past, and present, or even geology. With plenty of outdoor activities for your family to explore together, Rancho Los Alamitos is truly a great spot for kids to learn about the past while having fun in the present day!
Rancho Los Cerritos in Long Beach offers a variety of activities for children of all ages. From the historic adobe ranch house to the 2.5 acres of gardens, and two miles of nature trails, there is something to keep everyone entertained and educated. Kids can explore the barns and outbuildings and learn about California’s history as a part of Mexico; take in educational programs about local flora and fauna, learn about the area’s native American heritage with an interpretative walking tour; and join in fun events such as living history days, nature hikes and campfire sing-a-longs. There’s also a museum store with lots of unique toys and gifts. With its wealth of activities, Rancho Los Cerritos is the perfect destination to spend quality time with your family while discovering Long Beach’s vibrant culture and history.
Belmont Shore in Long Beach is an ideal destination for families with kids, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. From the iconic Belmont Pier, where you can take a leisurely stroll, to the nearby recreational beachfront park and Aquarium of the Pacific, there’s plenty to keep young ones entertained. The expansive shopping district along 2nd Street has many unique stores for window shopping, plus eateries ranging from casual cafés to upscale restaurants. For even more fun and learning opportunities, there are numerous museums and historical sites nearby such as the Long Beach Museum of Art and the Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site. So whether you’re looking for a day at the beach or simply some quality family time, Belmont Shore is sure to deliver!
Mother’s Beach in Long Beach offers a variety of fun activities for kids and families. It provides the perfect backdrop for a sunny day, with its white sand beaches, picturesque views of the harbor and Catalina Island, and close proximity to plenty of local attractions. Whether it’s swimming, boating, fishing, or exploring the nearby nature trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Mother’s Beach. Kids can also explore the wide variety of interactive exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific and learn about marine life or take a ride on the Ferris wheel at Playland Pier. There are also plenty of dining options in the area so you can easily feed your family after spending the day playing in this beautiful beach setting.
Harbor Breeze Cruises offers a variety of fun, family-friendly activities in Long Beach. Kids can explore the majestic waters while viewing sea life and vibrant local wildlife. Cruise packages can be tailored to your family’s interests, whether it’s harbor tours, whale watching, or romantic sunset cruises. With an experienced crew and plenty of amenities onboard like restrooms, snacks, and refreshments – your kids will have a blast with Harbor Breeze Cruises. The stunning views of Long Beach from the boat provide an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave your family with lasting memories for years to come.
Bring your family to beautiful Long Beach for an unforgettable and captivating journey aboard a gondola! From locals that have experienced this unique ride before, to travelers discovering its magic – there is no shortage of fun on one of these intimate cruises. Enjoy stunning views with loved ones while creating lasting memories in the amazing city of Long Beach. You’ll get to glide through the canals of Long Beach, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant coastal city. Along the way, you may even be lucky enough to spot some local wildlife or view colorful murals on the walls of buildings nearby. With experienced gondoliers at your side, your family will enjoy this one-of-a-kind journey through the heart of Long Beach.
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) in Long Beach is an ideal destination for a family outing. Kids will be inspired by the vibrant colors and shapes of the artwork from across Latin America, as well as learn about its history and culture. There are also interactive activities for kids to participate in, such as art workshops and guided tours, which provide an engaging and educational experience. Alternatively, visitors can explore the museum’s outdoor space, where they can find sculptures and murals created by renowned Latino artists. With its wide selection of artworks, activities, and outdoor installations, MOLAA provides an exciting day out for all ages – making it one of the top things to do in Long Beach with kids.
Pike Outlets in Long Beach is a great destination for families looking to have fun and explore the local area. With a variety of shopping destinations and restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Shop at retailers such as H&M, Gap, Express, Old Navy, Aldo Shoes, and Forever 21. Dine at delicious eateries like BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks and Johnny Rockets. Kids will love the Rainforest Café and interactive displays. Not only can you find all your favorite brands at Pike Outlets in Long Beach, but you can also find great deals on apparel and accessories throughout the year. Enjoy special events such as free face painting or arts & crafts activities that make visiting even more fun!
Long Beach, CA is an undiscovered treasure trove for families seeking delightful destinations. One must not miss the opportunity to explore the captivating Aquarium of the Pacific, where more than 11,000 animals from over 500 unique species come to life. Children can intimately engage with sharks, sea lions, otters, and other fascinating creatures, while also enjoying interactive animal shows and feeding sessions.
For a more relaxing day, Long Beach offers miles of beautiful beaches with calm waters, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. Families can also head to El Dorado Park, which has a large playground, bike trails, and even a disc golf course. And for the ultimate in self-care and relaxation for both kids and parents, Moonlight at Naple offers a range of massage and spa services specifically designed for families.
Long Beach is an exceptional destination that offers families a perfect blend of enjoyment, education, and relaxation. With an abundance of activities to pick from, it’s evident why this Californian city is a favored option for memorable family vacations.