Long Beach is just a short drive away from the heart of LA, and there are plenty of unique things to fill your day with.
Pregame the afternoon with a few craft beers at Beachwood Blendery. Then head to the legendary Aquarium of the Pacific, where you’ll meet otters, sharks, jellyfish and more. As the sun goes down, walk to the Lion Lighthouse for a picturesque view of the city as it lights up.
Try a flight of local craft beers at Beachwood Blendery
📍 210 E 3rd St, Long Beach, CA 90802
When it comes to breweries, Beachwood Blendery is the rebellious little cousin who showed up to the party in a ripped t-shirt, blasting Nirvana, and holding a keg. Exposed brick walls and communal tables create an industrial-chic atmosphere that feels more like a friend’s garage. The air thrums with the happy buzz of conversation and the intoxicating aroma of wood-smoked meats wafting from their legendary smoked meats.
Know Before You Go
✔ Make sure to stop at Trademark Brewing while you’re in the area. They’re walking distance from each other!
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Get lost in SoCal’s largest aquarium
📍 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
The Aquarium of the Pacific is no ordinary fishbowl. It’s an underwater wonderland where the only thing more awe-inspiring than the giant Pacific octopus is the sheer number of excited toddlers chasing after them. Sure, you might get splashed by a rogue sea lion or deafened by the glee of a child discovering Nemo, but that’s all part of the charm.
Know Before You Go
✔ Grab tickets ahead of time on their website.
✔ It’s a 5 minute Uber or 15 minute walk from Beachwood Blendery.
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Catch the sunset at Lions Lighthouse
📍 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
Ok, so the Lions Lighthouse isn’t exactly the Eiffel Tower when it comes to romantic grandeur. It’s more like the quirky uncle of lighthouses – a squat, white structure perched on the Long Beach breakwater, looking a little worse for wear after a century of battling the elements. Take in the stunning views of the Long Beach coastline that stretch out towards the horizon like a wrinkled blue blanket. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a romantic seaside rendezvous with a touch of history – just be sure to pack enough food to distract the seagulls who will inevitably swoop in looking for a free lunch.
Know Before You Go
✔ Try to time it for sunset. The lighthouse looks pretty during the day, but at night it’s even better because it changes colors.
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