Eric S. Hartman

Dive into a world that will captivate your senses at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Marvel at the incredible number of species that make their home beneath the ocean's surface as you learn about them with the help of the many interactive exhibits, attractions, and impressive aquarium tanks that are housed here. From the frigid waters of the North Pacific to the warmer Tropical Pacific, come and celebrate all the life that lives within and beside the Pacific, the world's largest ocean.

Compton Creek Regional Garden Park is one of many naturally picturesque places in Long Beach that provides solace from the everyday hustle and bustle. The park has many excellent amenities, but one of the most popular is the winding walking trail that stretches out for approximately 2.5 miles. The recreation trail is marked and well maintained and promises a great aerobic workout any time of day.

The Long Beach Carnevale is a masquerade in the true fashion of the carnival of Venice Italy. The Masquerade Party promises an evening of "mischief, madness & mayhem" at this adults-only celebration. Dress up in exotic costumes for this colorful festival. This tribute to the famed carnevale in Venice, Italy, has undergone several moves these past years, including a move indoors in 2010.

The Long Beach Ballet is one of Southern California's leading classical institutions. The ballet is both a highly respected academy that utilizes the talents of many professional dancers to train up and coming talents, as well as a performing company that regularly stages various entertainment productions throughout the year. Some of the many great shows that the ballet presents include Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, Coppelia, Cinderella and many more. Be sure to check the website for dates and tickets.