Marvia Law

When your workweek has been no laughing matter, forget about it all by making plans to spend the evening at Long Beach's Laugh Factory. This popular comedy club features an impressive mix of veteran performers along with an equally interesting batch of fresh faces. Some of the comedians who have taken to the spotlight here include Mario Joyner, Kevin Nealon, and Adam Carolla, just to name a few. Reservations are recommended. Also, don't forget to to check the website for news on upcoming entertainment.

Art is born out of both inspiration and reflection. A specific geographic area can inspire the creation of some truly amazing art as well as reflect the attitudes and feelings of a particular point in time. Nowhere is that more obvious than at Long Beach's Museum of Latin American Art. These works seem to come alive with both a dimensionality and a spiciness that gives them a personality all their own. The facility was founded in 1996 and holds the distinction of being the only museum of its kind in the United States.

Lovers of nature will enjoy the chance to see some of the most incredible wildlife on the Catalina Adventure Tours. An incredible island adventure awaits you when you take this tour that has been accommodating visitors for over 20 years. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there are countless photo opportunities on this picturesque trek. These include seeing such striking creatures as seals, buffalo, and other animal life. The tour prides itself in bringing together the best of Catalina for all to enjoy.

Every August, the sounds of America's music – jazz – fills the Long Beach air. Fans of this historic musical genre gather at Rainbow Lagoon Park to hear some of the top artists on the scene performing during the Long Beach Jazz Festival. This popular three day event is staged on a beautiful grassy knoll in the park that makes for an experience that is as visually stunning as it is aurally pleasing. The festival also features a great selection of food, arts and crafts, as well as the wares of various vendors.