Sonora Valley Window Works

Art isn't meant to just engage your eyes. Great art moves you, speaks to you, and inspires you to want to learn more about it. That's exactly what you will experience when you visit the Long Beach Museum of Art. Featuring some of the most impressive pieces of work rendered in various media, this popular attraction embraces both the creations and the creators of art. The museum itself qualifies as a unique piece of art in its own right, as its stunning construction and design allow the building to be situated atop a bluff which offers an equally mesmerizing view of Long Beach Harbor.

Hark back to a time when shopping on a street was a friendly, inviting experience when you visit 4th Street in Long Beach. This is a section of the city that stretches between Cherry and Junipero streets and is referred to as Retro Row. There are over 40 independent merchants who specialize in the unexpected. Among these cool and kitschy shops you will find vintage and contemporary clothing, furniture and accessories, art, antiques and collectibles, books and lots more. There are also several locally-owned restaurants, coffee shops and wine bars that add to the charm of this very unique part of Long Beach.

If you are looking to spend some time outdoors and on the beach but would rather steer away from the crowds and all that goes with it, opt to visit Alamitos Bay Marina. This area is quite beautiful, but it is nicely positioned away from all of the tourist attractions and resorts, which makes it a kind of hidden treasure for outdoor lovers. The views are absolutely amazing and the weather is agreeable nearly every day.

A spicy taste of New Orleans comes to the West Coast by way of the Long Beach Crawfish Festival. There's plenty of great live music, vendors and activities and of course, plenty of delicious food! This is one of Long Beach's biggest events, as it regularly draws approximately 15,000 people when it is held every July in the city's Rainbow Lagoon Park.