Best Family Outings In Long Beach
Offering numerous outdoor and indoor attractions as well as fabulous dining, Long Beach is the perfect waterfront destination for families. In addition to experiences a variety of festivals, the area also offers a myriad of arts & culture activities for the entire family too. Whether you take the kids to The Lions Lighthouse for sightseeing, for a fun roll downhill on the grass, or introduce the little ones to a musical at the Children's Theatre of Long Beach, there is something for everyone. Families will never run out of things to do in Long Beach. So, pack up the car, grab the camera and get ready discover a thriving waterfront scene.
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-3100
www.aquariumofpacific.org
Just steps away from the scenic Pacific Ocean, The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a way for families to explore more than 50 exhibits of animals who call Southern California and Baja home. The aquarium also features animals from the Northern Pacific and the tropics too! Little ones can get up close and personal to the animals at one of the many interactive exhibits including Shark Lagoon, which features 150 sharks. Future zoologists will find a plethora of programs introducing them to the world of animals as well including feeding vibrant birds in the Lorikeet Forest (additional fee). The aquarium also offers 4D films, SCUBA diving presentations in the 3 story high Honda Blue Cavern exhibit, and the amazing Animal Encounters (reservation necessary) on the weekends.
Naples Canals
Long Beach, CA 90899
Located within a neighborhood of Long Beach, Naples is made up of about 1 mile worth of canals that lead out to the bay and makes for a nice, scenic walk or boat ride. Rent kayaks or jet skis from Belmont Shore Pier for some water play. For a unique "Italian" attraction, book a gondola through Naples Gondola Getaway, or, for a romantic ride in Alamitos Bay. The kids would even enjoy a ride under the bridges, and hopefully for a serenade by one of the drivers just like in Naples, Italy! Families can also consider starting an annual Christmas tradition by viewing the beautifully decorated holiday boats cruising the canals called, "Naples Island Christmas Boat Parade" which has been a favorite since 1946.
Wheel Fun Rentals
429 Shoreline Village Drive
Long Beach, CA
(562) 951-3857
www.wheelfunrentals.com
Rent a surrey or a tandem bike to get the blood pumping, while taking in the picturesque views of the harbor. Bicycles are affordable and available for rental every day of the year either by an hourly, half day or a full day rate. Wheel fun rentals also offers Segways, strollers, wheelchairs and tours as well as a unique ride, the Electriquette! Schedule in a self-guided tour to experience the views at your own pace.
The Pike at Rainbow Harbor & Shoreline Village
95 South Pine Avenue
Long Beach, CA
(562) 432-8325
www.shorelinevillage.com
Filled with numerous family-friendly restaurants including P.F. Changs China Bistro and Outback Steakhouse, The Pike also offers a state of the art movie cinema, a fabulous comedy club and a historic carousel and giant wheel. For a small cost, a ride on the Giant Wheel will give you optimal views of Rainbow Harbor. Or for more fun, take a spin on the vintage carousel.
Shoreline Village
401-435 Shoreline Village Drive
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 435-2668
www.shorelinevillage.com
Located next to the Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village is a great place to hang with the family for shopping, free trolley rides, tasty food and live entertainment any time of the year. Rent a bicycle and go for a bike ride along the pedestrian bike path, take a casual stroll along the boardwalk and you can admire the functioning lighthouse as well as the commercial boats at the marina.
Harbor Breeze Whale Watching
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 4324900
www.2seewhales.com
Introduce your family to some of the most majestic creatures that roaming our oceans. Together, families can learn about these intelligent, massive marine animals during a whale watching excursion, as well as see playful dolphins and sea lions. With daily tours available at Harbor Breeze Cruises, knowledgeable Aquarium of the Pacific team members, as well as, whale watch crew members are on board to share information on these exciting animals. Select a 2 or 3 hour tour as gray whales are seen during the winter months, while blue whales appear in the summertime. The boats have high railing and non-skid decks that will help keep children safe as well.
Queen Mary
1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach, CA 90802
(877) 342-0738
www.queenmary.com
Built in the United Kingdom in the 1930s, the Queen Mary has a copious history as a luxury cruise liner hosting royalty and some of Hollywood's biggest names such as Greta Garbo. "The Grey Ghost" has been docked at Pier J since 1971, and open to the public, visitors can tour the ship & attractions. Stay aboard for a unique getaway to experience what travel was like in the golden years. Younger kids will get a kick out of the portholes and personality of each stateroom or schedule a "Little Royal Tea" during your visit. Tours are also offered on the rumored "haunted ship," which might be more engaging for older children. Don't miss the Russian submarine next to the ship for free as well. This adventure is all about exploration, but keep your eyes on your kids, as the ship is large with narrow corridors and the upper deck is extremely high from the ocean.
