5 Unusual Weekend Getaways in Long Beach CA
Long Beach is a coastal California city, which is becoming more popular among tourists for its interesting attractions and mild weather. Its proximity to LA is also a plus and makes it a great option for a weekend getaway. No matter if you are a visitor in Long Beach CA or you live there, there are several ways to spend the weekend in the city, from walking in the parks to a family day on the beach. However, there are a few unusual getaways, that you need to consider if you are staying in Long Beach for the weekend. Here are five of the best weekend getaways that you can choose from:
A Gondola Ride at the Canals of Naples Island
If you are looking for a romantic way to spend the weekend, think about sunset, gondolas, and serenades. Venice, Italy is the city usually associated with this type of experience; however, Long Beach, California offers a serene gondola ride that will make you feel you are hundreds of miles away from the hectic city. The cruise is offered from mid-day to midnight. One of the best times, however, is around sunset. It is perfect for those who are considering a marriage proposal. Rumor has it that the acceptance rate is almost 100%. On top of that, most of the gondoliers sing, but make sure to request for one in advance. The Gondola ride is fun for kids and teenagers as well, so you can make this a lovely family trip for an unforgettable weekend getaway. You can also bring snacks and drinks on board. A cruise with a gondola is especially popular during the holidays, so if you are planning one, make sure to book it in advance!
An Art Weekend
If you love art, then spend the weekend surrounded by it. Give your friends or family a lovely gift in the form of an art walk getaway for the weekend. The best place for this kind of experience in Long Beach CA is the East Village Arts District. Here you can enjoy galleries, free events, and a true art walk. In addition to that, every first Friday of the month there is a First Fridays street fair. It is an event running from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, held at Atlantic Avenue from Bixby Road to San Antonio Dr. The aim of the fair is to support local artists and musicians. As part of your art weekend, you can also visit the Museum of Latin American Art, which allows you to enjoy contemporary art reflecting the culture of Latin America. It is worth visiting, especially given the fact that the museum has been open since 1945. So, if you are an art lover, here is your best weekend getaway in Long Beach!
A Day at the Aquarium
Spending even a few hours in the serene environment of sea life can help you relax and recharge after a busy week. Long Beach CA can offer you this experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific, which is considered the best in California. It is also the largest in Southern California and presents species from the north American Shore of the Pacific and the tropical South Pacific. It is fun both for kids and adults, as it offers a lot of interactive exhibits and the option to touch some of the animals. But if you want a truly unique and unusual experience, we recommend behind-the-scenes tour. It is intended for a small group of up to 10 people and offers a sneak peek into the everyday operations of the facilities. The tour takes you to places that are normally closed for the public and you can even feed the fish from the top of the Tropical Reef. The tour is perfect for anyone, kids of 7 years and up inclusive, who loves sea life and biology.
Waterfront Walk in Shoreline Village
Would you like to visit a village within the restless Long Beach CA? If you are thrilled about going to a quieter place while enjoying the beautiful view of Rainbow Harbor, then Shoreline Village is the best place for your weekend getaway. The place features live entertainment, casual and fine places to eat and a lot of activities for the children with a carousel and special kids’ fun zone. The panoramic view of the sunset is surely not to be missed. If you want a more interesting way of exploring Shoreline village, you can hire a surrey bike and enjoy the ride with your family or friends.
Spend the Weekend at a Hotel
If you are a resident of Long Beach CA, we have quite an unusual idea for your weekend. Go to a hotel in your own city. There are million options where to stay depending on your budget. Allow yourself a luxury weekend at a fancy hotel, where you will feel pampered and can relax after a busy week. Get away from the routine without having to travel. This is a perfect option for families as well – most hotels offer additional attractions for kids – like playgrounds or pool parties and other fun stuff. Some of the businesses allow pets as well, so check that in advance if you are a pet owner. You should know that Long Beach was voted one of the most dog-friendly cities in the USA according to Dog Fancy magazine. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your suitcases and discover your hometown in a different way – like a tourist!
