Downtown Long Beach Guided Walking Tour History and Culture
Active
2h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Uncover the vibrant history and culture of Downtown Long Beach on this engaging guided walking tour. Once the largest beach resort on the West Coast, Long Beach is rich with stories from its rise as a leisure destination to its transformation through the oil boom. Explore the iconic Pike amusement zone, historic streets, and public art while learning about the city's evolution, including its upcoming role in the 2028 Olympic Games. This small-group experience offers ample opportunity to ask questions and receive local insights, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and locals seeking a deeper understanding of this unique city.
- Discover the legacy of Long Beach as the West Coast’s premier beach resort
- Hear fascinating stories about the Pike amusement zone and early cinema
- Experience the intersection of history, art, and waterfront culture
- Enjoy a small-group tour with personalized insights and recommendations
Available options
Downtown Long Beach Guided Walking Tour: History & Culture
Pickup included
Beaches Add-on
Belmont Shore + Naples add-on: Travel through historic Bluff Park to the charming canals of Naples with time to explore trendy Belmont Shore. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Expert local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore the story of Long Beach on a guided walking tour that connects its lively past with its creative present. Once the largest beach resort on the West Coast, Long Beach was home to the legendary The Pike, where crowds gathered and early movies were made before Hollywood took over.
Your walk takes you through the former Pike area and Seaport Village, along Ocean Boulevard, and down historic Pine Avenue. We continue into the East Village Arts District, known for murals, galleries, and creative spaces, with time near Alamitos Beach.
You’ll hear how an oil boom transformed the city, how Long Beach reinvented itself as an arts-forward waterfront destination, and how it’s preparing to host events for the 2028 Olympic Games. Longer tour options may include Bluff Park, Belmont Shore, and the canals of Naples.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning waterfront, diverse cultural scene, and rich maritime history. With a bustling port, beautiful beaches, and a dynamic arts community, it offers a unique blend of urban and seaside experiences.
Top Attractions
Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner that is now a museum and hotel. Visitors can explore the ship's history, exhibits, and even spend the night in a historic cabin.
Historical
2-4 hours
Moderate ($30-$50 for tours)
Aquarium of the Pacific
One of the largest aquariums in the United States, the Aquarium of the Pacific features a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea otters.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate ($35-$50 for general admission)
Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
This multi-purpose venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sports events, and trade shows.
Entertainment
Varies by event
Varies by event
Shoreline Village
A charming waterfront shopping and dining district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Shopping/Dining
1-3 hours
Varies by activity
Belmont Shore
A vibrant beachside neighborhood known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Neighborhood
Half-day
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Long Beach Museum of Art
The Long Beach Museum of Art features a diverse collection of contemporary and historical art, as well as beautiful gardens and ocean views.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$15 for general admission)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
A popular dish in Long Beach, featuring fresh fish, crispy batter, and various toppings served on a tortilla.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with gluten-free tortillas and various dietary preferences.
Sushi
Long Beach is known for its high-quality sushi, with many top-rated sushi restaurants in the area.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast and brunch dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by various toppings.
Breakfast/Brunch
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Kayaking
Hiking
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Yoga
Museum visits
Art gallery visits
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These periods offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (PST)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Long Beach is generally safe for tourists, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps
Getting there
By air
- Long Beach Airport • 5 km from city center
- Los Angeles International Airport • 30 km from city center
By train
Long Beach Transit Center
By bus
Long Beach Transit Center, Downtown Long Beach
Getting around
Public transport
Long Beach Transit operates an extensive bus network covering the entire city and connecting to nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Long Beach
Belmont Shore
East Village Arts District
Bixby Knolls
Day trips
Catalina Island
25 miles (40 km) from Long Beach • Half-day to full-day
A beautiful island off the coast of California, known for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and marine life.
Anaheim
20 miles (32 km) from Long Beach • Half-day to full-day
Home to Disneyland and other popular attractions, Anaheim is a great day trip for families and Disney fans.
Laguna Beach
30 miles (48 km) from Long Beach • Full-day
A charming beach town known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and scenic coastal views.
Festivals
Long Beach Grand Prix • April
Long Beach Pride Festival • May
Long Beach International City Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific for a unique and educational experience
- Explore the vibrant arts and music scene in the East Village Arts District
- Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastal views
- Try local seafood and international cuisine at the many restaurants and food trucks in the city
- Take a day trip to Catalina Island or other nearby attractions for a change of pace
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
