Exploring Long Beach, California: From History to Recreation

Long Beach, California, is a treasure trove of history and recreation. The city is home to the Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner that served as a hotel and attraction after its retirement from service.

You can explore the ship's opulent staterooms, engine rooms, and even the pool. The Queen Mary is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history.

The city's rich history is also reflected in its architecture, with many buildings from the early 20th century still standing today. The Art Deco style is particularly prevalent in Long Beach, with its ornate details and geometric patterns.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Long Beach is the Long Beach City Hall, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture that dates back to the 1920s.

Long Beach has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when Spanish explorers first arrived. The area was inhabited by the Tongva Native American tribe.

The city's early economy was based on agriculture, with crops like wheat, corn, and grapes being grown in the area.

In 1784, the Spanish established the Rancho Los Cerritos, a large ranch that covered much of what is now Long Beach.

The Tongva period is a fascinating time in Long Beach's history. Indigenous people have lived in coastal Southern California for over 10,000 years.

The Tongva were the dominant group in the area by the 16th-century arrival of Spanish explorers. They established at least three major settlements within the present-day city.

Tevaaxa'anga was an inland settlement near the Los Angeles River. Ahwaanga and Povuu'nga were coastal villages, with Povuu'nga being particularly important to the Tongva.

Povuu'nga was a regional trading center and hub for fishermen, and it held deep ceremonial significance for the Tongva. It was understood as their place of emergence as a people, where their lives began.

During World War II, Long Beach was a hub for the U.S. Navy, and the city played a significant role in the war effort.

The city was part of the Battle of Los Angeles, where observers reported shells being fired from the sea, but no planes were ever sighted.

Long Beach's population grew substantially during and after the war, with workers being needed for wartime manufacturing and G.I. bill recipients seeking out homes in California.

Douglas Aircraft Company's largest facility was in Long Beach, covering an enormous 1,422,350 square feet.

The first plane rolled out of the Douglas plant on December 23, 1941, marking the beginning of the city's significant contribution to the war effort.

The plant produced C-47 Skytrain transports, B-17 Flying Fortress bombers, and A-20 Havoc attack bombers simultaneously, showcasing the city's industrial might.

In 1967, Douglas merged with the McDonnell Aircraft Company, leading to the development of the Douglas DC-8 and the McDonnell Douglas DC-9.

The city's manufacturing facility continued to thrive, producing the C-17 Globemaster transport planes until its closure in 2015.

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Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in California's rich history. You can explore the lush historic gardens, restored barns, and a new Rancho Center with a permanent exhibition, theatre, and program facilities.

The ranch is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, and the best part? Admission is free!

Long Beach suffers from some of the worst air pollution in the entire United States, with levels of toxic air pollutants two to three times higher than in other parts of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

The city's proximity to the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the prevailing westerly winds, bring a large portion of the port's pollution directly into Long Beach.

Diesel exhaust from ships, trains, and trucks is the largest source of pollution in the city, with heavy pollution sources including ships burning high-sulfur bunker fuel and drayage trucks at the ports.

During rainy periods, the water quality in the Long Beach portion of San Pedro Bay is among the poorest on the entire West Coast, with Long Beach beaches averaging a D or F grade on beach water quality in the Beach Report Card published by Heal the Bay.

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Long Beach has a climate that's often described as hot semi-arid or hot-summer Mediterranean. This means we experience hot summers and mild to warm winters with occasional rainfall.

The city's location directly east of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, paired with its south-facing coastline, results in different weather patterns than coastal communities to the northwest and southeast of Long Beach.

Most rainfall in Long Beach occurs during the winter months, with storms bringing heavy rainfall. June to September is usually rainless, especially in August.

The annual average temperature in Long Beach is 64.9 °F (18.3 °C), with August being the hottest month at 74.3 °F (23.5 °C) and December the coldest at 56.7 °F (13.7 °C).

Here's a breakdown of Long Beach's average temperatures throughout the year:

Note that these temperatures are averages and can vary from year to year.

Long Beach suffers from some of the worst air pollution in the entire United States. Most of the city is in proximity to the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the prevailing westerly-to-west-south-westerly winds bring a large portion of the twin ports' air pollution directly into Long Beach before dispersing it northward then eastward.

Heavy pollution sources at the ports include the ships themselves, which burn high-sulfur, high-soot-producing bunker fuel to maintain internal electrical power while docked. Diesel exhaust from ships, trains, and trucks is the largest source of pollution in Long Beach.

Long-term average levels of toxic air pollutants can be two to three times higher in and around Long Beach than in other parts of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. This creates a significant carcinogenic risk for residents.

The South Bayoil refineries are also a major contributor to air pollution in Long Beach, with any refinery process or chemical upset releasing sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. This affects air quality in Long Beach due to the prevailing west-south-westerly wind.

The water quality in the Long Beach portion of San Pedro Bay is commonly among the poorest on the entire West Coast during rainy periods.

The area has historically included several ecological communities, with coastal scrub dominating.

Coastal scrub is a unique and fascinating ecosystem, characterized by a mix of plants and animals that are adapted to the harsh conditions of the coast.

This type of ecosystem is often found in areas with poor soil quality and limited freshwater resources, which is why coastal scrub is so well-suited to the conditions in this region.

Long Beach is a culturally diverse city, with immigrants from all over the world calling it home. The top five countries of origin for Long Beach's immigrants are Mexico, the Philippines, Cambodia, El Salvador, and Vietnam.

The city's demographics have changed significantly over the years. In 1890, the population was just 564 people. By 1900, it had grown to 2,252, an increase of nearly 300%.

Here are some key demographics to know:

The most common foreign languages spoken in Long Beach are Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog. The Mexican American/Chicano community is also prominent in the city, as are Cambodian people and Filipino Americans.

Long Beach is a culturally diverse city, with immigrants from various countries contributing to its rich demographic profile. The top five countries of origin for Long Beach's immigrants are Mexico, the Philippines, Cambodia, El Salvador, and Vietnam.

The most common foreign languages spoken in Long Beach are Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog, reflecting the city's linguistic diversity. Spanish is widely spoken, thanks to the large Mexican American/Chicano community in Long Beach.

The city has a significant Buddhist community, in addition to the Mexican American/Chicano community and the Cambodian people and Filipino Americans who have settled there. Christianity is the most common religion in Long Beach.

Here's a breakdown of the racial demographics in Long Beach over the years:

Homelessness is a significant issue in Long Beach, with a notable increase in recent years. In 2022, the city counted 3,296 homeless individuals.

The homeless population has fluctuated over the years, with a significant decrease in 2017. That year, the count dropped to 1,863 individuals, a decrease of 20.6% from 2015.

The population then increased by 1.7% in 2019, reaching 1,894 individuals. This trend continued in 2020, with a 7.4% increase to 2,034 individuals.

However, the most significant increase occurred in 2022, with a 62.0% jump to 3,296 individuals.

Long Beach is a major economic hub, with the Port of Long Beach being the second busiest seaport in the United States and the tenth busiest in the world, shipping 66 million metric tons of cargo worth $95 billion in 2001.

The port's cargo includes goods shipped between the US and the Pacific Rim, making it a vital connection for international trade. The combined operations of the Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles are the busiest in the US.

The Alameda Corridor project, which improved the capacity of rail lines, roads, and highways connecting the port to the Los Angeles rail hub, was completed in 2002 at a cost of $2.4 billion.

Long Beach is home to a diverse range of top employers that contribute significantly to the local economy. The city's largest employer is the Long Beach Unified School District, with 12,049 employees as of 2022.

The Long Beach Unified School District is followed closely by the City of Long Beach, which employs 5,395 people. This is a significant number of jobs in the government sector.

The healthcare industry is also a major employer in Long Beach, with three hospitals making the top 10 list: Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, and St. Mary Medical Center. These hospitals provide essential services to the community and employ thousands of people.

Here are the top 10 employers in Long Beach, based on the number of employees:

Long Beach was the major retail hub between Los Angeles and Santa Ana until the 1950s. That's when the retail scene started to shift.

Buffum's, Walker's, and Robert's all had their flagship stores in the city, showcasing its retail significance.

The Long Beach Plaza and Marina Pacifica malls were built later, but they've since been repurposed as retail power centers.

The Port of Long Beach is a major player in the US economy, with some impressive stats to back it up. As of 2005, it was the second busiest seaport in the United States and the tenth busiest in the world.

Shipping a whopping 66 million metric tons of cargo worth $95 billion in 2001, the port serves as a vital link between the US and the Pacific Rim. This cargo is carried by Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway, which together transport about half of the trans-shipments from the port.

Long Beach has invested heavily in infrastructure to support the port's operations, including the Alameda Corridor project. This massive project created a 20-mile-long trench to eliminate 200 grade crossings and cost a staggering $2.4 billion.

The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is also a significant contributor to the local economy, hosting three cruise ships that carry over 600,000 passengers annually.

Long Beach, California, is a city that knows how to throw a party. In October, the CSULB Wide Screen Film Festival takes over the Carpenter Performing Arts Center, showcasing movies and discussing the work of renowned artists like Steven Spielberg.

The city's cultural events calendar is packed with exciting happenings, including the Naples Island Christmas Parade, which has been a holiday tradition since 1946. The parade winds its way through the canals of Naples and around Alamitos Bay, a truly magical experience.

The Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade and Festival is one of the city's biggest events, attracting over 125,000 participants each year. It's a celebration of diversity and inclusivity that's not to be missed.

Long Beach is also a city that loves music. The Bob Cole Conservatory of Music presents a wide range of concerts, from classical to jazz and world music. The Long Beach Symphony plays at the Terrace Theater, while Long Beach Opera performs at various venues around the city.

The city's music scene is also home to a number of long-running music festivals, including the Long Beach Jazz Festival, the Long Beach Blues Festival, and the Brazilian Street Carnaval. These events showcase the city's rich cultural diversity and offer something for everyone.

Long Beach is a city that truly loves its music. The Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at CSULB presents a wide variety of classical, jazz, and world music concerts each year.

The Long Beach Symphony plays numerous classical and pop music concerts throughout the year, with performances at the Terrace Theater in the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.

Long Beach Opera is the oldest professional opera company serving the Los Angeles and Orange County regions, founded in 1979. It presents performances of standard and non-standard opera repertoire at various locations.

Long Beach has a thriving jazz scene, thanks in part to KJAZZ 88.1 FM (KKJZ), a radio station that broadcasts from CSULB and plays a range of music including Rhythm and Blues (R&b). KKJZ can also be listened to over the Internet.

Long Beach is home to a number of long-running music festivals, including the Long Beach Jazz Festival in August and the Long Beach Blues Festival in September, which has been running since 1980.

The city is also known for its unique musical heritage, with bands like Sublime and Snoop Dogg hailing from Long Beach.

Long Beach is a city that knows how to throw a party. The CSULB Wide Screen Film Festival takes place in October at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center, featuring a major video and film artist screening and discussing their work.

The city's cultural events calendar is packed with exciting activities. The Naples Island Christmas Parade has been a holiday tradition since 1946, winding its way through the canals of Naples and around Alamitos Bay.

In May or June, the Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade and Festival attracts over 125,000 participants, making it the second largest event in Long Beach and the third largest Gay Pride Parade in the United States. This two-day celebration is a must-attend for anyone looking to be part of a vibrant and inclusive community.

The Long Beach Sea Festival is a summer highlight, featuring events centered on the ocean and the beach. Beach volleyball, movies on the beach, and a tiki festival are just a few of the activities you can enjoy.

If you're looking for some classical music, the Long Beach Symphony plays numerous concerts throughout the year at the Terrace Theater in the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.

Baseball is a beloved sport in many communities, and Long Beach State's Dirtbags team is no exception. They've been playing since 1954.

The team's nickname, Dirtbags, is a nod to their humble beginnings and is officially recognized by the team. Many fans affectionately refer to them as the Dirtbags.

Their home stadium, Blair Field, is conveniently located across the street from Wilson High School.

Japanese Garden is a serene oasis that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The Earl Burns Japanese Garden is a great example of this, featuring a spectacular koi pond.

A stroll through the garden allows you to take in the beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and a tea house. The gardens also boast a bonsai collection that's definitely worth a closer look.

The koi pond is a highlight of the garden, and it's great to watch the colorful fish swim about.

If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, head to 4th Street's Retro Row, a vibrant neighborhood that's been featured in the New York Times and Los Angeles Magazine.

The Pike Outlets is a great place to find stores like Restoration Hardware and H&M, or you can explore the specialty shops at Shoreline Village on the waterfront.

Retro Row is a treasure trove of vintage and contemporary clothing, furniture, and accessories, art, antiques, and collectibles, as well as books, roller skates, and skateboards.

You can find boutiques like Blue Windows and LB Swag, plus movie theaters at Marina Pacifica Shopping Center, and common outdoor areas where you can often hear live music at 2nd & PCH.

The Bixby Knolls neighborhood is home to many small businesses along Atlantic Avenue, including The Better Half Boutique, which offers an impressive selection of handbags, cards, and home accessories.

For a self-guided city tour that will take you on a shopping, dining, and cocktail-sipping odyssey with a vintage-vibe twist, check out the one-day itinerary that includes a visit to Retro Row and other shopping areas.

Long Beach, California is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of exciting activities to enjoy. The Congressional Cup, a major international sailing event, is held annually in April and features a one-on-one race format similar to the America's Cup.

The Leeway Sailing and Aquatics Center on Alamitos Bay is a great place for youth to learn sailing skills, having been founded in 1929. This center offers a unique opportunity for kids to get involved in sailing.

If you're looking for a thrilling experience, the annual Catalina Ski Race in July is a must-try. This 100-kilometer (62 mi) circuit starts from Long Beach Harbor and goes to Catalina Island and back, featuring skiers from up to seventy teams from around the world.

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Parks and Recreation are essential for our well-being and quality of life. They provide a space for physical activity, social interaction, and relaxation.

Local governments often invest in park development to improve residents' health and happiness. This includes creating walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

Parks can also serve as community hubs, hosting events and festivals that bring people together. In fact, many parks have outdoor stages for concerts and performances.

Green spaces like parks have been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. Studies have found that people who live near parks tend to have lower rates of anxiety and depression.

In addition to their physical and mental health benefits, parks also provide opportunities for environmental education and conservation. Many parks offer programs and activities focused on sustainability and wildlife preservation.

By investing in parks and recreation, communities can create a healthier, happier, and more sustainable environment for residents to enjoy.

The Long Beach Marathon is a fantastic event that takes place every year in October. It's a great way to experience the city's scenic routes and community spirit.

The marathon features a variety of races, including a Kids Fun Run, a Bike Tour, 5K, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon. All of these events start and finish around the Shoreline Village area of downtown Long Beach.

25,000 runners and cyclists participated in the 2013 festivities, drawing nearly 50,000 people to the event overall. This shows just how popular the marathon is and how it brings the community together.

The full marathon is a fast Boston qualifying course that passes through sandy beaches, Belmont Shore, and the Cal State Long Beach campus.

The Congressional Cup is a major international sailing event held in April in the United States. It's the only grade 1 match race regatta in the country.

This prestigious event has been around since August 1964 and has grown significantly over the years. Many winners of the Congressional Cup have gone on to win the America's Cup as well.

The one-on-one race format is the same as the America's Cup, making it a challenging and exciting competition. The Congressional Cup is a great example of how sailing can bring people together from around the world.

If you're interested in learning more about sailing, you might want to check out the Leeway Sailing and Aquatics Center on Alamitos Bay in Belmont Shore. This youth sailing program has been around since 1929 and offers a great way to get involved in the sport.

The Catalina Ski Race is another exciting sailing event that takes place in July. This 100-kilometer circuit starts and ends at Long Beach Harbor, making it a thrilling experience for both participants and spectators.

Surfing in Long Beach is a rare occurrence due to a 2.2-mile long breakwater built in 1949 to protect the United States Pacific Fleet.

The breakwater significantly reduces the wave size, making the city's beaches more like a lake than a surfing spot.

In 1938, Long Beach hosted the first National Surfing and Paddleboard Championships, but it's now a distant memory for local surfers.

The breakwater's impact on the surfing scene is so significant that some residents are calling for it to be lowered or eliminated, which could potentially bring back the waves to the city's beaches.

A $100,000 study commissioned by the city in 2019 concluded that making changes to the breakwater would be too costly and could have unintended consequences on the surrounding area.

If you're an archery enthusiast, you'll be happy to know that the archery field in El Dorado Regional Park was the site for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics archery competition.

CSU Long Beach has one of the few remaining university varsity archery teams in California, making it a great place to catch a match or even try out the sport yourself.

The VA Long Beach Healthcare System, which includes the Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center and Cabrillo VA Clinic, is conveniently located near the park, so you can easily combine a day of archery with some outdoor recreation and a visit to the clinic if needed.

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Whale watching is a thrilling experience, especially in Long Beach, California, where you can spot blue whales migrating up the coast each summer.

Blue whales are the largest mammals in nature, making them a sight to behold.

The tour with Harbor Breeze Charters is a great option, lasting about 3 hours in total.

You'll have the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close, as I did when I saw a blue whale surface and dive just 30 minutes into the tour.

The tour also offers a refreshing break from the city, with the opportunity to be out on a boat in the open sea.

Harbor Breeze Charters offers several other tour options, so be sure to check their website to see what's available.

You can also expect to see a pod of hundreds of playful dolphins, many with babies, following along with the boat or playing further out.

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Long Beach is represented by several local and federal government officials. Lena Gonzalez represents the 33rd district in the California State Senate.

The city is split between two California State Assembly districts, the 65th district represented by Democrat Mike Gipson and the 69th district represented by Democrat Josh Lowenthal.

In the United States House of Representatives, Long Beach is split between California's 42nd congressional district, represented by Robert Garcia, and the 44th district, represented by Nanette Barragán.

Long Beach is home to several key government buildings and institutions. The Glenn M. Anderson Long Beach Federal Building houses offices for NOAA and other federal agencies.

You can find the main postal facility for Long Beach at the Long Beach Main Post Office of the U.S. Postal Service. The building serves as a hub for mail and package delivery.

The Long Beach Naval Shipyard was a significant employer in the city, with over 16,000 people working there at its peak in 1945. Unfortunately, the shipyard closed in 1997.

Here's a breakdown of the government agencies and institutions mentioned:

The police department plays a vital role in maintaining law and order in the city. The Long Beach Police Department is responsible for providing law enforcement services to the City of Long Beach.

In many cities, the police department is a crucial part of the local government. The Long Beach Police Department is no exception, working hard to keep the community safe.

The Long Beach Fire Department is a highly rated agency, earning an ISO Class 1 rating.

The department operates out of 23 Fire Stations throughout the city.

Long Beach's fire department serves a massive area of 55 square miles, which is a significant challenge for emergency responders.

With over 500,000 residents, the department must be prepared to handle a high volume of emergency calls.

The Long Beach Fire Department's Marine Safety Division patrols the waterways and beach front areas.

The Marine Safety Division is responsible for managing the safe and lawful use of 9 miles of beaches, 5,300 acres of oceanfront property, waterways, and marinas.

This division operates 9 facilities year-round, with an additional 41 stations during the summer, making it a vital part of the community's safety.

In 2012, lifeguards and other members of the marine safety division responded to an impressive 17,867 calls for service, showcasing their dedication to public safety.

The division has a variety of resources at its disposal, including 6 rescue boats, 7 beach patrols, and a dive rescue unit.

Here's a breakdown of the division's facilities and equipment:

Long Beach has a number of sister cities around the world. These cities are:

It's interesting to note that Long Beach's sister cities are located in different parts of the world, reflecting the city's global connections.

Long Beach, California has a strong educational system with two public institutions dedicated to higher education: California State University, Long Beach and Long Beach City College.

Founded in 1949, California State University, Long Beach is a comprehensive public university located in the tree-filled Los Altos neighborhood.

It's situated just three miles away from the Pacific Ocean, and is known for its resources in the arts, such as the Carpenter Performing Arts Center.

Long Beach City College is a community college that's been around since 1927, with two separate campuses located in the Lakewood Village and Eastside neighborhoods.

Pacific Coast University, a private non-profit law school, is also located in Long Beach.

Long Beach is well-connected to the surrounding areas through its extensive freeway system. The San Diego Freeway (I-405) bisects the city, providing access to the Golden State/Santa Ana Freeways (I-5).

The Long Beach Freeway (I-710) runs north-south on the city's western border, serving as a major route for trucks transporting goods from the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. Its southern terminus is adjacent to the Port of Long Beach on Terminal Island.

The city is also accessible via the Harbor Freeway (I-110) to the west and the San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) to the southeast, which joins the San Diego Freeway at the Long Beach/Los Alamitos border.

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Public transportation is a vital part of modern infrastructure, and it's amazing how much of an impact it can have on our daily lives.

The average American spends around 42 minutes per day commuting, which is a significant chunk of time.

Having a reliable public transportation system can greatly reduce traffic congestion, with cities like Tokyo and Hong Kong boasting some of the lowest traffic congestion rates in the world.

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A well-designed public transportation system can also have a positive impact on the environment, with electric buses and trains being a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

In fact, a study found that a 10% increase in public transportation usage can lead to a 2.5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Cities like New York and London have invested heavily in their public transportation systems, with results showing a significant decrease in traffic congestion and air pollution.

Long Beach is well-connected to the surrounding areas through its extensive freeway system. Several freeways run through the city, including the San Diego Freeway (I-405) which bisects the northern and southern portions of the city.

The San Diego Freeway provides regional access to Long Beach Airport, which is located on the north side of the freeway near Signal Hill. The Long Beach Freeway (I-710) runs north-south on the city's western border, with its southern terminus adjacent to the Port of Long Beach on Terminal Island.

The Long Beach Freeway is a major spur route serving Long Beach from downtown Los Angeles, with its northern terminus near downtown Los Angeles in Alhambra. Along with the Harbor Freeway (I-110) to the west, the Long Beach Freeway is one of the major routes for trucks transporting goods from the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles.

Southeast Long Beach is served by the San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605), which joins the San Diego Freeway at the Long Beach/Los Alamitos border. The Artesia Freeway (SR 91) runs east-west near the northern border of Long Beach.

The Pacific Coast Highway (SR 1) takes an east to southwest route through the southern portion of Long Beach, intersecting with Lakewood Boulevard (SR 19) and Los Coyotes Diagonal at the Los Alamitos Traffic Circle.

Long Beach residents are largely car-dependent, with 73.6 percent commuting by driving alone.

The city's public transportation usage is relatively low, with only 6.2 percent of residents relying on it to get to work.

About 4.6 percent of residents work from home, giving them a convenient alternative to commuting.

Long Beach averages 1.69 cars per household, which is slightly lower than the national average of 1.8 cars per household.

A significant number of households, 10.0 percent, do not own a car, which is higher than the national average of 8.7 percent in 2016.

Long Beach, California has a thriving online presence. Its official website is a great resource for visitors and locals alike.

The city's tourism website, Visit Long Beach, is a one-stop-shop for information on events, attractions, and activities. It's a great place to start planning your trip.

Long Beach is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing local and international talent.

If you're looking to stay informed about what's happening in Long Beach, there are several online news outlets you can check out.

The Long Beach Post is one of them, providing in-depth coverage of local news and events.

Long Beach Local News offers a more concise take on what's happening in the city, with a focus on community news and stories.

The Modern Times of Long Beach offers a unique perspective on local news and culture.

FORTHE is another online news outlet that covers a wide range of topics related to Long Beach.

LBReport.com is a great resource for staying up-to-date on local politics and government news.

Long Beach has a rich online presence, with a strong foundation dating back to its early days as a seaside resort. The city was first settled in 1882 and was soon promoted as a tourist destination, which laid the groundwork for its online presence.

The city's port is one of the world's busiest, with extensive docking and storage facilities connected to the Los Angeles harbour by the Los Cerritos Channel. This has made Long Beach a hub for international trade and commerce.

The city's economy is dominated by manufacturing and services, with diversified industries including oil refining, food processing, and marine research. This diversity has helped the city adapt to changing economic conditions.

Long Beach is home to several popular attractions, including the Aquarium of the Pacific, which features over 12,000 marine animals. The city's annual automobile race is also a major draw for visitors.

The city's online presence is further enhanced by its historic landmarks, such as the Queen Mary, a historic British transatlantic liner that serves as a maritime museum, meeting centre, and hotel.

Long Beach is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to diverse interests. You can explore the RMS Queen Mary, a 1936 Art Deco ocean liner permanently docked at Long Beach, which was purchased by the city in 1967 for conversion to a hotel and maritime museum.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is another must-visit, located on a 5-acre site on Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach. This nonprofit aquarium offers over 50 exhibits, many of them interactive, and is home to the Moon Jellies exhibit where you can gently touch the jellies without getting stung.

If you're interested in history, Rancho Los Alamitos is a 7.5-acre historical site owned by the City of Long Beach, featuring five agricultural buildings, including a working blacksmith's shop, 4 acres of gardens, and an adobe ranch house dating from around 1800. Nearby, Rancho Los Cerritos is a 4.7-acre historical site owned by Long Beach, with adobe buildings dating from the 1880s and a California history research library.

Here are some of the top attractions in Long Beach:

If you're looking for a unique experience, consider visiting the RMS Queen Mary, a 1936 Art Deco ocean liner permanently docked at Long Beach. It's a stunning piece of history that's been converted into a hotel and maritime museum.

The city of Long Beach also has a beautiful Aquarium of the Pacific, located on a 5-acre site on Rainbow Harbor. This incredible aquarium spans over 360,000 square feet of space and features over 100 exhibits, including various habitats, theaters, and animal shows.

If you're interested in history, you'll want to check out Rancho Los Alamitos, a 7.5-acre historical site owned by the City of Long Beach. The site includes five agricultural buildings, a working blacksmith's shop, 4 acres of gardens, and an adobe ranch house dating back to around 1800.

The city also has a charming Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on the campus of California State University, Long Beach. If you're looking for more to see, be sure to check out the Bembridge House, a beautiful Queen Anne Victorian house open for tours.

The Grand Prix is a major event in Long Beach, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year.

It's held every April, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance if you plan to attend.

The Grand Prix has a rich history, dating back to 1975 as a Formula 5000 race on the streets of downtown Long Beach.

It's now an IndyCar race, a change that's been in place since 2009, when it transitioned from a Champ Car event.

During the same weekend as the Grand Prix, you can also catch an IMSA SportsCar Championship race, a Formula D round, and the Pirelli World Challenge.

The Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame is a must-see attraction, located on South Pine Avenue in front of the Long Beach Convention Center.

Each year, the Walk of Fame inducts new members, who receive a 22-inch bronze medallion with a rendition of their car and a list of their top achievements in motor sports.

The Queen Mary is a nearly one-century-old ocean liner permanently docked at Long Beach. It was purchased by the city in 1967 for conversion to a hotel and maritime museum.

The Queen Mary was considered the most beautiful and stately ship in the world at the time of her completion and maiden voyage in 1936. She's been a beloved historical landmark and popular hotel ever since.

You can explore the ship's storied halls and learn about its nearly 100-year history through scheduled tours and onboard exhibits. There's also a variety of educational and unusual tours available, including an after-dark paranormal experiences tour that's getting a lot of national attention.