Long Beach, California, is a coastal gem known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culture, and laid-back Southern California vibe. Whether you're a visitor or a local, the city offers a mix of exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, and thriving communities. For LGBTQ+ individuals, Long Beach is also renowned for its inclusive atmosphere and robust resources. In this article, we'll explore the highlights of the city and guide you through the essential LGBTQ+ resources available in the area.
City Highlights: What to See and Do in Long Beach
The Beach and Shoreline Village
Long Beach's waterfront is one of its most celebrated features, offering stunning views and plenty of activities. Whether you're into lounging on the sand, biking along the shoreline, or exploring the vibrant Shoreline Village with its charming shops and restaurants, the beach is the perfect place to relax. The Long Beach Boardwalk and the beautiful parks near the water provide a scenic space for people of all walks of life to enjoy.
The Queen Mary
A visit to Long Beach wouldn't be complete without touring the Queen Mary, a retired British ocean liner turned museum. This iconic ship offers a glimpse into history with exhibits on its past as a luxury liner, as well as a unique experience of its haunted history. You can also enjoy upscale dining aboard the Queen Mary, or even take part in themed events like the famous Queen Mary Dark Harbor Halloween event.
Arts and Culture
Long Beach is home to a thriving arts community. The city boasts a range of museums, galleries, and performance spaces, including the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), the Long Beach Museum of Art, and the Art Theatre of Long Beach. The city’s public art initiatives are also impressive, with murals and sculptures scattered throughout the downtown area. For those interested in theater, the Long Beach Playhouse and the Carpenter Center for the Performing Arts offer a variety of performances throughout the year.
Dining and Nightlife
Long Beach is a melting pot of flavors, from fresh seafood to Latin-inspired cuisine and innovative Asian dishes. Popular dining areas include Pine Avenue, 2nd Street, and Belmont Shore, where you’ll find everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, lounges, and nightclubs for those who want to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink. You’ll find several LGBTQ+ friendly spots here as well, making it easy to find a welcoming space to enjoy the evening.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
With its warm climate and access to the coast, Long Beach is an ideal city for outdoor lovers. There are plenty of parks to explore, including El Dorado Park, one of the largest parks in the city, and the sprawling Bluff Park along the coast. Long Beach also offers access to sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with rental shops located throughout the city. If you’re into hiking, the nearby San Gabriel Mountains provide numerous trails with beautiful views.
LGBTQ+ Resources in Long Beach
Long Beach is widely recognized as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in California, if not the U.S. It has a rich history of LGBTQ+ activism, and the community continues to thrive with numerous resources, events, and services. Here’s a guide to some of the key LGBTQ+ resources in Long Beach:
The Long Beach LGBTQ Center
The Long Beach LGBTQ Center is the city's central hub for LGBTQ+ services, offering a variety of programs and resources to support the community. From mental health services and support groups to educational programs and social events, the Center provides a space for connection and empowerment. It also runs LGBTQ+ youth programs, offers support for people living with HIV/AIDS, and works to create a more inclusive city through advocacy and community engagement.
PrideFest and Long Beach Pride Parade
Long Beach Pride, one of the most notable LGBTQ+ events in Southern California, is a celebration of inclusivity and diversity. Held annually in May, the festival includes a vibrant Pride Parade, a weekend of performances, a marketplace, and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded people. Long Beach Pride is an event that brings the entire city together in support of the LGBTQ+ community. With its positive, festive atmosphere, it’s a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike.
LGBTQ+ Bars and Nightlife
Long Beach is home to a variety of LGBTQ+-friendly bars and nightclubs. From the iconic The Appollo Nightclub, a mainstay in the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, to the more relaxed and laid-back Trendy Bar, Long Beach offers a range of spaces where everyone can feel comfortable. Other popular spots include The LGBT Center’s Rainbow Room and The Queen’s Bar, which are known for their welcoming atmosphere and community spirit.
The Lavender Scare Historical Walk
For those interested in learning about the city’s LGBTQ+ history, the Lavender Scare Historical Walk is an informative and enlightening experience. This guided tour takes participants through key landmarks in Long Beach that have historical significance to the LGBTQ+ community. It highlights the efforts of activists who fought for equality and justice, making it an important way to connect with the city’s LGBTQ+ heritage.
LGBTQ+ Healthcare Services
Long Beach offers a range of healthcare services specifically tailored to the LGBTQ+ community. The UCLA Health Long Beach and The LGBT Center provide comprehensive health services, including LGBTQ+-inclusive care, HIV prevention, mental health support, and services for transgender individuals. Additionally, the city has several LGBTQ+ friendly therapists, support groups, and health resources that help individuals navigate their well-being in a supportive environment.
LGBTQ+ Youth Support
Long Beach is home to several organizations focused on supporting LGBTQ+ youth. The Long Beach Unified School District works with LGBTQ+ students through its GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) programs, providing a safe and supportive environment for young people. The Long Beach LGBTQ Youth Center offers resources like safe spaces, educational workshops, and a peer-support network for LGBTQ+ youth. Additionally, the Trevor Project, which is accessible to Long Beach residents, provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.
Long Beach, California, is a city that thrives on inclusivity, diversity, and community. Whether you’re enjoying the beautiful beaches, exploring the arts scene, or taking part in the city’s rich LGBTQ+ culture, there’s something for everyone in this coastal city. With numerous resources and organizations dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, Long Beach is an ideal place for people to connect, celebrate, and live authentically.
If you're planning to visit or make Long Beach your home, the city's vibrant energy and welcoming spirit will make you feel right at home. From Pride events to healthcare resources and LGBTQ+-friendly businesses, Long Beach continues to be a shining example of what it means to be a diverse, inclusive city.
