Local Guide
With warm weather and blue skies year-round, many Long Beach restaurants offer excellent dining where diners can soak in the Southern California sunshine alongside some of the region’s most tantalizing cuisine.
NRC VII attendees can take advantage of the Show Your Badge discount program at businesses around the city, including restaurants, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Queen Mary.
Long Beach, CA - Dining - Entertainment - Shopping - LGBTQ+
Long Beach, California
Long Beach is located on the Pacific Coast in Southern California, approximately 25 miles south of Los Angeles. It is the seventh largest city in California with a population of over 470,000, and is one of the most diverse and walkable cities in the nation.
Long Beach, a city rich in history and diversity, boasts an eclectic and dynamic mix of neighborhoods. According to 2020 Census data, 47% of Long Beach residents identify as Latinx or Hispanic, primarily residing in central, west and north areas of the city. Long Beach is also notable for Cambodia Town, a neighborhood which boasts the largest population of Cambodians outside of Cambodia.
Long Beach is one of the “Gayest Cities in America” according to The Advocate and the city earned a perfect score of 100 +11 bonus points on the 2021 Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index. The Long Beach community is committed to supporting its LGBTQ+ residents, with an annual Pride Festival, as well as The Center which provides health, legal, and social services to residents who identify as LGBTQ+. Along the Broadway Corridor Long Beach boasts a variety of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops which are LGBTQ+ owned and operated, affectionately known as the “gayborhood,” a landmark of Long Beach nightlife.
Long Beach is a refreshing mix of urban sophistication with the atmosphere of a beach resort. Offering affordable, big city amenities alongside the visitor friendly charm of a small town, visitors will find first-class accommodations, shopping, dining, and notable attractions such as The Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, seaside sightseeing along picturesque bays and 5 ½ miles of sandy beachfront.
Situated conveniently between Orange County/Anaheim and Los Angeles, Long Beach also offers a great value as a base for seeing the rest of Southern California. The award-winning Long Beach Airport (LGB) was named the third easiest and most convenient airport in the country.
Fun Facts about Long Beach
On average, the city has 345 days of sunshine each year, and the temperatures are 74 degrees Fahrenheit.
Long Beach is considered one of the most walkable cities in the U.S.
Within eight blocks of Downtown Long Beach, there are over 125 restaurants where visitors can eat.
The parks in Long Beach are some of the best in the nation and consistently winners of the Gold Medal Award from the National Association for Excellence in Parks and Recreation Management. The Long Beach Public Library is a 2017 Recipient of National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
Long Beach was originally named “Wilmore City,” but because of its long, wide beaches it was renamed “Long Beach” in 1888.
The original Queen Mary has been docked as the historic centerpiece of Long Beach harbor since 1967. It is now out of commission and has been transformed as an exclusive club and restaurant, and occasionally hosts concerts too.
The eye-catching large white dome next to the Queen Mary stands 115 feet high and 400 feet wide and is the world’s largest, free-span aluminum geodesic structure. It was specifically designed to house Howard Hughes’ giant flying boat, the Spruce Goose. The Spruce Goose is no longer located within the dome, which now serves as the Long Beach Cruise Terminal at the Queen Mary.
Long Beach has been named as one of the best cities for young people to live. 17% of the people living in Long Beach are between the ages of 25 and 34.
Long Beach is a popular location for filming television and movies, including features such as Iron Man, Knight and Day, Transformers 2 and 3 and the latest Star Trek movie. Located less than 30 miles from Hollywood production studios, the city has been the backdrop for several TV shows, including Miami for Dexter and CSI Miami. NCIS: Los Angeles, True Blood and Criminal Minds have also been filmed.
Long Beach is the childhood home of famous athletes and celebrities including tennis legend Billie Jean King and baseball hall-of-famer Tony Gwynn, actor Nicolas Cage, actress Cameron Diaz, actress Bo Derek, singer Jenny Rivera, comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias and rapper Snoop Dogg.
Dining
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Looking for a complete oceanfront experience? Parker’s Lighthouse is a must. Known for its mesquite grilled fresh seafood, and stunning ocean views. It is popular with both tourists and locals. Wine lovers don’t want to miss Parker’s extensive wine list.
One of the oldest breweries in California. Belmont Brewing Company will not disappoint beer aficionados. A casual beach vib, this venue has an ocean front location with nice views and easy parking.
Located in the center of the ever popular 2nd Street bustle & hustle, this Lebanese restaurant is everybody’s favorite spot for excellent Middle Eastern food. An intimate Middle Eastern ambiance and high quality food make Open Sesame Grill a great place for lunch or dinner.
Looking for a gourmet night out? The Attic, a Michelin noted venue, uses only local, seasonal ingredients, while creating a menu centered on New American cuisine with southern traditions. The Attic is located in a lovely 1920s craftsman style home. Dinner at The Attic is like going to Sunday dinner.
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Looking for classic Mexican cuisine? Lola’s is the place. Located on Retro Row, where shopping abounds, this cozy restaurant offers everything from Mexico city street corn, guacamole, taquitos, to carne asada and birria and a wide variety of moles.
This venue provides a wide selection of Spanish cuisine including ceviches, Spanish tortilla and wonderful main entrees! For the late night partiers, Cafe Sevilla, is the place for you. It offers live music, dancing and late night dining. Additionally, you may want to book a night when local talent performs flamenco.
Located in the heart of downtown Long Beach, with a great Latin menu and bar, you won’t want to miss Alegria Cocina Latina. Whether you come for lunch, dinner, drinks or brunch you will enjoy good food in an elegant surroundings.
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Sophy’s is one of the most popular Cambodian restaurants in Long Beach’s Cambodia Town. Serving home made style food you won’t soon forget in a casual venue. Prices are surprisingly low plus there are happy hour deals.
Serving a blend of Cambodian and Chinese food Hak Heang offers generous portions at reasonable prices.Reviewers praise the crispy fried intestines, authentic Khmer flavors, and quick service at Hak Heang Restaurant. Whether you're a fan of seafood dishes or prefer classic Cambodian fare, this restaurant has something to satisfy your cravings.
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Located in the heart of Long Beach, Higher Taste, Plant-Based serves up comforting vegan meals that you’ll love. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, grabbing a quick bite with, or ordering in, Higher Taste has got something for everyone. A colorful, laid-back space is the perfect spot to enjoy plant-based burgers, nachos, bowls, and other dishes that make eating vegan feel satisfying and fun.
The Wild Chive is all about serving up delicious, handcrafted plant-based dishes that feel like a warm hug. The menu is packed with comfort food that will fill you up and keep you smiling. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or gathering with friends for a cozy brunch they have something for everyone.
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You can’t leave Long Beach without visiting Gusto Bread! This Latinx owned artisanal panadería offersa variety of freshly baked goods (loaves, flatbreads, long breads, conchas, cookies, nixtamal queens, pan de maiz, alfajores, etc), aguas frescas and café de olla made from scratch, a curated selection of specialty foods (chocolate, seafood, beans), and other handmade items. A 2024 James Beard Foundation nominee, Gusto Bread, has been praised by the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Food & Wine magazine.
Entertainment
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Aquarium of the Pacific
A visit to Long Beach wouldn’t be complete without spending time at the Aquarium of the Pacific. The aquarium, which is the largest in Southern California, is within walking distance of the conference hotel. It displays approximately 12,000 animals and more than 100 exhibits that celebrate the Pacific Ocean. Timed tickets or advanced reservations are required for weekends and holidays. They are strongly recommended for weekday visits.
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Battleship USS Iowa Museum
USS Iowa is the last class of battleships built in the world. Armored and fast, her service in WWII, Korea, and the Cold War, earned her eleven battle stars. Open daily, you can choose between a guided or self-guided tour. Booking in advance is recommended but not required. Enjoy a hot dog, beverage, and a waterfront view at Vicky’s Doghouse Cafe, the world’s only gourmet hot dog cafe aboard a battleship.
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Queen Mary
Launched in 1936 from Southampton, England, the Queen Mary was considered the height of luxury in transatlantic travel. Currently anchored in Long Beach, the Queen Mary, is an award-winning hotel, home to a variety of dining experiences, and a gateway to thrilling historical and paranormal tours, both guided and self-guided. VIP tours offer behind-the-scenes access to the ship. A Spanish language tour entitled Glory Days is also available on selected days.
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Long Beach Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
Savor an elegant 2 hour mimosa brunch on the Rainbow Harbor with Long Beach’s premier brunch cruise. Besides mimosas, the tour offers cocktails, chef-prepared menus, top-notch service, and live entertainment while you soak in the views of Long Beach from the water. You’ll delight in awe-inspiring sights, like the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Lion Lighthouse. This is an experience that will be long treasured.
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Catalina Island
Catalina Island is just an hour away with year-round boat transportation with numerous daily departures from Long Beach. Catalina Express’ fleet of eight fast, modern boats make for a quick, easy and fun getaway. Experience the picturesque town of Avalon filled with activities on land and sea and beautiful beaches. From scenic beauty, high adventure activities, great rest and relaxation, Catalina Island has it all. Take the trip for a day, or stay overnight.
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Harbor Breeze Cruises
Want to go whale watching or just take a harbor tour? Book your cruise with Harbor Breeze. Their custom-built double-deck luxury whale watching vessels are U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified. They are safe, and complete with seating, snack bar, lavatories, salon, and plenty of outside viewing room for everyone.
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Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Film buffs will appreciate the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, located adjacent to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, and the Peterson Automotive Museum. The museum highlights historical, as well as contemporary films. Besides the Academy Awards exhibit that always delights, the Bong Joon Ho exhibition opened in March 2025, is dedicated to the internationally acclaimed, Oscar®–winning film director of Parasite. Reservations can be made in advance but are not required. Have a gourmet lunch or dinner at Fanny’s, which is in the museum lobby.
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Disneyland
Disneyland is a major Southern California attraction and needs no introduction. Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, features two amazing theme parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Make the most of your visit with a multi-day ticket and see what both parks have to offer.
Please plan ahead for travel to and from, and allocate at least one full day if you want to visit Disneyland or Disney California Adventure. Use the theme park reservation system to select your day and and park.
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Long Beach Museum of Art
Located on a magnificent bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Long Beach Museum of Art features a historic mansion, expansive galleries, gardens, ocean front dining at Claire’s at the Museum and a unique Museum Store featuring local vendors.Description goes here
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The Art Theatre
The Art Theatre originally opened in 1924 as a single screen silent movie house, complete with an orchestra pit, and pipe organ. At that time, there were over 50 independent theaters in Long Beach, today only the Art remains.
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Outer Limits Tattoo
Outer Limits Tattoo in Long Beach is the oldest continously operated tattoo shop in America and the second oldest in the world. The inside of this gorgeous shop is a feast for those who appreciate history and vintage details. It is a world class tattoo shop, historical site, & tattoo museum collection.
Shopping
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Shoreline Village
Shoreline Village offers the total waterfront experience. Both casual and fine dining options abound. Close to the conference hotel, everyone will find something to delight in within the village.
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The Pike Outlets
The Pike Outlets, known locally as The Pike, is a shopping and well-known chain dining destination located near the conference hotel and next to the Convention Center. The Pike is next to the iconic Ferris Wheel, the Cinemark Movie Theater, and the Spillman Carousel.
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4th Street Retro Row
Looking for an eclectic area for dining, shopping, and entertainment? 4th Street Retro Row is home to over 100 independent, unique, and alternative businesses. Some of the best restaurants in the City will be found here including Alder & Sage for breakfast or lunch.
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2nd & PCH
A spectacular outdoor mall, 2nd & PCH is situated on the bay, has something for everyone. Many excellent culinary options for a variety of budgets include The Bungalow, Nobel Bird Rostisserie, Urban Plates, and the Shake Shack.
LGBTQ+
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Broadway Corridor
Long Beach is considered one of the gayest cities in the U.S. according to the Advocate. Visitors will find bars, dining, and businesses that are LGBTQ+ along the Broadway Corridor, which starts east of downtown and stretches to Belmont Shores.
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Hamburger Mary’s
Hamburger Mary’s is a world famous establishment that features drag events for dinner and brunch! Seats fill up fast, be sure to make a reservation ahead of time for their Dining with Divas or Drag Brunch.