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.

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.

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.

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.

Founded in 1966, the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), is the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art. Open Wednesday - Sunday, the museum will host the National Reforma Conference fiesta.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.