Long Beach, California, may be best known for its sunny beaches and coastal vibes, but it also boasts a vibrant arts scene that makes it a must-visit destination for art lovers. From colorful street murals and cutting-edge galleries to performing arts venues and outdoor festivals, the city's creative culture is thriving. Whether you're a fan of contemporary art, classic works, or experimental performances, Long Beach has something to inspire every type of art enthusiast.
Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the art scene in Long Beach!
1.
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)
Address: 628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
What to Expect: Start your art journey at the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art. With a focus on artists from across Latin America and the U.S., MOLAA’s collection features a wide range of artistic styles, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations. The museum's outdoor sculpture garden is also a serene place to reflect on the pieces while enjoying the California sunshine.
Highlights: Rotating exhibitions showcasing Latin American and Latino artists, live performances, and an immersive sculpture garden.
2.
Long Beach Museum of Art
Address: 2300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
What to Expect: Perched atop a bluff with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Long Beach Museum of Art is both a cultural and scenic gem. Housed in a historic mansion, this museum offers an intimate setting to explore its impressive collection of 20th-century and contemporary American art. The museum also features European decorative arts and ongoing special exhibitions. After taking in the art, enjoy a meal or coffee at Claire’s at the Museum, a charming restaurant with ocean views.
Highlights: A mix of traditional and modern art, an idyllic coastal setting, and an on-site café with a view.
3.
East Village Arts District
Location: Downtown Long Beach
What to Expect: The East Village Arts District is the beating heart of Long Beach’s creative community. This eclectic neighborhood is filled with galleries, studios, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to wander and explore. Local artists regularly display their work in pop-up galleries, and you'll often find murals and street art adorning the buildings. Whether you're attending an art walk, browsing unique shops, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the East Village is an essential stop for art lovers.
Highlights: The
Art Walk on the second Saturday of every month, independent galleries like
Hellada Gallery and
The Collective, and colorful street art around every corner.
4.
Pow! Wow! Long Beach
Event Location: Citywide
What to Expect: Each summer, Long Beach becomes an open-air canvas during Pow! Wow! Long Beach, an international street art festival that brings together local and international artists to create stunning murals throughout the city. These murals transform public spaces into works of art, and you can take a self-guided tour to find them scattered across Long Beach. The festival not only celebrates visual art but also includes music, workshops, and other cultural events.
Highlights: An impressive collection of vibrant murals, live painting sessions, and community events that engage and inspire.
5. The Art Theatre of Long Beach
Address: 2025 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
What to Expect: Located in the Retro Row neighborhood, the historic Art Theatre of Long Beach is an architectural and artistic treasure. Originally built in 1924, this single-screen, independently owned theater shows an eclectic mix of independent films, art-house cinema, documentaries, and classics. The Art Theatre also hosts occasional live performances and film festivals, making it a hub for both cinematic and performing arts in the city.
Highlights: Catching indie films or classic revivals, enjoying live performances, and admiring the theater's stunning art deco design.
6. Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM)
Address: 695 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
What to Expect: Long Beach is home to a large Pacific Islander community, and the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM) celebrates the art and culture of these communities. PIEAM offers exhibitions that highlight the traditions, customs, and contemporary art of Pacific Islanders. The museum’s collection includes traditional artifacts, textiles, sculptures, and contemporary works by artists of Pacific Island heritage. It’s a unique space where the past and present of Pacific Islander artistry come together.
Highlights: Traditional Pacific Island art and textiles, storytelling events, and exhibitions that explore the intersection of art and cultural identity.
7. Long Beach Open Studio Tour
Location: Various locations throughout Long Beach
What to Expect: For a more intimate look into Long Beach’s thriving artist community, don’t miss the annual Long Beach Open Studio Tour. Each fall, artists throughout the city open their studios to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes peek into their creative processes. This self-guided tour covers neighborhoods across Long Beach, allowing visitors to meet the artists, see works in progress, and even purchase original pieces directly from the makers.
Highlights: Direct access to local artists, the chance to explore diverse styles and mediums, and the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind works.
8.
Street Art: Long Beach’s Open-Air Gallery
Location: Throughout Long Beach
What to Expect: Long Beach is a city where art spills into the streets, with vibrant murals and public art installations spread throughout its neighborhoods. Some of the most striking pieces were created during the Pow! Wow! Long Beach festival, but you’ll find incredible murals in areas like the East Village Arts District, Retro Row, and even around downtown. Each mural has a story to tell, making a casual stroll through the city feel like a journey through a dynamic outdoor gallery.
Highlights: Self-guided walking tours of murals, discovering new pieces, and snapping photos of street art that brings the city to life.
9. Flux Art Space
Address: 410 Termino Ave, Long Beach, CA 90814
What to Expect: Flux Art Space is an intimate contemporary gallery that hosts experimental exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops. This small but impactful space focuses on emerging and mid-career artists who push boundaries and explore new ideas. With rotating exhibitions that often center on current social and cultural themes, Flux Art Space is a great place for those who enjoy thought-provoking and forward-thinking art.
Highlights: Thoughtful and innovative exhibitions, hands-on workshops, and artist talks that dive deep into creative processes.
10.
Art & Cultural Festivals
Location: Citywide (Various Venues)
What to Expect: Long Beach hosts a variety of art and cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing its diverse creative community. From the Long Beach Quilt Festival, which celebrates the art of quilting, to the Long Beach Cambodian Cultural Festival, these events highlight the rich cultural fabric of the city. In addition to traditional festivals, Long Beach also has contemporary art and music festivals like the Music Tastes Good Festival, which combines food, music, and visual arts.
Highlights: A variety of annual art, music, and cultural festivals that celebrate creativity in all forms.
Wrapping Up: A City of Artistic Inspiration
Whether you’re strolling through mural-lined streets, admiring works in a gallery, or soaking in live performances, Long Beach is a city where art thrives. With its diverse array of museums, galleries, public art, and creative festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit. Long Beach’s creative energy is contagious, making it the perfect destination for anyone seeking inspiration, beauty, and a celebration of the arts.
Pro Tips for Your Art-Filled Day:
- Many museums offer free admission on certain days, so check their schedules before you go.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the vibrant murals and street art scattered across the city.
- Plan to visit during an art walk or festival for a more interactive and community-driven experience.
Ready to explore the art scene in Long Beach? Let your creative journey begin!
