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San Jose, California

A- Overview:
Best known for its sunshine and its ties to technology, San Jose has much to offer even the most discriminating traveler. Whether for business or pleasure, this beautiful California city has something for everyone. With over 300 days of sunshine, near perfect weather, a multitude of sites to see and, not to mention, the opportunity to play Monopoly on a 930 square foot board, as well as its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, it makes this a must see destination for anyone traveling to northern California.

It is hard to remember when looking at San Jose today that it is the oldest civil settlement in California, founded back in 1777. It was also the first capital of California, even before California became an official state and at one time was a thriving agricultural area. Few remnants of that period remain. Instead, there are a host of new things to see and do.

No matter what time of year for a visit, beautiful California weather awaits. Summer tends to be the busiest season as tourists from around the world come to visit the area, enjoying its wonderful scenery, weather, entertainment and attractions. Summer daytime temperatures reach into the mid 80’s F. but with very little humidity it’s quite comfortable. It’s the perfect time for taking advantage of the many outdoor activities available. Spring and fall are pleasant, although cooler. Spring brings the average temperature to about 60 F and fall is slightly higher. Although there is a winter season, the daytime temperatures rarely fall below 60 F, making it an ideal time to take advantage of the beautiful scenery.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting this California city is that “California Casual” is the dress code for daytime and most evening outings. From November until spring, a light sweater is advisable during the day and a light jacket for the evenings.

The History Museum gives visitors a feel for what it was like when California’s first settlement was established back in the late 1700’s. Guests can enjoy the 14 acre facility with a park-like setting including 27 original and reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the culture and history of San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. The museum is unique with paved streets, running trolleys and an old-fashioned ice cream and even a candy parlor.

Known for its ties to technology, San Jose also offers tours of the Tech Museum of Innovation where Technology from Silicon Valley and beyond comes alive. This unique museum features interactive exhibits for all ages. The Tech is a place that’s about real technology . . . changing the way people work and play, creating, harnessing, and sharing information about how we innovate, how we do things differently. It features over 250 interactive exhibits as well as an Imax Dome Theater.

For a little outdoor activity, a must visit attraction is Kelly Park. The park is home to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, the Japanese Friendship Garden and the San Jose Historical Museum. Visitors may enjoy a train ride, picnicking, a beautiful lawn and shade tree areas or a walk through the tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden. For those looking for more activity, visit the zoo, amusement park and play area of Happy Hollow. For a unique adventure, try a game of Monopoly on a 930 square foot board at Guadalupe River Park. Be sure to bring a camera for this once-in-a-lifetime picture.

For a day trip, be sure to visit Paramount’s Great America and Six Flags Marine World. Both are just minutes away from San Jose and offer fun and adventure for the entire family. Great America is a universe of Nickelodeon fun, friends, and adventures that burst into life daily. The stars on Nickelodeon, one of the networks preferred by kids, come to life at one of Northern California’s favorite theme parks for family fun and thrills. Marine World is the country’s only combination wildlife park, oceanarium and theme park featuring over 30 thrilling rides, 35 exotic animal attractions and 10 great shows. Of course, historic and beautiful San Francisco is also only an hour away.

San Jose showcases a mix of world class cultural and performing arts, name brand stores and quaint boutiques, superb dining, exciting night life, great sporting events and outdoor activities, year-round cultural events and festivities, many historic sites, thrilling theme parks, varied points of interest, and beautiful climate year-round. It’s no wonder it has been an ongoing recipient of numerous honors and awards, and has become a stomping ground for millions of visitors each year. Wouldn’t you like to be one of them?

B- City Information:
Population: 894,943

Elevation: 87 feet above sea level

Land Area: 174.9 square miles

Location: Located in the northwest section of California, San Jose is the gateway to the Bay area: It is 45 minutes south of San Francisco and 70 minutes north of Monterrey

Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (when it’s noon in San Jose, it’s 2pm in Chicago and 3pm in New York City). San Jose observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
50.1
53.5
56.1
59.6
63.9
68.3
70.8
70.8
69.3
63.8
55.1
49.7

High temperature (°F)
59.0
63.0
66.4
71.6
76.3
81.6
84.3
83.9
82.0
75.6
65.0
58.6

Low temperature (°F)
41.3
44.1
45.8
47.7
51.3
55.0
57.4
57.5
56.4
51.9
45.2
40.6

Precipitation (in)
3.3
3.1
2.8
1.1
0.5
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.9
1.8
2.2

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
9
9
8
5
3
1
0
0
1
3
6
8

Wind speed (mph)
6.5
6.8
7.9
8.2
8.7
9.2
8.4
7.9
7.0
6.0
5.6
6.0

Morning humidity (%)
91
89
86
82
79
75
73
75
76
79
87
89

Afternoon humidity (%)
69
60
52
42
36
31
29
29
31
37
56
67

Sunshine (%)
48
65
75
83
90
94
97
96
93
87
66
48

Days clear of clouds
7
8
10
13
17
22
27
26
24
19
11
8

Partly cloudy days
6
7
9
9
9
6
3
4
4
6
8
6

Cloudy days
19
13
12
8
5
2
1
1
2
6
12
17

Snowfall (in)
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0

Local Seasons:

With 300 sunny days per year and an average annual temperature of 70 degrees F, San Jose is alive with activity year round. The summer tends to be the busiest season as tourists from around the world come to visit the entire area, enjoying its wonderful scenery, weather, entertainment and attractions. Summer daytime temperatures reach into the mid 80’s F but with very little humidity it’s quite comfortable. Perfect for taking advantage of the many outdoor activities available. In the evening, the temperature drops into the 50’s, just cool enough for a leisurely stroll after dinner at one of the areas fine restaurants. Spring and fall are pleasant, although cooler, as well. Spring brings the average temperature to about 60 F and fall is slightly higher. Although there is a winter season, the daytime temperatures rarely fall below 60 F, making it an ideal time to take advantage of the beautiful scenery. One thing to keep in mind when visiting this California city is that “California Casual” is the dress code for daytime and most evening outings. From November until spring, a light sweater is advisable during the day and a light jacket for the evenings. It’s the perfect setting for a perfect visit.

How to Get There:

By Air

San Jose International Airport – Norman Y Mineta

408-501-7600

Conveniently located only three miles from downtown San Jose, the airport is served by many of the national and internationally recognized airlines as well as certain local and regional carriers.

Ground Transportation:

Rental car companies, limousine service, taxis, light rail, bus, and shuttle services are available at the airport as well as throughout the city

By Car

Easily accessible from the north via Highway 101 (San Francisco) or I-880 (Oakland) or from the south via I-880, San Jose is easy to find.

By Train

Amtrak

65 Cahill Street
San Jose, CA 95110

800-USA-RAIL

By Bus

Greyhound

70 S Almaden Ave.
San Jose, CA 95113

408-295-4151

How to Get Around:

As with most California cities, the best way to get around is by car, either personal or rental. Getting to and around by car is effortless via four major freeways (Highway 101, Interstate 280, 880 and 680). In addition there is a modern public transportation system. Caltrain, light rail and a fleet of buses navigate throughout San José and into neighboring cities, and reasonably priced rental cars and taxi services are also available.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day- Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day- 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day- 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day- last Mon. in May

Independence Day- July 4

Labor Day- 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day- 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day- Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve- Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:

Emma Prusch Farm Park

647 S King Road
San Jose, CA 95116
408-926-5555

Hours: Park hours are daily from 8:30am until sunset

Admission Charged

Emma Prusch Farm Park is the result of a generous gift from one of San Jose’s pioneer families. The property was deeded to the City of San Jose with the understanding that it become a center for learning about the region’s agricultural past.

Children’s Discovery Museum San Jose

180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110-2780
408-298-5437
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Children’s Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum featuring over 150 interactive exhibits.

Children of all ages are invited to test, prod, taste, crank and tinker in the striking purple building in Discovery Meadow.

Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies

One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192
408-924-4590

Hours: Open Monday – Friday, 1pm – 5pm

Admission Charged

One of the largest collections of first and early editions of Beethoven’s music outside of Europe.

Mexican Heritage Corporation

1700 Alum Rock Avenue
San Jose, CA 95116
408-928-5510

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

The heart and soul of cultural arts can be found at the Mexican Heritage Plaza, located in the oldest and largest Mexican-American community in East San José. Capturing the spirit of Mexican traditions creates a gateway to culture history, literary arts, and visual performance. Roam the historic Chinampa, floating gardens, view contemporary art in the exhibition galleries, or enjoy one of the many theatrical performances in a 500-seat state-of-the-art-theatre.

Peralta Adobe – Fallon House Historic Site

175 West St. John
San Jose, CA 95110
408-993-8182

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

This historic site offers a unique look into San Jose’s Mexican and Spanish history through the daily lives of two prominent early San Jose families.

The adobe, built in 1797, is the city’s oldest address and the last remaining structure from El Pueblo de San Jose & de Guadalupe. Across the street, the lavish 1855 Fallon House was home to one of San Jose’s early mayors, Thomas Fallon. The mansion showcases 15 fully-furnished Victorian period rooms and also features an exhibit on Santa Clara Valley.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

1342 Naglee Ave.
San Jose, CA 95191
408-947-3635

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, architecturally inspired by the Temple of Amon at Karnak, houses the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts on exhibit in the western United States — including objects from pre dynastic times through Egypt’s early Islamic era.

San Jose Historical Museum

1650 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112
408-287-2290

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The San Jose Historical Museum consists of 25 acres with 27 original and reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the culture and history of San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. The museum is unique with paved streets, running trolleys and an old-fashioned Ice Cream and Candy Parlor, and a museum gift shop.

San Jose Museum of Art

110 South Market Street
San Jose, CA 95113
408-271-6880

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The San Jose Museum of Art presents a full range of exhibitions with a focus on works created during the 20th Century, including painting, sculpture, installations, photography, works on paper, and video.

San Jose Museum of Quilts

110 Paseo de San Antonio
San Jose, CA 95112
408-971-0323

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am – 5pm, Thursday: 10am – 8pm

Admission Charged

Regularly changing exhibits of quilts and textiles from around the world as well as the Museum’s own collection.

Tech Museum of Innovation

201 South Market Street
San Jose, CA 95113
408-294-8324

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Technology from Silicon Valley and beyond comes alive in this unique museum featuring interactive exhibits for all ages. The Tech is a place about real technology . . . changing the way people work and play, create, harness and share information, how we innovate, how we do things differently. Featuring over 250 interactive exhibits and the Hackworth IMAX Dome Theater.

Alum Rock Park

16240 Alum Rock Ave
San Jose, CA 95127
408-259-5477

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free

Alum Rock Park is California’s first and oldest municipal park, featuring 720 acres of natural, rugged beauty where visitors can enjoy many leisure outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, family and group picnics. The park has approximately 13 miles of trails including six miles of horse trails and six miles of bicycle trails. A privately operated riding stable offers trail rides in the park. In addition, there are two children’s playgrounds and a Visitor Center. Alum Rock Park is also home to the Youth Science Institute.

Kelley Park

1300 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112
408-277-4191

Hours: Park hours are daily from 8am to one-half hour after sunset

Admission Charged

Kelley Park is the home to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, the Japanese Friendship Garden and the San Jose Historical Museum. Visitors may enjoy a train ride, picnicking, beautiful lawn and shade tree areas or a walk through the tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden. For those looking for more activity, visit the zoo, amusement park and play area of Happy Hollow or step back in time to the historic 1800s of San Jose at the Historical Museum.

Monopoly in the Park

Guadalupe River Park
San Jose, CA 95112
408-995-MITP

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Monopoly in the Park is said to be the world’s biggest version of the most popular board game ever, and is San Jose’s new “larger than life” attraction. Here in the park, the real estate market is always booming, as property is traded on a 930-square foot permanent Monopoly board. Now everyone has a chance to make it big in Silicon Valley real estate.

San Jose Municipal Rose Garden

Naglee Avenue and Dana Avenue
San Jose, CA
408-277-5422

Hours: Open 8am to one-half hour after sunset

Admission Free

San Jose’s 5.5-acre Municipal Rose Garden (a one-time prune orchard) is exclusively devoted to shrubs of the rose family and features more than 3,500 rose shrubs with 189 varieties represented, including several miniature varieties. The Garden also features new rose varieties, serving as a test site for new roses before release to the general public. A favorite time to visit is early May when the acres of fragrant, majestic roses are at their most beautiful stage.

Nearby Fun:

Bonfante Gardens Family Theme Park

3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
408-840-7100

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Bonfante Gardens Family Theme Park combines the beauty of magnificent gardens with the appeal and excitement of a traditional family theme park. The park features 19 rides and 21 attractions, geared toward families with young children and garden lovers.

Paramount’s Great America

Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95052
408-988-1776

Hours: Varies by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

A universe of Nickelodeon fun, friends, and adventures burst into life at Paramount’s Great America. The stars on Nickelodeon, the network preferred by kids, come to life at one of Northern California’s favorite theme parks for family fun and thrills.

The Boardwalk

400 Beach St
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831-423-5590

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Free, charge for attractions

The Boardwalk is a half-mile long historic amusement park next to Santa Cruz’s mile long main beach. It includes more than 34 rides and attractions (featuring two national historic landmarks: the 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster and the 1911 Looff Carousel plus plenty of modern ride thrills), dozens of restaurants, shops, games, indoor arcades, and miniature golf.

Six Flags Marine World

2001 Marine World Parkway
Vallejo, CA 94589
707-644-4000

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Six Flags Marine World is home to America’s Favorite Thrills! It’s the country’s only combination wildlife park, oceanarium and theme park featuring over 30 thrilling rides, 35 exotic animal attractions and 10 great shows.

Blackhawk Museum

3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle
Danville, CA 95406
925-736-2277

Hours: Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am – 5pm, and holidays with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day

Admission Charged

Smithsonian affiliate with changing exhibits/artifacts from Smithsonian collections: large galleries with over 100 of the world’s greatest autos dating from the 1890’s.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Children’s Discovery Museum San Jose

180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
408-298-5437
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Children’s Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum featuring over 150 interactive exhibits.

Children of all ages are invited to test, prod, taste, crank and tinker in the striking purple building in Discovery Meadow.

History San Jose

1650 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112
408-287-2290

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Historical Museum is a 14 acre facility with a park-like setting including 27 original and reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the culture and history of San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. The museum is unique with paved streets, running trolleys and an old-fashioned ice cream and candy parlor and cafe, and a museum gift shop. The museum offers tours.

Tech Museum of Innovation

201 South Market Street
San Jose, CA 95113
408-294-8324

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Kelley Park

1300 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112
408-277-4191

Hours: Park hours are daily from 8am to one-half hour after sunset

Admission Charged

Monopoly in the Park

Guadalupe River Park
San Jose, CA 95112
408-995-MITP

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Monopoly in the Park has been called the world’s biggest version of the most popular board game ever, and is San Jose’s new “larger than life” attraction. Here in the park, the real estate market is always booming, as property is traded on a 930-square foot permanent Monopoly board. Now everyone has a chance to make it big in Silicon Valley real estate.

Nearby Fun:

Paramount’s Great America

Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95052
408-988-1776

Hours: Varies by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Six Flags Marine World

2001 Marine World Parkway
Vallejo, CA 94589
707-644-4000

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events & Entertainment

January

Quilt National

Held in early January

Location: Museum of Quilts and Textiles

408-971-0323

The San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles hosts Quilt National, the only West Coast venue for this innovative and inventive modern-day salon for contemporary quilt art.

San Jose International Auto Show

Held in early January

Location: San Jose McEnery Convention Center

An annual exhibition of over 350 vehicles from more than 36 manufacturers. See the latest offerings from the auto industry as well as factory concepts, specialty vehicles, race cars and accessory arcade.

Spectator Sports

Held late January – mid February

Location: Kids Park

A week of favorite sports. Decorate a colorful pennant, make a football pin, or play a game of indoor hockey. Ready, set, go for a week of fun and fitness.

February

Spectator Sports

Held late January – mid February

Location: Kids Park

A week of favorite sports. Decorate a colorful pennant, make a football pin, or play a game of indoor hockey. Ready, set, go for a week of Fun and fitness.

April

Post Street Mardi Gras

Held in April

Location: Post Street, San Jose

408- 885-9283

One of the West Coast’s largest Mardi Gras Celebration is located in downtown San Jose. “The Post St. Mardi Gras”. Experience a cross between New Orleans and San Jose bringing music, dance, theatrics, food and costumes with a “New Orleans Bourbon Street” ambience that only San Jose’s historical Post Street can provide.

July

Summer Festival

Held in early July

Location: Bus Barn Theatre

Bus Barn Stage Company’s annual adventurous summer festival, where they present seldom seen one person shows, premiere staged reading of new plays, and explore concert productions of rare musicals.

October

Arab Film Festival

Held in mid October

Location: Park Avenue, San Jose

415-564-1100

This is the Bay Area’s largest event spotlighting a variety of films and videos reflecting different aspects of the Arab world.

November

Christmas in the Park

Held in late November

Location: Caesar Chavez Park

Celebrate 25 years of holiday magic on November 26, when Christmas in the Park and the Annual City Tree Lighting takes place in downtown San Jose’s Plaza de Cesar Chavez at 5:30pm.

Winter Wonderland

Held in late November – early January

Location: Downtown San Jose

The 60 foot tall classic Ferris Wheel and the colorful, old-fashioned Carousel make this a must-do tradition for the family year after year. The festive lights of the Winter Wonderland brighten up downtown from the San Jose Repertory Plaza, the Fairmont Paseo, to the corner of San Carlos and First St.

Gingerbread Contest Exhibition

Held late November – early January

Location: Coyote Museum

650-340-7573

Let your imagination run wild with your gingerbread creations! Everyone is invited to participate: Individuals of all ages, families, youth groups, schools, businesses and clubs.

Entertainment

American Harp Society

Los Gatos, CA
408-370-7728

Call for performance schedule and additional information

San Jose Repertory Theatre

101 Paseo de San Antonio
San Jose, CA 95113

408-367-7266

Call for performance schedule

The South Bay’s only fully professional residential theater company offering a wide variety of contemporary and classic plays.

South Bay Guitar Society

19 N. 2nd Street, # 102
San Jose, CA 95113
408-292-0704

Call for performance schedule

The South Bay Guitar Society hosts concerts and events for fans of the classical guitar, as well as more general interest guitar events.

Sports:

San Jose Earthquakes

Professional Soccer

408-260-6300

Call for game schedule

San Jose Giants

Class A Minor League baseball

Games played at Municipal Stadium

408-297-1435

Season runs April – September, call for schedule

Class A Minor League affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

San Jose Saber Cats

Professional Arena Football

Games played at the HP Pavilion

408-573-5588

Season runs April – August, call for game schedule

Professional arena football played in the HP Pavilion at San Jose.

San Jose Sharks

Professional Ice Hockey

Games played at the HP Pavilion

408-287-4275

Season runs October – April, call for game schedule

Professional Ice Hockey League games played in the HP Pavilion at San Jose.

San Jose Spitfires

Ladies Professional Baseball

800-729-8700
Call for location and game schedule

San Jose Stealth

Member of the National Lacrosse League

408-999-5700

8 home games played in the HP Pavilion

Call for schedule

Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States today, and after attending one game, you’ll understand why – it’s fast, exciting, and it is lots of fun – “Action That’s Off the Radar”.

Sacramento, California

A- Overview:
Sacramento is not only the capital of the largest state in the Union, it is also a unique historical and cultural center. Sacramento’s history rested on a few pioneers and Indians for until gold was found nearby in the 1840’s. Within weeks, Sacramento and the entire area became the busiest and most bustling part of the entire nation as thousands came west to strike it rich in the great Gold Rush. Sacramento has done a great deal to preserve the relics of that time.
This city has a pioneer feel, particularly in some of the museums and in its capitol building. Of special note, the old Sutter’s Mill and Fort have been preserved and rebuilt. It’s a fascinating place to visit, full of history and excitement of the Gold Rush years. Other museums and attractions allow visitors to participate in the Gold Rush culture, panning for gold in the river or seeing how the early forty-niners lived.

Children’s attractions abound in Sacramento, making it a wonderful destination for families. The Discovery Museum is a hands-on replica of Sacramento as it was in 1854. The state Indian Museum has a great deal to teach children about Sacramento’s earliest residents. Of course, children love the old Gold Rush exhibits and the stories they have to tell.

Sacramento is the capital of a state with 33 million residents, but it has retained an independent air. From Indian land to Gold Rush to the present, Sacramento has seen a wealth of changes, yet it has remained a beautiful destination celebrated for its wonderful scenery and blooming flowers. Sacramento is often overlooked during visits to California, but surely it would be a mistake to miss visiting such a historic and friendly city.

B- City Information:
Population: 407,018

Elevation: 20 feet above sea level

Land Area: 97.2 square miles

Location: Located 91miles northeast of San Francisco, California at the intersections of Interstate 5 from the north and south and Interstate 80 from the northeast and southwest

Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (when it’s noon in Sacramento, it’s 2pm in Chicago and 3pm in New York City). Sacramento observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
47.3
52.4
55.9
60.4
66.8
72.6
76.5
75.8
72.8
65.5
54.2
46.8

High temperature (°F)
54.5
61.4
65.9
72.7
80.9
88.2
93.2
92.0
88.1
78.7
64.0
54.5

Low temperature (°F)
40.1
43.4
45.7
48.0
52.6
57.0
59.7
59.5
57.5
52.2
44.4
39.1

Precipitation (in)
4.0
3.7
3.0
1.1
0.6
0.2
0.0
0.1
0.4
0.9
2.4
2.6

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
10
9
9
5
3
1
0
0
1
3
7
9

Wind speed (mph)
7.1
7.3
8.4
8.6
9.0
9.6
8.9
8.4
7.4
6.4
6.0
6.4

Morning humidity (%)
91
89
86
83
82
78
77
78
77
79
87
88

Afternoon humidity (%)
70
61
53
44
38
32
30
29
31
37
57
67

Sunshine (%)
48
65
74
82
90
94
97
96
93
86
66
49

Days clear of clouds
7
8
10
12
17
22
27
26
24
19
10
8

Partly cloudy days
6
7
9
10
9
6
3
4
4
6
8
6

Cloudy days
19
13
12
8
5
2
1
1
2
6
12
17

Snowfall (in)
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0

Local Seasons:

As the Capitol of California, this city is bustling year-round; however, summers tend to be busier as tourists come to visit the wine country as well as other major cities within California. The weather in Sacramento is delightful all year. High temperatures in the summer can get into the 90’s F mid-day; however they drop to the 50’s F at night, allowing for a variety of activities to be experienced. Winters are just right for outdoor activities during the day and enjoying a fine meal by a warm fire at night. Spring and fall offer much of the same with relatively warm temperatures during the day and cooling off at night. No matter what the season or what the reason for your visit, this California Capital welcomes you.

How to Get There:

By Air

Sacramento County Airport

6900 Airport Blvd.

Sacramento, CA 95837

916-929-5411

Sacramento International Airport is the gateway to Northern California destinations and major cities across the U.S, and the world. Service is available from many major carriers as well as certain local and regional airlines.

San Francisco International Airport is located approximately 2 hours (110 miles) southwest of Sacramento and is sometimes used by visitors.

By Car

Sacramento is easily accessible by car from the north and south via Interstate 5 and from the southeast and northwest via Interstate 80.

By Train

Amtrak

401 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

800-USA-RAIL

By Bus

Greyhound

715 L ST.
Sacramento, CA 95814

916-444-6858

How to Get Around:

By far the best way to get around is by either personal or rental car. The sites and attractions of the city as well as the nearby areas are fairly well spread-out, making a car a vital necessity.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day, January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January

President’ Day, the third Monday in February

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Labor Day, the first Monday in September

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve, December 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
B.F. Hastings Building
916-440-4263
A reconstruction of the first chambers of the California Supreme Court occupies the second floor of this 1853 building. A Wells Fargo History Museum greets the public on the first floor.

California Military Museum
1119 2nd St.
916-442-2883
Three floors of this museum showcase more than 30,000 artifacts–uniforms, weapons, photographs, documents, medals, and flags of all kinds–that trace Californians’ roles in military and militia activities throughout U.S. history.

California State Railroad
125 I St.
916-445-6645
This 100,000-square-ft museum is the largest rail museum in North America. It features 21 locomotives and railroad cars and 46 exhibits. Visitors can experience all aspects of the railroad throughout its history in this enormous museum.

Capitol
Capitol Mall and 10th St.
916-324-0333
Built in 1869, California’s Capitol features a 120-ft-high rotunda of amazing beauty. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the legislative chambers are in the style of the 1890’s. The capitol park has impressive flower gardens and memorials.

Central Pacific Passenger Depot
930 Front St.
916-445-6645
At this reconstructed 1876 station there are plenty of exhibits and rides on a steam-powered train. The train makes a 40-minute loop along the Sacramento riverfront.

Crocker Art Museum
216 O St.
916-264-5423
The Crocker is the oldest art museum in the American West. Its extensive collections feature art from Europe, America and California.

Discovery Museum
101 I St.
916-264-7057
This children’s museum is a replica of the 1854 City Hall and Waterworks. The many hands-on exhibits include sifting for gold, walking into an Indian thatched hut, and viewing the print shop of the old Sacramento newspaper.

Governor’s Mansion
1526 H St.
916-323-3047
This 15-room Renaissance style house was built in 1877 and was used by Ronald Reagan when he chose a new home. The mansion is said to have been one of the first homes in California to have an indoor bathroom.

State Indian Museum
2601 K St.
916-324-0971
This museum focuses on the Indians of California and offers arts-and-crafts exhibits, as well as a demonstration village. A ten-minute video fully explores the history and life of California’s Indian population.

Sutter’s Fort
2701 L St.
916-445-4422
Sacramento’s earliest settlement was founded in 1839; today, visitors can go on a self-guided tour of the fort. Demonstrations of food preparation and firearms maintenance complete this interesting look at pioneer California.

Towe Auto Museum
2200 Front St. (one block off Broadway)
916-442-6802
With over 100 cars, including a 1931 Chrysler, a 1960 Lotus, and a bullet-proof Cadillac limousine once used by the U.S. State Department, this museum will interest auto enthusiasts of all persuasions. A 1920s roadside café and garage exhibit complete the museum.

Columbia State Historic Park
14 mi south of Angels Camp, Hwy. 49 to Parrots Ferry Rd.
209-532-4301
Called the Gem of the Southern Mines, this park sits in the heart of gold-rush country. Visitors can ride a stagecoach, pan for gold, or watch a blacksmith working at his anvil.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
California Military Museum
1119 2nd St.
916-442-2883
Three floors of this museum showcase more than 30,000 artifacts–uniforms, weapons, photographs, documents, medals, and flags of all kinds–that trace Californians’ roles in military and militia activities throughout U.S. history.

Crocker Art Museum
216 O St.
916-264-5423
The Crocker is the oldest art museum in the American West. Its extensive collections feature art from Europe, America and California.

E- Events & Entertainment:

Events

February

Waterfront Crab Fest

Held in early February

Location: Waterfront Park on Front Street

916-442-8575

Crab fest is back in the tent at Waterfront Park on Front Street in Old Sacramento. Plenty of all you can eat fresh hot cooked crab, pasta, salad and anti-pasta, spirits, dancing and entertainment from 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

March

Festival Italiano

Held in late March

Location: Dante Club

916-359-0618

A fun-filled evening of good food, wine and entertainment, including a delicious Italian dinner, door prizes and an Italian auction.

Women’s History Day

Held in late March

Location: Old Sacramento

916-558-3912

Join the Old Sacramento Living History Program re-enactors as they demonstrate what life was like for women in the late 1800’s as they struggled to make their mark. Witness sufferance rallies, protests and other scenes featuring the struggles that women faced.

April

Steam-powered Excursions

Held April – October

Location: California State Railroad Museum

916-445-6645

Regular steam-powered excursion trains depart Saturdays and Sundays on-the-hour 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. from the Central Pacific Freight Depot and Public Market in Old Sacramento. Climb aboard the Museum’s Sacramento Southern Railroad every weekend for a relaxing 40-minute, 6-mile roundtrip ride on the banks of the Sacramento River. Experience the sights, smells, and sounds of a real, working steam locomotive as it pulls vintage passenger coaches and converted freight cars along a former Southern Pacific Railroad branch line.

Sacramento Valley Scottish Games & Festival

Held in late April

Location: Yolo County Fair Grounds

916- 557-0764

Traditional Scottish Competitions that began more than a century ago. Three days of fun and games including sheepdog trails, tug-o-war, bagpipe bands, fiddling, harping and vendors peddling Scottish wares.

Annual Festival de la Familia

Held in late April

Location: Cal Expo

916-443-6223

An annual celebration of Latino culture featuring luscious food, live entertainment and lots of fun.

May

Annual Designer Showcase House

Held in early – mid May

Location: In Sacramento’s Sierra Oaks neighborhood

916-437-1649
The Junior League of Sacramento presents its Annual Designer Showcase House.

Sacramento County Fair

Held in early May

Location: Cal Expo

916-263-2975

Exotic petting zoo, children’s hands-on activities and thousands of exhibits.

Senior Games Sacramento Sports Classic

Held in mid May

Location: Varies throughout Sacramento

916-277-6046

Interested in participating in competitive sports? The California Senior Games Sacramento Sports Classic is an annual event that offers athletic competition for adults age 50 years and older. The games are a multi-sport event for men and women patterned after the “Olympics” and held at various locales throughout the Sacramento area. There are 20 various sporting events offered such as, archery, basketball, bowling, cycling, race walk, rowing, soccer, swimming, tennis, and track and field. Competitors from all over Northern California participate each year. The Senior Games offers something for everyone’s skill level and interest.

The West Coast Brewer’s Festival

Held in mid May

Location: Sacramento Miller Park

The West Coast Brewers Festival celebrates the significance of California, Washington and Oregon in the development of the Micro Brew industry.

Jazz Jubilee

Held in late May

Location: Varies in Sacramento

One of the world’s largest traditional jazz festivals presents more than 125 bands from around the world and across the United States each year on Memorial Day weekend. In addition to the best traditional jazz, the festival includes several other jazz-related music styles such as big band, barbershop, blues, gospel, Latin jazz/salsa, swing, Western swing and zydeco.

June

Pony Express Re-Ride

Held in early June

Location: Old Sacramento

916-558-3912

Pony Express riders gallop west across the historic Pony Express Trail of 1860 – 1861 and end their 1,966 mile route in Old Sacramento at the Pony Express.

Juneteenth Celebration

Held in mid June

Location: Granite Regional Park

916- 808-7739

A Celebration of Freedom. Thousands gather at Granite Regional Park for a festive day of entertainment. Juneteenth begins with a Friday night Gospel concert, followed by Saturday in the park and The Black Rodeo on Sunday at Cal Expo.

July

Renaissance Faire

Held mid July – mid August

Location: Stafford Lake Park, Marin County

415-897-4555

The wildly authentic pleasures and colorful pageantry of a lusty Elizabethan country fair are brought to vivid life by the Heart of the Forest Renaissance Faire, bursting with high spirits and ancient seasonal traditions.

Sacramento French Film Festival

Held in mid July

Location: Crest Theatre

916-453-1723

Dedicated to celebrating the present as well as the history of French cinema by showing new French films as well as rarely seen French classics. Since its inception, the Festival has also involved the Sacramento art community by including short films from Sacramento filmmakers in its selection and original artwork by a Sacramento photographer in its posters.

Annual Strauss Festival of Elk Grove

Held in late July

Location: Elk Grove Park

916-714-2527

Features elegantly costumed dancers and professional symphony musicians. The setting is a grassy knoll at the edge of a lake surrounding a small island in Elk Grove Park.

Bridge to Bridge Waterfront Festival

Held in late July

Location: Waterfront

916-808-7777

The most fun on the river without a boat. Visitors enjoy a weekend in Old Sacramento of watercraft displays and activities featuring antique boats, personal water-craft races, high-performance power boat rallies, U.S. Coast Guard safety and rescue demonstrations, and much more.

Eppie’s Great Race

Held in late July

Location: Held along the scenic American River Parkway in Sacramento, Rancho Cordova and Folsom.
916-875-6640

One of the world’s oldest triathlons: Run – 5.82 miles. Bike – 12.5 miles. Paddle – 6.35 miles.

August

California State Fair

Held in late August – early September

Location: Cal Expo

916-263-3000

Big name entertainment, thrilling rides, exciting midway, irresistible food; oodles of events and fun for the whole family make The State Fair a popular event.

September

Gold Rush Days

Held in early September

Location: Sacramento

916-264-7777

The excitement of the California Gold Rush is brought to life during Sacramento’s annual Gold Rush Days festival, held over the Labor Day Weekend.

Annual Greek Food Festival

Held in early September

Location: Sacramento Convention Center

916-443-2033

One of the most prominent heritage festivals in Sacramento, this celebration is devoted to the traditional foods, entertainment and displays of the Greek community.

Grape Escape

Held in mid September

Location: Crocker Park

916-808-7777

Sacramento’s Annual Capital Regional Wine & Food Celebration takes place at Crocker Park.

October

Fall Harvest Festival

Held most of October

Location: Old Sacramento

916-558-3912

Old Sacramento brings the popular Halloween Festival back, “Fall Harvest Festival.” This annual event promises Halloween-themed fun, train rides and family entertainment on weekends to usher in fall.

Festival of Cinema

Held in early October

Location: Crest Theatre

Created in 1995 to showcase the talents of local and international filmmakers, the Festival of Cinema is the community’s premiere film arts showcase and a centerpiece for the arts in Northern California.

Sacramento International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival

Held in early October

Location: Crest Theatre
916-319-2348

Sacramento Fall Home Show

Held in early October

Location: Cal Expo

The show is held at Cal Expo and is the place to find hundreds of home and garden products and ideas.

American River Salmon Festival

Held in early October

Location: Nimbus Fish Hatchery, Lake Natoma

916-358-2884

The Annual Festival takes place at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery, Lake Natoma. Watch them go back in the river and experience their dramatic return!

Annual “Magic of Kids” Family Festival

Held in early October

Location: Sacramento City College

916-576-3300

Features free activities, magicians, music, dance, theater performances, law enforcement and fire department displays and educational demonstrations.

November

California New Car Show

Held in mid November

Location: Cal Expo

916-263-3000

Car enthusiasts have plenty to celebrate when they get a look at the new and innovative cars at Cal Expo.

The 28th Annual Northern California Model Railroad Show

Held in mid November

Location: Placer County Fairgrounds

916-772-7502

The West’s Premier Model Railroad Show!

Harvest Festival

Held in mid November

Location: Sacramento

800-321-1213

One of the largest arts and crafts show on the West Coast. Attendees can meet and buy directly from America’s top artisans, enjoy entertainment and satisfy their taste buds with delicious festival cuisine.

America’s Largest Christmas Bazaar

Held in late November

Location: Cal Expo

503-282-0974

Cal Expo has 300+ booths, filled to the brim with selections galore for Christmas gift giving.

December

Annual California International Marathon

Held in early December

Location: Sacramento

916-983-4622
A 26-mile, 385-yard point-to-point road race, a 4-person Marathon Relay Challenge, a 2.62-mile maraFUNrun/Fitness Walk and entertainment are included at this exciting event.

Heritage Holidays

Held early – late December

Location: Old Sacramento

916-558-3912

This annual event promises magical holiday cheer to all who visit Old Sacramento. For the two weeks leading up to Christmas, merchants have extended holiday hours. Stroll the beautifully decorated boardwalks and historic buildings featuring thousands of white lights.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration

Held on New Year’s Eve

Location: Old Sacramento

916-808-7777

The City of Sacramento celebrates the New Year on the waterfront in Old Sacramento. Along with two fireworks shows, the event features live music, food and drink vendors, a children’s stage hosted by top entertainers and live performances from local acts.

Arts and Entertainment

Sacramento Ballet

1631 K Street

Sacramento, CA 95814

916-552-5800

Call for performance schedule

Don’t miss the latest spectacular season.

Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra

3400 3rd Ave.

Sacramento, CA 95817
916-732-9045

Call for performance schedule

Sacramento Opera

3811 J St
Sacramento, CA 95816
916-737-1000

Call for performance schedule

Sacramento Opera has been a Guild, a Committee, an Association, another Guild and finally the Association of today.

Sacramento Theatre Company

1419 H Street

Sacramento, CA 95816

916-443-6722

Call for performance schedule

Enjoy Broadway in Sacramento.

Sports

Sacramento Kings

Professional Basketball

Games played at the Arco Arena
One Sports Parkway
Sacramento, CA 95834
916-928-0000

Season runs October – April

Long Beach, California

A- Overview:
Long Beach, California’s fifth largest city, is located just 21 miles south of Los Angeles, at the southern end of Los Angeles County. Long Beach offers all the amenities of a sophisticated, cosmopolitan city, while retaining the charm and tranquility of a seaside community. Visitors seeking the California dream of beach, sun and ocean need look no further.

Long Beach is the perfect spot for people who enjoy the sun. Sea kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and jet-skiing are popular year round. Early in the year, whale watchers observe the migrating California Gray Whale, and year-round harbor cruises entertain young and old . The city’s well-designed beachside bike path is ideal for in-line skating, jogging, bicycling, or a quiet walk.

Long Beach became popular in the late 19th century as a seaside resort. Long Beach Harbor and the neighboring Port of Los Angeles are two of the busiest shipping centers on the Pacific Coast. The entire area is rich in petroleum resources, both on land and offshore.

California State University, Long Beach, is home to 27,000 students. Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center at Ocean and Long Beach boulevards encompasses the Long Beach Arena, Terrace Theater and Center Theater, where concerts, plays, trade shows and sporting events are held.

Boat cruises to Catalina Island leave from near the Queen Mary and from downtown. Long Beach AquaBus and AquaLink provide regularly scheduled service to Long Beach’s major attractions such as the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific daily from mid-June to mid-September, and Friday through Sunday the balance of the year.

The roar of Grand Prix race cars echoes through the city streets in early April during the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. Most Saturday mornings, the Long Beach Heritage Society conducts narrated two hour walking tours: of the downtown area the first and third Saturdays of the month, and of the East Village, (which is being developed as an arts district), the second and fourth Saturdays. Nearby, eclectic boutiques welcome shoppers seeking rare treasures, and international cuisine is served alfresco. Along the waterfront, more than 12,000 marine animals welcome you and your friends to their aquarium home

The Queen’s Marketplace, near Pier J, is an open-air mall designed to resemble an old English village. Shoreline Village, at the foot of Pine Street, is a harbor side shopping center with specialty shops, restaurants, a restored Looff carousel, and occasional live boardwalk entertainment.

Bring along a good book you’ve been wanting to read. Get ready to stretch out, relax, and watch the waves of the Pacific Ocean roll gently toward shore. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the beach, the roar of world-class stock cars racing in the shadow of glittering skyscrapers, a picnic at one of the many local parks, or a concert under the moonlit sky, Long Beach is a perfect vacation getaway. You can even experience a serenade by gondoliers rowing an authentic gondola in the Venetian style on a cruise through local canals. Ocean breezes waft gently off the Pacific along a stretch of coastal paradise, while in the distance, a tall ship sets sail.. These sights and many more await the visitor to romantic Long Beach. Time to pack!

B- City Information:
Long Beach City Facts

Population: 429,400

Elevation: 29 feet

Land area: 50.4 square miles

Location: Located 21 miles south of Los Angeles at the southern tip of L.A. County. It is on San Pedro Bay on the Pacific Ocean.

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
57.0
58.3
59.7
63.0
65.9
69.8
73.7
75.0
73.4
68.6
61.8
57.1

High temperature (°F)
68.0
68.5
68.9
72.7
74.0
78.3
82.9
84.5
83.1
78.9
73.4
68.8

Low temperature (°F)
46.0
48.1
50.4
53.2
57.7
61.2
64.5
65.5
63.6
58.3
50.1
45.3

Precipitation (in)
3.0
3.0
2.5
0.6
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.4
1.1
1.8

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precip.
6
5
5
3
1
0
0
0
1
2
3
5

Wind speed (mph)
5.2
6.0
6.7
7.4
7.1
7.0
6.8
6.6
6.2
5.6
5.2
5.0

Morning humidity (%)
76
78
80
80
81
82
82
82
83
81
79
77

Afternoon humidity (%)
53
54
55
51
55
56
54
53
54
54
53
52

Sunshine (%)
71
71
71
69
61
60
69
71
70
69
75
72

Days clear of clouds
12
10
11
12
10
12
18
19
15
13
13
13

Partly cloudy days
8
7
9
10
13
12
11
10
11
11
8
8

Cloudy days
11
11
11
8
8
6
2
2
4
7
8
10

Snowfall (in)
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0

Local Seasons:

Enjoy a cool ocean breeze with nearly 345 days of sunshine every year. Summer temperatures range in the comfortable range of 70-80 degrees F, and winter temperatures are quite enjoyable at 55-65 degrees F, making Long Beach the ultimate year-round vacation destination. You can expect the summer to be the most crowded with tourists visiting many of the local and nearby attractions, enjoying the beach, and “star watching”. The fall becomes a little less crowded with a slight change in the temperature but not the activity. The fall in Long Beach is a peak time for events, including the annual Lobster Festival. Spring brings more of the same and is the perfect time for a romantic stroll on the beach. Whatever the time of year, the weather in Long Beach is beautiful!

Getting There:

By Car

Getting to and around Long Beach is easy! To get to Long Beach take the 405 south from Los Angeles or take the 405 north from Orange County. Then take the 710 south and Long Beach is located at the end of the 710 freeway.

By Air

Long Beach Airport

4100 Donald Douglas Drive

Long Beach, California 90809

562-570-2600

This is the most convenient airport for air travel into the Los Angeles/ Orange County area. Offering several daily flights on many of the largest airlines as well as regional carriers, Long Beach airport is the “plane easy” way to travel.

These alternative area airports offer hundreds of flights into and out of the area and are only a quick 25 minutes from Long Beach.

Los Angeles International (LAX)

1 World Way

Los Angeles, California

310-646-5252

Santa Ana/Orange County (SNA))
18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, CA 92707

949-252-5200

Car Rental:

All of the major car rental companies are available at or near all three airports.

Getting Around:

By Car

To access over 5 1/2 miles of beach is easy. Let’s start at the heart of Long Beach. You can access the beach by going to Marina Green Park off of Shoreline Drive, or continue driving to Bluff Park at the corner of Ocean Blvd. and Junipero Avenue or proceed on Ocean Blvd. towards the peninsula and park in one of many parking lots available for the beachgoer.

By shuttle

Long Beach Transit

1963 E. Anaheim Street
Long Beach, CA 90813
562-591-8753

It is possible to conquer Long Beach without a car. Catch the convenient Passport shuttle, which runs approximately every 5-10 minutes. It’s free in the Downtown area and transports visitors to all of the must-see Long Beach attractions, including the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village, and Pine Avenue.

Take advantage of the city’s bright red Passport Shuttle, a “free” transportation system that offers service to major Long Beach attractions. The new Purple Pine Avenue Link is also a “free” service from downtown to the Convention Center, Shoreline Village and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Or, let the Passport Tour D’Art whisk you quickly to downtown’s cultural spots.

By Water Taxi

Long Beach Transit and Catalina Express

562-591-2301

Service frequency is every 90 minutes

Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 5:40 p.m.

Fares Charged

Or visit us at the Transit Information Center on First Street and Promenade

You can hop on board the Aquabus between the downtown waterfront attractions such as the Aquarium of The Pacific and the Queen Mary. For a high-speed trip to the south end of Long Beach, you can catch the Aqualink, the link between downtown and Alamitos Bay.

The AquaBus is the red 40-foot harbor shuttle in Queensway Bay connecting the Queen Mary / Catalina Express, the Coast Hotel, Catalina Landing, The Aquarium of the Pacific, Pine Avenue Circle at the Pike, and Shoreline Village. Service frequency is hourly and hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children 2 years and under ride free.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day: last Mon. in May

Independence Day: July 4

Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way

Long Beach, California

562-590-3100

Open Daily 9am-6pm

Admission Charged

This is the only aquarium in the world to focus on the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy 550 species, 17 living habitats and 30 exhibits which take them on a journey throughout the Pacific Ocean’s three regions: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific, and the Northern Pacific. With its sweeping, curving, wave-like architecture, the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific is designed to emulate the ocean.
Over 12,000 creatures are on view at this fascinating, state-of-the-art aquarium, which re-creates three different ecosystems and brings visitors face to face with sharks, sea lions, eels and other residents of giant tanks.

Museum of Latin American Art

628 Alamitos Ave.
Long Beach, California 90802

562-437-1689

Hours: Tuesdays – Friday, 11:30am – 7:00pm, Saturday 11:00am – 7:00pm, Sunday 11:00am – 6:00pm.

Admission Charged

Known as MoLAA, this combination museum and cultural center is devoted exclusively to contemporary Latin American art, including paintings, lithographs and sculptures. It also offers shows, classes, wine tastings, an open-air market, gift shop, and a restaurant.

Long Beach Museum of Art

2300 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90803
562-439-2119

Galleries & Store Tuesday – Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission Charged

Located high on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, this museum complex features the historic Elizabeth Milbank Anderson summer home and carriage house, both built in 1912, plus magnificent gardens, a permanent collection of European and California art, and a two-story gallery with changing exhibits.

Queen Mary

1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach, CA 90802

(800) 437-2934
(Phone) (562) 435-3511

The ship’s hours are 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. with extended hours for restaurants & lounges.

First Class Passage ticket includes Ghosts & Legends show, admission to the adjoining exhibit of a Russian Cold War submarine, two Guided Tours and all exhibit areas. Casual to elegant dining

General admission passport includes the Ghosts and Legends and self-guided Shipwalk tour.
Behind the Scenes Guided Tour and World War II Tour and First Class Passage package also available.

The Queen Mary was already an icon before arriving at its permanent home in Long Beach. “The grandest ocean liner ever built” was hostess to the rich and famous during the 1930s and considered by many as the only civilized way to travel. World War II saw the Queen Mary’s conversion to a troop ship know as the “Grey Ghost”, carrying up to 15,000 troops at one time. She later carried more than 22,000 war brides and children to the United States and Canada.
After her arrival in Long Beach in December of 1967, she was removed from British registry and ownership turned over to the City of Long Beach. Her operation, maintenance and preservation are entrusted to the non-profit RMS Foundation.

Soviet Foxtrot Submarine ( code name Scorpion)

1126 Queens Hwy.

Long Beach, California 90802

562-432-3316

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Admission includes a short film. The submarine is open 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.

The Soviet Foxtrot submarine, code name Scorpion, is on display just outside the Queen Mary. Touring the sub gives an idea of what life was like in close quarters. Steep ladders, small hatches, narrow corridors and lowered ceilings created an atmosphere much like an obstacle course. Imagine 78 crew sharing two showers and three toilets for up to three months at sea!

Whale Watching

From December to early April, take a cruise to spot gray whales on their yearly migration. You may see the whales “spy hopping,” poking their heads above the water a bit, or “breaching,” a spectacular display as the whales propel themselves out of the water and fall back with a big splash. Bring your binoculars.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site
4600 Virginia Road
Long Beach, California 90807
562-570-1755

Open to the public Wednesday – Sunday from 1 — 5 (except on major holidays).

Admission Free

Rancho Los Cerritos was originally a Spanish land grant of 27,000 acres, but is still impressive at its present size of 4.7 acres. The complex includes an 1844 Monterey-Colonial two story adobe house (combining both Mexican and American architectural styles )and historic gardens. behave fun taking “Tea with Margaret Bixby.” You’ll enjoy a Victorian tea and find out about 19th century ranch life from “Margaret Bixby” in a living history presentation.

The Pyramid

1250 Bellflower Blvd.
California State University Long Beach
Long Beach, California 90840

562-985-4949

Admission Free to View

This imposing edifice on the campus of California State University Long Beach, is one of only three pyramid-shaped buildings in the U.S. It is used for various functions including sporting events, conferences, weddings and filming for movies and commercials.

Rancho Los Alamitos

6400 Bixby Hill Road
Long Beach, California 90815
562-431-3541

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Free

This historic site was part of a massive Spanish land grant in 1784 and today serves as a living history museum comprised of six agricultural buildings, working blacksmith shop, magnificent gardens and a rambling adobe ranch house built in 1800.

California State University Long Beach

1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, California 90840

562-985-4111
Call for additional information

Long Beach Arena

300 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, California 90802

562-436-3661

Call for additional information

Admission Free to View

Used for conventions, exhibits and special events, this large arena offers 46,000 square feet of exhibit space plus seating for more than 13,500 people.

Naples Island

5437 E. Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach, California

562-433-9595

Call for schedule of departures

Admission Charged for Trip

A peninsula on the southern most tip of Long Beach. Naples was patterned after the Italian city of the same name (with canals). Authentic gondolas glide along the waterways while spectators watch from the waterfront sidewalks.

Signal Hill Farmers Market

2701 Walnut Ave.
Long Beach, California 90806

866-466-3834

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Free
Weekly open-air market situated on a scenic grassy field features fresh fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs, , cut flowers, live orchids, farm fresh products, and baked goods.

Gondola Getaway

5437 E Ocean Blvd
Long Beach, California

562-433-9595

Call for additional information

Admission Charged

A romantic one-hour Alamitos Bay cruise on an authentic Italian gondola, complete with gondolier (who will croon upon request) and complimentary food basket.

Shoreline Pedestrian/Bicycle Path

Alamitos Avenue to 54th Place
Long Beach, California
Biking trail; Jogging path/track

Pine Avenue

Between Ocean Blvd. and 3rd Ave.
Long Beach, California

Open Daily

Admission Free
Shop in the daytime or party at night within this trendy retail and restaurant district, with historicbuildings, shops and eateries. A sizzling nightlife takes over when the sun goes down.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

562-985-8885

Tuesday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m.,Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Holiday and Seasonal Closures:

Winter: Mid December to the end of January
Spring Break: The week before Easter
Summer Holidays: The Fourth of July
Fall: Thanksgiving Day through the following Sunday

Admission Charged. However, there is no fee to visit the garden unless a public program is offered that day. On the Cal State University Long Beach campus, you’ll find the quiet beauty of this large Japanese Garden. Enter through a tile roof gate modeled after one in Kyoto, Japan to another world. Explore a three-tiered Buddhist pagoda, wander the path in the White Birch Woods, and don’t miss the ceremonial teahouse where you pass through the sliding shoji doors into another world. There’s also a wonderful koi pond, bonsai gardens, waterfalls, and a “zigzag bridge”: built to ward off evil spirits that, legend holds, can travel only in straight lines.

Shoreline Village

419 Shoreline Drive
Long Beach, California 90802
562-435-2668
Call for days and hours of operation

Quirky shops, souvenir stores and restaurants line this popular waterfront boardwalk, which also features a carousel and fun zone for kids, live entertainment, beautiful views of the city, and dynamite sunsets.

Californian

419 Shoreline Village Drive at Pine Avenue
Long Beach, California
800-432-2201

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

This 145-foot replica of the C.W. Lawrence is California’s “Official Tallship.”

Long Beach Waterfront

54th Place and Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, California

Admission Free

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the trail

East 4th Street

Long Beach, California

Admission Free
Shoppers looking to buy vintage clothes, furniture and other memorabilia from the 1950s up through the ’70s will enjoy the many shops that span more than two-blocks on this popular, busy street.

El Dorado Regional Park

7500 East Spring Street

Long Beach, California

310-570-1771

Open Daily from 7am – dusk

Admission Charged

There are 3 fishing lakes, with pedal boats, and ducks that love to be fed. There is an archery range (you must bring your own equipment) a model glider field, a Frisbee golf course (byo), playgrounds, and bike trails (byo). Steam train rides. (Is this a miniature train or full size.? Where does it go: around the park or elsewhere?

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Rainbow Harbor

419 Shoreline Village Drive at Pine Avenue
Long Beach, California

800-432-2201

Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Climb on board the tallship Californian, a full-scale re-creation of the 1848 Revenue Marine Cutter, C.W. Lawrence, one of fastest and grandest cutters on the California coast. Kids jump right into the adventure of clambering around the riggings and exploring below decks. If you really love tall ships, there are day cruises available.

Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way

Long Beach, California

562-590-3100

Open daily 9:00am – 6:00pm

Admission Charged

Over 5,500 species, from moon jellies to sharks, in 17 exhibits from the Bering Sea to Southern California to tropical barrier reef environments. The huge, three-story-high tanks are the most popular exhibits, but don’t miss the Soft Coral Lagoon’s Plexiglass underpass: peer up at tropical fish weaving through the coral and watch divers feeding the fish. Ready for a rest? Have a seat in the theatre, and watch a documentary on sea life.

Mothers’ Beach

At Marina Park (Appian Way)

If you have toddlers, head for “Mother’s Beach”. Lifeguards on duty in summer, sandy beach and gentle waves, barbecue grills, grassy areas, and a whale to climb on that spouts water.

El Dorado Regional Park and Nature Center

7500 East Spring Street

Long Beach, California

310-570-1771

Open Daily from 7am – dusk

Admission Charged

There are 3 fishing lakes with pedal boats, and ducks that love to be fed. There is an archery range, (you must bring your own equipment) a model glider field, a Frisbee golf course (byo), playgrounds, and bike trails. Steam train rides too.

El Dorado Nature Center

Near the El Dorado Regional Park

7500 East Spring Street

Long Beach, California

310-570-1771

Open Daily from 7am – dusk

Admission Charged

The Center has streams and lakes and hiking trails, making it a great place to stretch your legs. The Center is set in a meadow surrounded by trees and is home to everything from turtles to weasels to rabbits. Bicycling and walking are free, but there is a small parking fee. At the Center Museum, children will love the hands-on exhibits and workshops.

Rancho Los Alamitos

6400 Bixby Hill Road
Long Beach, California 90815

562-431-3541

Open Wednesday through Sunday with tours every half hour

Admission Charged

The 7 ½ acre ranch has an adobe house built in 1800 and barns with draft horses, goats, sheep, and other farm animals. It is set in four acres of gardens, and has a working blacksmith shop. This is a great way to spend a couple hours watching farming demonstrations (you’ll have the opportunity to take part in some yourselves!) pecial events are held all year long. Call for details.

Rancho Los Cerritos

4600 Virginia Road
Long Beach, California 90805

562-570-1755

Call for additional information

Admission Free
Originally a Spanish land grant of 27,000 acres; the ranch has shrunk to 4.7 acres. It contains an 1844 Monterey-Colonial adobe house and historic gardens. Have fun taking “Tea with Margaret Bixby.” You’ll enjoy a Victorian tea and find out about 19th century ranch life from “Margaret Bixby” in a living history presentation.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

6300 State University Drive
Long Beach, California 90815
562-985-5930

Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 8:00 a.m.- 3:30 p.m., Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Holiday and Seasonal Closures:

Winter: Mid December to the end of January; Spring Break: The week before Easter
Summer Holidays: The Fourth of July; Fall: Thanksgiving Day through the following Sunday

On the Cal State University Long Beach campus, you’ll find quiet beauty in this large Japanese Garden. Enter through a tiled roof gate modeled after one in Kyoto, Japan and emerge in another world. Explore a three-tiered Buddhist pagoda, wander the path in the White Birch Woods, and don’t miss the ceremonial teahouse where you pass through the sliding shoji doors to more wonders. There’s also a wonderful koi pond, bonsai gardens, waterfalls, and a “zigzag bridge” built to ward off evil spirits (which, legend holds, can only travelin straight lines).

Queen Mary Seaport

At the end of I-710

Long Beach, CA

562-435-3511

Call for additional information

Admission Charged

One of the main attractions in Long Beach is this huge ocean liner with its opulent public rooms and staterooms. This ship is one of the glories of the 1930s deco design period with gorgeous woods everywhere (even the decks are made of teakwood). Some believe that the ship is haunted!

E- Events & Entertainment:
Antique & Collectible Market

323-655-5703

Long Beach Veterans Stadium located at Lakewood Blvd. and Conant Street near the Long Beach Airport.

Held the 3rd Sunday of Every month

Admission Charged
The Long Beach Outdoor Antique & Collectable Market offers over 800 Dealers with a huge selection of antiques, collectibles and home furnishings at bargain prices

April

Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach

3000 Pacific Ave.
Long Beach, California
United States

882-88-SPEED

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The annual race is billed as the largest sport special event of the West Coast, roaring engines, 180pmh speeds, and perfect weather, make for a fun filled day.

May

Long Beach Community Band Classics Concert

Lakewood First Baptist Church

5336 East Arbor Road

Long Beach, California

562-403-2923

Call for exact dates and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The annual spring concert features the Shoreline Concert Band.

June

Bixby Knolls Street Fair

Atlantic Ave between Carson and Bixby
Long Beach

Admission if Free
The Annual Bixby Knolls Street Fair takes place on Atlantic Avenue, the District’s central commercial corridor, which is closed to traffic for several blocks to allow arts and crafts vendors, local business people and food purveyors to set up booths and boutiques in the street. The Fair is a free open-air festival that is attended by over 10,000 local residents and visitors who come to enjoy the free, family-oriented fun that includes shopping, food, kids’ activities and all sorts of live entertainment on the outdoor stage and on the street.

Long Beach Bayou Festival Long Beach

Queen Mary Events Park
1126 Queens Hwy
Long Beach, CA 90802
562-435-3511

Call for additional information

Admission Charged

The Long Beach Bayou Festival is a three-day celebration that brings together authentic Louisiana music, food, shopping, arts, crafts and dancing. There are two live entertainment stages that offer a variety of musical options including Creole zydeco and jazz and blues. Come listen to the music or take some free dancing lessons.

September

Harvest Festival

Long Beach Convention Center

300 E. Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach, California

800-321-1213

Usually held Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm.

Admission Charged

This annual event is America’s leading marketplace of handmade art, clothing, gourmet food and thousands of unique items. The Harvest Festivals are a testimony to savvy shoppers who think outside of the mall for solutions to home decorating, wardrobe sprucing, gift giving and jewelry purchasing dilemmas. For those who crave more out of their shopping experience than just purchasing innovative items, the Harvest Festival has an exciting lineup of entertainment throughout the weekend, along with gourmet food sampling and much more.

Annual Brazilian Street Carnival and Independence Day Celebration

100 North Promenade, Downtown Long Beach

Long Beach, California

562-438-3669

Usually held 10:00am – 10:00pm

Admission Charged

Downtown Long Beach turns into a Rio Carnival every September with Brazilian bands, food, crafts, and the highlight of the day: a big Rio-style parade.

Annual Grecian Festival

562-494-8829

Call for exact dates and additional information

Admission Charged

This event features authentic Greek food, game booths and entertainment.

Long Beach KKJZ Blues Festival

Long Beach’s North Athletic Field

Long Beach, California

562-985-1686

Call for additional information and times

Admission Charged

KKJZ FM 88.1 presents this famous festival held at Cal State, spotlighting top Blues musicians.

Belmont Car Show

562-434-3066

Usually 10:00am – 3:00:pm

Admission Charged

The largest one-day show on the West Coast.

Annual Port of Los Angeles Lobster Festival

Port’s O’Call Village

562-434-3066

Usually held Friday – Sunday, call for exact dates and times

Admission Charged

The annual Lobster Fest is coming. Get your appetite ready.

International Sail & Power Boat Show

Long Beach Convention Center and
Downtown Marina

714/633-7581
Call for exact dates and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The Long Beach tradition continues, nearly forty years of boat shows produced by the Southern California Marine Association and presented by the Automobile Club of Southern California. The International Sail and Power Boat Show is the West Coast’s largest in-water and indoor boat show featuring hundreds of motor yachts, cruisers, sailboats, fishing boats, performance sport boats, family trailerables, ski boats, pontoons, inflatables and personal watercraft.

October

Homeworld Fall Show

300 East Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach, California 90802

562-436-3661

Call for additional information

See everything new at the Fall Home Show

Shipwreck

Aboard the Queen Mary

Long Beach, California

562-435-3511

Call for days and hours of operation

A month-long Halloween terror fest featuring haunted mazes aboard the Queen Mary.

Long Beach International City Bank Marathon

562-728-8829

Call for exact date and additional information

This popular and scenic course runs from the Aquarium along Ocean Blvd. througout Belmont Shore, Naples and back to the downtown area. Events include Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, inline Skating Marathon, Bike Tour, Children’s Fun Run.

December

Christmas Boat Parade

Long Beach, California

Boat Parade is usually held the second Saturday in December. Boaters may decorate their vessels and enter the parade. This parade attracts large crowds in and around the canals of Naples and it is always great fun.

Arts & Entertainment

The Terrace Theater

300 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, California 90802

562-436-3661

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

Edison Theatre

213 East Broadway
Long Beach, California 90802
562-432-1818

Call for schedule and additional information

Admission Charged

Sports

Skylinks Golf Course

4800 East Wardlow Road
Long Beach, California 90808

562-421-3388

Call for tee time and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Eighteen-hole challenging design is an enjoyable experience for all players, which offers an exciting blend of water hazards, numerous bunkers and excellent fairways and greens.

Long Beach Ice Dogs Hockey Club
Long Beach Arena
300 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90802
562.ICE.DOGS (423.3647)

Call for additional information

Admission Charged