Learn Something New in Long Beach

Do you love to nerd out over history and science? Do you enjoy learning a new skill, like cooking or crafting? In Long Beach, you can learn something new about all kinds of topics, from environmental conservation to architecture, and try new pursuits like pottery or 3D printing. Check out some ideas below.

SPEAKER SERIES

Several local organizations host guest speakers in Long Beach, including Rancho Los Alamitos (6400 E Bixby Hill Rd), with its lecture series focusing on local history and ecology. The Aquarium of the Pacific’s (100 Aquarium Way) First Wednesdays events feature guest speakers on conservation and sustainability topics and activities like exhibits, crafting, and live music. You can also hear from notable experts at the Distinguished Speaker Series held at the Terrace Theater (300 E Ocean Blvd), which brings nationally recognized authors, explorers, actors, and celebrities to the stage for a moderated talk.

LONG BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY

The library is an obvious place for learning new things, but the Long Beach Public Library offers much more than books. Across the system’s 12 locations, you can join a crochet club meeting, attend a LEGO building or kids crafting session. There are book clubs for all ages, sewing workshops, author talks, and more. The Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W Broadway) and Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library (5870 Atlantic Ave) have studio spaces for visitors to learn how to use 3D printers, sound editing equipment, crafting machines, and more.

NEW SKILLS

If you’ve never tried it, archery can become an addictive pastime. You can rent equipment and take a low-cost beginner safety course with El Dorado Archers at Long Beach’s El Dorado East Regional Park (7550 E. Spring St.) on Saturdays at 9AM. More seasoned archers can bring their own equipment and shoot anytime during regular park hours. Interested in throwing a pot? Try a one-time beginner’s pottery class at Clay on First (408 E 1st St, Unit B). Learn to make fresh pasta, chocolate truffles, or restaurant-quality steaks with Locali Seasoned and more at Partake Collective (456 Elm Ave), where you can enjoy a dinner party with your newfound foodie friends after the class.

CREDIT: El Dorado Archers

TOURS

To learn about Long Beach history and architecture, join a monthly walking tour with Long Beach Heritage, which offers architecture tours of the East Village Arts District on the second Saturday of each month and in Downtown Long Beach every third Saturday. The organization also offers tours of the historic Bembridge House (953 N Park Circle Dr), a Queen Anne Victorian Mansion built in 1906. Tours are available weekly on Tuesday afternoons and every fourth Saturday. Rancho Los Cerritos offers a guided bird walk on the second Thursday of each month. Bring your binoculars and learn about local bird species and nature in the gardens surrounding the historic adobe home.

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.