Maritime Tour: East Village Long Beach

Nestled in the heart of Long Beach’s East Village, the Maritime Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the area’s rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the iconic Queen Mary, discover traditional shipbuilding techniques, and indulge in the vibrant waterfront’s culinary delights. From the bustling ports to the historic landmarks, this immersive experience promises to transport guests into the beating heart of Long Beach’s maritime culture. What secrets and stories await those who venture forth on this enchanting journey?

Key Points

• A 2.5-hour walking tour in East Village, Long Beach, focusing on the area’s maritime history, cultural experiences, and local cuisine.
• Includes visits to the historic Queen Mary, demonstrations of traditional shipbuilding techniques, and exploration of the vibrant waterfront.
• Offers a variety of local food tastings, such as Thai, Italian, and vegan options, as well as street tacos and kombucha.
• Showcases the neighborhood’s vibrant art scene and historical heritage, including public murals, sculptures, and stories about the area’s "beatnik" roots.
• Provides a comfortable and flexible tour experience with English-speaking guides, recommendations for appropriate footwear, and a convenient meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Maritime Tour of Long Beach is a 2.5-hour walking tour that takes visitors through the East Village neighborhood, just steps from the Pacific Ocean.

Priced from $150 per person, the tour offers a cultural experience, highlighting the area’s history, public art, and local cuisine.

Guests can expect to sample a variety of flavors, including Thai, Italian, and vegan options, as well as street tacos and kombucha.

The tour also includes a visit to a record store featuring vinyl and cassettes.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour operates rain or shine.

Maritime Experience

Stepping off the historical streets of Long Beach’s East Village, the Maritime Tour immerses visitors in the area’s rich maritime heritage.

Stepping off the historical streets of Long Beach’s East Village, the Maritime Tour immerses visitors in the area’s rich maritime heritage.

The tour highlights:

• Sweeping views of the bustling Long Beach and Los Angeles ports

• A visit to the historic Queen Mary, a retired luxury ocean liner now a floating hotel and museum

• Demonstrations of traditional shipbuilding techniques by local artisans

• Exploration of the vibrant waterfront, dotted with seafood restaurants and specialty shops

• Insights into the region’s thriving commercial fishing industry and its impact on the local economy and culture.

Culinary Delights

Alongside the maritime heritage, the Maritime Tour of Long Beach offers visitors a delectable culinary experience.

Guests savor a variety of local flavors, including Thai, Italian, and vegan samplings, as well as street tacos and kombucha. The tour highlights personal family recipes, allowing participants to enjoy the vibrant food culture of the region.

From traditional dishes to innovative creations, the culinary stops on the tour provide a well-rounded taste of the diverse dining options available in the East Village and surrounding areas.

This aspect of the tour complements the exploration of the local history and art.

Art and History

As visitors embark on the Maritime Tour of Long Beach, they’re treated to a captivating exploration of the area’s vibrant art scene and rich historical heritage.

The tour guides share stories about the neighborhood’s "beatnik" roots, the significance of the Long Beach and Los Angeles ports, and the city’s commitment to civic art.

Highlights include:

• Viewing public murals and sculptures that reflect the region’s cultural diversity

• Hearing anecdotes about the local merchants and their family histories

• Visiting a record store featuring an impressive vinyl and cassette collection

• Learning about the area’s evolution from a sleepy seaside town to a thriving cultural hub

• Appreciating the blend of old and new that defines the East Village’s unique character.

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Neighborhood Exploration

The tour winds through the lively streets of the East Village, immersing visitors in the vibrant energy of the neighborhood.

Guests explore local shops, boutiques, and galleries, learning about the area’s history as a hub for artists and creatives. The guide shares stories about the "beatnik" culture that once thrived here, highlighting the neighborhood’s enduring artistic spirit.

Visitors savor a variety of local flavors, from Thai and Italian to vegan cuisine and street tacos, as they discover the diverse culinary offerings.

Throughout the experience, the tour showcases the community’s commitment to supporting small, independent businesses.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour meets outside the Terrace Theater in front of the fountain. From this starting point, the tour explores the surrounding area:

• Tour guides are available to share their expertise in English.

• Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking portion.

• The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be prepared for the elements.

• Gratuities and transportation are included in the tour package.

• Guests can check availability and reserve their spot online, selecting their preferred date and number of participants.

Booking Information

Guests can check availability and reserve their spot online, selecting their preferred date and number of participants.

The booking process is seamless, allowing guests to secure their tour with no upfront payment. Once booked, guests can rest assured that their reservation is guaranteed, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The booking process is seamless, with no upfront payment required. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flexibility ensures guests can plan their visit with peace of mind.

The tour package includes the live guide, all tastings, and transportation, making it a comprehensive and convenient experience for visitors to the Long Beach area.

Cultural Immersion

Although the Maritime Tour of Long Beach offers a rundown of the city’s maritime history and local culture, it’s the culture experience that truly sets this tour apart.

Guests are treated to:

• Insider stories about the neighborhood’s "beatnik" roots and the influence of the nearby ports

• Opportunities to engage with local merchants and learn about their crafts

• Tastings of diverse cuisines that reflect the city’s multicultural identity

• Immersion in the vibrant arts scene, including public murals and a record store featuring vinyl and cassettes

• A chance to connect with the guide and fellow travelers, fostering a sense of community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for participants to change their plans without penalty.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour accommodates various dietary needs, including Thai, Italian, vegan, and other samplings. Guests with dietary restrictions can notify the tour operator in advance, and the guides will ensure an inclusive experience.

How Many People Are Typically in the Tour Group?

The group size typically ranges from 4 to 12 participants. The tour’s intimate setting allows for a personalized experience where the guide can engage with each guest and provide them with the highlights of the local culture and cuisine.

Can I Purchase Any Items or Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour allows participants to purchase souvenirs and local products during the experience. Visitors can explore a record store featuring vinyl and cassettes as well as sample various local flavors and specialties from the area’s merchants and eateries.

Is There Any Parking Available Near the Meeting Point?

Parking is available near the Terrace Theater fountain meeting point, though it may be limited. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or rideshare options to get to the tour start location if possible.

The Sum Up

The Maritime Tour in East Village, Long Beach offers a captivating journey through the area’s rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Queen Mary, witness traditional shipbuilding, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront culture, including its seafood restaurants and specialty shops. This tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the commercial fishing industry’s significance and the community’s deep-rooted maritime traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: