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Hotel Blog - Hotel Current, CA
November 03, 2020
End Your Long Beach Visit with a Queen Mary Tour
The Queen Mary is a must-see favorite destination among residents in Long Beach, those who travel from far and of course, Hotel Current guests. As a cornerstone of the Long Beach Community, this attraction should absolutely have a space on anyone’s bucket list.
The long-retired vintage cruise ship offers visitors award-winning food, tours, views, shows, events, and more.
A RICH HISTORY OF THE QUEEN MARY
In 1929, the Cunard luxury cruise line company started to discuss plan...
November 03, 2020
Top 10 Free Things to do in Long Beach
A day well spent in Long Beach doesn’t have to have a hefty price tag. From classic neighborhoods to sandy beaches, you’ll find Long Beach to be an urban waterfront oasis. See what makes the area a can’t miss day trip in Southern California. Check out our list of the top things to do in Long Beach that won’t break the bank.
1. SIGNAL HILL
Signal Hill’s Hilltop Park offers one of the best panoramic views in the Greater Los Angeles Area. There’s ...
October 28, 2020
The Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, CA
If you’ve ever wondered what that giant blue pyramid in Long Beach is, you’re not alone.
Is it another Luxor like in Las Vegas?
Like the pyramids built in Egypt, is this going to be one of the next wonders of the world?
While both aren’t the case, this pyramid does hold its own special significance.
The bright blue structure is called the Walter Pyramid, and it’s an indoor multi-purpose arena that’s located on the campus of Califo...
October 05, 2020
Guide to the Best Breweries in Long Beach, CA
Long Beach is big on their beers.
This city is traveled to from far and wide from beer enthusiasts looking for some of the best beers around. Wherever you end up in Long Beach, you won’t be far away from some prime spots.
Many establishments have been recognized both locally and nationally, and we’re here to give you the scoop on some of the favorites.
Let’s dive in.
THE BEST BREWERIES IN LONG BEACH, CA
1. Liberation Brewi...
September 21, 2020
Guide to Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a gem among Southern California travel options and Hotel CURRENT is extremely lucky to have it right in our backyard.
Rather than having to drive to LAX and deal with the mess of traffic, long lines, and hours of waiting, Long Beach Airport provides its guests with a streamlined experience that’s more enjoyable and convenient.
Leisure and business travelers alike love LGB for its free wifi, recently renovated concourse, convenient parking, great dining o...
September 07, 2020
7 Best Farmers’ Markets in Long Beach, CA
There are few better things than waking up early and taking a stroll down a farmers’ market and seeing the wide selection of fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, jams, jellies, sauces, wine, trinkets, and many other items for sale.
Farmers’ markets are like little cities within the city, filled with cheerful vendors selling the public homegrown and homemade items for a few hours out of the day.
Some of these mini markets are small in size, while others are larger, especially i...
August 31, 2020
Top 7 Vegan Restaurants in Long Beach CA
Long Beach is a vegan and vegetarian paradise with plenty of yummy options to choose from. You’ll get everything from fresh takes on Mexican food to cozy little corner cafes. We believe that variety is the spice of life, and Long Beach is no stranger to that
If you’re a vegan eater or just health-conscious and visiting the Long Beach area, check out our favorite vegan-friendly options below.
TOP VEGAN RESTAURANTS LONG BEACH
1. Seabirds Kitchen Long Beach
...
August 24, 2020
Best Tacos in Long Beach, CA
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when wanting something quick to eat, yet full of flavor and inexpensive?
Tacos, of course!
For those few short minutes of eating one, of four, or six, you are transformed into culinary heaven and can’t help but enjoy yourself.
The combination of the meat with the cilantro, lime, hot sauce, and anything else that you desire all come together to form a perfect harmony.
Depending on how packed the taco was wit...
August 17, 2020
Belmont Shore & Naples: Long Beach’s Quintessential Seaside Community
If asked to picture a classic Southern California neighborhood, it would probably look something like Belmont Shore & Naples.
This Long Beach Seaside Community is home to calm beaches, serene lagoons, attractive canals, beautiful boardwalks, and of course, the bustling and energetic environment of Second Street.
Where is Belmont Shore & Naples, you may ask? Well, they are situated just minutes from Downtown Long Beach.
Belmont Shore (affectionately titled “The Shore&...
August 10, 2020
Best Whale Watching Tours in Long Beach, CA
As one of California’s most visited ocean side cities, Long Beach truly loves the Pacific Ocean and all that comes along with it.
Home to one of the nation’s largest ports, ocean educational center, city-wide recycling programs, beaches, harbors, and more, both Long Beach residents and visitors are able to enjoy the beauty of the big blue.
One of the most amazing and natural luxuries available in Long Beach is the breathtaking views of the largest animals ever known to live on this...
August 03, 2020
Best Pizza Shops in Long Beach, CA
Pizza. One of the best things to ever grace our existence.
Pizza is one of the most delicious and versatile foods on the planet due to the seemingly endless number of topping combinations you can have on it.
We’ll bet that we stirred up your hunger for a slice or two, or five. If you are indeed now hungry and you’re in Long Beach, you’re in luck.
Long Beach is filled with some of the best pizza shops in Southern California.
Here’s a list of some fan favori...
July 29, 2020
The Pike Outlets Long Beach – Shopping & Entertainment Guide
The Pike Outlets in Long Beach is not your ordinary shopping mall. Located right next to The Aquarium of the Pacific, this open-air shopping center is packed with dozens of familiar restaurants, bars, shops, and movie theatres.
Let’s not forget to include the giant Ferris Wheel, and the widely known comedy establishment, The Laugh Factory. Pair these with beautiful views of Long Beach Harbor and year-round perfect weather, and you have yourself a day filled with fun, shopping, a...
July 27, 2020
The Best Ice Cream Spots in Long Beach, CA
Looking for something to cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the sights and sounds of the city?
Then look no further than our guide to some of the best ice cream spots in Long Beach!
Here’s the scoop.
THE BEST ICE CREAM SPOTS IN LONG BEACH, CA
1. Long Beach Creamery
With flavors consisting of Midnight Oolong, Burnt Caramel, and Whiskey Vanilla, LB Creamery isn’t afraid to take chances on handcrafting some amazing ice cre...
July 20, 2020
The Best Used Bookstores in Long Beach, CA
Long Beach is a city that seemingly has it all.
From gorgeous beaches to nature parks to doses of culture & authenticity, it’s hard-pressed to find not be able something in this city that’s fulfilling, entertaining, and jaw-droppingly beautiful.
Included in that broad sphere of what this city has to offer are geared more toward bibliophiles. Bookstores, to be precise.
But these bookstores that lay spread out in this city aren&rs...
July 13, 2020
Virtual Tours: Fun Things To Do While at Home During the Coronavirus Quarantine
As we all know, Coronavirus has impacted the world in many ways. Seemingly everything that once was as it was, is now and will continue to be different in adaptation to a new normal.
Social distancing is the new normal. Wearing masks is the new normal. There may be more things under the umbrella of new normal, for what those are and for how long are yet to be seen.
It’s undeniable that things are still very shaky and very weird. This will be the case for the foreseeable future beca...
July 07, 2020
Guide to Long Beach Art Walk
The art walk.
What is it?
You’ve probably heard people talking about it here and there, and maybe you know what it is, or maybe you’re still unsure.
For those who have ever attended an art walk in a major city, those will say it’s quite the experience.
For those who haven’t yet had the privilege of attending one, it’s definitely something that should be added to your calendar. And soon.
But that still doesn&rs...
June 22, 2020
Top Day Trips From Long Beach, CA
Long Beach is one of those cities where you can do almost anything in. Looking to hit up the water in search of some awesome waves or just to relax at? Check out some of the best beaches in town. In the mood to explore one of Orange County’s coolest, most eclectic line of shops and restaurants? There’s always Retro Row. For those weekends where you want to just walk around and visit some exotic sea life, The Aquarium of the Pacific is your best bet.Â
While there is much to do in Long...
June 15, 2020
A Golfer’s Paradise in the Heart of Southern California
When thinking of Long Beach, one might immediately start thinking of The Queen Mary, Retro Row, or the pristine beaches. Another attraction that should be at top of mind should be golfing. Long Beach is one of the best places in Southern California to set up shop on the green and have some fun in the sun.
Long Beach’s central location and gorgeous weather make it a perfect year-round option for golfers of all skill levels, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned vet. Th...
June 08, 2020
Retro Row – Long Beach’s Top Outing Spot for Culture & Authenticity
Long Beach’s Retro Row is one of those places that you’ll never forget once you go. Retro Row is a small business district on paper but is much more when one actually sees it first hand.
It isn’t just about the great food spots, bars, or thrift shops (which are awesome). It’s about how this place makes you feel. The creative & vibrant spirit of Retro Row and the people you come across as you spend time there provide visitors with a strong sense of community & a g...
May 26, 2020
Visit Shoreline Village Mall for Food, Fun, and Finery
If you catch yourself in Long Beach one day and feel like a little seaside visit could be interesting, then be sure to stop by Shoreline Village. This little gem in the LBC is stocked with so many cool things that can keep you busy for the entire day. A better way to explore this place is to set a date to come here, so you can plan your day and enjoy everything it has to offer.
On this popular waterfront boardwalk you will find quirky shops and souvenir stores, entertainment, an...
May 18, 2020
Guide to The Aquarium of the Pacific
What is there to do in Long Beach?
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The answer is quite a lot, but there’s one place in particular that we always recommend our guests experience when visiting Long Beach.
THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC
The Aquarium of the Pacific is minutes away from Hotel CURRENT and has been delighting guests of all ages for over 20 years. Experience the wonder of the natural undersea flora and fauna that is available. Turtles, sea lions, whale watching, penguins, sharks and much more awa...
May 11, 2020
Top 4 Things to Do in Seal Beach
WHERE IS SEAL BEACH?
Seal Beach is located just outside of Long Beach. Technically in Orange County, Seal Beach is between Long Beach and Huntington Beach – less than 7 miles away from downtown Long Beach. Just a short trip away, it’s definitely worth the excursion during your time in Long Beach!
WHY IS IT CALLED SEAL BEACH?
Sorry to get your hopes up, but seals don’t frequent Seal Beach these days. While Seal Beach is named after the seals that used to be in abundance on th...
May 04, 2020
Cruise from Long Beach to Catalina for Island Fun
Want to get away without really having to get away?
Catalina Island is the perfect Southern California day trip destination and it’s just an hour from Long Beach.
Resting 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina Island is the southernmost island of California’s Channel Islands. It is made up of two towns, the city of Avalon on one end and a village called Two Harbors on the other. Not only is it a fun place to explore, but it’s easy t...
April 27, 2020
Take a Virtual Tour of Long Beach
Longing to visit the beach or take in the skyline? You may be homebound right now, but you can still experience Long Beach through virtual tours and videos. Not only can these virtual tours of Long Beach provide you a break from the same scenery you’ve been surrounded by, but they can also give you some ideas of places you’ll want to visit when you can come out and enjoy the city! Take a virtual trip to Long Beach and start planning your visit when you’re finally able to come o...
April 20, 2020
Top 4 Walking Trails in Long Beach
While many people come to Long Beach for, well, the beach, there are plenty of walking trails that offer beautiful views of the city as you get some fresh air and exercise. And given that we’re currently in the throes of COVID-19, we wanted to showcase some of our favorite walking trails that you can still enjoy, even under stay-at-home orders. Just remember to keep social distancing when you’re out! Here’s our short list of walking trails in Long Beach to ease your mind.
LONG...
April 06, 2020
Guide to the Long Beach Antique Market
If you’re a fan of antiques, flea markets, and getting out and about on a weekend morning, oh do we have a spot for you.
The Long Beach Antique Market is a popular flea market that has been around for nearly 30 years and is still going strong. Some of the markets’ accolades include being named the “Top Ten Flea Markets in the US” by Good Housekeeping, and the “Best Flea Market in LA” by the Los Angeles Times. They are open every third Sunday of the ...
March 26, 2020
Top 5 Best Beaches in Long Beach, California
When one thinks of Long Beach, one could envision an artistic town with a bustling nightlife, fun local events that pop up every weekend, or what the name of the city is actually named after, which is a beach that’s long and wide. But what if we told you there was more than one beach in this city, and each of them had their own special traits?
Long Beach, CA was originally founded in 1888 with the original name of Wilmore City, but then officially changed to Long Beach because ...
March 16, 2020
The El Dorado Nature Center & Park in Long Beach
If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air and a quiet place to escape to in the midst of a bustling city, then The El Dorado Nature Center in Long Beach should be your next stop.
The majestic El Dorado Nature Center was built 1969 and sports over 100 acres of pristine land and has multiple lakes. It’s also a wildlife sanctuary, so the chance to see different kinds of animals in their natural habitat is promising. Best of all, entrance is free.
Some of the animals you mi...
December 23, 2019
New Year’s Eve Events in Long Beach, CA
Long Beach is an exciting city with plenty to do on New Year’s Eve. With this year being a new decade, make sure to celebrate accordingly. That’s why we put together a list of our favorite Long Beach events like New Year’s Eve at the Waterfront, Aquarium of the Pacific New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s on the Queen Mary. Continue reading to view the full list!
1. NEW YEAR’S EVE ON THE QUEEN MARY
Ring in the New year aboard the historic Queen Mary o...
December 09, 2019
Long Beach Ballet’s Nutcracker 2019
You won’t want to miss out on the 37th production of The Nutcracker from the Long Beach Ballet’s Artistic Director, David Wilcox. We think this year’s performance is the best one yet with a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, an actual horse, pyrotechnics, and a huge cast of over 200. You’ll also love the scenery designed by former Disney set designers Elliot Hessayon and Scott Chaffer, the costumes designed by artist Adrian Clark, special effects by well-...
December 02, 2019
Top Long Beach Christmas Tree Farms
Christmas in Long Beach is a gorgeous time. We may not have the snow, but we do have tree lighting ceremonies, boat parades, Christmas on the Queen Mary, and of course plenty of beautiful Christmas trees to choose from. Get your home ready for the holidays with a perfect Christmas tree from one of Long Beach’s top lots.
1. SNOWY PINES CHRISTMAS TREES
Now in its 45th year serving the Long Beach Community, Snowy Pines Christmas Tree Farm is back open ...
November 25, 2019
Guide to the Long Beach Turkey Trot 2019
Get up and moving before your Thanksgiving feast with the Long Beach Turkey Trot. Thanksgiving Day is by far the most popular race day of the year in the United States with over 1,000 events taking place nationwide. Embarking on a long run during a holiday of leisure might not be everyone’s choice for fun, but we say go for it! For more motivation, 100% of proceeds go to the Community Action Team (C.A.T.) charity organization. Continue reading for Hotel Current’s full ...
November 18, 2019
Top 5 Long Beach Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
Looking to bring some joy back into this Thanksgiving? How about eating out rather than spending hours on a meal that may or may not turn out. You’re in luck as Long Beach is chock full of delicious restaurants offering up special Thanksgiving brunches, lunches, and dinner. Continue reading for our full list of the best restaurants open this Turkey Day.
TOP 5 LONG BEACH RESTAURANTS OPEN ON THANKSGIVING
1. The Queen Mary’s Thanksgiving
If you’re looking for fine di...
October 21, 2019
Guide to Long Beach Pumpkin Patches
Looking to pick out that perfect pumpkin this Halloween? You’re in luck! Long Beach is home to various different pumpkin patches from quaint to elaborate and fun. Kids will love the patches featuring games, tractor rides, and petting zoos. You can’t have Halloween without pumpkins, so check out our guide to the best pumpkin patches in Long Beach, CA and its surrounding areas.
1. PA’S PUMPKIN PATCH
No list of Long Beach Pumpkin patches is complete wi...
September 30, 2019
The spookiest attraction in Long Beach
Dark Harbor is the Queen Mary’s annual Halloween haunted attraction with multiple mazes, a 4D theater experience, countless live monsters, live entertainment, DJ’s, themed bars, private cabanas, concession-style food, and a R.I.P lounge experience. Now on the 10th year of the event, Dark Harbor is a must-see attraction in Long Beach.
CONTINUE READING FOR A FULL GUIDE TO THIS SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN EVENT!
Mazes & Monsters
Get ready for hundreds of li...
September 23, 2019
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Gardens
The Earl Burn Miller Japanese Garden located on the campus of Cal State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is truly a gem in the heart of Long Beach. Enter into a world of peace and quiet as you stroll through the winding pathways, observe the playful koi, check out the tea house, and finally relax in the zen garden. With blossoms year-round, cultural events, and rotating exhibits. There’s always something to do at Long Beach State’s Japanese Garden.
Dedicated in April 1981, the 1.3-acr...
September 16, 2019
Soak in Some Culture at the Long Beach Museum of Art
The Long Beach Museum of Art (LBMA) was founded in 1950 as a municipal art center for the city of Long Beach. From the beginning, the Museum has been located in the historic 1911 Elizabeth Milbank Anderson House. In 1957, the Anderson House was designated as the Long Beach Museum of Art, at which time the Museum began acquiring a permanent collection.
The Museum’s permanent collection is diverse with more than 3,200 works from 300 years of Americ...
July 01, 2019
Experience Long Beach’s Most Iconic Summer Event
The Sea Festival is one of Long Beach’s longest standing and most beloved summer traditions. The “festival,” founded in 1888, is an umbrella term for events that range from sand castle contests to the world famous Catalina Ski Race. While the tradition lasts, the festival continues to evolve over the years. What was once a small community event is now a regional tourist draw. The best part is most events are free and fun for the whole family.
Various events are put o...
June 24, 2019
The Nation’s Only Museum Dedicated to Contemporary Latin American Art
If you are visiting the Long Beach area looking for events and attractions, The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) offers a unique day out and about.
Located in downtown Long Beach, it is currently the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art.
COMMITTED TO ART AND CULTURE
Offering ground-breaking exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events, MOLAA expands the knowledge and appreciation of modern and contemporary Latin ...
June 17, 2019
Visit Long Beach Symphony for an Unforgettable Musical Experience
If you are visiting Long Beach and looking for a little culture, then look no further than the Long Beach Symphony.
Featuring some of Southern California’s finest symphonic musicians, Long Beach Symphony celebrates its 85th season in 2019.
The Symphony presents more than 100 concerts, education, and community programs each year that reach more than 100,000 residents-from toddlers to senior citizens.
The Symphony also provides over 150 free music education programs in par...
June 10, 2019
Wild Rides, Water Slides and Amazing History at Knott’s Berry Farm
A true Southern California icon, there is only one Knotts Berry Farm. It’s located in Buena Park and hosts over 3.5 Million visitors each year.
Today it is known as a mecca of wild rides, attractions, and entertainment, but originally in the 1920s, it began as a berry stand on the side of the road.
HOW KNOTT’S BERRY FARM GOT STARTED
The Knott’s Berry Farm theme began as a berry farm established by Walter Knott and his family. Beginning in the mid-1920s, the Knott family...
December 18, 2018
Good Old Fashioned Fun in Long Beach
If you’re planning a stay in Long Beach and want to experience some of the local food and fare, then we have something special for you.
The famous 4th street in Long Beach is home to restaurants, art galleries, vintage clothing and furniture stores, street art, performers and much more! It is the heart and soul of the Long Beach art community, and offers an experience unlike any other.
Shoppers looking to buy vintage clothes, furniture and other memorabilia from the 50s to the 70...
October 10, 2018
Brew’s and Boo’s
Did you know that October (octo, meaning eight) WAS the 8th month of the Roman calendar until the Julian calendar reform? Yep, they added January & February, making October the 10th month of our calendar. At Hotel Current, we know that October is a “10!”
From our 4th Annual Oktoberfest on October 13th, from noon – 7pm to our Queen Mary ‘Dark Harbor’ event that promises the most intense authent...
September 24, 2018
Explore all the Galore!!
Planning a trip to our beautiful coastal city of Long Beach? At Hotel Current you’re surrounded by a plentitude of places to explore!
If you’re looking for a relaxing day of walking around enjoying the gorgeous views, window shopping or trying the eclectic collection of restaurants, there is no better place to go than Shoreline Village.
Water is the driving force of all nature. ~ Leonardo da Vinci
If you and your family are in town, you must expl...
June 27, 2018
Three Tips to Save on Your Next Trip
As the weather warms up in Southern California, mini-vacations and out of town stays can be a wonderful way to celebrate the Spring. Wedding season is also fast approaching, and that can mean a lot of traveling. Here are three tips that can help you make the most of your expenses and give you freedom to enjoy your trips.
Packages that Match
If you are traveling to see a specific tourist attraction or are in need of extra accommodations during your stay, find a hotel that matches your needs and...
June 14, 2018
Time for a Romantic Getaway?
Spring has sprung, the weather is gorgeous in Long Beach, California, and it’s June! One of the most romantic and beautiful months of the year!
“Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June.” ~ Al Bernstein
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, there is no better place than Hotel Current. Not only are we minutes from downtown Long Beach, we are within 5 miles of the gorgeous Shoreline Village that hosts ever...
February 08, 2018
Who let the Dogs out?
That would be Chinese Lunar calendar!
After an extreme year of the Fire Rooster, we welcome in the Year of the Earth Dog and the universal values of love and respect for all!
And speaking of love, at hotel Current we adore man’s best friend and welcome our four-legged friends to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings of our lush pool area and some of the nicest spots to dine in Long Beach.
Within a couple of miles of hotel Current is The Attic, a pet-friendly restaurant that encourages yo...
January 19, 2018
Standing on the Shoulders of Giants
One of the greatest events in our fair City of Long Beach is the pride that we take in our annual Martin Luther King Jr Peace & Unity Parade and Celebration. This year we celebrated the 30th annual event on January 13th, by “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants.” A fun-filled day that started with the parade at 10:30am, and after the parade ended, the celebration started with arts, crafts, vendors, food, entertainment … the list goes on and on!
“Be a ...