Winnie S: I dont have a thing for firefighters or firefighting equipment but I have a friend who does, so I end up visiting these kinds of museums across the country whenever we travel together.
This museum is probably the second smallest with the least amount of stuff compared to the museums in Hollywood, San Francisco and Boston (smallest). As expected, there are old engines, facts and artifacts, technology and equipment, photographs and old films, and personal effects and knick-knacks.
Similar to other fire and firefighter museums, this one is run by volunteer firefighters and have limited hours. You can probably see everything under half hour if you are thorough and if a firefighter decides to give you a quick tour.
If you are in the area, this is an interesting and uncommon thing to check out but I probably wouldnt recommend making it the only thing you do while in Long Beach. Street parking can be tough but if you dont mind walking a few blocks or visiting on Wednesdays instead of Saturdays, you will have better luck.
If you want to check out just one firefighter museum in your lifetime, I highly recommend the one in Hollywood instead. It is the biggest one that I have gone to, with more to see, plus a second story upstairs for little ones to get their little hands on everything.
The coolest thing here is probably the piece of wooden water pipe. Doesnt sound like much but go check it out. Also interesting is an old machine that prints out a code for the fire department which a firefighter back in the day would decipher to locate the firebox from which an emergency call came. Ask a volunteer to show you how that works.
Free admissions, but donations accepted. Open only on Wednesdays and certain Saturdays. Check the website and call ahead. If the front is locked go to the side/driveway on the right. Overall, very nice staff and an interesting place to kill a little bit of time.
Fire Blaster: One of the most beautiful places in the world on top of the world where you can see all of Los Angeles and majority part of it going into Santa Monica and going into Orange County,. He would come here ever since I had a drivers license when I was 16.,, and I keep coming back now that I’m 30, so it’s been about 14 years. We’re going to this place. With my date that turned in to my wife ., and actually proposed here, and are still coming back to this beautiful hill top ever since, can’t stop going here
Luis Martinez: I was part of a gothic themed wedding held in this beautiful historic home. The entire feel really fit their style. I could not recommend a better location than here.
Ricky Laurens: Such a sweet and romantic spot! The Love Locks at Shoreline Village are such a unique and charming part of Long Beach. Couples can attach a padlock to the fence overlooking the harbor to symbolize their love—it’s really beautiful to see all the messages and names left behind. You can bring your own lock or buy one nearby.
It’s a perfect stop for a date or just to take some lovely photos, especially around sunset when the view is stunning. Plus, the rest of Shoreline Village has great shops, restaurants, and a relaxing vibe. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!
Phil Graves: Horrible, horrible people in there. The mask mandate had ended in Long Beach 2 weeks prior to me going to pay a visit. When I walked in the door I was set upon immediately by some man Karen demanding that I put a face mask on. I informed him that the mask mandate was over with And that I was not going to wear one. Within a couple of minutes he unleashes the Uber Karen on me. She demands that I put a face mask on as well, I once again had to school them On the end of mask mandates in Long Beach. She then tries to lecture me that this institution still requires them and asked if I am a member of the historical society? (Totally a ridiculous question) I told her I had been up until a year ago and that I would never renew my membership because of the messed up treatment I was receiving in there. I was there to buy some old photos in the gift shop. It was very cult like in there and I dont recommend anyone go there unless they are prepared to still play the covid charade. By the way I was the only customer in the store at the time and wasnt anywhere near anyone until they started haranguing me.( Not that it mattered).
Ian Crichton: Originally designed for olympic events, its now became my favorite place to unwind, meditate, take my dog for a walk or even do the occasional fishing adventure. One of long beaches hidden gems.
