Dating can be rough, especially when you're trying to save a few extra dollars. But money does not always equal a fantastic date. Not everyone can afford, nor want, a $200+ dinner in order to have a good time. Here are five places throughout Long Beach that will, hopefully, land you a second date or impress your significant other.
El Dorado Nature Center: 7550 E Spring St., Long Beach, CA 90815
A gentle hike through nature is a great way to relax and escape the daily urban environment. Walk along the San Gabriel River, lakes, and encounter wildlife along either the two-mile dirt trails or the one-fourth mile paved trail around two lakes, a stream, and forested areas. The only thing you need to purchase here is parking, which can range from $5 to $8 and is cash only. The trails are open every Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Japanese Garden at CSULB: Earl Warren Dr., Long Beach, CA 90840
A hidden gem of CSULB's campus, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden has been a part of the university since 1981. The 1.3-acre tranquil Hill and Pond is entirely free and a great alternative if you have already been to the El Dorado Nature Center. Just be aware of their hours and make sure there are no special events occurring!
MOLAA: 628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
California is rich in Latin American culture and continues to grow. MOLAA, or the Museum of Latin American Art, desires to expand its guests’ knowledge to appreciate modern and contemporary Latin American art through its collection. General admission is $10 while seniors and students are $7. However, if you go on Sunday or the fourth Thursday of every month, and admission is free. If you or your partner are lovers of art then a lovely afternoon observing it is perfect for you.
Long Beach Museum of Art: 2300 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90803
The Long Beach Museum of Art has been a permanent collection to Long Beach since 1950 and includes more than 3,200 works that cover over 300 years of American and European art. Every Friday, the museum is free to all guests all day while on Thursdays there is free admission from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. If you can't make it on a Friday, then it is $7 for general admission and $6 for seniors and students.
Hilltop Park: 2351 Dawson Ave, Signal Hill, CA 90755
Although it is not exactly in Long Beach, it does overlook the whole city. It is best to go early in the morning for sunrise or late at night to see the entire city light up in front of you and your significant other. Drive all the way to the top of Signal Hill and both of you can enjoy the view.