Bixby Park

A Slice of Long Beach History

Nestled along Cherry Avenue in Long Beach, Bixby Park stretches across 16.7 acres of urban greenery with gorgeous ocean views from its perch above Alamitos Beach. It's the kind of place where history and community seamlessly blend together.

This park carries quite the backstory. Once part of the sprawling Rancho Los Alamitos, the initial section was gifted in 1903 by the Alamitos Land Company. Originally called Alamitos Park, it got its current name in 1907 after joining Long Beach, honoring Jotham Bixby. The park grew over time, expanding south of Ocean Boulevard in both 1938 and 1952.

Where the Community Comes Together

Bixby Park has long been a gathering place for Long Beach residents. Back in the early 1900s, you could find quirky attractions like a goldfish pond, an aviary, and even monkey cages - yes, actual monkeys!

From the 1920s through the 1960s, the park became famous for hosting massive state picnics, with the Iowa picnic drawing particularly impressive crowds. The community tradition continues today with farmers' markets held in the park on Tuesdays and Saturdays. These markets are excellent for grabbing fresh produce, sampling local food, and occasionally catching some live music.

Throughout the year, the park hosts free yoga sessions, art shows, and concerts that bring locals and visitors together.

Coastal view at Bixby Park's south end Annex section

Photo: dan lundmark (CC BY 2.0)

Something for Everyone

Regardless of whether you're eight or eighty, Bixby Park has something to offer. Kids love the fenced playground with its swings, slides, and climbing structures - a safe space where imagination runs wild.

If you're feeling more active, the basketball court and volleyball court await your best game, while the popular skate park hosts everyone from beginners to seasoned skaters. For those looking to work up a sweat without a gym membership, outdoor fitness equipment stations are scattered across the grounds.

The historic bandshell, originally built in 1928 and lovingly restored in 2008, stands as a reminder of the park's rich cultural legacy. And when it's time to refuel, picnic tables and grilling areas offer perfect spots to enjoy a meal in the open air.

A Dog's Paradise

Bixby Park is popular with dog owners. The dedicated dog park features separate areas for small and large pups, giving them safe space to run, play, and make furry friends off-leash.

The wider park welcomes leashed dogs throughout its grounds, making it a natural gathering place for the local pet community. Don't be surprised if you leave with both human and canine connections!

Location and Experience

With its proximity to the coast and ample green spaces, Bixby Park is good for picnics, workouts, or simply relaxing. The southern section offers particularly stunning ocean views, although you might notice some traffic sounds mixing with the sea breeze.

You can enjoy the park daily from 6AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of time to experience all it has to offer. Bixby Park provides a green space that connects to Long Beach's history while serving current community needs.