MacArthur Park

Location and Size

Located in the heart of Cambodia Town in Long Beach, California, MacArthur Park spans a modest 3.9 acres but packs a mighty punch as a community green space. This green space has served the neighborhood for many years, providing locals with an escape from city life and a place to connect.

Renovation Project

If you're planning a visit, you should know that MacArthur Park is currently getting a major facelift. The transformation kicked off in 2024 and should wrap up by summer 2025. This $10.5 million renovation isn't just a touch-up - it's a complete reimagining of the space to better serve the community that treasures it.

Cultural Design Elements

What makes the park's redesign special is how it draws inspiration from Southeast Asian landscapes. The new design incorporates elements inspired by the riverine environments of Cambodia - reflecting the park's location and the area's significant Cambodian American population.

Once complete, you'll find charming elements like a river-lined-with-lilypads theme winding through the park. Kids will love the play sculptures featuring animals native to Southeast Asia, including an adorable Irrawaddy dolphin and a baby Asian elephant - bringing a touch of far-off lands to Long Beach.

Cultural Facilities

At the heart of MacArthur Park sits the Homeland Cultural Center, a vibrant hub for artistic programs and cultural expression. The park is also home to the Manazar Gamboa Community Theater, which will continue welcoming performers and audiences even as construction happens around it.

Through the years, the park has become the go-to spot for cultural celebrations that strengthen community bonds. These gatherings provide entertainment while also celebrating the cultural heritage of Cambodia Town.

Recreational Amenities

Before the renovation began, MacArthur Park offered several recreational options including basketball and tennis courts and a playground that was last updated in 1994 (with its initial redevelopment happening in 1988).

Families with young children appreciate the fenced and gated playground designed for kids under 10, offering parents peace of mind while little ones play. The back section of the park houses picnic tables where you can enjoy a meal in the shade - fantastic for family gatherings or casual weekend lunches.

Community Connection

What truly sets MacArthur Park apart isn't just its physical features but the life that fills it. On any given day, you might spot chess players deep in concentration at tables around the park. And if you're looking to combine outdoor time with some reading, you're in luck - the local library sits right across the street, making it easy to grab a book and find a peaceful spot under a tree to read.