LONG BEACH THROUGH A LOCAL’S EYE: MARIA GLIDDEN
With a background in Communication Studies and almost a decade’s worth of experience running her own business, Maria Glidden is thrilled to be launching Long Beach Days. Her passion for small businesses and love of storytelling is the core of this publication. Based in Bixby Knolls, Maria has loved becoming a regular at multiple businesses in the area. As a mom of two, she is always looking out for activities and experiences for her and her family. She has really enjoyed exploring the Greater Long Beach area and is so proud to call this city her home. Here are currently some of her favorite happenings and things to do around town:
STEELCRAFT LONG BEACH
Located in Bixby Knolls, SteelCraft is an outdoor, communal eatery with an urban flair. Built from repurposed shipping containers that host multiple local food vendors, there’s options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My family and I love walking down here on the weekend. We love to order a latte or cappuccino from Steelhead that pairs well with any of the breakfast offerings from Waffle Love, La Taqueria, or Hangry Belly.
AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC
Visiting the Aquarium is one of our favorite things to do! As the largest aquarium in Southern CA, Aquarium of the Pacific is home to around 12,000 animals and around 100 exhibits. My daughter especially loves the Shark and Sting Ray touch pool - such a fun family outing!
LONG BEACH FLEA MARKET
On the 3rd Sunday of every month, Long Beach hosts its incredible Antique and Flea Market. Located at Veteran’s Stadium, the Flea Market has over 800 sellers set up from all across the country. With a beverage in hand from Wolf’s Brew Coffee, I love browsing the aisles and rows of unique vintage pieces and antique treasures.
PASTRIES FROM GUSTO
This artisan Panaderia located on Long Beach’s “Retro Row” offers naturally leavened and long fermented breads and pastries. Gusto focuses on local and high-quality ingredients, and their treats and loaves are truly divine. We love their flaky biscuit and frequently pick up the “California Loaf.”
YOGA AT RA YOGA
A few times a week I try to pop in to a class at RA Yoga. With over 14 types of yoga offered, the classes vary from intensity and in levels of heat. My go to classes are Yogalates and Ra Strength, but for a more gentle and mindful practice, I love their Yin RaStore class.
BIXBY KNOLLS FARMER’S MARKET
Every Thursday from 3pm-6:30pm, Bixby Knolls hosts a local farmers market. Located next to CVS and Aldi, the market features several local vendors with everything from handmade pastas, to humus and salsas, and of course the freshest fruits and veggies. We love grabbing pupusas from Pupusas Salvadorenas and walking the market.
