Long Beach is located in Southern California and is the 36^th largest city in the United States. The metropolitan area of the city includes Los Angeles and it is the largest metropolitan area in the United States. Neighboring cities include Culver City, Redondo Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Compton, and Huntington Beach.

Long Beach is situated on the coast of California. The city has one of the largest ports in the world. Long Beach is an economic hub of Southern California with several major technology, oil, and finance companies that reside in the city. It is also a popular vacation destination with access to Los Angeles, great weather, and proximity to some of the best beaches in California.

The port is one of the busiest ports in the world and a major contributor to the economy of the city. There are several technology companies located in Long Beach. Gulfstream and Raytheon have locations in Long Beach. Boeing is a top employer along with the local hospitals. Tourists also contribute a large amount to the economy. The Port of Long Beach carries cargo through the Union Pacific Railroad and local airport. The port trades with the countries of the Pacific Rim and occupies 3,200 acres.

The RMS Queen Mary is a popular tourist attraction. It is a 1936 ocean liner that is 200 feet longer than the Titanic. The Aquarium of the Pacific is a 5 acre facility that features over 500 species. It is one of the most popular family tourist destinations in California. There are several parks and recreation areas in Long Beach. There are four public swimming pools in the city as well. Long Beach was once known for being a surfing city; however the installation of a breakwater that was intended to protect the U.S. Pacific Fleet has reduced the amount of waves on some of the beaches of the city.

The Long Beach Museum of Art features American art, European art, Californian Modernism, and contemporary art exhibits. Long Beach has several art galleries in the East Village Arts District. The area is also famous for its street art. There are numerous music festivals held in Long Beach throughout the year such as the Bob Marley Reggae Festival, the Long Beach Blues Festival, and the Brazilian Street Carnival. The Musical Theatre West is a large theater group that performs in Long Beach. There are also several small theaters in the city that perform throughout the year.