Long Beach Historical Buildings Tour (Self Guided), Long Beach
Long Beach isn’t just about sun, surf, and sand, it can put its suit on as well to impress anyone. Behind the palm trees and breezy boardwalks, downtown Long Beach struts out a surprising collection of architectural gems that span styles and centuries.
Starting in no particular order, the Breakers Hotel is a 1920s oceanfront darling that once rolled out the red carpet for Hollywood royalty. With its Spanish Renaissance curves and movie-star past, it’s the kind of place that makes you wonder if the walls remember who checked in—or didn’t check out. A few streets away, the First National Bank Building and Farmers and Merchants Bank flash their Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical credentials, flexing their mini Parthenon look.
For a touch of the divine, The First Congregational Church, built in 1914, combines solid old-world stonework with a bell tower tall enough to make sure the whole neighborhood knew Sunday service had begun. Over in the residential corner of history, the Willmore adds Italian Renaissance charm to the skyline, while the Broadlind Hotel delivers Roaring Twenties flair with a fusion of Midwest and Mediterranean moods.
Then come the vertical headliners: the Lafayette Complex, Cooper Arms, and the unmistakable Villa Riviera, a French Gothic fantasy in green terra cotta that once held the title of second-tallest in Southern California. Not to be outdone, the St. Regis Building Apartments show off ocean views and a mix of Greek and Renaissance Revival styles, proving early 20th-century Long Beach had no shortage of ambition—or architects with flair.
If you're not convinced yet, downtown Long Beach is more than just a backdrop. It's a walkable gallery of grit, grace, and a few surprises. Just let the city’s skyline do the storytelling on the background of seagulls squawking.
Starting in no particular order, the Breakers Hotel is a 1920s oceanfront darling that once rolled out the red carpet for Hollywood royalty. With its Spanish Renaissance curves and movie-star past, it’s the kind of place that makes you wonder if the walls remember who checked in—or didn’t check out. A few streets away, the First National Bank Building and Farmers and Merchants Bank flash their Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical credentials, flexing their mini Parthenon look.
For a touch of the divine, The First Congregational Church, built in 1914, combines solid old-world stonework with a bell tower tall enough to make sure the whole neighborhood knew Sunday service had begun. Over in the residential corner of history, the Willmore adds Italian Renaissance charm to the skyline, while the Broadlind Hotel delivers Roaring Twenties flair with a fusion of Midwest and Mediterranean moods.
Then come the vertical headliners: the Lafayette Complex, Cooper Arms, and the unmistakable Villa Riviera, a French Gothic fantasy in green terra cotta that once held the title of second-tallest in Southern California. Not to be outdone, the St. Regis Building Apartments show off ocean views and a mix of Greek and Renaissance Revival styles, proving early 20th-century Long Beach had no shortage of ambition—or architects with flair.
If you're not convinced yet, downtown Long Beach is more than just a backdrop. It's a walkable gallery of grit, grace, and a few surprises. Just let the city’s skyline do the storytelling on the background of seagulls squawking.
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Long Beach Historical Buildings Tour Map
Guide Name: Long Beach Historical Buildings Tour
Guide Location: USA » Long Beach (See other walking tours in Long Beach)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: leticia
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Long Beach (See other walking tours in Long Beach)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: leticia
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Breakers Hotel
- The First National Bank Building
- First Congregational Church of Long Beach
- The Willmore
- Farmers and Merchants Bank Building
- Dr. Rowan Building
- Broadlind Hotel
- Lafayette Complex
- The Cooper Arms Apartments
- Villa Riviera
- St. Regis Building Apartments
1) Breakers Hotel
The Breakers Hotel is Long Beach’s grand old diva—always dramatic, never boring, and constantly reinventing herself. Born in 1926 as a swanky resort spa with Turkish baths, this 14-story beauty opened her doors with enough flair to make Gatsby blush. Look no further if you're into Vaudeville acts, rooftop gardens, a barbershop, a coffee shop and even a 500-seat dining room. It was less hotel, more glamorous playground. No wonder it’s now a certified Long Beach Historic Landmark.
In the decades that followed, The Breakers lived through a bit of a soap opera. Between 1929 and 1961, it played hot potato with various owners, flirted with bankruptcy, and finally slammed the doors shut in 1964. But like any good starlet, she made a comeback—as a retirement community, no less. Then briefly returned to her hotel roots in the '80s, before settling back into senior living until 2015. Historic Landmark status? She got that too—in 1989, right on cue.
One of her most glamorous features, The Sky Room, was restored in 1997, complete with sweeping 360-degree views and a healthy dose of old-school elegance. Jazz and swing spilled from the Sky Room Orchestra, and the space doubled as a fine dining restaurant with the kind of view that made everything—even your cocktail—feel more important.
In 2017, The Breakers changed hands once again, this time with a promise of new life. Plans are underway to transform her into a 185-room boutique hotel, once again mixing modern comfort with timeless style.
In the decades that followed, The Breakers lived through a bit of a soap opera. Between 1929 and 1961, it played hot potato with various owners, flirted with bankruptcy, and finally slammed the doors shut in 1964. But like any good starlet, she made a comeback—as a retirement community, no less. Then briefly returned to her hotel roots in the '80s, before settling back into senior living until 2015. Historic Landmark status? She got that too—in 1989, right on cue.
One of her most glamorous features, The Sky Room, was restored in 1997, complete with sweeping 360-degree views and a healthy dose of old-school elegance. Jazz and swing spilled from the Sky Room Orchestra, and the space doubled as a fine dining restaurant with the kind of view that made everything—even your cocktail—feel more important.
In 2017, The Breakers changed hands once again, this time with a promise of new life. Plans are underway to transform her into a 185-room boutique hotel, once again mixing modern comfort with timeless style.
2) The First National Bank Building
If Long Beach buildings had personalities, the First National Bank Building would be that stylish grandparent who once wore a monocle, briefly tried modern minimalism in the '50s, then came roaring back in the '80s with a proper vintage revival.
Originally built in 1906, this proud structure came courtesy of Los Angeles architects Robert F. Train and Robert E. Williams—two men who clearly had a soft spot for the French Renaissance Revival look. Think yellow pressed brick on the “look-at-me” sides, red common brick on the “don’t-look-too-close” ones, and a flair for fancy without going full royal.
Then came 1907, when the building’s crowning glory was added: a six-foot clock tower, because what’s a bank without a giant timepiece to remind everyone it’s time to pay your loans.
For a while, the building strutted confidently on Pine Avenue, but the 1950s arrived with their beige dreams and chrome ambitions. In the name of modernization, much of the original ornamentation—including the elegant cornice—was either yanked off or hidden under a disguise of flat, uninspired panels.
Thankfully, history staged a comeback. In the 1980s, thanks to some well-placed federal tax incentives , the building was lovingly restored to its former French-inspired glory. Once again, it looked like itself—and proudly earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
So next time you're strolling through downtown Long Beach, glance up at that clock tower. It's not just telling you the time; it's ticking out a century-long story of style, survival, and one very classy comeback.
Originally built in 1906, this proud structure came courtesy of Los Angeles architects Robert F. Train and Robert E. Williams—two men who clearly had a soft spot for the French Renaissance Revival look. Think yellow pressed brick on the “look-at-me” sides, red common brick on the “don’t-look-too-close” ones, and a flair for fancy without going full royal.
Then came 1907, when the building’s crowning glory was added: a six-foot clock tower, because what’s a bank without a giant timepiece to remind everyone it’s time to pay your loans.
For a while, the building strutted confidently on Pine Avenue, but the 1950s arrived with their beige dreams and chrome ambitions. In the name of modernization, much of the original ornamentation—including the elegant cornice—was either yanked off or hidden under a disguise of flat, uninspired panels.
Thankfully, history staged a comeback. In the 1980s, thanks to some well-placed federal tax incentives , the building was lovingly restored to its former French-inspired glory. Once again, it looked like itself—and proudly earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
So next time you're strolling through downtown Long Beach, glance up at that clock tower. It's not just telling you the time; it's ticking out a century-long story of style, survival, and one very classy comeback.
3) First Congregational Church of Long Beach
One of downtown Long Beach’s most recognizable landmarks, the First Congregational Church has been turning heads since 1914—with its soaring bell tower, patterned brickwork, and solid, fortress-like presence that feels built to last. Designed by architect Henry M. Patterson, this isn't your average Sunday stop—it’s a 110-foot tower of theological confidence that winks at the California sun.
Step inside and you’ll find a sanctuary shaped like a Greek cross, not just for show but for acoustics and atmosphere. The stained glass is the real scene-stealer here—three rose windows and six picture panels, some of which are said to be the last crafted in Germany before World War I. The central rose window, dramatically called “Light of the World,” isn’t shy about stealing attention either. Light filters through in such dazzling patterns, even nonbelievers may feel a spiritual tug.
The ceiling, by the way, soars 55 feet above the floor—because heaven, apparently, should feel at least that high. With seating for 1,500, the space can host debates, concerts, and community gatherings, functioning as a civic hall as much as a sacred one.
Over the years, the church has had its share of facelifts—earthquake repairs in 1933, retrofitting in the '80s, and a shiny new Pilgrim Hall in 2001 for classes, meetings, and probably the occasional bake sale.
So whether you're into heavenly architecture, historic windows, or just need a quiet seat to admire good brickwork, this church delivers. Think of it as a sanctuary with staying power—and some handsome designs to go with it.
Step inside and you’ll find a sanctuary shaped like a Greek cross, not just for show but for acoustics and atmosphere. The stained glass is the real scene-stealer here—three rose windows and six picture panels, some of which are said to be the last crafted in Germany before World War I. The central rose window, dramatically called “Light of the World,” isn’t shy about stealing attention either. Light filters through in such dazzling patterns, even nonbelievers may feel a spiritual tug.
The ceiling, by the way, soars 55 feet above the floor—because heaven, apparently, should feel at least that high. With seating for 1,500, the space can host debates, concerts, and community gatherings, functioning as a civic hall as much as a sacred one.
Over the years, the church has had its share of facelifts—earthquake repairs in 1933, retrofitting in the '80s, and a shiny new Pilgrim Hall in 2001 for classes, meetings, and probably the occasional bake sale.
So whether you're into heavenly architecture, historic windows, or just need a quiet seat to admire good brickwork, this church delivers. Think of it as a sanctuary with staying power—and some handsome designs to go with it.
4) The Willmore
With its grand arches and classic lines, The Willmore channels old-world elegance with every floor it climbs. This 11-story Italian Renaissance Revival beauty, finished in 1925, has all the flair of a Milanese palazzo—with a little Cali sunshine thrown in for good measure. Its L-shaped layout isn’t just for drama; it houses a ten-story west wing and an eleven-story north wing that still turn heads nearly a century later.
Once a luxury apartment hotel, the Willmore pulled out all the architectural stops. Terra cotta detailing? Check. A grand façade that is elegant but not too showy? Absolutely. Inside, the lobby doesn’t just greet you—it wows you. Expect soaring ceilings, polished floors, a cast-stone fireplace that warms you by just looking at it, and enough classic columns to make a Roman villa jealous.
The building’s name isn’t just a pretty moniker—it’s a nod to William Willmore, the man who first envisioned this area back in 1882, back when Long Beach was still answering to the name “Willmore City.” So yes, this structure carries a slice of founder energy, and it wears it well.
Fast-forward to today, and The Willmore is still living large. Now a residential condo, it offers modern amenities behind that timeless exterior—including a rooftop solarium with views that sweep across downtown. Bonus perk: the first floor is home to La Traviata, an Italian restaurant that keeps the charm (and the wine) flowing.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1999, The Willmore is more than a building—it’s proof that style, history, and a good polished floor never go out of fashion.
Once a luxury apartment hotel, the Willmore pulled out all the architectural stops. Terra cotta detailing? Check. A grand façade that is elegant but not too showy? Absolutely. Inside, the lobby doesn’t just greet you—it wows you. Expect soaring ceilings, polished floors, a cast-stone fireplace that warms you by just looking at it, and enough classic columns to make a Roman villa jealous.
The building’s name isn’t just a pretty moniker—it’s a nod to William Willmore, the man who first envisioned this area back in 1882, back when Long Beach was still answering to the name “Willmore City.” So yes, this structure carries a slice of founder energy, and it wears it well.
Fast-forward to today, and The Willmore is still living large. Now a residential condo, it offers modern amenities behind that timeless exterior—including a rooftop solarium with views that sweep across downtown. Bonus perk: the first floor is home to La Traviata, an Italian restaurant that keeps the charm (and the wine) flowing.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1999, The Willmore is more than a building—it’s proof that style, history, and a good polished floor never go out of fashion.
5) Farmers and Merchants Bank Building
With its soaring columns and marble grandeur, the Farmers and Merchants Bank Building looks like it’s been waiting for its close-up since the Roaring Twenties. Finished in 1923 and proudly holding the title of the city’s first skyscraper, this ten-story gem truts into the skyline.
The building, leans hard into the Italian Renaissance Revival style. That angled entrance? Framed in Verona red marble, held up by eight imposing Ionic columns, and crowned with a Roman numeral clock that practically dares you to run late. From the outside, it’s all gravitas and classical drama. But step inside, and the real show begins.
The original interior has been impressively preserved, and it's not shy about its elegance. A balcony-level walkway runs along both sides of the main banking hall, held up by red marble columns. Below lies a floor of Tennessee pink marble, while above, a stunning amber-glass skylight—made of over 600 glowing panes—pours light through a network of golden terra-cotta beams. It’s like a sun-drenched Roman villa… with teller windows.
Decorative details, ancient-inspired designs, and a layout that mixes elegance with everyday function complete the scene. And in a rare early nod to workplace wellness, the building came fully loaded with committee rooms, a boardroom, ventilation systems, and yes, even free lunches for employees in an on-site dining area.
Still standing proud, this banking hall-turned-office landmark is more than a relic—it's a reminder that sometimes, the best kind of interest is architectural.
The building, leans hard into the Italian Renaissance Revival style. That angled entrance? Framed in Verona red marble, held up by eight imposing Ionic columns, and crowned with a Roman numeral clock that practically dares you to run late. From the outside, it’s all gravitas and classical drama. But step inside, and the real show begins.
The original interior has been impressively preserved, and it's not shy about its elegance. A balcony-level walkway runs along both sides of the main banking hall, held up by red marble columns. Below lies a floor of Tennessee pink marble, while above, a stunning amber-glass skylight—made of over 600 glowing panes—pours light through a network of golden terra-cotta beams. It’s like a sun-drenched Roman villa… with teller windows.
Decorative details, ancient-inspired designs, and a layout that mixes elegance with everyday function complete the scene. And in a rare early nod to workplace wellness, the building came fully loaded with committee rooms, a boardroom, ventilation systems, and yes, even free lunches for employees in an on-site dining area.
Still standing proud, this banking hall-turned-office landmark is more than a relic—it's a reminder that sometimes, the best kind of interest is architectural.
6) Dr. Rowan Building
The Dr. Rowan Building may not fill cavities anymore, but it still has bite. Named after its first upstairs tenant—Dr. Rowan, better known around town as “the Credit Dentist”—this quirky professional offered smiles on layaway back in the 1930s, complete with flexible payment plans and street-level signage that practically shouted, “Your molars are safe with me.” Slide downstairs and you could find the Bank of Italy’s turf. The whole building, commissioned in 1930 and sketched into being by architect Charles W. Pettifer, doubled as a place to stash your cash and fix your grin—talk about multi-use real estate.
Today, the Rowan Building isn’t just a handsome face on Pine Avenue—it’s an Art Deco showstopper. Known as one of the finest surviving examples of the “zigzag” phase of the era, the building wears its geometry proudly. Its terra cotta tiles don’t whisper elegance—they sing in seaside melodies. Picture stylized waves, fish, sea birds, and glints of sun, all swimming through turquoise and gold patterns that would make even pharaohs pause for a second look.
More than just eye candy, this building stood strong through the 1933 earthquake and came out with even more character. It’s a testament to Long Beach’s talent for reinvention, resilience—and really good taste in architectural ornamentation. These days, the ground floor is home to shops and small businesses, while the upper levels still hum with office life. For visitors, it’s a perfect snapshot of 1930s glamour that refuses to fade—proof that buildings, much like good dental work, are meant to be both beautiful and made to last.
Today, the Rowan Building isn’t just a handsome face on Pine Avenue—it’s an Art Deco showstopper. Known as one of the finest surviving examples of the “zigzag” phase of the era, the building wears its geometry proudly. Its terra cotta tiles don’t whisper elegance—they sing in seaside melodies. Picture stylized waves, fish, sea birds, and glints of sun, all swimming through turquoise and gold patterns that would make even pharaohs pause for a second look.
More than just eye candy, this building stood strong through the 1933 earthquake and came out with even more character. It’s a testament to Long Beach’s talent for reinvention, resilience—and really good taste in architectural ornamentation. These days, the ground floor is home to shops and small businesses, while the upper levels still hum with office life. For visitors, it’s a perfect snapshot of 1930s glamour that refuses to fade—proof that buildings, much like good dental work, are meant to be both beautiful and made to last.
7) Broadlind Hotel
The Broadlind Hotel isn’t just another pretty façade—it’s Long Beach’s own architectural mixtape, sampling from coast to coast. Completed in 1928, this four-story corner charmer blends Italian Renaissance elegance with Midwestern sturdiness, seasoned with a few Southern and Spanish flourishes for good measure.
Take a stroll past the arched windows, stone columns, and braided concrete trim, and you’ll start to feel the Old World vibes. But blink, and the red brickwork and solid lines remind you of something more down-to-earth—classic Midwestern restraint. Above the entrance, a wrought iron overhang gives off a faint New Orleans vibe, while those massive wooden beam doors would be right at home in a Spanish mission courtyard. It’s eclectic, it’s confident, and it’s unmistakably Broadlind.
Originally built for extended stays during Long Beach’s boom years, the hotel found a new calling during World War II, when it was repurposed to house Navy officers. You could say it went from leisure to service—and never lost its polish.
Today, the Broadlind is all about historic boutique charm in the heart of the East Village Arts District. The original hand-painted sign still presides over the entrance like a time capsule, while the interiors now buzz with activity. Hungry? You’ve got options: Linden Public café for your morning ritual, Revive Juice Bar for something green, Thai District for bold flavors, and The Blind Donkey if your evening calls for whiskey and low lighting.
With one foot in the past and the other dancing into the night, the Broadlind proves that good design—and good stories—never go out of style.
Take a stroll past the arched windows, stone columns, and braided concrete trim, and you’ll start to feel the Old World vibes. But blink, and the red brickwork and solid lines remind you of something more down-to-earth—classic Midwestern restraint. Above the entrance, a wrought iron overhang gives off a faint New Orleans vibe, while those massive wooden beam doors would be right at home in a Spanish mission courtyard. It’s eclectic, it’s confident, and it’s unmistakably Broadlind.
Originally built for extended stays during Long Beach’s boom years, the hotel found a new calling during World War II, when it was repurposed to house Navy officers. You could say it went from leisure to service—and never lost its polish.
Today, the Broadlind is all about historic boutique charm in the heart of the East Village Arts District. The original hand-painted sign still presides over the entrance like a time capsule, while the interiors now buzz with activity. Hungry? You’ve got options: Linden Public café for your morning ritual, Revive Juice Bar for something green, Thai District for bold flavors, and The Blind Donkey if your evening calls for whiskey and low lighting.
With one foot in the past and the other dancing into the night, the Broadlind proves that good design—and good stories—never go out of style.
8) Lafayette Complex
Downtown Long Beach gets a full architectural lineup with the Lafayette Complex—three connected buildings, each with its own sense of style. From bold Art Deco lines to ornate Spanish touches and sleek mid-century updates, it’s a visual mixtape of 20th-century flair. Originally built in 1928, this landmark ensemble has mastered the art of reinvention while keeping its vintage charm intact.
The first act, the Campbell Apartments, brings Spanish Baroque to the party. Expect terra-cotta flourishes, iron balconies, and a flair that predates the Deco wave by just a hair. Next up: the Lafayette Hotel, built in 1929 and designed by the Schilling brothers. This is where things get bold—with winged ram’s heads, neon signage, and Italianate figures adorning a classic Art Deco façade that knows how to hold a gaze. Eventually, an International Style addition that adds a sleek, modern note to the architectural medley, tying it all together.
In the 1950s, the Lafayette was reborn as a Hilton Hotel, playing host to none other than the Miss Universe Beauty Contest—because of course it did. By 1969, it had traded in its hotel keys for mailboxes, becoming a residential condominium complex with views that stretch from the L.A. basin to the harbor, best admired from the eleventh-floor solarium.
Today, the ground floor is alive with retail shops, galleries, and local businesses, giving the building a steady rhythm that echoes its glamorous past while staying firmly planted in the now.
Looking for Art Deco with a side of personality? The Lafayette Complex delivers—and doesn’t mind showing off a little while it’s at it.
The first act, the Campbell Apartments, brings Spanish Baroque to the party. Expect terra-cotta flourishes, iron balconies, and a flair that predates the Deco wave by just a hair. Next up: the Lafayette Hotel, built in 1929 and designed by the Schilling brothers. This is where things get bold—with winged ram’s heads, neon signage, and Italianate figures adorning a classic Art Deco façade that knows how to hold a gaze. Eventually, an International Style addition that adds a sleek, modern note to the architectural medley, tying it all together.
In the 1950s, the Lafayette was reborn as a Hilton Hotel, playing host to none other than the Miss Universe Beauty Contest—because of course it did. By 1969, it had traded in its hotel keys for mailboxes, becoming a residential condominium complex with views that stretch from the L.A. basin to the harbor, best admired from the eleventh-floor solarium.
Today, the ground floor is alive with retail shops, galleries, and local businesses, giving the building a steady rhythm that echoes its glamorous past while staying firmly planted in the now.
Looking for Art Deco with a side of personality? The Lafayette Complex delivers—and doesn’t mind showing off a little while it’s at it.
9) The Cooper Arms Apartments
The Cooper Arms Apartments is more than just an old building—it’s a 1920s classic that still turns heads. Completed in 1923, this twelve-story landmark blends several styles in one bold look, mixing traditional elegance with some unexpected twists. Think vintage charm with a few surprises—like wearing a tuxedo with gold-trimmed sandals. Somehow, it works.
Strongly built and confidently styled, the Cooper Arms wears its brick and render like a well-tailored suit. Down at street level, graceful arches invite you in, while upstairs, details like marble floors, French doors, and curved entryways keep things classy without trying too hard.
But let’s talk penthouse perks: the twelfth-floor solarium and ballroom used to be the place to be. Picture a domed ceiling, intricate moldings, and softly glowing lanterns—ideal for champagne-fueled evenings or rooftop people-watching. On the street level, landscaped gardens line Ocean Boulevard, leading to a Spanish-style arcade that breezes right through to Linden Avenue, proving this place knows how to make an entrance—and an exit.
When it opened, Cooper Arms was packed with futuristic features: steam heating, high-speed elevators, instant hot water, even disappearing beds and dustless roller screens. It was modern before modern was cool.
Moreover, it was resilient. It shook off the 1933 Long Beach earthquake like it was just another Tuesday. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2000, today it’s a sought-after condominium complex that blends old-world polish with lasting functionality.
Strongly built and confidently styled, the Cooper Arms wears its brick and render like a well-tailored suit. Down at street level, graceful arches invite you in, while upstairs, details like marble floors, French doors, and curved entryways keep things classy without trying too hard.
But let’s talk penthouse perks: the twelfth-floor solarium and ballroom used to be the place to be. Picture a domed ceiling, intricate moldings, and softly glowing lanterns—ideal for champagne-fueled evenings or rooftop people-watching. On the street level, landscaped gardens line Ocean Boulevard, leading to a Spanish-style arcade that breezes right through to Linden Avenue, proving this place knows how to make an entrance—and an exit.
When it opened, Cooper Arms was packed with futuristic features: steam heating, high-speed elevators, instant hot water, even disappearing beds and dustless roller screens. It was modern before modern was cool.
Moreover, it was resilient. It shook off the 1933 Long Beach earthquake like it was just another Tuesday. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2000, today it’s a sought-after condominium complex that blends old-world polish with lasting functionality.
10) Villa Riviera
Picture a fairytale and the ending is a gorgeous ocean view. Well, that is exactly what Villa Riviera has to offer. Finished in 1929, this French Gothic Castle-style stunner stood as Southern California’s second-tallest building and held the title of tallest private structure for nearly 30 years.
With its steep copper roof, octagonal tower, and wings that fan out to guarantee sea breezes and panoramic ocean views for most of its 130 units, the 16-story Villa Riviera made sure you’d never have to settle for a back alley vista. It’s part fortress, part fantasy, and unmistakably one of Long Beach’s most recognizable silhouettes.
Luxury was baked into its DNA from the start—think ballroom, Italian-style roof garden, lounges, modern heating, high-speed elevators, and even parking for 100 cars back when that was a serious flex. And if that wasn’t enough, the upper stories are guarded by a fierce little parade of grotesques: a bear, cougar, eagle, and one especially intense chimera that seems to have crash-landed from a medieval fever dream.
Over the decades, Villa Riviera has worn many hats. It’s been an apartment hotel, wartime housing for Naval officers, and was even briefly run by silent film star Norma Talmadge.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996, it’s not just surviving—it’s still thriving. Today, Villa Riviera remains a beloved landmark and prestigious address, proving once again that timeless style, killer views, and a little flair for the dramatic always attract.
With its steep copper roof, octagonal tower, and wings that fan out to guarantee sea breezes and panoramic ocean views for most of its 130 units, the 16-story Villa Riviera made sure you’d never have to settle for a back alley vista. It’s part fortress, part fantasy, and unmistakably one of Long Beach’s most recognizable silhouettes.
Luxury was baked into its DNA from the start—think ballroom, Italian-style roof garden, lounges, modern heating, high-speed elevators, and even parking for 100 cars back when that was a serious flex. And if that wasn’t enough, the upper stories are guarded by a fierce little parade of grotesques: a bear, cougar, eagle, and one especially intense chimera that seems to have crash-landed from a medieval fever dream.
Over the decades, Villa Riviera has worn many hats. It’s been an apartment hotel, wartime housing for Naval officers, and was even briefly run by silent film star Norma Talmadge.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996, it’s not just surviving—it’s still thriving. Today, Villa Riviera remains a beloved landmark and prestigious address, proving once again that timeless style, killer views, and a little flair for the dramatic always attract.
11) St. Regis Building Apartments
The Saint Regis Apartments may not shout for attention, but this 1922 Renaissance Revival beauty knows how to make an entrance—quietly confident, classically dressed, and just steps from the Pacific. At seven stories high with 77 units, it’s one of the earliest beachfront residences along Ocean Boulevard and still holds its own among the newer crowd.
The building’s red-brick façade, trimmed with crisp masonry, blends Greek and Renaissance Revival touches that give it that timeless, dignified air—think of it as Long Beach’s version of a well-tailored blazer. Up top, an elegant, Greek inspired molding encircles the seventh floor, capped by a triangular pediment and a proud boxed cornice.
Perched between taller neighbors, the Saint Regis keeps its edge with uninterrupted ocean views from many of its front and corner units. Inside, the blend of vintage bones and modern updates means you’re living in a slice of history without sacrificing beachside comfort.
More than just a handsome building, the Saint Regis is part of Long Beach’s architectural DNA, which is enough to make it a sought-after location for locals and visitors alike.
The building’s red-brick façade, trimmed with crisp masonry, blends Greek and Renaissance Revival touches that give it that timeless, dignified air—think of it as Long Beach’s version of a well-tailored blazer. Up top, an elegant, Greek inspired molding encircles the seventh floor, capped by a triangular pediment and a proud boxed cornice.
Perched between taller neighbors, the Saint Regis keeps its edge with uninterrupted ocean views from many of its front and corner units. Inside, the blend of vintage bones and modern updates means you’re living in a slice of history without sacrificing beachside comfort.
More than just a handsome building, the Saint Regis is part of Long Beach’s architectural DNA, which is enough to make it a sought-after location for locals and visitors alike.
Walking Tours in Long Beach, California
Create Your Own Walk in Long Beach
Creating your own self-guided walk in Long Beach is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Long Beach Murals Walking Tour
Long Beach's creative side can come from more unusual places, like its... walls. Think of it as one giant, sun-soaked art book you can walk through—except instead of turning pages, you’re sliding into more secluded alleyways.
The granddaddy among the murals has the priority: the Long Beach Municipal Auditorium Mural, a 1938 ceramic wonder now hanging out at Harvey Milk Promenade Park.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
The granddaddy among the murals has the priority: the Long Beach Municipal Auditorium Mural, a 1938 ceramic wonder now hanging out at Harvey Milk Promenade Park.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Long Beach Introduction Walking Tour
Sprawling comfortably along the sunny coast of Southern California, Long Beach is the kind of place where beachwear and business suits peacefully coexist—and where a morning stroll can lead you from seaside boardwalks to Art Deco facades without missing a beat. It's a city with sand between its toes and history in its bones.
Before it became all sunshine and beachside charm, Long Beach... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Before it became all sunshine and beachside charm, Long Beach... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
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