Derek W.

I've enjoyed making return visits to Rancho Los Alamitos to get a feel for what life was like on a ranch back then. The overall look and appeal have remained the same for the most part, though there have been some changes every now and then. As an example, by the Rancho Center, they've had a Kiiy, which is kind of like a small tepee. Over time, I've seen the kiiy constructed, but other times, the kiiy is not there. Hard to predict when, but I guess it depends on the weather or the season. They've added a couple of new features that I thought they should have added before. One of them is some signs that explain what the exhibit is showing. In past visits, I'd see an exhibit, but without any infographics or some other background information, I'm pretty much left in the dark as to why these rooms even existed or what they were for. Earlier this year, there was a water main break in the area that caused the site to close for quite some time. And even when they reopened, they hadn't reopened fully to the point where we could explore the gardens. Artifacts had to be moved around to accommodate for the water main break. It must have been a mess, but I do appreciate those who worked hard to maintain the integrity of the historical site, even if it meant moving things to places where they normally shouldn't be. Unfortunately, it can take one person to ruin your visit, and Jack is one of them. Jack at the Feed Shed was incredulously arrogant and condescending! I was walking towards a sign in front of the horse, Preston, who had its head hanging outside the gate. Jack wouldn't let me read that sign because he thought I was trespassing when I've been a long-time visitor and know visitors shouldn't be touching the horses/mules in the feed shed. He was operating under the premise that visitors are going to break the rules, so he basically outlines them up front to visitors even from afar. Acting like a know-it-all, he made me look dumb for not understanding him or being able to read the sign from afar. In regards to the trespassing bit, Jack made up a rule saying we're not allowed to step on the grassy area around the feed shed. If that's true, then there would have been ample signage and barricades to indicate so. His demeanor is such a stark contrast from everybody else that works at this Rancho that I feel the only reason he got a job there was because of his level of knowledge on the subject matter. If I were taking a classroom full of elementary school kids to Rancho Los Alamitos, I'd make sure to steer the group far from Jack not knowing what he'd say to the children. And the newer volunteers I hadn't seen before aren't as competent as those I've seen on prior visits who have always welcomed me with a smile. The greeter inside the Rancho Center was reading a book and barely even noticed me when I checked in at the kiosk. She was not focusing on her job of greeting guests that anybody could have just walked by without checking in! The greeter inside the Museum Store was also reading a book, although she did notice my presence and welcomed me when I arrived. She still kept reading her book and almost forgot to wish me a good day until I mentioned it first. Of course, that's not to say everybody working there today is as bad. I do remember Dan from one of my first visits to the site when I joked to him that at 5 PM that day, they'd have to send a search party to find me somewhere in between the Native and Cactus Gardens. I appreciated how he was able to answer my question about the sculpture at the end of the stepping stone path in between those two gardens. There was never any signage there, but he explained it was part of the Prayer Garden. Suddenly, I lost count of how many gardens there are on this site! They have recently installed a few sensory carts around the site where you can actually touch certain items that you normally wouldn't have been able to touch before. They also have some laminated handouts in each cart so you can learn more about what's in these carts. Anyways, while I do enjoy Rancho Los Alamitos, I don't plan to visit this ranch as frequently due to the incompetence of the workers here. Who knows? Maybe I'll get accosted again for standing too close to the tennis net on their tennis court! :O

Sam S.

This hidden gem in Long Beach is a must visit. We were there for a special event - a chef driven farm to table dinner. There was live music and lots of food and drinks. The historic ranch with its origins dating back to the local indigenous Tongva people. It's inside a gated community but it's free to visit and park. The 7.5 acre gardens are gorgeous- a great place to walk and relax. Docent led tours are available by reservation. Don't forget to see the farm animals.

Sallie R.

If you are looking for a free activity to do with kids, this is the right place to take them. We have been coming here for a while due to the staff being so nice and knowledgeable about this historic ranch. There were horses, chickens, and a blacksmith on site to show how horseshoes are made. Really cool to see. Charlie is one of the horses we often see every time we stop by the ranch. So it's always a pleasure to see him each time. Beautiful grounds as you walk through the garden with flowing little streams, cactus, unique plants, and bamboo trees. Very peaceful and quiet calming your inner thoughts. The best time to visit is during the spring season with blooming flowers all around. It's quite a hidden gem in Long Beach, which I had discovered a while ago. I never knew it existed until someone told me about it. Great spot to visit with friends and family.

Jenny L.

Exploring a Hidden Historic Gem: Rancho Los Alamitos Took advantage of a quiet Friday afternoon to visit one of Long Beach's lesser-known historic sites- Rancho Los Alamitos. Tucked inside the gated Bixby Hill community right next to Cal State Long Beach, this spot feels worlds away from the city. At the entrance, just let the security guard know you're visiting the Rancho, and you'll receive a temporary parking pass. Parking inside is limited, but the area is calm and peaceful, making it a pleasant escape. The visit begins at the Rancho Center, where friendly staff asked for an email sign-in and recommend watching a short introductory film. The film gives an overview of the land's long and layered history, along with stories of the Bixby family who once lived here. The history of Rancho Los Alamitos stretches across centuries: 1) Indigenous Era: Thousands of years ago, this area was home to Tongva villages. 2) Spanish Era (1784): The Spanish government granted this vast piece of land to Manuel Nieto - one of the largest land grants in Southern California, covering today's Long Beach, Whittier, and Norwalk areas. 3) Mexican Era (1834): Rancho Los Alamitos was originally part of Rancho Los Cerritos, which spanned over 300,000 acres. Over time, as land was divided and reduced, only about 7.5 acres remain today. 4) American Era (after 1846): Following California's statehood, the land changed ownership several times before the Bixby family turned it into a large-scale cattle ranch. 5) 20th Century (1968): The Bixby family eventually donated the property to the City of Long Beach, transforming it into a public historic site and museum. Today, the grounds include historic buildings, gardens, barns, and a preserved ranch area, a window into the region's early ranching days. After the film, visitors can explore an exhibit hall featuring a large floor map that shows the original Rancho land divisions, a fascinating visual of how the ranch system shaped Southern California's development. Walking through the grounds feels both serene and educational: * Rose Garden: Compact but beautifully maintained, filled with vibrant blooms. * Cactus Garden: Lush with succulents and tall cacti, evoking a true Southwestern vibe. * Barn Area: Currently closed to the public, but still interesting to view from outside. We were lucky to meet a volunteer named Patti, who enthusiastically shared stories about the ranch and suggested joining a guided tour. Fortunately, staff member Nancy was available and kindly took us through the main ranch house, a space open only by reservation. Inside, the original adobe structure and the family's living quarters are preserved (no photography allowed), offering an intimate look at early California ranch life. The contrast between the cozy indoor rooms and the open-air gardens outside is striking. Overall, Rancho Los Alamitos beautifully weaves together Native, Spanish, Mexican, and American histories -- all within a small but well-preserved space. It's a tranquil destination that offers both reflection and discovery, perfect for anyone interested in history, architecture, or gardening. Visiting Tips: * Open Wednesday-Sunday, 1 PM - 5 PM * Free admission -- reservations recommended for the adobe house tour * No photography allowed inside the main house * Limited parking -- arrive early or visit during quieter hours * There's a small gift shop, and the site occasionally hosts special events including a charming Christmas display each winter * You can easily pair this visit with CSULB's Japanese Garden or a trip to Downtown Long Beach for a well-rounded half- or full-day itinerary. Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens 6400 E Bixby Hill Rd, Long Beach, CA 90815

Priscilla O.

It's always a lovely time at rancho los alamitos... so beautiful and well taken care of. The kids LOVE it.

Kat S.

What a beautiful hidden gem this place is. If you have a free weekend or an hour to kill or want to get a little greenery in, this place is just that. Entry is Free Parking is Free Mind at ease is Free Getting to walk through the Bixby house is impressive can't take pictures, but it's alright just looking at how they lived, and the property is fantastic. The ranch has a lot of staff who are volunteers, but they are so friendly and helpful and knowledgeable about the family. clean restrooms and gift shop

Leland S.

Saw this trending on social media so we finally decided to check it out. EXPERIENCE: Parking: Room for about twenty cars. Feels: Amazing. It was like being in a time machine or entering a secret garden. If you get blindfolded and placed here, you would never guess you're in the hustle and bustle of Long Beach. The garden itself is beautiful! I dig the plants, layouts, and variety of plants. There are plenty of seats to sit around and ponder AND they got a few animals too (goats and horses). CUSTOMER SERVICE: Fantastic! Friendly people and very knowledgeable. OVERALL: 4.5 Stars. Truly a hidden local gem. For those CSULB students that need a breather, this is a great spot to relax. Can't complain here, especially since it's free! I can see myself coming back here if I want to blank out from the city life. Tips: - Check their website for events!

Tony T.

This is truly a hidden gem in the area. I had no idea this place existed after not living far from it for so many years. It's completely free and you can spend a nice relaxing day just wandering the property. There's not much more I can say about it. Just come and check it out.

Beautiful historic ranch and grounds! Super easy to reserve online. Visited the Rancho Center first, had a docent lead us inside the home then we meandered around the garden. It was interesting to note the addition to the original home. I was very pleasantly surprised the use of space for the garden. Very inviting. One would not know that Long Beach was once a ranching area if it weren't for these historic places. This ranch hidden on a hill!