San Pedro has a wonderful Arts District. Me and my girlfriend love coming down here to window shop…read moreand people watch. I like the little shops and places to eat here. I have only been coming here for a little while. Its like a small knit community with Theaters and Tattoo shops here too. We like to have coffee here too. The vibe is fun here. Not too bad with finding parking. You should check out the Arts District San Pedro.

The Arts District of San Pedro is a strange little conglomeration of galleries, shops, restaurants,…read morea pawnshop or two, a couple of bars, a thrift store, a coffee house, a tattoo shop, the old Warner Theater, and various places that people claim are galleries but they are simply living inside of these business/industrial spaces perhaps creating their art inside. Or, maybe not? This area is basically defined by 6th and 7th Street, South of Pacific Avenue. Though one could argue it stretches a little bit farther in the various directions. There are certain art complexes in L.A., (say Bergamont station is a great example), where when you visit you will be confronted by numerous galleries that are open and exhibiting their various styles of art. This, however, is not the case with the Arts District of San Pedro. What you do find here, in terms of art galleries, are store fronts that are closed and are open by appointment only. Thus, the question has to be raised, is this an Art's District at all? For me, I look at it as an overall expensive area of San Pedro that was once a functioning downtown but has lost that definition long ago. Thus, the storefronts are simply a place where you know art exists but the chances are you will never truly see it. Therefore, You must see this area as art onto itself. So, when you go here, do not necessarily expect to see any personal creations of art. Simply understand that you have to believe that there is art in the structures, the businesses, the restaurants, and the people that are hiding behind the closed and locked doors that they claim are galleries.

The green golden gate bridge of socal! Very cool route to take! We took this route after going to…read morethe korean bell of friendship.

Vincent Thomas Bridge *July 26, 2025…read more*9:30am- Saturday *4 Stars Environment: *Lots of Construction *Moderate Traffic The Vincent Thomas Bridge is an iconic landmark in San Pedro. Headed over there on the way to take a test trial to see the Port of Los Angeles for a future cruise. The bridge was very nice and similar to the Gold Gate in San Francisco. There was moderate traffic for a Saturday and some mild construction. Definitely nice place to drive over, looking forward to future trips to that area.

On Juneteenth I attended a celebration at the Korean Bell of Friendship to celebrate freedom by…read morehelping ring the bell. It was a wonderful day, and one I recommend for others to attend, not only to feel the vibrations of the bell when it is hit with a large hanging tree trunk, but also to celebrate the liberation that was given to a criminally oppressed people. And to also understand that liberation, although won at battles, still has not full embraced and enveloped all. So that bell has not fully been rung, and thus we must continue, until we hear the greatest knell in history the one that indicates that all humans have an unfettered chance to reach their best future with confidence. The celebration was sponsored by local political players. Suitably, there were a lot of speeches. But I never hate a speech just because its long. I genuinely hear speeches because they might contain words that move me into action or new perspective, and thus I always try to hear them to understand their value. One of the most memorable speeches of the day, was a person who explained that freedom and liberty has not reached all modern day people (duh!) because freedom, true freedom, means that all have a fair and equitable chance to attain economic prosperity. And from my limited perspective, what she said made sense, a whole lot of it. A person might have the freedom to wear what they chose, to eat what they crave, to dance in their style and funk, to offer their devotion to their deity. However, if all these freedoms do not include a chance to build wealth, without external interruption that is driven by who a person is, then freedom is superficial. Yes, money is the root of all evil, but money is also the foundation for legacy, protection and choice, and, well, freedom. And thus, she reminded all present that we must continue to fight against injustice and thus the bell rang and made each of us an instrument of peace. Beyond speeches from political leaders there was also songs performed by vocalists- a mother and daughter. A lot was happening fast, and sometimes the sound system gave up, so I am afraid I did not get their names. But I do remember them singing a song, right before the bell rung that had the following lyrics: "What would you do, if you had nothing to fight for and nothing to die for?" What would a person do in a world marked by substantial peace? Would we be happy or would we miss the fight? Meaning is the gift of the battle the persistence needed to continue even when all seems at rest? Injustice has created warriors that understand that a white flag will never be planted. The day was meant to celebrate freedom and deliver of message of positive togetherness as the moment celebrated Juneteenth using Korean spirt. But the speeches brought the seemingly opposing concepts together using the thread of a universal recognition that freedom is a wonderful thing. This link was greatly conveyed but fell short in the Mexican sweetbreads that had small Juneteeth flags planted on them. I know I am being petty because Mexican bread can be used to celebrate Juneteenth, for sure I get that. But I would have rather had celebratory bites from the Black/African American community. I know I am being petty, but, hey, that is my freedom. That choice seemed more convenient rather than being connected to the greater purpose of freedom. The last activity of the celebration was ringing the actual bell. Like 7 people, grabbed the wooden log. And we gently slammed it into the bell. The bell rung with vibrations that my skin could feel. We could slightly hug the bell to have ur bodies feel the vibrations. And the experience was memorable. I do not know how many people have the opportunity to hug a bell as it sends off vibration after being hit. But if you have the opportunity seize it, I think you will be a better person for it, or at least, know what ringing feels like on the skin not just the ear drums. As I walked back to the car, I enjoyed the blue views and ocean breeze. I also saw a kite flying high. Yes, it had a string to it, but it was flying free.

Why does it take years and moving away to actual experience places that's been there for a while. A…read morenice sunny afternoon driving around and seeing what's there to offer. Plus it's been decades since I was last around this area. There's so many stops along the way during our drive which this was the first along the path. It's a nice decent size park that it part of. A good amount of parking in the lot next to the basketball courts. Right along the bell is a massive grassy knoll where people were enjoying picnics and laying out. Of course today was beautiful but it was quite windy. Didn't help that the park was little higher than the rest so it made the wind a bit more aggressive. The focal point, the massive bell. With a walkway that leads you to the prize possession. Right in the middle looking out to the Pacific Ocean, she sits there on full display. The bright beautiful color of the details painted was a sight to see. Stairs leading up to the bell where you could walk around. It is roped off. Regardless whatever side you're looking at, it's was quite amazing. Something like this on a hill that's part of the city. If you walk down the grassy knoll, the view of the pacific ocean and cliffs were spectacular. Having a seat and just taking it all in was nice. It was windy so it did get cold but on a nice sunny and clear day, you could see miles and miles of the coastline and tide pools. These little hidden spots in the city are cute when you find them. There's also a little playground around the corner from the bell by the exit and entrance.

The Ghost Fish 107 Statue in San Pedro is a pretty cool piece of public art. It's about 40 feet…read moretall (ok, I'm bad at that type of stat but I did have to Google) and fits in perfectly with the area! The sculpture is a huge bluefin tuna hanging by its tail. It's made entirely of wire and is designed to look like it's just casually floating in air. The whole thing kind of gives off this ghostly vibe, which is actually where the name "Ghost Fish" comes from. This sculpture was created by artist Cheng, who spent five years putting it together before it was unveiled in 2012. What makes it even cooler is that the materials used in the sculpture weren't just random. They were actually donated by local fishing families in San Pedro, so it really feels connected to the community. The fish's design looks like a fishing net too, which is a perfect tribute to the town's commercial fishing industry. During the day, the Ghost Fish is pretty impressive just by its size alone, but at night it totally transforms. The big tuna is lit up with light shining through the wire with a magical glow. I guess if you really love modern sculptures and fish, I'd recommend you visit at different times of the day for taking pics.

Brandon D. and I happened to be rolling by on a whim after taking a walk through Ports O' Call. We…read moresaw this new statue and just felt compelled to stop and check it out. Hanging over the water, near Utro's and the many fishing vessels of Berth 73, is the outline of a giant tuna with net for skin, and filled with hooks, floats, ropes, and other implements that might be found on a fishing boat (photo: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/ghost-fish-107-los-angeles?select=4A77FH1GwLMDIXxC5Gmkkg#0oEf2_scgn_z7tnZ9mEmxw). Artist Carl Cheng created the piece to call attention to "lost or abandoned fishing gear that continues to catch fish" (source: http://www.thelog.com/Local/Article/-Ghost-Fish--Sculpture-Unveiled-in-San-Pedro). Ghost fishing, as it's called, kills and wastes wildlife and is largely preventable. With it being placed adjacently to all the fishing boats, it's aptly located in terms of whom the message is directed toward. It's an excellent public piece.

We were walking around the harbor area. There was a cruise ship docked. There were memorial…read morestatues and plaques.

The City of San Pedro is definitely up and coming! I've watched it gentrify over the last few…read moreyears. Still a long way to go, though. But I'm sure it'll happen, as the views here are amazing and it's right on the water. And they have a good councilman looking out for them (Joe Buscaino). The landscaping has been updated, looked like it needed some upkeep, but it could just be because of the Santa Anas. Many of the buildings are cool Art Deco style.

Very nice event! I never give 5 stars. This had everything we expected. Classic cars live bands and…read morea firework show. Hard to beat! The bands sounded good!! The food trucks were just ok. Don't come here super hungry but they were okay. I had the pulled pork French fries. They were okay. A little dry. All in all a good time! For free it's hard to beat. Parking across the street is free.

Over 100 classic cars and motorcycles, live bands, food stands, a beer garden, and last but not…read moreleast fireworks set to the backdrop of the beautiful Vincent Thomas Bridge and flanked by the awesome cruise terminal fountains which were designed by the same company that did the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel(both fountains are truly a sight to behold). 7/4/11 marked the 3rd annual Cars and Stripes Forever Car Show. Eddie G.,Laura P., Maritza S., Jen R., and Angie V.(other wise known as the Crew) came and peeped this awesome event out with me. Good times were had by all(even though we spent most of our time in the beer garden haaha!!!). I have been to the 1st and 2nd shows and plan to keep coming each year because good times are sure to be had here each and every time. Admission is freeeeee and when you roll with a crew of such good caliber peeps like mine how could you not have a good time!!?? Plenty of free parking. Photo opportunities everywhere you look whether it was a fly ass hot rod, the Vincent Thomas lit up with it's blue lights shining down on the harbor, the fireworks bursting in the air, or the lit up fountains shooting 50 feet in the hot summer air. One of the vendors was slangin' funnel cakes, fried twinkies and fried Oreos and for dedicated Yelpers like us you know that was a photo opp!!! Not to mention you can ride the red car trolley to ports o'call and back. This event is a classic example why I love my adopted hometown of San Pedro!!! See you all there next year!!!

New to the area and heard about this place through a coworker. My husband and I wanted to picnic at…read moreAverill park nearby so decided to pick up some sandwiches otw since they're very close by. It's a small shop as well where you can pick up some Italian groceries, definitely want to pick up some products next time we make pasta as it looks very authentic. Love seeing and supporting local businesses as I can tell there's strong San Pedro roots. I got the Proscuitto Caprese (medium size) and it was delicious! The ingredients were so fresh, the pesto was rich, the mozzarella was flavorful. My husband got the Godfather (medium size), big serving, great balance of flavors. Will definitely be back!

I've had a few sandwiches from here but the one I tend to gravitate to is the meatball sandwich…read more It's the kind of sandwich you have to sort of eat right away because it's saucy and it can make the bread soggy fast. Hence I usually get it with the freshly baked baguette because it can take it more. The meatballs are hearty and meaty. A bit messy to eat but I like to add peperoncinos in it because the tang balances out the flavors. I love it with salt and by chips too. Anyway the staff is usually pretty friendly. It's a little market too so you can get some prepared meals in the refrigerated section and some other Italian themed groceries. Yes I'll be back.

It might be the last year. If you have never taken the time, please do it now. Lines move fast and…read morethe caramel popcorn is delicious.

BEST CARAMEL POPCORN I'VE EVER HAD! Mom and Dad used to bring the whole family out every year,…read morestarting back in 1978. This is the same great caramel corn I remember, and I'm sorry if this is the last year. Smilin' Jack 4-EVAH!

Go big or go home. I'd say a 200 foot long outdoor mosaic…read moremural that is ten feet tall is going big. The "25th Street Mural Project" is the brainchild of artist Julie Bender (not her first mural in the area but one of the largest). Nearing completion, it's evolved into what appears to be a labor of love for the artist, working volunteers, and the entire community. After reading about the project for months in local newspapers, I had to go see it yesterday. All at once it's spectacular, heartwarming, and informative. Spectacular in concept & creation. Heartwarming because it's adorned with local residents' personalized, hand-decorated tiles. Informative, displaying San Pedro's very rich history as well as historic landmarks & attractions. The mural is on a retaining wall that runs along 25th Street (can't miss it). The lengthy process of obtaining permissions, amending an ordinance, securing permits & funding, is explained in detail on the artist's website. The planning & prep for the mural, followed by placement of custom tiles along with donated random glass & ceramics, etc. began over a year ago according to a volunteer I was fortunate to encounter during my visit. LynnDee told me all about the tile-making process, the use of colors, the layout & design, and more. Certainly no small challenge, but so worth everyone's efforts. Soon, she said, the sky will be added. Then grout will be applied which should make the artistry pop even more than it does now. I regret that I didn't get around to taking advantage of the "make your own tile" opportunity, which has ended. Although I don't live in San Pedro I certainly do appreciate the city's unique & interesting treasures, all of which are proudly represented on the mural wall. I did make a small contribution, however, by heading over to The Corner Store to buy a t-shirt that reads "Making History On 25th Street". This is certainly true. All proceeds from t-shirt sales go to help cover costs of materials. I personally think this mural is a masterpiece & predict it will be another major tourist attraction for San Pedro (judging from the groups of people there yesterday it already is, the reason I decided it was not premature to post a review). It's whimsical, delightful & one of the coolest works of art I've seen. I couldn't stop smiling the entire time I was there. So to Julie Bender especially, as well as everyone involved: big congrats on your accomplishment! Well done.

From the owner: I create one-of-a-kind, multi-dimensional custom mosaics for residential, community and commercial…read moresettings. My mosaics are artistically derived from a unique combination of hand-sculpted, hand-painted, and glass-infused clay pieces. I get inspiration from colors and movement in both natural and mythical landscapes. Past commissions have been a careful collaboration of my clients' visions and my own creative inspirations. Services include design, consultation, fabrication, and installation. Mosaics can be individually designed and customized to any dimension required. Have an existing area, open wall, floor or structure that needs a little character, texture and statement? Mosaics are a great way to add conversation, depth, and ambiance to any space. Need to bring a community together? I have worked on multiple community projects from obtaining permits to creating enthusiasm and generating community involvement. Have a custom idea in mind? I am ready to make your dream a reality. Pricing will vary depending on complexity of design and scope of project. For inquires and consultation, please contact me via email to set up a phone or in-person.

Summertime in the LBC. The weeklong public mural festival has been renamed Long Beach Walls and…read moreArt Renzei. Read all about it here: https://lbpost.com/hi-lo/pow-wow-is-now-long-beach-walls-heres-your-guide-to-the-colorful-mural-festival https://www.longbeachwalls.com/ https://www.artrenzei.com/ https://www.instagram.com/longbeach_walls/ There are events centered around this week. One past year, Sun Bum (sunscreen) was a sponsor and held an event at the beach that ended in a movie showing. Some year before that, KCRW held a party in collaboration. This last time, I joined in the free yoga session (with RSVP). Led by Pedal Movement, bike tours are held during this time to visit the murals. The run club I'm involved in throws a couple of the murals in the downtown area being worked on into the running route during this time. Volunteer opportunities are available (such as being on site with the artist making sure they have what they need.) Look out for it next summer!

"Pow! It's the impact that art has on a person. Wow! It's reaction that art has on a viewer."…read morePowWow - a gathering that celebrates culture, music and art. The weeklong event that originated in Hawaii has expanded out to other parts of the country and world, including its 5th year in Long Beach. I was a bit disappointed the first year or so because they brought in a lot of outside artists when there are so many talented ones here. It also seems as if there is little collaboration between the artists and the places they paint. Businesses offer their walls and artists are given the freedom to create whatever inspires them at the time. Sometimes, the pieces seem random, whereas, others perfectly reflect the feel of the establishments. This year, I was happy to see a lot more local artists represented in the community. Some of them even took the time to collaborate with either the business or Parks & Rec to design pieces that emulate the nature of the places. I live close to Drake Park and was happy to see 3 artists beautifying it by adding more color and character. By request from neighborhood folks, Crisselle Mendiola and Jason Keam added butterflies to match the playground while Bodeck Luna depicted young people shooting hoops along the wall facing the basketball court. Another highlight from Pow! Wow! Long Beach was the closing party in the Promenade. I absolutely loved that KCRW DJs Mathieu Shreyer and Anthony Valadez came and served us some eclectic dance music. I can't wait to see what's in store next year!