Bixby Park

Bixby Park is a 16.7-acre urban park located in Long Beach, California. Situated along Cherry Avenue, the park offers scenic views of the ocean and is positioned along the bluff overlooking Alamitos Beach.

The park has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Part of the original Rancho Los Alamitos, the initial portion of the park was donated in 1903 by the Alamitos Land Company. It was first known as Alamitos Park before being renamed Jotham Bixby Park in 1907 after its annexation to Long Beach. Over the years, the park has undergone several expansions and improvements, including the addition of land south of Ocean Boulevard in 1938 and 1952.

Bixby Park has long been a center of community activity. In the early 20th century, it featured attractions such as a goldfish pond, an aviary, and monkey cages. The park became famous for large state picnics from the 1920s to 1960s, with the Iowa picnic being particularly notable. Today, it continues to serve as a hub for community events, including farmers' markets held on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The park offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors of all ages. It features a playground, which was renovated in the late 1990s to meet updated accessibility and safety standards. Other amenities include a bandshell that has historical significance, having been originally constructed in 1928 and restored in 2008. The park also provides spaces for sports and leisure activities, making it a versatile destination for local residents and visitors alike.

Bixby Park's location near the coast and its expansive green spaces make it an ideal spot for picnics, outdoor exercise, and community gatherings. The park's layout and facilities reflect its evolution over more than a century, blending historical elements with modern amenities to serve the diverse needs of the Long Beach community.