Rancho Los Alamitos - an aerial view of a small town in the desert
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Rancho Los Alamitos

4.7
·379 reviews·Long Beach, United States

A historic oasis in Long Beach, featuring beautiful gardens, animal barns, and a preserved adobe ranch home with deep Tongva roots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Rancho Los Alamitos - an aerial view of a small town in the desert

Rancho Los Alamitos

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic oasis in Long Beach, featuring beautiful gardens, animal barns, and a preserved adobe ranch home with deep Tongva roots.

4.7
(379 reviews)

"A wonderful place to visit! Free admission and a spectacular place of history, nature, and wonder. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Check Tour Times

Guided tours are highly recommended for the full experience. Check the schedule upon arrival. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Adobe Ranch Home

Historic Adobe Ranch Home

Main House

Step back in time inside the beautifully preserved 1929 ranch home, a glimpse into early 20th-century California life.

Reddit
Lush Gardens

Lush Gardens

Gardens

Wander through diverse gardens featuring native plants, ancient trees, and fragrant blooms, especially stunning in spring.

InstagramReddit
Animal Barns

Animal Barns

Barns

Meet the charming residents of the stables, including horses and donkeys, offering a delightful experience for all ages.

TikTokReddit
Tongva History

Tongva History

Visitor Center & Grounds

Discover the deep indigenous roots of the land, honoring the Tongva people who lived here for thousands of years.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy this historic gem without breaking the bank! Rancho Los Alamitos offers free admission and parking, making it an accessible outing for everyone. Donations are welcome to support the preservation of this beautiful site. Instagram

Plan for a Guided Tour

To truly appreciate the rich history and intricate details of Rancho Los Alamitos, a guided tour is highly recommended. Knowledgeable docents bring the stories of the Tongva people, the ranching era, and the Bixby family to life. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Gardens in bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
Late March/Early April
Why
Wisteria in full bloom
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

National Register visit 223: Rancho Los Alamitos 📍6400 Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach This old ranch on a hill in Long Beach has been so important to so many people for so long. For thousands of years the area was known as Puvungna, a village and sacred site for the Tongva/Kizh and Acjachemen tribes. Later it became a successful cattle ranch and farm, a world-class private garden, and the seat of a f...
@etandoesla
360 likes • 6K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Check Tour Times

Guided tours are highly recommended for the full experience. Check the schedule upon arrival. :calendar: Reddit

Rancho Los Alamitos, the “Ranch of the Little Cottonwoods,” is a Long Beach City Landmark and twice-listed on the National Register of Historic Places. #rancho #rancholife #longbeach #california #losalamitos #traveltiktok #travel
@ameanstotravel
44 likes • 2.8K views
Join our team! #rancholosalamitos #nowhiring #jobopening #joinourteam #longbeachjobs #jobsearch
rancho_los_alamitos
38 likes • 1.1K views

Bring a Donation

While admission is free, donations help preserve this historic site. :moneywithwings: Instagram

No Pets Allowed

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the grounds. :noentrysign: Reddit

Los Angeles 🌳 Hidden Place Hidden in the middle of Long Beach (LA) you will find a beautiful seven acre landmark farm, full of trees, creeks, animals, gardens and of course a farm. I totally recommend visiting and the best part of it, it is FREE (donation based $5-$10) 📍Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch @rancho_los_alamitos * FREE Entrence and parking * Farm animals * Cute shop * Creeks and ...
mrgmolano
466 likes • 8.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Check Tour Times

Guided tours are highly recommended for the full experience. Check the schedule upon arrival. :calendar: Reddit

Bring a Donation

While admission is free, donations help preserve this historic site. :moneywithwings: Instagram

No Pets Allowed

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the grounds. :noentrysign: Reddit

Photography Tips

Great photo ops abound, especially in the gardens! :camerawithflash: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(379 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Rancho Los Alamitos for its beautiful grounds, rich history, and free admission. The historic adobe home and gardens are particular highlights, offering a peaceful escape. Some guests wish for more information on the contributions of the ranch staff, but overall, it's considered a valuable and enjoyable historical experience. InstagramReddit

"What a wonderful place to visit! They have free admission and free guided tour of the property. The historic adobe ranch home was amazing but you are not allowed to take any pictures inside the home. On the property there is also a blacksmith shop, dairy barn, feed shed for the horses, original gas pumps, two massive Moreton Bay Fig trees, and much more! Don't forget to check out the intro. video at the visitor center. I easily spent several hours here. Take it all in, take your time, and enjoy this spectacular place of history, nature, and wonder!"

Robert M.003

"Came to visit for work retreat and it was a lovely way to spend the morning. The entrance was easy to find and security was friendly. The outside area is gorgeous and great for a walk. The house tour was so great, it was like a time capsule. Our tour guide was super knowledgeable and gave us great insight. I do wish there were more resources or guides for more research since I did have some lingering questions regarding the history of the staff at the property since I do feel that their contributions were just as important as the family. It’s a wonderful tour and insight into California and Long Beach history."

Melodie Delgado

"It's a shame this was my first time to this beautiful oasis given I was born and rescued in Long Beach and attended CalState Long Beach located next door. However it was fitting to visit this beautiful place with my now 12yr old. We arrive just in time for a tour. Our tour guide was wonderful. We got to see the inside of the Adobe. Unfortunately some of the grounds and animals were not accessible due to the recent damage caused by a burst water piper. As someone who was born and raised in the city, places like this are truly rare and much needed as they allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while never leaving it. There is so much history here. As always remember the indigenous folks he were here long before. Before the Europeans arrived this was sacred land to the Tongva people, and still is sacred land to the Tongva people."

Roberto “Nightcrawler” Salazar

What People Like

Free admission and parking
Beautiful historic gardens
Insightful guided tours

What People Dislike

Limited info on staff history
No petting animals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rancho Los Alamitos is located at 6400 E Bixby Hill Rd, Long Beach, CA 90815. It's situated near Cal State Long Beach and the Long Beach Airport. TikTokInstagram Parking is available on-site, but can fill up, so street parking in the gated community is also an option. TikTok

Yes, there is free parking available at Rancho Los Alamitos. Instagram However, it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. If the lot is full, you can also find parking on the street outside the gated community. TikTok

Information on public transportation routes to Rancho Los Alamitos is not widely available in social media posts. It's recommended to check local Long Beach transit schedules or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access. TikTok

While specific accessibility details are not detailed in the provided content, the grounds are generally described as suitable for walking. Reddit It's advisable to contact the venue directly for detailed accessibility information regarding the historic home and specific pathways. Instagram

Rancho Los Alamitos is located at 6400 E Bixby Hill Rd, Long Beach, CA 90815. It's easily accessible by car and is situated near major roadways in the Long Beach area. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Rancho Los Alamitos is completely free! TikTokInstagram While there's no charge to enter, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the historic site and its beautiful grounds. Instagram

No advance booking is typically required for general admission to Rancho Los Alamitos, as it is free. Instagram However, for special events or group tours, it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly. Instagram

Operating hours for Rancho Los Alamitos can vary, and it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. TikTok Many visitors mention enjoying weekday afternoons for a less crowded experience. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are a highlight of visiting Rancho Los Alamitos. Reddit Docents provide insightful information about the history of the ranch, the Tongva people, and the Bixby family. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally allowed at Rancho Los Alamitos, especially in the gardens and outdoor areas. Instagram However, photography inside the historic adobe ranch home may be restricted. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the historic adobe ranch home, wander through beautiful gardens with diverse plants, visit the animal barns with horses and donkeys, and learn about the indigenous Tongva history of the land. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, Rancho Los Alamitos is home to horses and donkeys in its stables. TikTokReddit Visitors can see them, but petting is generally not allowed. Reddit

The site has a rich history, dating back thousands of years as a sacred Tongva village. It later became a successful cattle ranch and farm, and was home to the prominent Bixby family. TikTokInstagram+2

Absolutely! Families can enjoy the gardens, see the animals, and learn about history in an engaging way. TikTok+1 It's a great spot for a relaxed outing. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, many historic parks and gardens allow picnics in designated areas. It's advisable to check with the venue directly or look for signage upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots with diverse flora and ancient trees. Instagram+1 The historic barns and the adobe home also provide charming backdrops. Instagram

Photography inside the historic adobe ranch home is generally not permitted. Reddit Visitors are encouraged to focus their cameras on the beautiful exterior grounds and gardens. Instagram

Yes, Rancho Los Alamitos has hosted photography events, such as photo walks, in the past. Instagram Keep an eye on their event calendar for future opportunities. Instagram

The ranch offers opportunities for landscape, nature, and historical photography. The gardens are particularly vibrant in spring. Instagram+1

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's recommended to check with Rancho Los Alamitos directly or look for signage regarding equipment restrictions before your visit. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rancho Los Alamitos is a fantastic destination for families looking for an educational and engaging outing. The free admission makes it an accessible option for any budget. Instagram Kids will love seeing the horses and donkeys in the barns TikTok and exploring the expansive gardens. Reddit The guided tours, while informative, can also be adapted to be engaging for younger visitors, offering a glimpse into a different era. TikTok+1 It's a wonderful way to escape the city bustle and enjoy nature and history together. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Rancho Los Alamitos offers a wealth of visual opportunities. The lush gardens provide a vibrant and diverse backdrop, especially during spring when the wisteria is in bloom. InstagramReddit Capture the rustic charm of the historic barns and the architectural details of the adobe home from the exterior. Instagram Keep an eye out for organized photo walks that can offer unique perspectives and guided shooting experiences. Instagram Remember that photography inside the main house is restricted, so focus your lenses on the beautiful outdoor landscapes and historical structures. Reddit

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Rancho Los Alamitos a treasure trove of information. Delve into the deep indigenous roots of the land, acknowledging its significance to the Tongva people. TikTokReddit Explore the evolution of the site from a working ranch during the Gold Rush era to the Bixby family's estate. TikTokInstagram The guided tours are essential for a comprehensive understanding, with docents sharing detailed narratives and historical context. Reddit Consider researching the contributions of the staff, as some visitors feel this aspect of history could be further highlighted. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Tapestry of History: From Tongva Sacred Land to Bixby Ranch

Rancho Los Alamitos is more than just a historic site; it's a place where layers of history converge. For millennia, this land was known as Puvungna, a vital village and sacred site for the Tongva/Kizh and Acjachemen tribes. TikTokInstagram This deep indigenous heritage is a crucial part of the ranch's story, and visitors are encouraged to acknowledge and learn about it. TikTokReddit

Later, the area transformed into a successful cattle ranch and farm, playing a role in supplying beef during California's Gold Rush. TikTokInstagram The prominent Bixby family also called this sprawling property home for many years, shaping its development and leaving a lasting legacy. Instagram Understanding these distinct historical periods provides a richer appreciation for the site's significance. Reddit

Exploring the Grounds: Gardens, Barns, and More

The grounds of Rancho Los Alamitos are a delight to explore, offering a variety of attractions. The gardens are a particular highlight, featuring a diverse collection of native plants and specimens from around the world, with some ancient trees adding to the majestic atmosphere. InstagramReddit During late March and early April, the fragrant wisteria vines create a stunning visual spectacle. Reddit

Beyond the gardens, you'll find the animal barns, where charming horses and donkeys reside. TikTokReddit While you can't pet them, their presence adds to the authentic ranch feel. Reddit Other notable features include the blacksmith shop, dairy barn, and original gas pumps, all contributing to the immersive historical experience. Reddit The two massive Moreton Bay Fig trees are also impressive landmarks. Reddit

The Value of a Guided Tour

While exploring Rancho Los Alamitos independently is enjoyable, a guided tour elevates the experience significantly. Knowledgeable docents are passionate about the ranch's history and offer invaluable insights that you might otherwise miss. Reddit They can share detailed stories about the Tongva people, the ranching operations, and the daily lives of the families who lived and worked there. TikTokReddit

These tours provide context and depth, transforming a pleasant visit into an educational journey. Reddit Some visitors have expressed a desire for more resources on the history of the staff, highlighting the importance of understanding all contributions to the ranch's past. Reddit Arriving in time for a tour is highly recommended to fully grasp the significance of this historic oasis. Reddit

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