Historic Oasis in Long Beach
A visit to Rancho Los Alamitos is a surprising respite from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city.
Take a guided tour through the c. 1800 adobe brick home and barns, then wander through four acres of gorgeous gardens.
Beautifully maintained, furnished with the original pieces and copies of priceless works of art, this home is situated in a gated community. (Original art is on loan to museums in the Southern California area.) Stop at the gate where the guard will give you a pass and direct you to the home.
The Rancho was built by the Bixby family, who earned their wealth in the oil business. They were also ranchers and champion horse breeders.
Gardens are lush and varied. There is an impressive cactus collection, monster Moreton Bay fig trees, a bamboo thicket and of course, acres and acres of elegant flower gardens - some with benches and fountains.
A local firefighter has taken on the task of blacksmithing in a working, historic shop. He has crafted and restored the intricate wrought iron throughout the Rancho grounds.
Most areas are accessible to the disabled.
All tours are free. You may want to pick up a guide to the gardens in the gift shop at the entrance.
See a piece of Long Beach most people miss!
http://www.rancholosalamitos.com
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