East Village

East Village is Long Beach’s official Arts District. The boundaries are not strictly defined, but is centered generally in the southeast portion of the Downtown area, roughly between Long Beach Blvd. on the west, Alamitos Ave. to the east, Ocean Blvd. to the south, and 3rd Street to the north. East Village is home to artist lofts, high-rise urban condos, historical apartment buildings, and Craftsman cottages. It has a very diverse mix of residents – different cultures, income levels, and professions – and the housing reflects just that. There is something for every housing preference. This neighborhood is home to some of the best independent shopping in the city. Streets are full of coffee shops, independent record stores, and boutiques within historic buildings and mural-covered walls. Because so many artists live in this area, many of these businesses along with various local galleries and non-profits support them. There are also many community events that occur here such as the monthly Second Saturday Art Walk (http://artwalklb.com) and Soundwalk, an annual sound art festival. This is a very walkable neighborhood and is conveniently located near everything downtown Long Beach has to offer.