Step Aboard the Queen Mary: Long Beach’s Iconic Floating Landmark
Anchored for good in Long Beach, California, the RMS Queen Mary dazzles as an Art Deco masterpiece that once conquered the Atlantic. Today, she reigns as a historic hotel, museum, event space, and one of Southern California’s most unforgettable attractions. Since her 1936 launch, this National Historic Landmark has ferried celebrities, royalty, and WWII troops before finding her forever home in 1967. Now, guests can wander her storied decks, join lively tours, sleep in vintage staterooms, and drink in sweeping harbor vistas.
From self-guided adventures and spine-tingling ghost hunts to delicious onboard dining and lively events, the Queen Mary promises a day trip or a weekend you’ll never forget. Located just a stroll from the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village, it’s a dream destination for families, history lovers, couples, and thrill-seekers alike. General admission unlocks access to over 20 exhibits and a welcoming Embarkation Tour, with even more guided experiences to discover.
The Queen Mary’s Storied History
The Queen Mary began her maiden voyage on May 27, 1936, and quickly earned the Blue Riband as the fastest passenger ship across the Atlantic. She briefly lost the title to the SS Normandie in 1937 but reclaimed it in 1938. During World War II, she was painted gray, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost,” and carried over 800,000 troops across the globe. Post-war, she resumed luxurious transatlantic service alongside her sister ship, the Queen Elizabeth, until the jet age made ocean liners less viable.
After retiring in 1967, she made her final voyage to Long Beach and, by 1971, was welcoming guests as a floating hotel and attraction. Today, the Queen Mary is a living time capsule of 1930s elegance, where original woodwork, vintage art, and gleaming portholes transport visitors to a golden age of travel.
Exploring the Queen Mary: Tours and Experiences
General Admission grants access to the ship’s decks, 20+ self-guided exhibits (from the bridge to engine rooms), and the new Embarkation Introductory Tour — a lively, storytelling welcome from the Ship’s Purser.
Popular guided tours include:
- Glory Days Historical Tour: Dive into the ship’s glamorous past, construction, and celebrity voyages (daily, ~1 hour).
- Steam & Steel Tour: Descend deep into the engineering marvels, boiler rooms, and turbo-generators (daily, ~1 hour).
- Haunted Encounters Tour: Hear chilling ghost stories and paranormal legends (daily, ~1 hour; non-scary intro).
- VIP Tour: A premium 3-hour behind-the-scenes experience with a ship officer, gourmet lunch, and exclusive access.
Additional options feature Art Tours, Paranormal Ship Walks, and late-night Graveyard Tours for thrill-seekers (ages 16+).
Hours (subject to change): Typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM for general admission and tours. Dining and bars have extended hours. Check the official site for updates.
Staying Aboard: Queen Mary Hotel
Spend the night in style aboard the Queen Mary, where 347 original Art Deco staterooms and suites invite you to step back in time. Each room boasts gleaming woodwork, period artwork, and, in many cases, working portholes that frame the harbor. Choose from intimate staterooms or lavish suites that once welcomed royalty and Hollywood legends. Overnight guests enjoy exclusive ship access and tempting package deals.
Room rates shift with the seasons, often beginning around $130 to $300 per night, with special savings for AAA, AARP, military, and extended stays. Onboard, you’ll find a tempting array of restaurants, lively bars, unique shops, and sweeping harbor views to complete your stay.
Dining, Shopping & Onboard Amenities
Enjoy everything from casual bites at Promenade Café and Midship Marketplace to upscale seafood at Chelsea Chowder House & Bar or cocktails with views at the Observation Bar & Art Deco Lounge. Don’t miss the Royal Sunday Brunch. Shopping includes souvenirs, books, and maritime treasures.
Seasonal Events & Special Attractions
- Dark Harbor: Southern California’s premier Halloween event with haunted mazes, monsters, live entertainment, and immersive scares (select nights in fall).
- Holiday Celebrations: Festive Christmas events, New Year’s Eve Masquerade Soirée, and more.
- Year-round offerings include live music, themed nights, markets, and 90th-anniversary celebrations in 2026 featuring special exhibits and events.
Nearby Attractions in Long Beach
Pair your visit with the world-class Aquarium of the Pacific (combo tickets available). Explore Shoreline Village, The Pike Outlets, or take a short drive to the Battleship Iowa, Catalina Island ferry, or further afield to Disneyland. The waterfront location makes it easy to combine with harbor cruises or beach time.
Why Visit the Queen Mary?
The Queen Mary stands as a floating symbol of elegance, resilience, and adventure, ready to enchant you whether you’re exploring her storied decks for a day or settling in for a night steeped in history. With a captivating mix of maritime tales, ghostly legends, gourmet dining, and harbor-side allure, she promises a touch of magic for every guest. Secure your tickets early for the most popular tours and events, and set sail on a journey of timeless memories aboard this legendary ship. Long Beach’s crown jewel continues to inspire, welcoming new generations to discover its wonders.
FAQ: Visiting the Queen Mary Long Beach
Is the Queen Mary still open?
Yes, fully operational as a hotel, attraction, and event venue with daily tours and admission.
How much do tickets cost?
General Admission (including Embarkation Tour and exhibits) is approximately $45 for adults and $35 for children (ages 3–11). Guided tours and combos add extra. Discounts available via third-party sites, AAA, etc.
Can I stay overnight?
Absolutely — book historic staterooms or suites directly. Hotel guests get complimentary ship access.
Are there haunted tours?
Yes, daily Haunted Encounters and special after-hours paranormal experiences. Family-friendly options are available; scarier tours have age restrictions.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, especially general admission and historical tours. Haunted options may not suit very young children.
What are the best times to visit?
Weekdays for fewer crowds. Fall for Dark Harbor; holidays for festive events; any time for tours and hotel stays.
Is parking available?
Yes, with day rates up to $25 (discounted with validation for dining/events). Overnight guests pay separately.
Can I combine with other attractions?
Yes — Aquarium of the Pacific combo tickets are popular. Nearby options include Shoreline Village and more.