The Queen Mary

About

The RMS Queen Mary represents a storied piece of maritime history, permanently anchored in the heart of Long Beach, California. Built in Scotland in the 1930s, this grand ocean liner once sailed across the Atlantic, embodying an era of elegance and grandeur.

The Queen Mary set sail on her maiden voyage in 1936, charting the waters between Southampton, England and New York City. Designed for the transport of passengers in luxury, the ship was engineered with opulent features, attracting a clientele of the rich and famous. During her years of service, she played a dual role—peacefully carrying passengers, and, when World War II broke out, transforming into a troopship to aid in the war effort.

Following her impressive military service, the Queen Mary returned to her roots, accommodating passengers until 1967. After completing a total of 1,001 Atlantic crossings, the liner’s seafaring days came to an end. She found her final resting place in Long Beach, where she remains a significant historic attraction.

Interesting Fact: The Queen Mary is often associated with tales of being haunted, adding a layer of mystique to her historical significance.

Today, the Queen Mary continues to captivate guests as a hotel, offering tours that bring her rich history to life. Here history enthusiasts can wander the same halls as esteemed individuals once did, and learn the multitude of stories etched into her hull over nearly a century.

Best Time to Visit

Visiting the iconic Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, rewards guests with a blend of history and seaside charm. The best times to consider for a vacation here fall during the late spring to early fall months, from May through September. During this period, the Californian weather is most conducive to exploring the decks of this retired ocean liner and enjoying the outdoor activities Long Beach has to offer.

May and June typically offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for those looking to avoid the hustle. It’s worth noting that the infamous “June Gloom” can bring overcast skies early in the day, but usually clears up by the afternoon. As summer progresses, July to September often boasts the warmest and sunniest days. It’s perfect for basking in the sunshine with a cool ocean breeze while delving into the maritime splendor of the Queen Mary.

The Queen Mary is open throughout the year, but it’s important to check the current operating hours as they can vary. Often, the attraction stays open from around 10:00 AM to late in the evening, offering flexibility for both early birds and night owls.

To truly appreciate the historical essence and the Art Deco interiors, it’s advisable to tour the ship when it’s not overly crowded. This allows for leisurely exploration without the rush. Opting for weekdays, or planning your visit for when the ship hosts fewer events, will typically lead to a more intimate and educational experience.

Long Beach itself is part of the greater Los Angeles area, known for its diverse attractions. Pairing a Queen Mary visit with other LA highlights requires thoughtful scheduling to maximize vacation time, so planning around the Queen Mary’s open hours and the city’s peak tourist seasons will serve wanderlust travelers superbly.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to The Queen Mary in Long Beach can enhance their experience by exploring an array of nearby attractions. These include dining and relaxation at the ship’s hotel and a variety of tours that delve into the rich history of this maritime monument.

Queen Mary Hotel

Stepping on board, guests can choose from a range of accommodations, including suites with ocean views that blend historical elegance with modern comforts. The Queen Mary Hotel offers a variety of amenities, such as internet access, private parking, and laundry services, ensuring a stay that is both luxurious and convenient. For dining, there’s the Chelsea Chowder House & Bar where one can savor fresh seafood with a view. The hotel ensures meeting and banquet facilities are available for those looking to host events.

Amenities	Availability
Ocean View	In selected suites
Spa	Nearby
Parking	Available (Private Parking)
Laundry	Provided for guests
Meeting/Banquet	Facilities for events
Fitness Center	For guests’ use
Restaurant	Chelsea Chowder House & Bar
Internet	Available throughout
Elevator	Access to all decks

Tours

The Queen Mary is not just a hotel but also a tourist attraction rich with stories waiting to be told. For those who want to get a deeper insight, a variety of guided tours are available. Prices vary depending on the type of tour, but all offer a chance to learn about the vessel’s storied past. For visitors who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tours provide an opportunity to create a personal connection with the history of The Queen Mary. Tourists often leave reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the fascinating wartime and peacetime tales they share.

Type of Tour	Details
Guided Tour	Expert-guided, focuses on storytelling
Self-Guided Tour	At leisure, explore personal interests
Reviews	Highly positive from visitors

Location

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