The Queen Mary

The basics

Visitors can spend the night in one of the ship’s suites and staterooms. If you’re not staying overnight, grab a meal, drinks, or afternoon tea in one of Queen Mary’s restaurants and bars. The Observation Bar, located in the former first-class lounge, is a favorite for its classic 1930s art deco flavor.

Queen Mary tours often have themes: Try a “haunted encounters” tour or a “steam and steel” option that takes you into the boiler and engine rooms. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour and choose from an array of optional activities and exhibits. Tours that focus on Los Angeles’ beaches often pass by the famous cruise ship. You can also get a bird’s-eye view of the ship on a helicopter tour from Long Beach.

Things to know before you go

• The Queen Mary is a must-see for history and maritime enthusiasts.

• The Go Los Angeles Card includes tours of the Queen Mary.

• The ship’s Champagne Sunday brunch, featuring global cuisine and live music, is a Southern California favorite.

• To get onboard the ship, you need to have a reservation for a room, restaurant, or tour.

• Restaurants offer partial parking validation.

• Look for the old swimming pool, original wood paneling, and intricate art deco style interior designs.

How to get there

The Queen Mary is a short stroll from the Carnival Cruise Line harbor. It’s a 40-minute walk, 10-minute drive, or 25-minute ride on the free Passport bus from Downtown Long Beach.

When to get there

The ship is open to the public year-round, although opening hours vary between restaurants; check the website. One of the ship’s most popular events is its New Year’s celebrations, which has its own fireworks display. The ship’s hotel offers packages for those wanting to attend and spend the night. Queen Mary tickets carry heavy discounts on Tuesdays.

Nearby attractions

The ship is docked near Downtown Long Beach. After visiting, you can easily see the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Pike at Long Beach entertainment complex, and other centrally-located attractions. The funky East Village Arts District has independent galleries, shops, and restaurants nearby.

Can you go inside the Queen Mary for free?

No, you can’t go inside the Queen Mary for free. To board, show an admission ticket, a room key from the Queen Mary Hotel, or a reservation at one of the ship’s restaurants. Purchase tickets from the onsite ticket booth or online.

What tours does the Queen Mary offer?

The Queen Mary offers various themed tours, including a ghost tour and a “steam and steel” tour through the boiler and engine rooms. Additionally, packages include dinner and themed tours. You can also tour the ship on your own.

Is there parking available at the Queen Mary?

Yes. Parking is available for anyone visiting the Queen Mary or dining at the ship’s restaurants and bars. Parking incurs a fee, which you can reduce with validation. Valet and overnight parking are also available for those staying in the Queen Mary Hotel.

What are the Queen Mary opening hours?

Opening hours vary throughout the ship. Most exhibits are open daily from 10am to 7pm, although hours may vary during special events and on holidays. Each of the ship’s restaurants and bars has its own hours of operation: check the website for up-to-date details.

Do you need to reserve tickets in advance to visit the Queen Mary?

No, you don’t need to reserve tickets in advance to visit the Queen Mary. Purchase tickets in advance at the on-site ticket booth upon arrival. Booking online in advance, however, is likely to save you from waiting in line, particularly on weekends and holidays.

How long does it take to tour the Queen Mary?

Allow at least two hours to explore everything the Queen Mary has to offer. Guided tours typically last between 45 minutes and two hours, depending on the theme. Special evening packages, including those with dinner, tend to run longer.