Why visit
The Queen Mary is a rare chance to walk the decks of a genuine 1930s ocean liner steeped in Art Deco elegance and dramatic 20th-century history. Whether you come for guided tours, a harborside meal, an overnight stay, or its famous ghost lore, the ship offers an immersive landmark experience unlike anything else in LA.
Launched in the 1930s, the RMS Queen Mary once carried celebrities, royalty, and wartime troops across the Atlantic before retiring to Long Beach in 1967. Today the ship is moored along the harbor as a floating attraction where visitors can tour preserved staterooms, promenade decks, engine spaces, and grand Art Deco public rooms, or stay overnight in the converted hotel cabins.
The Queen Mary leans into both its glamorous and its ghostly reputations, offering history-focused tours alongside popular paranormal and seasonal experiences. With sweeping views of the Long Beach skyline and harbor, multiple dining options aboard, and decades of layered maritime history, it appeals to history buffs, design lovers, and anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind setting.
History
Built in Scotland and launched in 1934, the RMS Queen Mary entered transatlantic service in 1936 and was converted into a troopship nicknamed the "Grey Ghost" during World War II, carrying hundreds of thousands of soldiers. After the war she returned to passenger service until retiring in 1967, when the City of Long Beach acquired her and permanently berthed her as a hotel and tourist attraction; the ship has since undergone periodic restoration efforts to preserve her historic fabric.
Insider Tips
- ✦Pick the tour theme that fits you, whether historic, behind-the-scenes, or paranormal.
- ✦Allow extra time to simply wander the open promenade decks.
- ✦Check the events calendar, since seasonal programming can change what's open.
Photo Tips
- 📸Shoot the Art Deco interiors and original wood paneling for vintage atmosphere.
- 📸Capture the ship's profile and funnels from the dockside at golden hour.
- 📸Use the promenade deck railings to frame the Long Beach skyline.
Before You Go
- ✓Confirm which tours and areas are currently open, as access can change.
- ✓Buy tickets for special or seasonal events in advance, as they sell out.
- ✓Plan for paid parking and possible event-day surcharges.
Visiting with family
History-minded kids enjoy the engine room and deck tours, but families with young children may want to skip the more intense paranormal experiences.
Where to Eat Nearby
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The Queen Mary FAQ
Can you stay overnight on the Queen Mary?
Yes, the ship operates as a hotel with converted staterooms, though availability and the hotel's status have varied, so confirm current bookings online.
Is the Queen Mary really haunted?
The ship has a long-standing reputation for ghost stories and offers popular paranormal-themed tours, though experiences are presented as entertainment.
Do you have to pay for parking?
Yes, parking near the ship is paid and rates can increase during major events, so factor it into your budget.
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