My journey to this legendary ship started in Hudson, NJ, with a cross-country flight and a drive along California’s coastline. Getting there was an adventure in itself, but stepping aboard was the real highlight.
From the moment I arrived, the Queen Mary captivated me, promising a day full of discoveries. So, join me as I step aboard this vessel and uncover everything it has to offer.
Planning my trip from Hudson, NJ, to Long Beach
Starting my journey from Hudson, I was prepared for a cross-country trip. After comparing flights, I decided on a direct route from Newark Liberty International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport. The flight was about six hours, so I made sure to have plenty of snacks and a good book. Once I landed at LAX, I took a Lyft to Long Beach, which took another 40 minutes.
Finding the perfect spot to stay while exploring Long Beach
Before visiting the Queen Mary, I wanted a comfortable base. I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach. It’s located near the waterfront and has stunning views of the marina. Bonus points for its proximity to Shoreline Village, where you can find eclectic shops and great seafood. The Hyatt Regency Long Beach was the perfect base for my visit. The spacious rooms offered excellent views of the ocean, creating the relaxing atmosphere I needed so much. Located just a short 10-minute drive from the Queen Mary, I was able to enjoy my stay as much as possible. Plus, its proximity to local gems like Parker’s Lighthouse made it easy to have some fresh seafood and explore the dining scene nearby.
Arriving at the Queen Mary Ship
The sheer size of the Queen Mary – I was struck right out of the gate. Docked majestically in the port, she stood like a timeless reminder of a bygone era. That art deco design with massive smokestacks and elegant curves made it feel like stepping into a 1930s movie set, except it was real. When getting my ticket, I noticed how well the space was organized to keep both casual visitors and history buffs happy. I opted for the general admission, though there were options for guided tours and even paranormal experiences (more on that later!).
Key Takeaways Upon Arrival:
- Plan to spend at least four hours to explore everything
- The entrance is stunning – don’t rush this moment
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the ship is massive and has plenty of stairs
Stepping aboard the Queen Mary
Walking onto the bridge, I kept imagining what it must have felt like for passengers during the ship’s heyday. Of course, the polished wooden decks had their fair share of scuffs and creaks, but that only added to their charm. From the bow, the view of the Long Beach skyline stretched out before me, a fascinating mix of the modern cityscape and the history of this legendary ship.
The Promenade Deck was one of my favorite spots on the Queen Mary. The teak wood floors and art deco details gave it a unique charm that’s hard to find on modern cruise ships. It was easy to picture the deck bustling with passengers, with the sounds of jazz music playing softly in the background during its heyday.
Exploring the interiors of Queen Mary
Wandering through the Queen Mary’s interiors felt like stepping into different chapters of its storied past. Each room and exhibit had its own unique charm and history to tell, making it an unforgettable experience.
- The First-Class Dining Room: This grand space was nothing short of breathtaking. With its high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and ornate wall details, it offered a glimpse into the luxury passengers once enjoyed. Standing there, I couldn’t help but imagine myself as one of those passengers, dressed to the nines and dining in style.
- The Observation Bar: Still functional today, this bar feels like it belonged in a Great Gatsby novel. I couldn’t resist ordering a drink – an Old Fashioned, because why not?
- The Isolation Ward: Down in the lower decks, the Isolation Ward was an entirely different experience – one that gave me chills. During the Queen Mary’s time as a wartime hospital, this cramped, white-tiled room was used to treat patients. Seeing it in person was a reminder of the ship’s many roles throughout history.
- The Engine Room and Maritime Displays: I enjoy the “nuts and bolts” of things, so I spent extra time in the engine room. The labyrinth of pipes and massive engines that once powered this colossal liner is a proper engineering marvel. The maritime displays also included artifacts like old navigational tools and photographs, which added context to the ships’ stories.
Ghostly tales and paranormal encounters
I couldn’t resist signing up for the ghost tour! The Queen Mary is famously haunted – stories of crew members and passengers who supposedly never left the ship, that type of deal. The guide took us to the pool area, believed to be the most haunted, and shared spine-tingling anecdotes. I can’t confirm anything spooky happened, but the eerie atmosphere left me clutching my jacket.
Dining aboard the Queen Mary
After hours of walking, I was ready for a hearty meal. I opted to try the ship’s restaurant, Chelsea Chowder House, which served up fresh seafood chowder that hit the spot. Dining aboard this floating museum while overlooking the harbor was simply magical.
Exploring Long Beach beyond the Queen Mary
Before heading home, I explored the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific. I also strolled through Shoreline Village to do some souvenir shopping and admire the charming waterfront buildings. Long Beach has the perfect vibe for pairing history with leisure.
Want more of my travels? Check out this page to find my favorite restaurants in Texas!
My visit to the historic Queen Mary Ship in Long Beach
Okay, my visit to the Queen Mary wasn’t just a tour of a historic liner – it felt like a voyage through time. From her luxurious ballrooms to the ghostly tales hidden in her depths, every inch of the ship told a story worth hearing. Whether you’re traveling from Hudson, NJ, like me, or are already nearby, the Queen Mary is worth the trip – not just for the ship but for the whole experience of Long Beach.
Visiting the Queen Mary Ship – FAQs
Why is Queen Mary docked in Long Beach?
The Queen Mary is docked in Long Beach because it was retired from active service in 1967 and purchased by the city to serve as a tourist attraction, hotel, and museum.
Its permanent docking in Long Beach preserves its history and allows visitors to explore its legacy as a luxury ocean liner and wartime transport ship.
Why is the Queen Mary ship famous?
The Queen Mary is famous for its luxurious history as one of the most iconic ocean liners of the 20th century. Launched in 1936, it was renowned for its Art Deco design, speed, and elegance, serving as a transatlantic passenger ship for the rich and famous.
During World War II, it gained further recognition as a troopship nicknamed the “Grey Ghost.” Today, it’s celebrated for its rich history, unique architecture, and reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the world.
What is the most haunted room in Queen Mary?
The most haunted room on the Queen Mary is said to be Stateroom B340. This room has a long history of reported paranormal activity, including mysterious knocks, flickering lights, and unexplained sounds. Guests have even claimed to see ghostly figures and feel a chilling presence. Due to its reputation, Stateroom B340 has become a popular spot for ghost enthusiasts visiting the ship.
