The Most Unique Pre-Cruise Stay in America | Is the Queen Mary Worth It Before Your Cruise?🚢✨
We had an amazing day exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific, right across from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal. It’s a perfect spot to visit before or after a cruise, offering a fantastic look at Pacific Ocean creatures. The aquarium combines education with fun, featuring interactive exhibits and a chance to see animals like harbor seals, sea lions, stingrays, and even penguins up close.
After spending the day there, we headed over to the Queen Mary to spend the night and see if the stories about it being haunted were true. The whole area around Long Beach is easy to access, with plenty to do—from enjoying local seafood to walking along the waterfront. Our visit was filled with memorable moments and new experiences that we can’t wait to share.
Key Takeaways
- The aquarium offers close encounters with diverse marine life.
- Long Beach’s waterfront has many activities nearby to explore.
- Staying on the Queen Mary adds a unique experience to the visit.
Our Visit to Long Beach and Getting Around
Getting There and Parking
We found Long Beach easy to get to with a quick drive over the bridge right from the cruise terminal. Parking was convenient too — there’s a large structure nearby, and with validation from the aquarium, parking only cost us $8. You can also use rideshare services like Uber to get dropped off close to the attractions.
Things to Do Nearby and Places to Eat
Right near the aquarium, we enjoyed stopping at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company for a late lunch. There are plenty of other restaurants around, plus some food options inside the aquarium itself. If you want to stretch your legs, the nearby Seaport Village and the marina offer a nice walk and great views of the Queen Mary and cruise ships docked at the terminal.
Aquarium of the Pacific Highlights
Hands-On Fun for Young Visitors
We found plenty of activities that kept the kids busy and engaged. There’s a spot where they can color fish, and multiple interactive stations designed for all ages. The touch pools stood out, especially where kids could gently pet stingrays and small sharks with supervision.
Learning Opportunities Throughout
Every corner of the aquarium taught us something new. Technology blends with education, like a light-based waterfall display that mimics underwater scenes. Staff are always ready to answer questions, making it easy to dive deeper into marine life topics.
Special Displays of Marine Creatures
Some exhibits really caught our attention. A giant blue whale model welcomes you inside, while the kelp forest area features seals and sea lions swimming right around you in a clear tunnel. The large shark tank holds a variety of sharks, stingrays, and even a turtle, offering views from different angles. Moon jellies and penguins also provide unique experiences that are fun to watch for hours.
Memorable Encounters with Animals
Giants of the Pacific and the Underwater Forest Walk
Walking into the aquarium, we were greeted by a massive blue whale model, with a smaller calf displayed nearby. This area, called the Blue Cavern, mimics the giant kelp forests just outside Catalina Island. Walking through the tunnel under this exhibit, we watched harbor seals swim around, surfacing on both sides, offering a close and playful view.
Playful Sea Dogs and Sea Lions
Watching the sea lions was a highlight, as they swam and played with endless energy. These animals reminded us of water-loving dogs chasing their own tails, full of curiosity and fun. We wanted to reach through the glass for a belly rub but settled for smiles instead.
Touch Tanks for Rays and Sharks
The touch pools allowed us a hands-on experience with gentle stingrays and small sharks. We learned to use just two fingers to stroke the rays, avoiding their delicate fins, while staff answered questions and explained their behaviors. Petting leopard sharks and spotting horseshoe crabs made this an educational and rare chance to connect closely with ocean life.
Moon Jellies in Motion and Feeding Time
The moon jelly tank impressed us with hundreds of graceful jellies drifting slowly in a large circular aquarium. We joined in feeding by pouring liquid food over their open mouths while careful not to pick them up. Learning how these creatures require a round tank to avoid corners was fascinating and added to the experience.
Watching Penguins, Puffins, and Otters
The penguin area charmed us with the birds’ swimming and fluffing antics. Nearby, we spotted puffins waving hello and marveled at the elegant lion’s mane jellyfish with their long tentacles. In the otter exhibit, although only one otter was visible, its collection of toys entertained us as the surrounding fish swam industriously.
Animal Highlights:
| Experience | Animals Encountered | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cavern & Kelp | Blue whale, baby whale, sea bass | Tunnel walk, close-up seal views |
| Playful Sea Lions | Harbor seals, sea lions | Watching playfulness, behavioral fun |
| Stingray & Shark Touch | Stingrays, leopard sharks, crabs | Touching, feeding guidance |
| Moon Jelly Feeding | Moon jellies | Feeding, observing tank design |
| Penguins and Friends | Penguins, puffins, otters | Watching antics, exploring exhibits |
Beyond the Aquarium: Exploring the Waterfront
Dining at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
After our visit to the aquarium, we stopped by Bubba Gump Shrimp Company for a late lunch or early dinner. It’s a convenient spot close to the waterfront and offers a casual dining experience. The location made it easy to relax and refuel before continuing our day.
Walking Trails and Lighthouse Views
We enjoyed a scenic walk around a nearby park by the lighthouse, which gave us clear views of the cruise ship terminal and the Queen Mary. The park has free parking and is close to the aquarium, making it a great place to unwind and take in the harbor sights. On a good day, we’ve even spotted wild sea lions playing near the water.
Exploring Seaport Village and the Marina
A bit further along the waterfront is Seaport Village and its marina. It’s a pleasant area for strolling with shops, restaurants, and access to boat docks. This waterfront neighborhood adds to the mix of activities you can enjoy after leaving the aquarium or before heading to the cruise terminal.
Staying Aboard the Queen Mary
Room Ambiance and Guest Comfort
Our rooms on the Queen Mary blend history with comfort. You can feel the ship’s past in the details, from wood paneling to vintage fixtures. The rooms maintain an elegant, timeless charm that makes our stay cozy and unique.
Onboard Dining Experiences
We enjoyed multiple dining options during our visit. From casual spots to more formal settings, the food choices on the Queen Mary provide variety and convenience. Whether grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a meal, the options cater to different tastes.
Memorabilia and Ship Decorations
As we explored, we noticed many artifacts and classic decorations throughout the ship. These items tell stories of the Queen Mary’s rich past and create an atmosphere full of character. The decor enhances the historic vibe and invites us to step back in time.
Touring the Ship’s Iconic Areas
The Engine Room and Propeller Exhibit
We explored the heart of the ship where the massive engines and propellers once powered this great vessel. This area gives us a close-up view of the machinery that kept the ship moving. Walking through, we could see the sheer size and detail of the components that made this ship a marvel of engineering.
Observation Lounge and Upper Deck Views
Up on the observation lounge and the top deck, the views are stunning. This spot lets us take in the panoramic scenery around the ship and gives a relaxing place to enjoy fresh air. It’s a perfect vantage point to watch the water and the rest of the harbor activity.
Command Center and Communication Hub
Visiting the bridge and communication center, we stepped into the captain’s domain. Here, all the navigational controls and radios were housed. Standing where crew once steered and managed communications makes us appreciate the complexity of running a ship this size.
Sports and Leisure Areas
The sports and recreation decks provided us with areas designed for fun and fitness. Whether for a quick game or a leisurely stroll, these spaces were meant to keep passengers active. It’s interesting to see how these spots were set up for entertainment during long voyages.
Kids’ Zone and Sweet Treats Shop
We found the children’s playroom and candy store to be lively and welcoming. This part of the ship was clearly aimed at keeping younger guests happy and entertained. From colorful play areas to a charming candy shop, it’s a favorite spot for families.
Uncovering the Ship’s History and Legends
The Ship During WWII and Its Notable Guests
The ship played an important role during World War II, serving as a troop transport. It carried thousands of soldiers across the oceans, contributing to the war effort significantly. After the war, it welcomed a number of famous passengers, including celebrities and dignitaries enhancing its storied reputation.
Stories of Spirits and Haunted Areas
We heard many tales about ghostly sightings aboard the ship. Visitors speak of eerie sounds and mysterious apparitions appearing in certain cabins and hallways. These haunted stories have become a big part of the ship’s identity, especially during their popular Halloween events.
How It Stacks Up Against Today’s Cruise Vessels
Compared to modern cruise ships, this vessel offers a very different experience. While newer ships focus on luxury and extensive amenities, this classic ship feels more historic and atmospheric. It’s not about the latest technology but more about stepping back into a different time.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Best Times and Managing Visitor Loads
We found that visiting around the holidays can get pretty busy, especially right after Christmas. To avoid the crowds, try planning your visit on weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons. Also, arriving early or later in the afternoon can help you enjoy the exhibits with fewer people around.
Parking tip: With a validation from the aquarium, parking is just $8 nearby, which is pretty convenient and affordable.
Combining Aquarium Fun with Your Cruise Trip
Since the aquarium is just across the bay from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, it makes for a perfect stop either before or after your cruise. We stayed the night on the Queen Mary before boarding, which was a fun experience. From the aquarium, you can easily take a quick drive or Uber over the bridge right to the cruise terminal.
If you have extra time, there are plenty of food options nearby, including restaurants inside the aquarium. It’s an easy addition to your travel plans whether you come a day early or stay late after your cruise.
