Experience the Queen Mary Like Never Before
The Queen Mary Glory Days Historical Tour offers a captivating look into one of Long Beach’s most iconic ships. Priced at $45 per person, this tour typically lasts between 2 and 8 hours, depending on how deep you want to go into her stories. Starting at the ship’s very deck in Long Beach, you’ll explore exhibits that cover her wartime service, Hollywood glamour, and ghostly legends.
What we love most about this experience is how accessible and engaging the tour feels—whether you’re a history buff or just curious about what makes this vessel so special. The guides are knowledgeable, responding to questions with enthusiasm, which makes the visit lively and personalized. Also, it’s wonderful to see how the ship offers increased accessibility, allowing more visitors to enjoy her stories without barriers.
One possible consideration is that the length of the tour can vary quite a bit—from a quick overview to a full-day exploration—so it’s worth planning your visit accordingly. If you’re short on time, a 2-hour snapshot might be perfect, but for those who want a detailed experience, some tours extend to several hours.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate history, love stunning maritime views, or are interested in paranormal tales. Families, history enthusiasts, and even those on a day-trip to Long Beach will find value in the stories and exhibits, especially since most travelers find the guides to be very knowledgeable and engaging.
Key Points:

- Comprehensive Exploration: From wartime stories to Hollywood glamour, the tour covers the ship’s diverse history.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Expect friendly, well-informed guides who answer questions thoroughly.
- Flexible Duration: Tours range from 2 to 8 hours, accommodating different schedules and interests.
- Accessible Experience: The ship now offers increased accessibility for all visitors, making it more inclusive.
- Stunning Views & Authentic Atmosphere: You’ll enjoy remarkable views of the ship and the harbor, adding to the immersive experience.
- Affordable Value: At $45, it offers a lot of history and stories packed into a memorable visit.
A Deep Dive into the Queen Mary Glory Days Tour

When we think of historic ships, the Queen Mary often stands out as a symbol of both elegance and resilience. This tour brings her to life in a way that feels both respectful and fun. The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located on the ship itself, making it easy to find and start your journey without fuss.
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What to Expect at Each Stop
The Queen Mary Tours & Exhibits are the heart of this experience. As you wander through her decks, you’ll encounter exhibits that detail her wartime service, including stories of her role during World War II. These exhibits aren’t dry history lessons—they’re carefully curated displays that often include photos, artifacts, and engaging storytelling.
The guides, such as the one mentioned by Tammi B, are remarkably knowledgeable, answering all questions with enthusiasm. We loved the way they bring history to life, making it easy for visitors to connect with the ship’s past. Whether it’s tales of Hollywood stars who visited or ghost stories that have persisted for decades, each story adds a layer of intrigue.
The Ship’s Glamor and Ghostly Legends
Beyond her military service, the Queen Mary is famous for her Hollywood glamour. The tour highlights her time as a luxury liner, emphasizing her elegant interiors and the stars who stayed aboard. If you’re a fan of classic films or vintage style, you’ll find plenty to admire here.
The ghostly legends are a fun addition, especially if you enjoy a spooky story or two. While not everyone experiences paranormal activity during their visit, these tales are part of what makes the Queen Mary so fascinating—and are often mentioned with a playful tone.
Group Size and Access
Most tours are capped at 30 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social energy. As Michael H points out, buying tickets in advance—via Viator in this case—makes logistics smoother, allowing you to just walk up and join the tour without delays.
The Experience’s Flexibility and Cost-Effectiveness
Since the tour duration varies, you can choose a quick overview or a more extensive exploration. The value at $45 is quite good considering the depth of stories and access to exhibits. Plus, the fact that service animals are allowed and the tour is near public transportation makes it accessible for many visitors.
Authenticity and Authentic Experiences
The reviews reveal that most travelers find the guides to be very knowledgeable. Michael P described it as an “entertaining piece of history,” while Michael H appreciated how informative and convenient the experience was. These endorsements highlight that the tour isn’t just about looking at artifacts; it’s about telling stories that stick with you.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Plan your visit around the length of the tour you prefer—whether a quick snapshot or a full-day deep dive.
- Book in advance if possible, to ensure a smooth start.
- Allow time after the tour to explore the ship on your own, especially if you’re interested in seeing additional exhibits or the ship’s interiors.
- Bring questions—the guides are eager to share their knowledge.
- Dress comfortably and be prepared for some walking, especially if you opt for the longer tours.
Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers. History buffs will love the detailed exhibits and stories, while families might appreciate the engaging guides and visual displays. Those interested in Hollywood history or ghost stories will find the ship’s legends a delightful bonus.
If you’re in Long Beach for a day and want a meaningful, well-organized experience that combines history, stunning views, and engaging storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you value knowledgeable guides and authentic narratives.
Final Thoughts

The Queen Mary Glory Days Historical Tour offers a compelling and accessible way to experience a true maritime icon. For just $45, you gain more than a tour—you get a story-rich adventure into the ship’s past, guided by passionate experts who make history engaging. The mix of historical exhibits, stunning ship views, and ghostly tales creates a memorable journey that appeals to both casual visitors and dedicated history fans.
The fact that the tour is flexible in duration makes it a versatile choice for different schedules, and the emphasis on accessibility means it welcomes everyone. Whether you’re interested in her wartime heroics, Hollywood connections, or haunted legends, this tour makes it all come alive.
In short, if you’re seeking an authentic, informative, and fun exploration of the Queen Mary in Long Beach, this tour will serve you well. It’s a chance to step aboard a ship that’s as fascinating on land as it was at sea, with stories that will stay with you long after you leave her decks.
FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be engaging for a wide age range.
How long does the tour last?
It ranges from about 2 hours up to 8 hours, depending on your chosen experience.
Is the ticket price inclusive of all exhibits?
Yes, admission to the exhibits and tours is included in the $45 ticket.
Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there transportation available to the meeting point?
The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to access.
Are service animals allowed on the tour?
Yes, service animals are permitted.
What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and curiosity—guides love questions, and the experience is best enjoyed with an eager mind.
To sum it up, the Queen Mary Glory Days Historical Tour is a well-rounded, immersive experience that offers genuine insight into one of Long Beach’s most treasured ships. Whether you’re in for the history, the views, or the ghost stories, this tour delivers in both entertainment and education—making it a worthwhile addition to any Long Beach itinerary.
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