Photo Courtesy of Robin Riggs & Aquarium of the Pacific
Long Beach, California has everything to offer on your vacation! If you have a few extra days to spend before or after your cruise, Long Beach is sure to keep you occupied. Here are some of the best Long Beach cruise port activities.
A trip to Long Beach isn’t complete without visiting the extraordinary Queen Mary. I’ve only been to see her once but it is an experience I will never forget! Built in the early 1930’s the beautiful Queen Mary was once considered one of the most elegant ships at sea, and played host to several amazing people throughout her lifetime. Her historical beauty is now available for all to see in her resting place in Long Beach.
Judy Garland aboard the Queen Mary. Photo Courtesy of the Queen Mary
Winston Churchill aboard the Queen Mary. Photo Courtesy of the Queen Mary.
There are several types of tour available on the Queen Mary. I was fortunate enough to see two tours during my visit aboard the ship; the Glory Days Historical tour, and the Haunted Encounters tour. Both were fascinating and lots of fun. Other on-board attractions feature the Princess Diana and Bob Hope showcases. Also available aboard the Queen Mary are special events nearly every weekend. The events include everything from a Big Bacon Festival to a Japanese Classic Car Show. Lastly, if you’ve always dreamed of having a wedding or renewing your vows at sea, you can do it aboard the Queen Mary before you sail out on your honeymoon destination.
Photo Courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific
Next must see while visiting Long Beach is the Aquarium of the Pacific. Spend your days before your cruise learning about the creatures that will be traveling alongside you. The Aquarium offers several features structured specifically towards adults too. They often have special events featuring guest speakers and even educational classes. They also offer private tours and boat adventures for those who may want to do some whale watching or see the harbor.
Photo Courtesy of Anthelion Helicopters
Take a tour with Anthelion Helicopters and see Southern California in an entirely new way! Anthelion has some of the best prices I’ve ever seen, starting at only $80. There are several tours to choose from and amazing sites to see! Make sure and bring your camera so you can take an up-close and personal picture of the Hollywood sign or the Long Beach Shoreline!
Photo Courtesy of the USS Iowa Battleship
Visit the only west coast battleship museum and take a tour aboard the Battleship IOWA Museum. Here you will have a chance to tour through six decks, several exhibits, and hear the history surrounding this amazing Navy vessel. If you are a veteran make sure and let the staff know as they like to ensure that veterans have a VIP experience.
Photo Courtesy of Long Beach PediWagon
Rent a PediWagon from Long Beach PediWagon! This is on my bucket list of to do items. A PediWagon is the supreme group bicycle that holds 15 passengers and manually powered by 10 passengers. Each Pediwagon comes with a guide/driver that will take you around the local venues. I love the idea; I may have to take a trip to try it!
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