Queen Mary And Aquarium Of The Pacific
The Queen Mary, an iconic ocean liner that sailed the North Atlantic Ocean from 1936 to 1967, now sits docked in Long Beach, California as a historical landmark and tourist attraction. The ship, which once carried royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries, now offers tours, dining, events, and even a hotel. But the Queen Mary is not the only attraction in Long Beach, as the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific offers visitors a chance to explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean.
The Queen Mary: A Living Museum
Stepping aboard the Queen Mary is like stepping back in time. The ship has been preserved to showcase the luxury and elegance of an era gone by. Visitors can explore the ship's many decks, cabins, and public rooms, including the grand ballroom, the art deco lounge, and the first-class swimming pool. The ship also has several exhibits, including a World War II exhibit, a Princess Diana exhibit, and a haunted tour.
The Aquarium of the Pacific: A Window into the Ocean
The Aquarium of the Pacific is located just a few miles from the Queen Mary and offers visitors a chance to see and learn about the marine life of the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium has over 11,000 animals, representing over 500 species, from the smallest shrimp to the largest shark. Visitors can see penguins, sea otters, jellyfish, sea lions, and even touch some of the animals in the touch tanks.
Combining History and Marine Life
Visitors to Long Beach can make a day of exploring both the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. The two attractions offer a unique blend of history and marine life. Visitors can start their day exploring the Queen Mary, learning about the ship's history and seeing what life was like on board. After lunch on the ship or at one of the nearby restaurants, visitors can head over to the aquarium to see the many species of fish, mammals, and birds that call the Pacific Ocean home.
Conclusion
Long Beach, California offers visitors a chance to experience the past and the present with the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. The two attractions are perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in marine life. Visitors can make a day of exploring both attractions or spend several days exploring all that Long Beach has to offer.