The Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is a large luxury ship that was once a mode of transportation across the Atlantic from England to the United States. The Queen Mary had her maiden voyage in 1936 and provided passenger services until 1967. The Queen Mary now resides in Long Beach as a floating hotel, event venue and historical landmark.

Parking and public transportation at the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is located near the port of Long Beach. Self-Parking is $20/night and valet parking is $22/night. Visitors can use the Long Beach Transit System and take the Transit Passport Bus that will drop them off at the Queen Mary. Visitors can also take the Passport C route, which includes a drop off point at the Queen Mary as well as other local attractions in the area.

Best and worst time to go to the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is most crowded on the weekends and in the summer when tourism is at its peak in California. Evening tours tend to be a little less crowded as well as ones in the middle of the week.

Admission to the Queen Mary
Admission to the Queen Mary varies depending on if you are visiting for a tour, attending a special event, or spending the night in the hotel. Historical tours cost roughly $25-$31 and hotel rates vary.

Must see/do at the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary has a variety of activities that are perfect for all ages. History buffs will want to participate in one of the many historical tours that are offered, and those who are looking for a more "unique" experience can take an evening paranormal tour on the ship. The Queen Mary is also home to Diana: Legacy of a Princess, which is an exhibit dedicated to the late Princess Diana of Wales.

Other places to visit near the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is located near Pine Ave., which is home to a variety of shops and restaurants in Long Beach. Visitors can also head over to the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific or go for a stroll along Shoreline Drive.

Insider tips for visitors to the Queen Mary
Every Halloween the Queen Mary turns into a "ghost ship" and offers haunted tours and mazes that are sure to put a chill down your spine.

Author's bio: Allie Fisher is an Orange County native who loves writing about food + travel. Follow her food adventures on twitter and instagram @socaliallie and on her blog, www.sweetpotatobites.com.