queen mary free guided tour

Free Queen Mary guided tours offered during the holiday season

Long live the Queen – the RMS Queen Mary, that is. For the first time since March 2020, the City of Long Beach is officially welcoming visitors back onboard for free Queen Mary guided tours beginning Dec. 15, 2022.

The Long Beach, Calif. landmark closed to the public in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic but has remained closed while critical repairs were identified and conducted. For most of 2022, the city has worked to secure the structural stability and safety of the ship and preserve its rich history.

“The Queen Mary has been an icon of our Long Beach shoreline for 55 years,” said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. “We remain dedicated in our efforts to preserve the ship’s history and structural safety. I look forward to welcoming the community back on board!”

The most notable repair to date has been the removal of 20 deteriorated lifeboats that were exerting stress on the ship’s side shell. In addition, improvements were made to the bulkheads to ensure internal structural stability, and new automated bilge pump systems were installed to discharge excess water in the event of water intrusion (the system will be completed in early 2023).

Also scheduled for completion in early 2023 is the installation of an emergency generator to power critical components of the ship, and the installation of new boilers and heat exchangers for cooking, cleaning, sanitizing, and other hospitality amenities, which will allow for the reopening of the ship’s hotel, restaurants, and bars.

“We look forward to soon reopening the historic Queen Mary Hotel and welcoming guests back to enjoy an overnight stay or experience scenic shoreline views, refreshments, and dining at one of our world-class restaurants,” said Evolution Hospitality General Manager John Taffin.

During the one-hour free Queen Mary tours guided by historical docents, visitors will see select areas of the Queen Mary’s Promenade Deck, including a walk through the Promenade Shops, Observation Bar, Queen Salon, and Royal Salon. Tour participants will also learn about the ship’s storied history – including its haunted tales – and see a short video chronicling the repair work conducted to the ship throughout 2022 (signage along the tour route points out completed and ongoing restoration and preservation projects).

“I am thrilled to welcome visitors back onboard the Queen Mary and share the beauty and history of this landmark with our community once again,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “I thank our city staff for their dedication throughout the critical repairs process to ensure the ship’s safety and preservation.”

Limited guided tours are available for sign-up on a first-come, first-served basis through an online registration system and will take place on select days beginning Dec. 15, 2022.

Reservations are required to participate in the free Queen Mary tours (a tour confirmation email and photo ID will be required to board the ship). Click here for additional information, including tour dates, times, and sign-up links; click here for information about the ongoing Queen Mary preservation project.

Check out our video of the 2019 Queen Mary Christmas celebration:

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Queen Mary is back in business after 2-plus years. Free tours fully booked

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The Queen Mary is back in business.

Beginning Thursday, fans of the aging Long Beach tourist attraction will be able to tour sections of the vessel for the first time since March 2020, the city of Long Beach announced this week . To celebrate, the city is offering free guided tours for a limited time.

The hour-long tours include biographical lessons, including some haunted history, about the Queen Mary and access to select areas of its promenade deck, all led by a docent. Tours were full by Tuesday morning , according to the city’s website.

The hotel, restaurants, bar and other amenities will remain closed until plumbing and other repair work are completed in early 2023 , according to the city.

Queen Mary to get $1 million more in repairs ahead of reopening in Long Beach

Millions of dollars have been poured into repairing the Queen Mary, which was closed due to the pandemic in 2020 and is expected to reopen this year.

Nov. 2, 2022

The occasion comes after the pandemic shuttered the converted British ocean liner to the public and a series of renovations, including critical structural repair work , delayed its reopening. Several studies have estimated the vessel needs hundreds of millions of dollars of upgrades to continue operating. A 2021 report called for $23 million in immediate repairs to prevent the ship from capsizing.

The city has previously said that about 75% of the process — largely plumbing, mechanical and other metalwork — should be completed by the end of the year. All internal repairs should be wrapped up in early 2023, allowing the city to work on aesthetic projects, like painting and flooring.

“The Queen Mary has been an icon of our Long Beach shoreline for 55 years,” Councilmember Mary Zendejas said. “We remain dedicated in our efforts to preserve the ship’s history and structural safety. I look forward to welcoming the community back on board!”

Over the last 50 years, Long Beach has brought in several firms — including Walt Disney Co. — to try to convert the former ocean liner-turned-floating hotel into a profitable tourist attraction, with mixed results. Disney planned in 1990 to incorporate the ship into a $3-billion sea-themed amusement park but ditched the idea a few years later.

Long Beach had considered sinking the 86-year-old ship after taking control of the vessel last year from the previous lease operator, Eagle Hospitality Trust, which filed for bankruptcy and defaulted on lease agreements. But even scuttling or scrapping it brought an estimated $190-million price tag , officials learned.

Keeping the Queen Mary afloat has cost an estimated $6 million since the restoration project got underway earlier this year . But officials say the price tag is offset because the ship generates revenue through special events and filming opportunities, including a popular Halloween celebration .

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Alexandra E. Petri is a former Los Angeles Times staff writer who covered trends and breaking news. She previously covered live news at the New York Times. A two-time reporting fellow with the International Women’s Media Foundation, she graduated from Penn State with a degree in journalism and international studies.

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The Queen Mary Will Reopen to Visitors With Free ‘Thank You' Tours

The city of long beach announced that guests could enjoy "select elements" of the ship while on a free guided tour; reservations are now open., by alysia gray painter • published december 12, 2022 • updated on december 15, 2022 at 3:59 pm, what to know.

• The Queen Mary has been a Long Beach landmark since 1967; the retired Cunard-White Star ocean liner crossed the Atlantic hundreds of times, starting in 1936, and served as a troopship in World War II
• The ship shuttered in March 2020; the City of Long Beach resumed control of the vessel from Urban Commons in 2021, with a commitment to address the many repairs needed to her hull and elsewhere
• "Select elements" of the Queen Mary will be open to the public starting on Dec. 15, 2022; first-come, first-served reservations may be made online

When facing any challenge, be it large or small, we do sometimes wonder if we will sink or float.

And, if things are especially auspicious, if we will sail into a brighter future.

That last option is always the option we want, of course, in pretty much every case we face, and in the case of the Queen Mary ?

Get Southern California news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC LA newsletters.

The "sail forward" promise of the world-famous ocean liner, a Long Beach landmark that's been in need of a hefty amount of TLC, is becoming clearer by the day.

So clear, in fact, that the City of Long Beach announced on Dec. 12 that "select elements" of the permanently moored vessel will reopen on Dec. 15, 2022.

How to visit these areas? The public is invited to join a series of limited-time guided free tours.

The free tours will serve as a sincere and celebratory "thank you" extended to "... the community for their patience and support during the ship's closure," shared the statement from the city.

Visitors will again be able to stroll a select stretch of the view-blessed Promenade Deck as well as the opulent Observation Bar, as well as a few other picturesque spots on the destination, which has become known for its Art Deco details and stately spaces that seem untouched by time.

Signage will also note what sort of repairs are ongoing around the vessel, bringing guests up-to-speed as to what has been happening since the ship's closure in March 2020.

Shipshape: The Queen Mary Looks to Reopen Later in 2022

A Bright Bounty of Beautiful Bulbs Will Illuminate The Mission Inn

"I am thrilled to welcome visitors back onboard the Queen Mary and share the beauty and history of this landmark with our community once again," said Mayor Robert Garcia.

"I thank our City staff for their dedication throughout the critical repairs process to ensure the ship’s safety and preservation."

Long Beach has been working hard to address those much-needed updates since it resumed control of the ship from Urban Commons, the previous lessee, in June 2021.

Permanently moored in Long Beach since 1967, the Queen Mary was famed as an elegant passenger conveyance over several decades, and as "The Grey Ghost," a troopship, in World War II, where it was also known as Winston Churchill's "headquarters at sea," a place for the prime minister of the United Kingdom to conduct important work while traveling.

Since dropping proverbial anchor in California some 55 years ago, the grand boat has served as a hotel, dining destination, and a place for festivals and special events.

A few large-scale events returned ahead of its reopening, with basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal's Halloween happening taking place just outside of the landmark in October 2022.

The ship's haunted history remains a draw for devotees of the supernatural, and its ghostly reputation will be touched upon in the new tours, too.

You can reserve your spot online now, but the first-come, first-served tours are expected to fill up quickly.

This article tagged under:

Queen Mary in Long Beach: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

Things to Do

Hotel queen mary, tips for your visit, the queen mary.

On your next trip to Long Beach, California, you should stop by the cruise ship that never moves—the Queen Mary.

Originally built in 1937, the ship had a long and fascinating 30-year career before making its 516th and final voyage to Long Beach, California, on Dec. 9, 1967.

Since then, the Queen Mary has been docked in the Long Beach harbor and converted into a hotel and tourist attraction, which some even believe to be haunted. Guides' voices echo in the now-empty engine room, where 27 boilers once generated 160,000 horsepower. In fact, the ship has been in Long Beach longer than it sailed the oceans and is now known as an icon for its home city.

Bigger, faster, and more powerful than its predecessor, the Titanic, the RMS Queen Mary had a long career with 1,001 successful Atlantic crossings. Built at the John Brown shipyard on the Clyde, Scotland, in 1937, the Queen Mary held the record for the fastest-ever North Atlantic crossing.

It carried the rich and famous across the Atlantic for three years in great luxury. During World War II, it carried troops. Afterward, the ship ferried war brides and children to the United States and Canada before returning to service as a transatlantic cruise ship.

In 1967, the ship's owner, Cunard, sold the Queen Mary for $3.45 million. After the boat's final voyage, it became permanently docked in Long Beach and has been there ever since.

It may not be as enormous as today's mega-cruise liners, but the Queen Mary is an elegant reminder of a bygone era. 

The least expensive way to see the ship is the self-guided tour which takes visitors over the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, from the engine room to the wheelhouse. Unfortunately, the tour route is poorly marked, and the big ship can be pretty intimidating when toured on your own. You may get more out of your experience if you take one of their guided tours. 

They offer several themed tours, which change from time to time. One of the most popular is Ghosts and Legends of the Queen Mary, which dramatizes paranormal and historical events aboard the ship. You can also take tours in the evening, including haunted explorations and midnight ghost tours led by paranormal experts. You can see a list of current tours on the Queen Mary website .

The Scorpion, a Foxtrot-class Russian submarine, is moored just below the Queen Mary's bow. A tour of the cramped quarters and military conditions (78 crew shared two showers and three toilets) provides an interesting contrast to the Queen Mary in size and luxury.

Events at the Queen Mary

Every Halloween, the Queen Mary is home to Dark Harbor , an intense Halloween experience that features haunted mazes, a 4D theater experience, and live monsters and entertainment.

The ship also hosts seasonal and holiday celebrations, mystery murder dinner shows, a Scottish festival, and other events. You can find their upcoming events on their website .

The ship isn't just a tourist attraction, it doubles as a hotel as well. With authentic wood-paneling, original artwork from the 1930s, and time-appropriate styled decor, you can easily imagine yourself on a transatlantic journey along with Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable, and others. The ship includes 347 staterooms and suites, all of which come with standard amenities.

The smaller rooms are reasonably priced but can be a bit dark. For a taste of the luxury of a bygone era, splurge on a Deluxe Stateroom or a Royalty Suite.

• The Queen Mary is open daily, and a reservation is not required for a regular tour.
• There is an admission fee, as well as a parking fee.
• Allow a few hours for a leisurely tour, as there's a lot to see.
• Take a guided tour for a more efficient and educational experience.
• Grab a map on your way in. Certain things, including elevator stops, are labeled in ship jargon, but the map makes things easy to understand.

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Queen Mary is back in business after 2-plus years. Free tours fully booked

The Queen Mary is back in business.

Beginning Thursday, fans of the aging Long Beach tourist attraction will be able to tour sections of the vessel for the first time since March 2020, the city of Long Beach announced this week . To celebrate, the city is offering free guided tours for a limited time.

The hour-long tours include biographical lessons, including some haunted history, about the Queen Mary and access to select areas of its promenade deck, all led by a docent. Tours were full by Tuesday morning , according to the city’s website.

The hotel, restaurants, bar and other amenities will remain closed until plumbing and other repair work are completed in early 2023 , according to the city.

The occasion comes after the pandemic shuttered the converted British ocean liner to the public and a series of renovations, including critical structural repair work , delayed its reopening. Several studies have estimated the vessel needs hundreds of millions of dollars of upgrades to continue operating. A 2021 report called for $23 million in immediate repairs to prevent the ship from capsizing.

The city has previously said that about 75% of the process — largely plumbing, mechanical and other metalwork — should be completed by the end of the year. All internal repairs should be wrapped up in early 2023, allowing the city to work on aesthetic projects, like painting and flooring.

“The Queen Mary has been an icon of our Long Beach shoreline for 55 years,” Councilmember Mary Zendejas said. “We remain dedicated in our efforts to preserve the ship’s history and structural safety. I look forward to welcoming the community back on board!”

Over the last 50 years, Long Beach has brought in several firms — including Walt Disney Co. — to try to convert the former ocean liner-turned-floating hotel into a profitable tourist attraction, with mixed results. Disney planned in 1990 to incorporate the ship into a $3-billion sea-themed amusement park but ditched the idea a few years later.

Long Beach had considered sinking the 86-year-old ship after taking control of the vessel last year from the previous lease operator, Eagle Hospitality Trust, which filed for bankruptcy and defaulted on lease agreements. But even scuttling or scrapping it brought an estimated $190-million price tag , officials learned.

Keeping the Queen Mary afloat has cost an estimated $6 million since the restoration project got underway earlier this year . But officials say the price tag is offset because the ship generates revenue through special events and filming opportunities, including a popular Halloween celebration .

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times .

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The Queen Mary welcomed guests aboard in a limited, sold out tour series

By KCAL News Staff

Updated on: December 16, 2022 / 12:33 PM PST / KCAL News

For the first time since March 2020, the Queen Mary in Long Beach welcomed the public aboard Thursday for limited, sold-out, tours.

The ship has been closed for just over two years while undergoing critical repairs and the City of Long Beach reports that it intends to preserve the ship further for the community and as an international tour destination.

Limited guided tours of the Promenade Deck were made available to reserve Tuesday, Dec.13 and they were booked up in one day. The city of Long Beach released this statement, "Thank you for your interest in the free guided tours of the Queen Mary, available for the public for a limited time. Due to popular demand, all scheduled tours are now full. We appreciate the community interest and excitement in this opportunity and we look forward to welcoming more visitors back on board when additional elements of the ship reopen in 2023."

Commodore Everette Hoard, dressed in uniform attire, welcomed guests who snagged the reserved tour spots to the Promenade Deck Thursday. "She has survived a depression, a world war, the jet age, and at the end of her sea-going career, the ship breaker's hammer. Now in the 21st century, we can add a global pandemic,"  said Hoard.

The ship arrived in Long Beach in 1967 and the city has been the owner, but not always the operator of the vessel. Its former operator, Eagle Hospitality Trust, filed for bankruptcy last year and at that point the city took over operations for the first time in 40 years.  

A 2017 report estimated total repairs to the ship could cost anywhere from $235 to $285 million. This year, the Long Beach City Council approved $5 million for crucial repairs to get it to the partial reopening stage.

The city reported that about 75 percent of the critical repairs inside the ship: electrical, plumbing and metal fabrication-related work, is expected to be complete by the end of this year, with the remaining internal critical repairs to be completed in early 2023.

As required repairs are finalized, Evolution Hospitality will reopen and manage the day-to-day operations of the Queen Mary's hotel, food and beverage facilities, entertainment attractions and ship-related events. More information about these reopenings will be available at a later date.

"We look forward to soon reopening the historic Queen Mary Hotel and welcoming guests back to enjoy an overnight stay or experience scenic shoreline views, refreshments and dining at one of our world-class restaurants," said Evolution Hospitality General Manager John Taffin.

With public interest for the ship swelling, the city of Long Beach just launched a first-ever annual membership program for the Queen Mary. With the upcoming spring 2023 public reopening approaching, the membership is not only a chance to support continuing conservation and restoration efforts, but for $150 annually, there are other perks.

Annual Membership Benefits

·         General Admission with limited blackout dates

·         Two (2) general admission Day Passes annually

·         Hotel guest pricing for Tour/Exhibit/ Attraction tickets

·         24-hour presale on Queen Mary Signature Events

·         Discounted Ticket pricing during the presale of Queen Mary Signature Events

To find out more about this new program , visit:   LBheritage.org/queen-mary . 

The KCAL News Staff is a group of experienced journalists who bring you the content on KCALNews.com.

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• COMMUNITY & EVENTS

Queen Mary in Long Beach welcomes back visitors following pandemic closure

The Queen Mary in Long Beach is welcoming back visitors once again following a pandemic closure.

To celebrate the reopening, some lucky residents are getting free guided tours. Commodore Everette Hoard led the first tour of the tourist attraction in nearly three years since the pandemic shut down the iconic ship.

The city has poured in millions of dollars of repairs and improvements while she was closed to the public. And just in time for the holidays, she's ready to welcome you aboard and help strengthen the local economy.

"In 2020, just prior to the shut down throughout Los Angeles County, spending associated with the Queen Mary supported over 2,200 jobs, contributed over $85 million in labor income and generated over $205 million in economic input," said Bo Martinez, the Economic Development Director for the city of Long Beach.

MORE | Long Beach bar transforms into 'Miracle' pop-up for the holidays

For 55 years, the Queen Mary has been docked in Long Beach serving as a venue for proms, wedding receptions and other special events. For now, only tours are available, but the restaurants and hotel are expected to open early next year.

"Getting her up to speed is not just important for the historical nature of the ship, but also for the pride of our city of which the Queen Mary is linked to. But also for the jobs and economic activity that it creates," said Mayor Robert Garcia.

Related Topics

• LOS ANGELES COUNTY
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News | Queen Mary offers one day of free boarding on…

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News | Queen Mary offers one day of free boarding on Wednesday

The community event will kick off on wednesday, june 14..

The Queen Mary will host a community day on Wednesday, June 14, opening the vessel’s doors to the public for free, the ship’s operators have announced.

Long Beach’s historic World War II-era ship finally reopened for public tours in early April , after a three-year closure — marking the first stage in what officials said would be a series of reopenings.

Several parts of the ship, including the beloved Art Deco-themed Observation Bar and the Chelsea Chowder House and Bar, have slowly come back online since then. The ship’s operators, Evolution Hospitality, also hosted an invite-only grand reopening party for the ship on Friday, June 9.

Wednesday’s free day, meanwhile, is meant to serve as a “thank you” to the community — who patiently waited to learn the Queen Mary’s fate during its three-year closure, according to the ship’s managing director, Steve Caloca.

“As an appreciation to our Long Beach family, friends, and neighbors, we are opening the Queen Mary for self-guided tours and walk-arounds on Wednesday,” Caloca said Monday, June 12. “The Queen Mary has been an iconic part of the community since arriving in 1967, and we want the people of Long Beach to know how much we appreciate them.”

Both admission to the ship and parking will be free for anyone who is interested on Wednesday, according to Queen Mary representative Tania Pantoja-Alvarez. Guests will still have to pay for tours, food and drink.

Typically, the Queen Mary doesn’t sell boarding passes without a tour. The cost of admission, plus the tour, ranges from $15 to 20. They’ll only sell admission tickets by themselves if tours are sold out; and guests can come aboard to dine and drink for $10 after 6 p.m.

Free admission to ship will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday.

“This is a moment of celebration and pride for community who have waited so long to see this treasure restored and reopened,’’ Mayor Rex Richardson said in a Monday statement. “We welcome the public back the Queen Mary, an iconic, international, and historic landmark that belongs to our city.”

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Queen Mary - which tour? - Long Beach Forum

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Queen Mary - which tour?

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We're coming in mid July as a family of 3 with a 6 year old. I'm thinking the glory days tours. Is the $10 1 hour tour really limited in what you can see? Is it worth it for the $35pp ticket for "1 hour guided tour and includes ship admission"? It's hard for me to tell what this really means.

6 replies to this topic

Back in the day we did the ghost tour which took us right down into the engine room and watertight compartments but no idea where the tours take you these days.

I guess I'm even more confused because when I put my July date in the same tour is $25. But thanks for clarifying, I was confused by some reviews and didn't catch that browsing on my phone. Guess I'll find out 😊

I must have done the on board tours before Hunter. Because the ghost tours were not really a thing then. (The shop had or has plaques where there were ghost sightings anyway.) I did see the engine room on one tour though.

We went on two different tours on the same day and they each were only about an hour but covered a lot. They may be different, but I do think a lot can be covered in an hour.

I just want to add that your 6 year old will most likely love it. When we went we had two adults (aunt and mother) and three kids. The youngest was five. At one point when we were on the deck in the evening she said, "Mommy, I love it here."

Important point too that the tour we did was no more than an hour or so and we too covered a lot of ground.

Love that ship. Like Redlands said, special place. Takes you back in time. One of two hotels I've slept in that I say was the best sleep of my life. The other was a hotel in Ridgecrest.

I did the engine tour at that time. Also toured the old submarine that was parked next to the QM. Not sure if it's still there.

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Moscow’s best free city tour

I love Moscow – this charming metropolis, its people, its history and its unique cityscape. I would like to share my passion for this city with you. It is my job to show you the most exciting corners of this fascinating metropolis. That’s why, as a travel specialist and your private tour guide Moscow in Russia, I organize a guided free city tour Moscow – so that everyone, regardless of their budget, would be able to enjoy the insider’s view of Moscow.

You get to see what only Moscow residents know and what other tourist guides keep from you. I am a licensed travel specialist in Russia and would like you to enjoy all facets of the capital of the largest country in the world, without demanding any money from you. I’ll show you the city on my free Moscow walking tour for 1.5-hours on foot.

Everything you need to know:

• My tours take place daily by arrangement, I am the only English-speaking licensed tourist guide Moscow, who offers a free city tour.
• My 1.5-hour free tours Moscow do not cost you a cent, I also offer other great paid tours as well.
• I am an experienced local, I make the tours informative, but at the same time relaxed and not off the plane.

Free Tours Moscow – Daily

My free tours Moscow city starts on Slavonic Square (Kitay-Gorod Metro Station), passes the world-famous St. Basil’s Cathedral, which was built by Ivan the Terrible on the south side of Red Square in the 16th century and where the tsars were once crowned. Then it goes across the Red Square at the Lenin Mausoleum, the luxury department store GUM and with a view of the Kremlin towards the historical museum. Of course, you will also learn more about the stories that once happened behind the thick walls of the Kremlin – from the Tsars and Napoleon to Stalin. Then we continue through the idyllic Alexander Garden.

An advance booking is required!

Practical information:

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 1.5 hours Price: Free Language: English

«First acquaintance with Moscow» – a 2.5-hour city tour in the center of Moscow

This Moscow city tour starts on the Theater Square, past Lubyanka Square and the KGB-building, then through Kitay Gorod district and Varvarka Street, past the world-famous St. Basil’s Cathedral. Then it goes across Zarjadje Park, over Red Square at the Lenin Mausoleum, the GUM-department store and towards the Historical Museum. We walk through the Alexander Garden.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2.5 hours Price: 17 $ Students and children: 6 $ Language: English

A 3.5-hour car/bus tour of Moscow.

This is the best tour of Moscow city as all the important sights are visited. I am your Moscow city guide who will walk you through the city explaining the charming history of the city. This tour begins with picking you up from the hotel. 3 breaks are offered for photographing.

First, we will visit the most famous riverside streets and bridges in the center of the city with the most beautiful views of the Kremlin and the Moskva River (e.g. the Kremlin embankment and the Great Stone Bridge).

The first photo break is made at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. We then pass by the district with numerous museums, Prechistinka Street and the district with numerous medical areas.

We again stop at the Novodevichy Convent, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the other bank of the Moskva River to click pictures.

Then we visit “Sparrow Hills” where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city of Moscow from the observation deck. Then there are the skyscrapers of Moscow-City, the Kutuzov avenue, the New Arbat, Tverskaya Street, the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, the KGB building and Varvarka Street. Here there are ample spots to click pictures.

We then drive past the Kremlin again and finally reach Red Square. We take a short tour of Red Square and say goodbye in the Alexander Garden.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 3.5 hours Price for a group: 170-200 $ (depending on the number of travelers) Language: English

Metro tour – daily

Palaces for ordinary people – that was what Stalin promised to the people when the construction of the Moscow Metro began between the World Wars. The communist dictator hadn’t promised too much. No other underground system in the world can boast such spectacular architecture – chandeliers, decorations, stucco, paintings on the walls – each station is individually designed. No wonder that Moscow residents love their metro. I will guide you through the bustle of one of the busiest subways in the world and show you the most beautiful stations Moscow city has.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: Metro tickets / the guided tour

Tour of Communist Moscow – every day

After the Communist October Revolution in 1918, Moscow became the capital of the Soviet Empire and was the center of socialist orbit for more than 70 years. This left its mark on Moscow, even if the USSR disintegrated more than a quarter of a century ago. The city streets are full of remnants of the communist regime and the Cold War. This is a walking tour where I will show you the most exciting places in Soviet Moscow: from the notorious KGB headquarters, also known as Lubyanka to the Karl Marx Monument to small hidden remains from the time of hammer and sickle. You will also learn about Stalin’s Great Terror political campaign and the system of the GULAG and how the USSR, the communist Russian republic, became modern Russia.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour

Alternative Moscow Tour – daily

Explore the unseen Moscow with your Moscow private guide and discover a range of sights during this alternative walking tour.  Away from the main tourist spots (in the central district of Kitay-Gorod), just a short walk from Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, you suddenly find yourself in one of the trendiest districts of Moscow. This place not only has trendy cafes and green squares, but here you can see the most beautiful spray works (according to Albrecht Dürer), hangout-places of the youth and hipsters, as well as learn what Moscow looked like in the 19th century. Here you will also learn exciting and even bloody stories about famous gangsters, eccentric business people and legends like the wandering preacher Rasputin, who is known in Russia either as the “holy devil” or the mad monk. To learn a little more about Moscow’s culture, this is the tour for you. On my alternative tour, you will get to know Moscow away from the tourist hotspots. This tour is of 2 hours duration and you will experience the following on the tour:

• St. John’s Hill, a quiet oasis right in the center, where time has stopped as it did in pre-Communist times
• Khokhlovka Art Center, where Russian hipsters and street artists hang out
• Samoskvorechye District where you can see beautiful streets and hear stories from old Moscow

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour / tram ticket

Kremlin tour – daily (closed on Thursday)

With its 20 towers and high walls, the Kremlin rises imposingly over Red Square. This world-famous fortress with its area of ​​28 hectares is home to over 800 years of Russian history. Described as the eighth wonder of the world, this historic fortress complex is the principal symbol of Russia that sits on the banks of the Moscow River. Today the Kremlin still harbors numerous secrets and has palaces and cathedrals, surrounded by Kremlin Wall. The current wall was constructed between the 15 th  and 16 th  centuries, but the original wall was made of wood around the year 1147. The Kremlin Wall became an important symbol of Moscow’s importance in the Russian Empire. This top tourist destination attracts millions of people every year and there are various sights to see. With my Kremlin tour, you will see the oldest square in the city in the heart of the Kremlin, the once largest cannon in the world and the scene of numerous dramas – from Ivan the Terrible and Napoleon to Stalin. You cannot miss this unique experience.

An advance booking and prepayment for tickets are required.

Time: by arrangement, daily (closed on Thursday) Duration: 2 hours Price on request Students and children: on request Language: English Included in the price: Kremlin tickets / the guided tour

Moscow pub crawl – Friday / Saturday

Experience the real nightlife of Moscow with my Moscow Pub Crawl and enjoy 4 pubs/bars plus 4 welcome shot drinks. Move from one bar to another and get to know travelers from around the world as well as the locals. Play fun adventure games and contests in addition to getting perks in the bars. Between the bars, move from one place to another on foot. The routes are organized as such that you will walk no more than 10 minutes between the bars. Visit the most exciting events, parties, concerts, and dance in the bars. Moscow Pub Crawl is a tour that you will never forget.

This tour runs every Friday and Saturday evening at 8 PM and you need to bring along your passport or an ID card, comfortable shoes, and wear smart casual clothes.

An advance booking and a small prepayment are required!

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 4 hours Price on request Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour, 4 shot drinks

1.5-hour boat trip on the Moskva River.

Taking a boat tour in Moscow on the Moskva River is a very pleasant experience. It allows you to know the city from a totally different perspective and admire the beautiful bridges. In this 1.5-hour river trip, you will sail past many beautiful sites in Moscow, so you can take the best photos to commemorate this day. The ship makes several stops on the way. The trip starts from the Ustinskiy Bridge near Sarjadje Park and ends at the Kiev train station.

On this Boat Trip, you can see sights such as: the former Imperial Education House, Sarjadje Park, the “flowing”, “floating” bridge, the most beautiful view of the Kremlin, the Great Stone Bridge, the legendary House on the Quay, the Christ the Savior Cathedral , the monument to Peter the Great on the ship, the central sports arena Luzhniki, the Sparrow Hills, 240 meters high Lomonosov University, the numerous architecturally spectacular skyscrapers of Moscow-City, the Novodevichy Convent, the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs etc.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 1.5 hours Price on request Language: English

A military tour – riding on tanks in Stupino (Moscow region)

Russian Military is one of the largest military forces in the world formed in 1992. With my Military Tour experience what it likes to be in the Russian military, shooting guns, ride the Tank T-34 and various models of German tanks from the Second World War, as well as armored personnel carriers and vehicles. You will also shoot from the AK-47 and another combat weapon.

The tour will begin with your private tour guide Moscow in a Soviet army van accompanied with some tasty snacks and tea for a tasty start. Upon arriving, you will have to put on the army safety clothing and climb the Russian armored vehicles. The tour will take you on the noisy, smoky tank, driving through mud roads. All participants will get the chance to drive the tank which is coordinated by the Russian military.

Time: by arrangement, daily Price on request Language: English

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

Gorky Park and Sparrow Hills: Green Lungs, place to relax and meet

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Didn't book FREE tour? Do it now!

2,5 absolutely FREE DAILY walking tour in Moscow. We're TOP-rated company according to TA reviews! Book now and get meeting points details!

TOURS / SERVICES

BEST KREMLIN TOUR

Just 45 € - the best price for the best kremlin tour in moscow book now, ...also in petersburg.

Top Rated City Daily Tours

Welcome! Good to see you here!

• We're top-rated tour company in Moscow, based on your TripAdvisor reviews!
• DAILY tours. Moscow Free Tour is the only company in the city offering 5 daily tours, including the Kremlin, regardless of the weather, day of the week and group size!
• Totally FREE 2.5-hour city tour and great paid tours!
• Great routes which cover must-see places off the beaten track!
• Charismatic, entertaining and experienced local tour guides who love Moscow and speak English fluently!
• Always best prices in Moscow
• No prepayment for daily tours (except Kremlin Tour)
• No cancellation fees for daily tours (except Kremlin Tour)
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

WE DO GREAT TOURS SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, IN ANY WEATHER AND FOR ANY GROUP SIZE. JUST CHOOSE AND BOOK NOW!

Find more details!

See the day schedule and book tours now.

You can split your tours or do several of them on the same day.

Moscow Free Tour: Every day, 10:45 AM

Since 2011 Moscow Free Tour has been rated number 1 among all the Moscow tour companies (according to TripAdvisor.com, the world's largest travel site). Our Free Tour covers the most important and interesting attractions of the city: St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, Lenin's mausoleum, etc.

WHY DO WE RUN THIS TOUR FOR FREE?

• We love our city and we want to share it with guests, regardless of their budget. We want to change foreign tourists' perception of Moscow and show a beautiful, modern, open-minded and friendly city. You might like our Free Tour so much that you will decide to join our paid tours.

Just make a booking, and our guides will eagerly take you for an amazing walk through our magical city!

More info & meeting point details

Moscow kremlin tour: 2.30 pm, except thursday.

The Moscow Kremlin is a must-see attraction in Russia, a beautiful fortress in the heart of the city full of history and legends. It used to be a residence of Russian tsars and communist leaders and now it's a working place of the president of Russia. Behind medieval walls you will discover the oldest square of Moscow and amazing cathedrals where Russian rulers used to get married, crowned and buried. You will see once the largest cannon and church bell in the world. 8 hundred years of Russian history in one place. Don't miss this experience with Moscow Free tour. No prepayment and no cancelation fee.

PLEASE PAY YOUR ATTENTION: PREPAYMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR KREMLIN TOUR

Moscow Kremlin Introduction Tour: Every day 3PM, except Thursday

This tour is definitely useful and beneficial for tourists who visit the Kremlin for the first time. The guide will meet you in front of the Monument to Marshal Zhukov nearby the Four Seasons Hotel and take you on a 45-minute introduction tour about the Kremlin in English. You’ll receive the most important information about the Kremlin as well as other city center highlights. Behind medieval walls you will discover the oldest square of Moscow and amazing cathedrals, where Russian rulers used to get married, crowned and buried.

Moscow Metro Tour: Every day 2PM, except Friday at 12:30PM

Take our Moscow Metro Tour and discover why our subway is recognized as the most beautiful in the world!

Booking is not essential! Just come and join the tour!

Communist Moscow Tour: Every day, 5:30 PM

For more than 70 years Moscow was the capital of the huge Soviet empire. The streets of the city are still full of remnants of the communist regime and the Cold War, and the fearsome Soviet strongholds still guard the young democracy in Russia.

Alternative Moscow Tour, 6:00 PM.

• St. John's hill, a quiet place in the city center with a pre-revolutionary spirit
• Khokhlovka, Russian hipsters and street art
• Khitrovka, the most terrifying neighborhood of Moscow in the nineteenth century: criminals, brothels and alcohol
• Zamoskvorechie, beautiful streets and lanes full of legends and love stories.

Booking is essential!

MOSCOW CITY PASS

Save money buying all of our tours! Take Moscow City Pass and get 4 daily tours just for 97€ .

• Kremlin tour
• Communist Tour
• Alternative Moscow Tour

HOW CAN I BUY IT?

Just choose and book the first tour you’d like to take – you’ll be able to purchase the Moscow City Pass on that tour and then visit other three tours during the week.

Bunker-42: A Secret Stalin's Times Bunker in the Center of Moscow

Hit the secret nuclear bunker of the the Cold War times in the center of Moscow!

• walk with a guide across all levels of the secret Bunker-42
• visit the Museum of the Cold War and get a crash course on the history of the war
• as a little bonus, you will "survive" a nuclear attack and launch a ballistic missile!

Please note that tour happens not every day and the schedule may vary. If you booked the tour online, please wait until our administrator will contact you to confirm the date and time of the tour. Or contact us +7 495 222 34 66.

Utopian Soviet Buildings

• The Palace of the Soviets instead of the Cathedral of the Christ the Saviour. It could have become one of the highest buildings in the world with a 100 m Lenin statue on the top.
• The eighth Stalinist skyscraper instead of the Zaryadye Park. It was supposed to be the tallest of all the Sisters.
• The Narkomtiazhprom (the People’s Commissariat of Heavy Industry) building instead of the GUM. How would the Red Square look like with three skyscrapers or gigantic staircases going all the way up to the 16th floor?
• The Palace of Labour instead of the Moskva Hotel. What was it, kind of a fantastic beast lying on the square or an ultimate Constructivist manifesto?
• The alternative Lenin’s Mausoleum, the “Leningradskaya Pravda” buildings and many others.
• Moscow Free Tour
• Moscow Free Tour rated "excellent" by travelers
• 177 reviews of Moscow Free Tour in Moscow

Testimonial

"A very enjoybale day in Moscow. We had a very nice and knowledgeable guide Anastasia.(Nastia) She was very passionate about the City and we learnt so much in our brief four hours walk with her! Certainly this walking tour added a lot of value to our Moscow Holiday. A great idea to educate visitors about Russia and Moscow. The group was intimate enough to ask questions and stop for snacks etc..we thoriughly enjoyed it and would highly reccomend it.Carry on doing a great job!"

"I really enjoyed the tour, it was a great experience, very informative and fun. I will definitely tell everybody about that tour, keep it it is a fantastic idea!"

"Sorry I do not remember the names :( ... They were very talkative and very into everything. I think they both really love the city, and they made me feel like this to. They knew much about History, which was very informative! Great guides!!!"

"We partook of the fantastic Petersburg Free Tour. Due to our timing during the low season (shockingly not everyone is flocking to Moscow while the average temperature is 15F), it ended up being just us and Sonia, the afore-mentioned super-guide. She quickly ascertained the limited scope of our wanderings.."

Best things to see and do in Moscow

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. It’s rich and complex history is a constant reminder of its strategic position between Europe and Asia and makes it one of the cities you should visit once in your life. In terms of the many iconic landmarks, the delicious cuisine, and the characteristic, colorful architecture it has, Moscow is full of surprises for first-timers and seasoned travelers. Apart from the main attractions, it has like the Kremlin or Red Square, Moscow has many hidden gems for you to discover on your free walking tour with your local guide. 

On any of the free guided tours we offer in Moscow , you will be able to find a selection of many tours which are available in different languages and at different times of day, like the morning, afternoon, and evening. Since Moscow is such a large metropolis, getting your bearings by doing a guruwalk with a local guide who will show you all Moscow’s hidden gems is a great idea. This way you get to learn as much as possible about the local culture and way of life. A trip to Moscow wouldn't be complete without visiting iconic places like St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, or the State Historical Museum, before getting some fresh air at Gorky Park, the medieval church of Kolomenskoye, or shopping at Izmailovsky Market. Don’t miss visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Bolshoi Theater, or checking out the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. 

Many travelers have left their r eviews and opinions about the local guides , gurus, and the routes they walked. If you have any questions about the routes or what is included in the tour, check out their opinions. 

Free walking tour near Moscow

Others cities to visit after moscow, where are you traveling to.

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The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

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A tour of Buckingham Palace is a must-do on your next London vacation.

On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Come on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Sunday morning to see the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area while sharing  knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a two-hour tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony, while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street (between The Ritz and The Wolseley), ending at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace Tour

Price: From $164

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines. The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection – the ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Full-day London with Changing of the Guard and Private Cruise

Price: From $158; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony, and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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The London Essentials Bike Tour

Price: From $38

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were really impressed by the knowledge of the guide. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

View & Book Tickets: GetYourGuide

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $461

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Harry Potter Tours in London
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The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Travel , Tours

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• Hotel Rooms Choose from 200 original first class staterooms and suites Specials & Packages Packages & Special Offers Services & Amenities Modern amenities and world-class service Fitness Room Rejuvenate with our fitness options
• Attractions Tours & Exhibits Get an up close and personal look at the Queen Mary with our exciting tours & exhibits Summer Event Series Explore exciting activities and special events on The Queen Mary all summer long Supper Club Enjoy dinner and a show aboard the Queen Mary Fourth of July Celebration Celebrate an all-American 4th of July aboard The Queen Mary! Queen Mary Heritage Foundation Membership Experience everything the Queen Mary has to offer with a tour package
• Dining Casual Dining Enjoy inspired meals and quick bites at our restaurants Chelsea Chowder House A contemporary restaurant offering memorable seafood dishes Bars Enjoy the 1930's classic sophistication of the Queen Mary bars Royal Sunday Brunch A local favorite, voted “Best Brunch” by OpenTable Group Dining Distinct dining options for groups of 15 or more
• Meetings & Weddings Meetings Explore one of the most unique meeting and conference venues in Southern California Weddings The Queen Mary has been host to unforgettable weddings for over 70 years Socials The Queen Mary is the ideal location for any social occasion Event Spaces Over 80,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space across 14 Art Deco salons
• History Timeline Re-live the Queen Mary’s rich history, from her ground-breaking construction to today Stats & Fun Facts Everything you ever wanted to know about the Queen Mary Design & Preservation Learn about the era of elegant Art Deco design and how the Queen Mary is maintained with preservation projects Press Releases Press Releases about the Queen Mary Amateur Radio Discover the on-board radio stations starting in the 1960s
• Visit Hours & Parking Find open times for the Queen Mary and its dining and parking. On-Board Shopping An array of unique shops featuring souvenirs, one-of-a-kind treasures, clothing, memorabilia, historic documents, artwork and more Nearby Attractions The Queen Mary is a great central hub to all of Southern California’s most popular attractions Directions Your guide to getting to the Queen Mary
• What's On Deck
• Book Now Room Tour

Summer Event Series

Romance Package

• Tours & Exhibits

Supper Club

Fourth of july celebration, queen mary heritage foundation membership, queen mary tours & exhibits.

Get an up close and personal look at the Queen Mary with one of our exciting and informative guided tours. From the ship's groundbreaking construction and royal launch as the most luxurious and technologically advanced ocean liner at the time, to her duty as a troopship during WWII, to her golden days of the 1950s, to her earning the nickname, the "haunted ship," the Queen Mary's history is full of action, adventure, romance and paranormal activity. Explore the ship bow to stern, inside and out, and hear unique stories, facts and insights about the Queen Mary with our tour expert guides.

The Glory Days

Delve into the ship's expansive past, including her groundbreaking construction, her time as a troopship during WWII and of course, her glory days as the world's most luxurious and technologically advanced ocean liner.

Haunted Encounters

Ever wanted to know some of the stories and legends regarding the famous hauntings of the Queen Mary? Then the Haunted Encounters Tour is the best place to start. This approximate one hour tour will share many of the more well-known or infamous stories of the paranormal residents that now occupy the legendary ship in a non-scary introduction to the ghostly tales of the Queen Mary.

The Steam and Steel Tour

The Steam and Steel Tour will take guests approximately 25 ' below the water line where they will have a chance to walk through Boiler Rooms 1- 4, as well as the Water Softening Plant and the Turbo-Generator Room 1.

Glory Days Tour - Presented in Spanish

El recorrido histórico de Glory Days explora el extenso pasado del barco, incluidas sus innovadoras construcciones, su época como barco militar durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial y, por supuesto, sus días de gloria como el barco oceánico más lujoso del mundo.

Hollywood Tour

Step into the glitz and glamour of the golden era of cinema as you explore the legendary ocean liner that once hosted Hollywood's elite. Walk the same decks where iconic movie scenes were filmed and soak in the nostalgia of an era filled with red carpets and celebrity soirées. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through time, offering glimpses into the ship's rich history and its role as a floating playground for the stars.

VIP Art Deco Tour

Embark on a dazzling Art Deco tour aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach and journey into the opulent world of this iconic ocean liner. Immerse yourself in the extravagant elegance of the Art Deco era as you explore the intricate details and stylish designs that adorn the ship.

Royal VIP Tour & Afternoon Tea

Indulge in the epitome of luxury with an exclusive Royal VIP tour and Afternoon Tea aboard the Queen Mary Delve into hidden quarters and listen to untold stories of this maritime marvel. After your personalized exploration, luxuriate in the refined tradition of Afternoon Tea amidst the ship's historic charm.

Paranormal Ship Walk

Experience a more haunting side of the Queen Mary after hours. Explore various rooms or compartments seldom seen by the general public while famous stories and legends are shared about some of the past passengers aboard the legendary ocean liner.

While the tour is not meant to scare you, some locations may be too dark for younger guests.

The Grey Ghost Project

The Grey Ghost Project takes a skeptical and evidence based approach to investigating the supernatural. Join us on a 3 hour exploration using the latest tools of the trade and a combination of scientific methods.

57 Ghosts Séance

Join Apparitionist Michael Rangel in an intimate and immersive experience that will bring you face to face with the spirited passed of this historic and haunting ship.

Ship Model Gallery

Combining precision and craftsmanship in an exacting work of art, ship models evoke the fascination that we have for the sea and sea travel.

Few public figures have had more influence on modern political and social life than former British Prime Minister, Winston Spencer-Churchill. Fewer still had an ongoing relationship with the Queen Mary. To commemorate their affinity a new Churchill-themed exhibition has been brought to the Queen Mary.

Shipyard – LEGO® Ship Model

Measuring 26 feet, weighing over 600lbs. And made from 250,000 LEGO bricks, the LEGO Queen Mary brick model ship is a masterpiece to be seen. The model was designed by England’s certified LEGO Builder, Bright Bricks, Inc., to commemorate Britain’s most famous ocean liner.

The Cunard Story

The Cunard Story An exhibition on the Queen Mary, one of the most celebrated Cunard® ocean liners—explores the rich history of the extraordinary company that designed and built more than 150 ships over the past 175 years. Today, Cunard offers the most luxurious and unique cruise experiences available—adventures curated for travelers who savor the world.

Sun Deck/Bridge/Sports Deck

Sports Deck FWD | Daily 10am – 6pm

The nerve center for the entire ship. The BRIDGE includes the WHEELHOUSE, CHART ROOM, SIGNAL BRIDGE, and the DOCKING WINGS. The bridge is about 90 feet above the ship’s waterline.

Sports Deck | Daily 10am – 6pm

The Radio Room houses some of the original equipment used by the Queen Mary during her incredible career. The current radio room features an array of amateur radio equipment which has been used to broadcast communications around the world. Guests walking past the exhibit are likely to have a front-row seat of a real broadcast, as this space has been actively used since 1979.

Promenade Deck

Commodore’s office.

Promenade Deck Main Hall | Daily 2pm – 4pm

Formerly the Austin Reed of Regent Street clothing store (a famous, luxury brand clothier) the Commodore’s Office is now the day room of our ship’s Commodore, Everette Hoard. Much of this space is still very much original and intact. The Commodore’s Office features a number of the ship’s lavish furnishings; as well as some pieces from Commodore’s private collection. Guests are encouraged to stop in for a visit, or even just a photo with Commodore, our Staff Captain, or Chief Officer.

QM Heritage Room

Daily 10am – 6pm

See the ship through the eyes of those who served and sailed aboard her. The Queen Mary Heritage Room features video interviews of former crew members, war brides, and soldiers; all of whom share fond memories of this historic vessel. This rich history is the very foundation of the ship’s enduring legacy.

Promenade Deck Main Hall – Starboard Side  | Daily 10am – 6pm

This incredible exhibit features numerous models which showcase The Cunard® Line’s fleet; all the way from the historic  RMS Britannia  to ships from the current fleet, like the  Queen Elizabeth . Undoubtedly, the real showstoppers are the giant, cutaway models of:  RMS Lusitania ,  SS Normandie , and  RMS Titanic . These highly detailed, 1/48th models were all lovingly handmade by Father Roberto Pirrone, of Gardena, CA.

Features the World’s Largest LEGO ® Model of the Queen Mary. When you’re finished counting all 250,000 LEGO® blocks, see if you can spot the white, LEGO® cat.

Bow FWD  | Daily 10am – 6pm

During WWII the ship was outfitted with anti-aircraft weaponry to defend herself. This 40 mm gun is the same type of defensive weapon used onboard; to safely carry nearly a million troops throughout the war.

Promenade Deck Main Hall – Port Side  | Daily 10am – 6pm

The Music Room was a place where musicians, entertainers, lecturers, radio personalities and the like could rehearse. This upright piano is original to the ship, however, when the ship was in service a baby grand piano nearly filled this space.

Children’s Playroom

The original location of the Cabin or First Class Playroom. There were three playrooms available for the younger set on the Queen Mary. Each had a specific look, but all contained numerous toys that would appeal to both boys and girls. A Stewardess was assigned to oversee the youngsters. She would often gather the little ones and read to them. Play continued until the parents came to collect their children. The original artwork in this display came from the Tourist and Third Class Children’s Playrooms. The furniture is from all three classes.

Travel Bureau

This is the original Cabin or First-Class travel bureau as it was remodeled after WWII. The desks and chairs are those that were aboard when the ship sailed to Long Beach. Original desk top accessories and copies of brochures have been placed to show what would have been found when a passenger wished to make further travel arrangements. Here one could book another cruise on the Queen Mary or other liners and make train or plane reservations.

A-Deck FWD | Daily 10am – 6pm

The Cunard Story An exhibition on the Queen Mary, one of the most celebrated Cunard® ocean liners—explores the rich history of the extraordinary company that designed and built more than 150 ships over the past 175 years. Today, Cunard offers the most luxurious and unique cruise experiences available—adventures curated for travelers who savor the world.

Fire was a constant concern for “The Ship of Beautiful Woods.” The Fire Station was, not only, the first line of defense to protect the ship, it was also top-of-the-line technology that’s still impressive, even by modern day standards.

B-Deck FWD Portside | Daily 10am – 6pm

A mysteriously vague entry in the ship’s log, dated September 1949, states that a passenger was found dead in his cabin; which is now the hotel room referred to as B340. While no name was given, legends have claimed the victim as “Walter.” There is much lore surrounding Walter and the events that occurred in B340; and many believe that Walter is a vengeful spirit who loves to make his presence known. Reports of strange activity in B340 span from the ship’s days as an ocean liner, to the present day. Perhaps all of the activity is just Walter trying to get someone to listen to his side of the story. If you’re feeling brave enough, ask him yourself. He might just tell you.

First-Class Pool Viewing Area

Ask just about any paranormal investigator or medium about haunted locations aboard the Queen Mary , and you’ll probably hear many stories about the first-class pool. Why? Many believe this to be the most-haunted room aboard. Whether you hear about the ghost of a little girl named “Jackie” who loves to sing and play hide-and-seek with guests, or legends about this space becoming a “vortex” (whirlpool of energy) which allows spirits to pass between realms, seems like there’s one thing everyone can agree on: this famous Art Deco pool has become one of the most-visited locations on the entire ship.

Engine Room

Visitor’s Center D-Deck Stern | Daily 10am – 6pm

Venture down to the Engine Room and see the very heartbeat of this massive ship! Each of the 2 Engine Rooms contained 2 of the ship’s 4 powerful engines. These steam-powered turbine engines produced 40,000 horsepower a piece! When Queen Mary was speeding across the Atlantic at 28.5 knots, these engines would be turning the ship’s massive propellers 3 times every second! Fans of the paranormal will want to brave the Engine Room's lower level to check out the infamous watertight door 13, where guests often hear a wrench banging against the door.

Printing Press

Often described as a virtual floating city, the Queen Mary carried her own fully equipped print shop. Functioning under the direction of the ship’s purser, the print shop provided daily newspapers, programs of activities, and menus for the passengers.

Propellor Box

The Queen Mary had 4 massive propellers (or screws) to propel her through the waters at incredible speed. Each propeller was driven independently by its own turbine engine and was made of manganese bronze. The first set of propellers each measured 20 feet across and weighed 35 tons; however, these proved to produce too much vibration. The second set, and every set thereafter would consist of propellers that each measured 18.5 feet across, coming in at 32 tons each. The slightly smaller propellers proved much more effective to combat the vibration issue. In all, the Queen Mary would have 22 sets of propellers throughout her 31 years of sailing. Each time a new set would be installed, each of the propellers were so perfectly balanced that you could spin the massive propeller by hand! Visitors of the Propeller Box will be able to see the last remaining propeller on the ship.

Aft Steering

The Queen Mary had a number of backup systems to keep her functional. Aft Steering shows two redundant systems (one power steering system and one manual) by which the ship could still be steered, if her primary systems became inoperable. Additionally, visitors can also view the 3 massive electric generators, which powered the 2 hydraulic cylinders that pumped back and forth, turning the linkage which drove the rudder from side to side; thus, guiding the ship. The ship’s rudder was 3 stories tall and weighed 140 tons. At the time of its installation, this was the largest rudder ever installed on any ship!

Their Finest Hours: Winston Churchill and The Queen Mary

Learn about Winston Churchill’s relationship with the Queen which served as his sea borne war room during WWII. It is thought that Churchill traveled aboard the Queen Mary at least 10 times in both war and peace time. This exhibit includes original set pieces from the award-wining film, “Darkest Hours.” It is an in depth look into the person many consider to be the greatest statesman of the 20th century.

Sisters of the Sea

Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, created by a ship enthusiast Tom Varney over the past 20 years. These two 8-foot beauties are 3/32” + 1-foot representations of the original liners each made of balsa wood. Walk around these works of art and marvel at these two sisters of the sea.

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Socialize with us

We invite the community to join us for our Summer Event Series onboard the Queen Mary! Take advantage of the longer, warmer days with reoccuring monthly events through September.

Night Market

Thursdays starting may 9th.

Back by popular demand! Queen Mary’s Night Market. This event is about bringing the community and local businesses together. Great for a family night out, date night, or a hang out destination with friends of all ages. Guests can enjoy different food types and tastes from various chef extraordinaire, do a little shopping with pop-up boutiques, relax and hang out, drink a cocktail in the beer garden, and listen to live music from local artists and bands.  

Free Admission with Reservation.

Make a Reservation

View Calendar

Movie Nights

Wednesdays starting may 15th.

We invite the community to join us once a month for the Queen Mary Movie Nights: Summer Series! From May to September do not miss an opportunity to enjoy a themed outdoor movie night under the stars with close friends and family. Come join us on May 15 as we kick-off the series on International Day of Families with the screening of Coco! You can Coco… for the good food, cold beverages, and great company! 

Margaritas On The Mary

Friday may 3rd.

Leave work early! Start your weekend off by joining us for Meet Me @ The Mary - Friday Margaritas from 1pm–4pm! Come embrace the warm sun outside on the deck and enjoy the beautiful city view, while sipping our famous signature margaritas and delicious tacos and swaying to the beat of the steel drums. Complimentary ship admission included with reservation. Don’t miss out!

Take a journey back in time to 1955 when Bobby Darin and Frank Sinatra ruled the airwaves and Supper Clubs ruled the night! Enjoy dinner and a show, while listening to the sounds of a 7-piece band without being afraid to hit the dancefloor.

Starting May 16th

Join us in the Queens Salon for Supper Club every Thursday from 6PM to 10:30 PM.

Ticket Price: $159 | Admission includes a 3-course served dinner, show, and dancing

Denner Menu Options:  Pan Seared Salmon, Roasted Yukon Potato, Seasonal Vegetables & Lemon Beurre Blanc | Grilled Chicken Breast, Roasted Yukon Potato, Seasonal Vegetables & Lemon Beurre Blanc | Vegan Wellington, Eggplant, Spinach, Zucchini; Vegan Cheese & San Marzano Tomato Sauce 

Parking: $10 with validation  

Celebrate an all-American 4th of July aboard The Queen Mary and enjoy a fun-filled day of good food, great entertainment, family games, activities, a World War II aircraft flyover, and a spectacular fireworks show.

Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024 Time: 3pm - 10pm

Entertainment

Verandah deck.

DJ music, commodore welcome, WWII aircraft flyover, patriotic performances, deck games, watermelon eating, best July 4th attire, and dance off contests, plus giveaways.

Fireworks viewing area.

VIP Verandah Grill

Exclusive bar and lounge, fireworks viewing area.

VIP Britannia Salon

Alternative rock band, strolling stops, premium fireworks viewing area.

VIP Capstan Deck

Private cabanas available for purchase VIP Ticket required to purchase cabanas and access VIP areas

Grand Salon

Country Band, Line Dancing and Lessons

Observation Bar

Queens salon.

Swing Lil Big Band ft. USO Girls Trio, Strolling Stops, Swing Dance Lessons and Demos

Royal Salon

Music Videos and Karaoke

Various food and beverage options will be available throughout the ship and can be purchased separately.

Self Parking

$30 per vehicle, per day.

Stay The Night

Immerse yourself in all of the July 4th festivities and spend the night in a historical stateroom. Enjoy the celebration without the worry of securing a ride home, with special room rates available for the holiday.

The Queen Mary Heritage Foundation (QMHF) is an officially recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization dedicated to the historic preservation, advocacy, and education of this historic landmark.

Annual memberships include a host of benefits for year-round enjoyment while contributing to the ship's restoration.

Purchase A Membership

Tourist Class Membership

Annual Cost | $150

Membership Benefits:

- Unlimited admission for cardholder - Two (2) Day Passes (General admission tickets) per year - Hotel guest pricing for Tour/Exhibit/Attractions tickets - 24-hour presale on Queen Mary Signature Events - Discounted ticket pricing during presale for Signature Events

Membership Holders:

- All member benefits for one cardholder - All member card holders are to be designated upon membership purchase. - If cardholders are to lose their card, they will have to pay a fee to replace the lost card, with the account being associated with phone or email. - Blackout dates apply

Opportunities to donate as a non-member are also available.

Make A Donation

For Existing Members

Starting July 31, 2023 funds and existing memberships will transition to the Queen Mary Heritage Foundation (QMHF). New cards will be sent out to current members automatically, and membership status for current members will be active upon receiving their new card without needing to renew.

With the official recognition as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, The Queen Mary Heritage Foundation is now eligible to receive tax-deductible donations. This new status provides an invaluable opportunity for supporters to contribute to the organization's mission. As the transition to the new foundation finalizes, the newly established non-profit will work with existing members to also receive this benefit.

With the foundation receiving 501(c)(3) status, the new QMHF organization aims to broaden its outreach, expand existing programs, and explore innovative projects that align with its core mission to continue to restore, preserve and present the Queen Mary, its archival collection and educational areas that focus on the sciences.

For additional information on the Queen Mary Heritage Foundation, contact  [email protected] .