The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. With over 11,000 animals representing 500 species, the amazing array of exhibits has something for everyone. The jellyfish exhibits are some of the most comprehensive of its kind while the shark lagoon and touch tanks are an experience for the child in us all. Discover what lies beneath the Pacific Ocean in this deep sea wonderland.
#226 Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier
Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier is a sleepy fishing pier once located near the famous Pike Amusement Park in Long Beach which featured a roller coaster, bath house, arcades and entertainment. Echoes of the historic past can be remembered while strolling along the beach and bluff park trail. Look for the Lone Sailor Memorial Statue which looks out to sea in contemplation.
#219 USS Iowa
USS Iowa is a museum at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro which opened on the 4th of July 2012. It preserves U.S. Navy Battleship BB-61 which served during World War II, Korean War and Cold War. Three presidents have been hosted aboard and President Roosevelt's Cabin exhibit is a highlight. The tour also includes several rooms, berths, bridges, decks and has wonderful volunteers revealing its history.
#54 Korean Bell of Friendship
The Korean Bell of Friendship in Angel's Gate Park, San Pedro was given to the city of Los Angeles from the Republic of Korea in 1976. It was presented to the United States for the country's bicentennial and honors Veterans of the Korean War. The bronze bell itself weighs 17 tons and is 7 and a half feet tall. Sweeping views of the ocean can be seen from the bell making this an essential sunset spot.
#3 RMS Queen Mary
The RMS Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner docked in the Port of Long Beach. It sailed the Atlantic Ocean from 1936 to 1967. Luxury & Opulence is the key to this Art Deco Dream. Queen Mary was the last great ocean liner built during the golden age of world travel. Elizabeth Taylor, Lucille Ball, Gloria Swanson & Fred Astaire among many other silver screen stars called this sailing palace home while on voyage to Europe.
During WWII, it was nicknamed the 'Grey Ghost' and transported 765,429 Military Personnel. It became the worlds largest and fastest troopship. Winston Churchill even considered it his headquarters at sea. In 1947, passenger service resumed. Modern amenities such as air conditioning were added but this would not prove to be enough as jet planes began to change the industry.
Queen Mary opened as a tourist attraction in 1971 and continues to delight today with a hotel, museum and restaurants. The ship in full can be explored at your leisure. It is even on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the Historic Hotels of America. One visit to Queen Mary will have you longing for more. Are you ready to set sail?
