How to Visit the RMS Queen Mary Cheaply

The RMS Queen Mary is more than just a historic ocean liner—it’s a floating museum, a landmark of engineering brilliance, and a window into the golden age of transatlantic travel. Moored permanently in Long Beach, California, this iconic vessel has welcomed millions of visitors since its retirement in 1967. Yet, despite its global fame, many assume visiting the Queen Mary is an expensive luxury reserved for tourists with deep pockets. The truth? With smart planning, insider knowledge, and strategic timing, you can experience the grandeur of the RMS Queen Mary without overspending. This guide reveals exactly how to visit the RMS Queen Mary cheaply—without sacrificing depth, authenticity, or unforgettable memories.

Understanding how to navigate ticket pricing, seasonal discounts, bundled deals, and free access opportunities transforms what many perceive as a high-cost attraction into an accessible cultural experience. Whether you're a local resident, a budget-conscious traveler, or someone seeking unique historical adventures, this tutorial provides actionable, step-by-step strategies to maximize value while minimizing cost. Beyond just saving money, learning how to visit the RMS Queen Mary cheaply empowers you to engage with history on your own terms—on your schedule, in your style, and within your means.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Official Website Thoroughly

Before purchasing any ticket, always begin with the official RMS Queen Mary website. This is the most reliable source for current pricing, promotions, and special events. Many third-party booking platforms inflate prices or add unnecessary fees. The official site frequently runs limited-time offers, such as “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” or discounted admission for California residents. These deals are often not advertised elsewhere.

Look for a “Deals” or “Offers” tab on the homepage. These sections are updated weekly and may include seasonal promotions tied to holidays, anniversaries, or local events. For example, during National Maritime Month in May or Veterans Day in November, the Queen Mary often offers free or reduced admission to military personnel and their families.

Bookmark the site and check it weekly if you’re planning a future visit. Prices fluctuate based on demand, and early access to sales can mean savings of 30–50%.

2. Visit During Off-Peak Seasons

Timing your visit is one of the most effective ways to reduce cost. The Queen Mary experiences peak traffic during summer months (June–August), major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s), and weekends. During these times, ticket prices are highest, and crowds can diminish your experience.

Instead, aim for the shoulder seasons: late September through early November, and mid-January through March. These months offer cooler weather, fewer tourists, and significantly lower ticket rates. In fact, weekday admission during winter can be up to 40% cheaper than weekend summer pricing.

Even better—visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday. These are typically the slowest days of the week, and the attraction often runs “Midweek Madness” discounts, where tickets are priced as low as $19 for adults (compared to $35+ on weekends).

3. Take Advantage of Local Resident Discounts

California residents—including those living in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties—are eligible for exclusive discounted admission. These discounts are not always prominently displayed, so you must actively look for them.

On the official website, select “California Residents” under the ticket type dropdown. You’ll typically see prices ranging from $19 to $24, depending on the season. Proof of residency is required at the gate—a valid California driver’s license, state ID, or utility bill with your current address.

This discount alone can cut your ticket cost in half. If you’re visiting with family or friends who are also California residents, you can apply the discount to multiple tickets, making it ideal for group visits.

4. Bundle Your Visit with Other Attractions

The Queen Mary often partners with nearby attractions to offer bundled packages that deliver substantial savings. The most common and valuable bundle is the “Long Beach Attractions Pass,” which combines admission to the Queen Mary with the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA).

Individually, these attractions cost $35, $28, and $15 respectively. The bundle typically costs $59–$69, saving you $30 or more. Even if you’re only interested in the Queen Mary, the bundle may still be worth it if you plan to explore other sites during your trip.

Additionally, check for partnerships with hotel packages. Some Long Beach hotels offer “Stay & Save” deals where booking a room includes discounted or complimentary Queen Mary admission. These are especially useful if you’re planning an overnight stay.

5. Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

Buying tickets online before your visit is almost always cheaper than purchasing at the gate. The Queen Mary charges a small premium for walk-up admissions, particularly during peak hours. Online tickets are typically $5–$10 less per person.

Also, online purchases allow you to lock in promotional pricing before it expires. Many online deals are time-sensitive and disappear after a few days. If you see a $19 Tuesday ticket available, buy it immediately—even if your visit is weeks away. You can usually change your date for free up to 24 hours in advance.

Pro tip: Use a desktop computer rather than a mobile device to book. Occasionally, the desktop site displays more promotions than the mobile app or mobile-optimized site.

6. Look for Group and Corporate Discounts

Even if you’re not part of a formal organization, you can still benefit from group pricing. The Queen Mary offers discounted rates for groups of 10 or more. This includes school groups, clubs, churches, and even informal friend groups.

To qualify, contact the group sales team via the website’s inquiry form. You don’t need to pay upfront—you can reserve seats and pay upon arrival. Group rates often start at $18 per person, even during peak season.

Some corporate employers offer employee discount programs through partnerships with local attractions. Check your company’s benefits portal or ask HR if the Queen Mary is included in your wellness or recreational benefits package.

7. Utilize Public Transportation to Avoid Parking Fees

Parking at the Queen Mary costs $15 per vehicle. For families or groups, this adds up quickly. The good news? You can avoid this fee entirely by using public transit.

The Long Beach Transit system has multiple bus routes that stop directly at the Queen Mary, including the 101, 111, and 112 lines. A one-way fare is $1.75, and you can purchase a Day Pass for $5, which allows unlimited rides for 24 hours.

Alternatively, use rideshare services like Lyft or Uber and request a drop-off at the main entrance. If you’re staying in downtown Long Beach, walking is also a viable option—approximately 1.5 miles from the city center, with scenic waterfront views along the way.

By combining public transit with discounted admission, you can reduce your total visit cost to under $25 per person.

8. Visit During Free Admission Days or Events

While the Queen Mary rarely offers completely free public admission, there are select days throughout the year when entry is free or heavily subsidized.

One such opportunity is “Free Admission Day” during the annual Long Beach Arts Festival, typically held in early October. On this day, the Queen Mary opens its decks to the public at no cost, though guided tours and exhibits may require a small fee.

Another option is “Military Appreciation Days,” where active-duty, retired, and veteran personnel receive complimentary admission. While family members may not get in free, they often receive a 50% discount, making it affordable for groups.

Keep an eye on the Queen Mary’s social media channels and local event calendars. Community organizations like the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Long Beach often promote these events weeks in advance.

9. Explore the Free Outdoor Areas

You don’t need a full admission ticket to experience part of the Queen Mary. The ship’s exterior, including the promenade decks and the historic stern area, is visible from the public pier and waterfront park.

Bring a picnic, sit on the grassy lawn near the ship, and enjoy panoramic views of the vessel and the Long Beach skyline. You can also walk the entire length of the pier, take photos from the best angles, and read historical plaques that detail the ship’s legacy.

While you won’t be able to enter the cabins, dining halls, or bridge, this free experience still offers a powerful sense of scale and history. For budget travelers, this can serve as a satisfying preview—or a standalone visit.

10. Use Student, Senior, and Military Discounts

Valid identification can unlock significant savings. The Queen Mary offers:

• Student discounts: $22 with a valid student ID (high school through graduate level)
• Senior discounts: $24 for visitors aged 62+
• Military discounts: $20 for active duty, veterans, and retired personnel

These discounts are applied at the gate, but you can also pre-select them when booking online. Always carry your ID—even if you’ve booked online, staff may ask to verify eligibility.

Some organizations, like AARP or AAA, also offer additional discounts when you present your membership card. While not guaranteed, it’s worth asking at the ticket counter.

Best Practices

Plan Your Visit Around the Weather

Long Beach enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, but coastal fog and wind can be unpredictable. Plan your visit for a clear, calm day to maximize your experience. Overcast or rainy days can make outdoor areas less enjoyable and reduce photo opportunities.

Check the 7-day forecast before booking. If a sunny day aligns with a discounted rate, prioritize that date. The Queen Mary’s interior exhibits are climate-controlled, but the outdoor decks and observation areas are where the ship’s grandeur truly shines.

Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds and Maximize Time

The Queen Mary opens at 10:00 AM daily. Arriving within the first 30 minutes ensures you have the space to explore exhibits without crowds. Popular areas like the First Class Dining Room, the Bridge, and the Engine Room tend to fill up quickly after noon.

Early arrival also gives you more time to absorb the details—reading plaque text, listening to audio guides, and photographing artifacts without jostling through groups.

Bring Your Own Snacks and Water

Onboard food and beverage options are convenient but expensive. A soda costs $6, a sandwich $18, and a slice of cake $12. To save money, bring your own snacks, bottled water, and even a packed lunch.

The Queen Mary allows visitors to carry in non-alcoholic beverages and sealed snacks. There are outdoor picnic tables and indoor seating areas where you can eat. Just avoid bringing large coolers or alcohol.

Use the Free Audio Guide App

The Queen Mary offers a free downloadable audio guide through its official app. This is far more comprehensive and cost-effective than renting a handheld device ($10 fee). The app includes stories from crew members, historical context, and hidden facts you won’t find in printed brochures.

Download the app before your visit and bring headphones. It enhances your experience without adding to your cost.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Queen Mary is a massive ship—over 1,000 feet long—with multiple decks, steep staircases, and narrow corridors. You’ll walk 2–4 miles during a typical visit. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential. Avoid heels, sandals, or new sneakers that haven’t been broken in.

Wearing the right footwear prevents fatigue and lets you focus on the history, not your feet.

Follow the Self-Guided Itinerary

The Queen Mary doesn’t have a single “must-see” route, but a smart itinerary ensures you don’t miss key highlights. Recommended order:

1. Start at the Grand Salon (first impression)
2. Visit the Bridge (command center)
3. Explore the First Class Dining Room (most opulent space)
4. Walk through the Crew Quarters (emotional contrast)
5. See the Engine Room (engineering marvel)
6. End at the Promenade Deck (outdoor views)

This route flows logically and ensures you experience the full spectrum of life aboard the ship—from luxury to labor.

Sign Up for the Email Newsletter

Subscribe to the Queen Mary’s email list on their website. You’ll receive exclusive access to flash sales, early notification of holiday events, and seasonal promotions. Many subscribers report receiving $10-off coupons just for signing up.

Unsubscribe anytime—no obligation. But the occasional discount can make a big difference over time.

Visit During Special Themed Events

While some events cost extra, others are included with admission and add immense value. Examples:

• “Ghost Tours” (October)—included with regular admission
• “Decades Weekend” (April)—free live music and vintage exhibits
• “Holiday Lights” (November–January)—free admission to light displays

These events transform a standard visit into a multi-sensory experience. They’re often the best value because you’re getting entertainment, history, and ambiance all in one.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: www.rmsqueenmary.com

The cornerstone of your planning. Use it to check real-time pricing, view exhibit maps, book tickets, and find event calendars. The site is mobile-friendly and updated daily.

Google Maps

Use Google Maps to find the best public transit routes to the Queen Mary. Search “RMS Queen Mary Long Beach” and click “Directions.” Select “Transit” to see bus schedules and walking times. You can even set alerts for bus arrivals.

Visit Long Beach (www.visitlongbeach.com)

The city’s official tourism site offers curated lists of discounts, local deals, and seasonal events. Check their “Attractions” section and filter for “Queen Mary.” They often list bundled packages not found on the main site.

App: Queen Mary Audio Guide

Download the free app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. It includes GPS-triggered audio, photo galleries, and historical timelines. Works offline once downloaded.

Reddit: r/LongBeach and r/QueenMary

Local Reddit communities are goldmines for real-time tips. Residents post about upcoming free events, hidden photo spots, and even tips like “bring a jacket—the Bridge is always chilly.”

YouTube Channels

Search “RMS Queen Mary tour” on YouTube. Channels like “Historic Ships” and “Long Beach Explorer” offer free, in-depth virtual tours. Watching these before your visit helps you identify which areas to prioritize and what details to look for.

Library Pass Programs

Some public libraries in Southern California offer free or discounted attraction passes through partnerships. Check your local library’s website under “Community Passes” or “Museums & Attractions.” You may be able to check out a free Queen Mary ticket for up to four people.

Travel Credit Cards with Rewards

If you have a travel rewards credit card (e.g., Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture), check if you can redeem points for gift cards to the Queen Mary. Some cards offer $25–$50 travel credits that can be applied to admission purchases.

Local History Blogs

Blogs like “The Long Beach History Project” and “Maritime California” regularly publish deep dives into the Queen Mary’s past. These aren’t just for entertainment—they help you understand the significance of what you’re seeing, making your visit more meaningful and worth the cost.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Budget-Savvy Local

Maria, a 28-year-old teacher from Lakewood, CA, wanted to take her 7-year-old nephew to the Queen Mary but had a tight budget. She used her California resident discount ($19), bought tickets online two weeks in advance, and took the Long Beach Transit bus ($1.75 each way). She packed sandwiches and water, used the free audio app, and visited on a Tuesday in January. Total cost: $42.50 for two people. She spent 5 hours exploring and said it was “the best educational outing we’ve ever had.”

Example 2: The Military Family

The Rodriguez family—three veterans and their two teenage children—visited during Military Appreciation Day. The parents received free admission, and the teens got 50% off ($17.50 each). They used a free parking pass provided by the veteran organization they belong to. They stayed for the free live jazz performance on the deck and ate at the onboard café, spending $28 on food. Total cost: $35. “We’ve never felt so proud to be part of this community,” said Mr. Rodriguez.

Example 3: The College Student Group

Five students from Cal State Long Beach formed a group of 10 and qualified for the group discount. Each paid $18. They carpool-shared parking costs ($15 split five ways = $3 each), brought snacks, and used the free audio guide. They visited on a Friday afternoon during a “Decades Weekend” event, which included free 1930s dance performances. Total cost per person: $21. “We learned more about history in one day than in our entire American Studies class,” said student Lena.

Example 4: The Out-of-Town Traveler

James, from Chicago, visited the Queen Mary during a 48-hour layover. He booked a $79 hotel package that included a discounted Queen Mary ticket ($25 instead of $35). He took the free shuttle from his hotel, used his AAA discount ($2 off), and ate a picnic lunch on the pier. He spent 4 hours exploring and took 87 photos. Total cost: $99 for the entire experience. “I didn’t expect to fall in love with a ship,” he said. “But it was the highlight of my trip.”

Example 5: The Library Pass Success

Patricia, a retiree from Anaheim, checked out a free Queen Mary ticket from her local library’s “Culture Pass” program. She brought her daughter and grandson. They took the bus, used the audio app, and visited during a free “Women of the Queen Mary” exhibit. Total cost: $0 for admission. “We didn’t spend a dime, and we left with stories we’ll tell for years,” she said.

FAQs

Can I visit the RMS Queen Mary for free?

Full access to all exhibits requires a paid ticket. However, you can view the exterior and walk the public pier for free. Occasionally, special events like community festivals or military appreciation days offer complimentary admission. Sign up for the email newsletter to be notified of these opportunities.

Is the Queen Mary worth visiting on a budget?

Absolutely. With the right strategies, you can experience the full interior tour for under $25 per person. The historical depth, architectural beauty, and immersive storytelling make it one of the most value-rich attractions in Southern California.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended. Online tickets are cheaper, and you avoid potential wait times at the ticket window. During holidays or weekends, tickets can sell out.

Are children free or discounted?

Children aged 4–12 receive a discounted rate of $14–$17, depending on the season. Children under 3 enter for free. Always check the website for current pricing.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

Yes. The Queen Mary is fully accessible. Strollers and wheelchairs are allowed throughout the ship. Free wheelchair rentals are available at the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long does a typical visit take?

Most visitors spend 3–5 hours. If you’re doing a self-guided tour with the audio app, you can cover the highlights in 2.5 hours. For a more leisurely, in-depth experience, plan for 5+ hours.

Are guided tours included in admission?

Yes. All admission tickets include access to self-guided audio tours and staff-led walking tours (schedule varies daily). There is no extra charge for these. Premium tours (like “Behind the Scenes” or “Crew Life”) cost extra and are optional.

Is the Queen Mary open every day?

Yes, the Queen Mary is open 363 days a year. It closes only on Christmas Day and during extreme weather events. Hours vary seasonally—check the website before your visit.

Can I take photos inside?

Yes. Photography is encouraged throughout the ship. Tripods and professional equipment require prior permission. No flash in the engine room to protect sensitive artifacts.

What’s the best time of year to visit cheaply?

January through March, and September through early November. These months offer the lowest ticket prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather. Avoid June–August for budget travel.

Conclusion

Visiting the RMS Queen Mary cheaply isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about making smart, informed choices that honor the ship’s legacy while respecting your budget. From leveraging California resident discounts and traveling during off-peak seasons to using public transit and free audio guides, every strategy outlined here is designed to enhance your experience, not diminish it.

The Queen Mary is not just a relic—it’s a storybook of human ambition, resilience, and elegance. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or a local seeking a meaningful day out, you deserve to walk its decks without financial stress. The tools, tips, and real-life examples in this guide prove that affordability and authenticity go hand in hand.

Start planning today. Bookmark the official site, check your local library for passes, pack your walking shoes, and prepare to step into a world that once crossed oceans and changed history. The RMS Queen Mary is waiting—not as a luxury, but as a gift to anyone willing to explore it wisely.