Family-Friendly Adventures in Long Beach, CA!

Naples

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary in Naples, Italy

Day 1: Explore Historic Naples

Start your adventure in the heart of Naples with a stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World^regular Heritage site. Begin at Piazza del Plebiscito, the city"s largest square. Here, kids can run around while you admire the Royal Palace and the San Francesco di Paola Church. Just a short walk away is the iconic Galleria Umberto I, perfect for a gelato stop and some window shopping.

How to get there: The historic center is accessible via the Metro Line 1 to Toledo Station, renowned as one of the most beautiful metro stations in Europe.

Interesting Fact: Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so grabbing a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza is a must. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is famed for its delicious, simple pizzas and was featured in the book and film “Eat, Pray, Love.”

Day 2: Day Trip to Pompeii

Dive into history with a day trip to the archaeological site of Pompeii, just a short train ride away. This ancient Roman city was buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past for explorers of all ages.

How to get there: Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station towards Sorrento and get off at Pompei Scavi.

Interesting Fact: Pompeii wasn’t discovered until 1748, and about 2/3 of the 44-hectare site has been excavated.

Day 3: Visit the Naples Aquarium and Villa Comunale

On your last day, visit the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn Aquarium, located in the picturesque Villa Comunale park. It’s Italy"s oldest aquarium and offers an educational experience about Mediterranean sea life.

How to get there: Easily reached by bus or a walk along the scenic waterfront from central Naples.

Interesting Fact: The aquarium was founded in 1872 and features species only from the Mediterranean, focusing on promoting local biodiversity conservation.

This engaging itinerary offers a mix of culture, history, and fun, ensuring a memorable family trip to Naples!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

The Queen Mary

Why Visit?

Embark on a historical adventure aboard The Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, a retired ocean liner that sailed primarily in the North Atlantic from 1936 to 1967. Here"s a perfect day-long itinerary for a family visit:

Morning: Arrival & Tour

Start your day early and aim to reach The Queen Mary by 9 AM to make the most of the day. Parking is available onsite for a fee. Begin with the self-guided tour, where you can explore the ship at your own pace. Don"t miss the Bridge, the Engine Room, and the Isolation Wards, which give a fascinating glimpse into the operational side of this grand ship.

Midday: Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge

For lunch, head to Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge aboard the ship. Enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes while soaking in the stunning views of Long Beach. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance, perfect for a relaxing meal.

Afternoon: Exhibitions & Ghost Tour

After lunch, explore the various exhibitions onboard. The Queen Mary is famous for her Art Deco interiors, and the ship’s historical exhibits provide insights into her glorious past and her service during World War II. If your family loves a thrill, the Ghosts & Legends tour is a must-do. It’s both spooky and enthralling, exploring the reputed paranormal hotspots of the ship.

Evening: Observation Bar

Conclude your visit at the Observation Bar around sunset. It offers spectacular ocean views and a chance for the adults to enjoy a classic cocktail in a setting that transports you back to the golden age of ocean travel.

Interesting Fact

The Queen Mary is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was even used as a troopship during World War II, capable of carrying up to 16,000 troops at a time.

This itinerary offers a mix of history, luxury, and mystery, ensuring a memorable family outing at The Queen Mary.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pacific Battleship Center - Battleship IOWA Museum

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Visiting the Pacific Battleship Center - Battleship IOWA Museum

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at the iconic Battleship IOWA Museum located at the LA Waterfront in San Pedro, California. Arriving early will help you beat the crowds and fully enjoy your visit. Easy parking is available onsite for a fee, or you can opt for public transportation; the Metro Bus 246 stops conveniently nearby.

Explore the Battleship IOWA

Embark on a self-guided tour which generally takes about 2 hours. Grab a Youth Adventure Guide available for kids to make the tour more engaging. The ship, known as the “Battleship of Presidents,” has hosted three U.S. Presidents and offers a fascinating glimpse into naval history and life at sea. Check out the impressive big guns and the bridge where officers navigated the massive ship.

Lunch Break

After exploring, enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries along the waterfront. You can choose from various family-friendly restaurants offering delightful views of the harbor.

Interactive Learning

Post-lunch, participate in the museum’s interactive exhibits like the Victory the Dog Scavenger Hunt which is perfect for kids. Learn about the ship’s mascot during WWII, adding a fun twist to historical learning.

Finish with a Walk

End your visit with a leisurely stroll around the LA Waterfront. Enjoy the sea breeze and maybe catch sight of a cruise ship or two!

Departure

As your day winds down, head back to your car or hop on the bus with memories of a historical adventure aboard one of America’s most famous battleships.

Tip: Check the museum’s website for special events, live demonstrations, or reenactments that might coincide with your visit for an even more memorable experience.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Rainbow Harbor

Why Visit?

Rainbow Harbor Family Adventure Itinerary

Morning: Aquarium of the Pacific

Start your day at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Arrive early to beat the crowds and spend a few hours exploring over 11,000 animals in more than 50 exhibits. Don’t miss the interactive Shark Lagoon and the Lorikeet Forest where the kids can feed colorful birds right from their hands. The aquarium opens at 9:00 AM, and parking is available onsite.

*Interesting Fact:* The Aquarium participates in breeding programs for endangered species, such as the Southern sea otter!

Lunch: Parkers" Lighthouse

Around noon, walk over to Parkers" Lighthouse for a seaside lunch. It’s just a 10-minute walk along the scenic harbor. Enjoy their kid-friendly menu with a view of the Queen Mary.

Afternoon: Whale Watching Tour

Post-lunch, hop on a whale watching cruise from Harbor Breeze Cruises, a short walk from the restaurant. These 2-hour tours offer a chance to see magnificent marine life including blue whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Make sure to book tickets in advance!

*Interesting Fact:* The waters off Long Beach are on the migratory path for the Pacific gray whale from December to April.

Evening: Shoreline Village

Conclude your day at Shoreline Village, right next to the harbor. Here, you can enjoy casual dining, unique shopping, and fun, family-friendly entertainment like carousel rides. Don’t forget to try some local ice cream as you watch the sunset over the Pacific.

*Interesting Fact:* Shoreline Village was modeled after a quaint Cape Cod fishing village.

Getting Around

Rainbow Harbor is compact and most attractions are within walking distance. For families, renting a bike or a pedal cart can be a fun and efficient way to navigate the area.

Enjoy your Rainbow Harbor adventure filled with marine life, scenic views, and delightful family moments!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating marine adventure at the Aquarium of the the Pacific in Long Beach, California, perfect for a family day out. Start your journey early to make the most of the day. If you"re driving, parking is conveniently available adjacent to the aquarium.

Begin at the expansive Southern California/Baja Gallery, where you can marvel at the playful sea lions and get hands-on with tide pool creatures. Don"t miss the chance to touch a gentle ray at Shark Lagoon later in the day!

Next, dive into the colorful world of the Tropical Pacific Gallery. Here, the family can wander amidst vibrant coral reefs and come face-to-face with mesmerizing sea jellies. The kids will be thrilled to spot the flamboyant clownfish, famously known as Nemo!

Take a lunch break at the aquarium"s Café Scuba, offering a variety of kid-friendly options with a view of the harbor.

Post lunch, head to the Northern Pacific Gallery to encounter the curious sea otters and the giant Pacific octopus. Each exhibit not only showcases fascinating marine life but also provides interactive learning opportunities about the ocean"s ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Wrap up your visit at the June Keyes Penguin Habitat, where you can watch the delightful Magellanic penguins waddle and swim. Engage with the staff during feeding times to learn fun facts about each penguin’s unique personality and conservation status.

Throughout your visit, take advantage of the daily shows and animal encounters, which provide insightful information and a closer look at the marine inhabitants. Before heading home, stop by the gift shop for educational books and unique souvenirs to remember your aquatic adventure.

Enjoy your family day at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where education, conservation, and fun make a splash!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.