Queen Mary Rings in 2009 With California Residents Free Admission in January

The Queen Mary in Long Beach, is celebrating the New Year by inviting all California residents to visit The Queen Mary free of charge, as often as they would like, through January 31st, 2009. This special, FREE Admission ticket includes a self-guided tour of the Queen Mary. California residents must provide documentation of residency with a driver's license (or other form of photo identification) at the box office, during normal attraction operating hours from 10am to 6pm. Parking not included.

"Realizing that we are all living through difficult economic times, we thought that offering free admission to California residents during January would be our small way of helping to ring in 2009 on a positive note," said Queen Mary General Manager Jay Primavera.

While aboard, guests can experience the largest collection of Art Deco artwork in the country. They can also choose between many guided tours, including the Behind-the-Scenes, Historic World War II and an array of ghostly paranormal tours. Tours sold separately.

In addition to a variety of specialty boutiques, guests can enjoy fine dining at the Five-Star Sir Winston's restaurant, fresh seafood specialties at the Four-Star Chelsea restaurant or all-day dining specials at the Promenade Café. Finish off your day in the 1930's-style Art Deco Observation Bar, as you enjoy a spectacular ocean and skyline view of Long Beach.

The Queen Mary is home to a 314-room Art Deco Hotel, where guests relive the excitement of cruising in the style of the 1930's without ever leaving port. The Queen Mary is located at the south end of the 710 freeway, on the water in Long Beach. For reservations, call (800) 437-2934 or visit http://www.queenmary.com/.

*About the Queen Mary*
The Queen Mary, now celebrating 40 years in Long Beach, captures the imagination of the public and has come to represent the spirit of an era characterized by elegance and style. During her illustrious career, she has played many roles - from an elegant ocean liner to a World War II troopship. Now permanently docked, yet still afloat, her operation and preservation are entrusted to Hostmark Hospitality Group, a leading independent management company. Located at 1126 Queens Highway in beautiful Long Beach, California, The Queen Mary has become a must-see attraction. The historic ship offers a unique on-the-water hotel experience, a variety of historical, paranormal and education tours, unique shops, unmatched meeting & banquet facilities, three award-winning ocean view restaurants and so much more. For more information please visit http://www.queenmary.com/ or call (800) 437-2934.

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