When people think of popular cities to visit in California, Los Angeles is probably the biggest city that comes to mind. Within the Los Angeles metropolitan area, however, you’ll discover an exciting tourist destination known as the City of Long Beach. Previously an industrial area for mass freight shipping, the city of Long Beach has transformed and revitalized itself with noteworthy attractions, memorable museums and beautiful recreational areas. Not too far from the city itself, you’ll find Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood, popular theme parks that have fueled the tourism boom in Long Beach.

In 2008 the city was designated the “Aquatic Capital of America.” Sunny Long Beach is known as a maritime playground in the heart of Southern California, and is a laid-back, friendly city. This is a perfect vacation spot for sporty travelers and beachgoers. In fact, many Olympian champions hail from the shores of Long Beach. However, all the sun and fun doesn’t mean work doesn’t get done here! The Port of Long Beach is the second busiest container port in the United States, and the city is the 7th largest in the state of California.

We’ll look at three must-see attractions in Long Beach that are perfect for group travelers touring the country via charter bus.

Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is docked at Long Beach as a retired ocean liner turned hotel and museum. The city of Long Beach permanently docked the ship in 1967, and to this day its art deco style and immense size (larger than the Titanic!) fascinate tourists. It was also one of the fastest ocean liners and was used as a World War II troop transport. Stay a while at this maritime legend with your group.

Long Beach Grand Prix

Ride that motorcoach down Shoreline Drive and you might notice some pretty noticeable skid marks across the pavement. That’s because this stretch of Shoreline Drive is part of the street circuit known as Grand Prix of Long Beach. Those with a need for speed should surely check out this large event in Long Beach that attracts over 200,000 people. The circuit has a long “track history” from its beginnings as a Formula 5000 race to its present status as a premier Indycar race.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium of the Pacific is a huge, state-of-the-art aquarium. It stretches for over 5 acres near Rainbow Harbor, right across from the Queen Mary, and is visited by over 1.5 million curious visitors per year. Thousands of underwater creatures are on display featuring denizens of the Pacific Ocean’s waters. Watch a sea lion do tricks or walk like a penguin at this great group outing.

Whatever you encounter in Long Beach, rest assured knowing that comfortable transportation by motorcoach can take you between every “must-see” attraction that makes your list. Use the BusRates.com charter bus operator directory to easily contact motorcoach operators to transport your group.