Most of us have only ever seen photos or documentaries about the RMS Titanic, but that’s about to change. The LEGO Group has just revealed one of the most authentic replicas of all time with its newest set.
The LEGO Titanic is one of the longest and largest sets so far, coming in at over four feet long! The 9,090-piece set comes together with a strikingly similar exterior to the real deal, not to mention eye-catching interior rooms.
Some of those spaces include the First-Class grand staircase, Dining Saloon and Engine Room, along with a stunning cross-sectional view. The ship actually “works” too: with an anchor that goes up and down and an adjustable tension line.
While a fun build for sure, this set is geared for adults 18 and older. The Titanic can be pre-ordered starting Nov. 1 for a purchase price of $630 at lego.com and your local LEGO store.
The Big Easy is full of museums, restaurants, and outdoor spaces for families to enjoy
Known around the world for its Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans has a lesser-known reputation for its family-friendly museums, attractions, carousels, streetcars, and other things to do with kids that go way beyond the typical tourist destinations (we’re looking at you, Bourbon Street). Here are our picks for a PG-rated, hangover-free visit to the Big Easy.
Ghost Tours with ToursByLocals
One of our favorite ways to get to know a city is through a walking tour. We recommend taking your tour at the beginning of your vacation because the tour guide is likely to give you lots of insider tips for under-the-radar spots to visit. A trip to New Orleans is incomplete without a ghost tour and you’ll love the Voodoo, Zombies, and Vampire Legends tour from ToursByLocals. You’ll get to visit the most haunted sites in the French Quarter and learn about the origins of voodoo. Best of all, your tour can be modified based on the ages and interests of the kids in your group.
Garden District via New Orleans Streetcar New Orleans is home to the oldest continually-operating street car in the United States. Operating since 1835, the street car has several routes through the city. We recommend taking a ride to the Garden District. Once there, you can visit Ann Rice’s favorite book store, Garden District Book Shop, and Lafayette Cemetery Number 1, the setting for that thrilling scene from the Ashley Judd film Double Jeopardy.
Louisiana Children’s Museum / Arts District An interactive museum with over 30,000 square feet of art, music, science, math, health, and role-playing environments, the Louisiana Children’s Museum is a local favorite. Activities include the “Little Port of New Orleans,” where kids can pilot a towboat down the Mississippi River or serve a make-believe meal in the cruise ship galley. The museum is located in the Arts District (Warehouse District), a historic neighborhood with cool art galleries and restaurants (including the Original Emeril’s). The whole family will love exploring the “Soho of the South.”
Fat Tire Tours
Fat Tire Tours is one of the most highly rated outdoor experiences in New Orleans and offers a variety of year-round bike and Segway tours that are led by expert, local guides. One of the most popular New Orleans options is the French Quarter & Garden District Bike Tour which features fascinating stories and anecdotes about the history of the city, covering popular highlights in “the Quarter” including St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square along with some lesser-known gems, all while telling you fascinating stories about your surroundings. Kids of all ages and with any level of biking experience are welcome on the tours. Parents can choose from a variety of kid-friendly bikes and bike modifications, including baby seats, tandem bikes, and toddler trailers for kiddos who are still learning to ride, as well as smaller city bikes designed for kids ages 6-11.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Located on the Mississippi River adjacent to the French Quarter, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a favorite destination for families. The 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico Exhibit includes a walk-through tunnel featuring gigantic sharks, tarpon, and rays. Other highlights include live penguins, a sea otter and parakeet feeding opportunity. The aquarium is closed for renovations until summer 2023.
City Park Spread out over 1,300 acres in the heart of the city, City Park is bustling with family-friendly fun, including the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, Storyland—a theme playground filled with 20 larger-than-life storybook sculptures featuring classic fairytale characters, The Historic New Orleans Train Garden snuggled inside the Botanical Garden, and CityPutt, a 100% ADA accessible mini golf complex showcasing streets and iconic themes from around the city.
Mardi Gras World Imagine the costumes, floats, and décor of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras parade without the crowds of drunk revelers. This tour is an excellent option if you are in New Orleans outside of Mardi Gras season. To be clear, this isn’t a museum, but rather a warehouse filled with memorabilia. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops with all of the props and costumes. Each tour ends with a slice of King Cake (which is hard to find out of season). A complimentary shuttle is available for people taking the tour.
Steamboat Natchez Tour Many locals believe the best way to see New Orleans is from the water. As the only steamboat in New Orleans, Steamboat Natchez takes visitors on an old-timey tour of the Mississippi River, as the captain shouts through a hand-held megaphone and a band plays vintage jazz music. You can have lunch aboard the ship or buy ice cream from the gift shop, as the tour guide points out an area of historical significance and industrial points of interest like a sugar factory. Kids love the walk-through of the engine room.
National World War II Museum Kids love the spacious layout of this museum that sprawls out over a large campus where they have the opportunity to climb aboard a Sherman tank as well as ride on the world’s only fully-restored combat-veteran PT boat in operation today.
French QuarTour Kids Tour The only tour company focused exclusively on kids, this tour is a great way to navigate the French Quarter in New Orleans with kids. Led by two former teachers, the tours include following a treasure map, life as a Creole kid, or a not-too-spooky ghost hunt. Stops on the tour included the Mississippi Riverfront, Jackson Square, and the Old Slave Auction House.
If you ever find yourself with a couple of days with no plans and an itch to get out of town, then pack your bags and head to Long Beach for an adventure that is one part staycation, one part getaway and 100% fun for the whole family. A good idea any time of year, scroll below for the best eats, treats and things to do with kids in Long Beach, CA.
DAY ONE:
Tour the Queen Mary
Andie Huber
A technological and engineering feat, the Queen Mary set the standard for luxury liners in 1936. For the next 90 years, she transported dignitaries, celebrities and royalty from the UK to California and back again until her retirement in 1967. Nowadays she resides in Long Beach, celebrating her 50th year here this year! You can tour the boat at your own pace or take a tour with a docent, like the "The Steam and Steel" tour that takes you below the waterline to see the engine room and propeller box—parts of the ship one doesn't normally get to see.
Good to Know: Parking is $18 for the day but if you eat at one of the dining establishments, they'll validate your parking ticket for either a reduced fee or if you eat at Sir Winston's, it will be free. Most tours start around 11 a.m. so hit this spot first thing in the morning on your way into town, before it gets crowded or the parking lot too full. There's also free admission after 6 p.m. in case you want to come here at night.
1126 Queens Hwy. Long Beach, CA Online: queenmary.com
The Shipyard at the Queen Mary
Andie Huber
Of course no trip to the Queen Mary is complete without tracking down the world's Largest LEGO Brick Model Ship located in The Shipyard. The 26-foot, 250,000 LEGO brick replica of the luxurious ship is a sight to behold. It weighs over 600 pounds and took around 600 hours to make and may just inspire you and your family to do something as grand with all those LEGOS you have at home.
Insider Tip: A fun game of hide-n-seek: There's a white LEGO cat that moves around the ship—see if you can spot it!
Lunch at Michael's Downtown
Andie Huber
For authentic Italian fare that will have your kids singing, "That's amore," head to Michael's Downtown. This homage to the old country not only has a heavenly list of appetizers, and pastas, this must-visit spot also boasts some of the best pizza west of the East River.
Our tip? Order a bunch of plates to share—from the meatballs and prosciutto and burrata with pear to pizzas and pasta bolognese, you might find yourselves driving down to Michael's on a regular basis get your Italian fix.
Insider Tip: If the kids want to "make" their own pizza, ask the staff for dough. They'll bring out a ball and your little ones can pound it out into any shape they want, add the toppings and they'll toss it into the wood-fire oven just for them.
If you need some downtown, head to your hotel to check-in. The Residence Inn Marriott is located just a few minutes from the Queen Mary and is easily accessible to downtown Long Beach. The hotel has suites available so you can book a one or two-bedroom suite—optimal for families that also include a kitchenette with refrigerator.
Of course, for the kids, the pool is the main attraction and overlooks the harbor so even if you don't get in with your kids, you're guaranteed a lovely view.
Breakfast is included with your stay and offers everything a family might want in the morning—from strong coffee to DIY waffles with a toppings bar.
Cost: Rooms start at $350 per night
600 Queensway Dr. Long Beach Online: marriott.com
Ride a Gondola
Ashley R. via Yelp
In case you didn't know, Long Beach has a set of canals that rival those in Venice Beach and that other boot-shaped country. For a little tour of the town, old-world style, head over to Gondola Getaway for a 60-minute ride around the waterways that make up Naples Island. If you find yourself here during Christmas time, you just may see Santa riding around as well.
Insider Tip: Bring your own beverages, some handy snacks, and a cozy sweater and jacket.
Cost: Private cruise for four is $160
5437 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach Online: gondolagetawayinc.com
George's Greek Cafe
Andie Huber
If you are looking for a good way to introduce Greek food to your kids, then George's is the way to do it. The kid-friendly menu has an assortment of options that goes beyond burgers and fries (like rice and chicken kabobs) and the main menu is diverse enough that you are bound to find something that even picky eaters will like.
The vegetarian combo appetizer was enough to feed one adult and two children and included vegetarian dolmathes, falafel, spanakopites and kalamata olives. It also came with a side of Tzantziki sauce, humus, and pita bread.
Of course you can't go to a Greek restaurant and not order saganaki—the flaming cheese—a fun (and delicious) spectacle that will have everyone shouting "Opa!"
135 Pine Ave. Long Beach Online: georgesgreekcafe.com
DAY TWO:
Aquarium of the Pacific
Andie Huber
The fourth busiest aquarium in the US, there are more than 11,000 animals and 50 exhibits for you to explore. With so much to see and do, we wrote an entire "Insider's Guide to the Aquarium of the Pacific." And while you can spend a whole day or two checking out every nook and cranny, a couple of can't miss exhibits include: Sammy & Ray 3D and Hurricane 3D playing in the Ocean Theater, and a visit to the new animals on view like the bigeye octopuses, spiny king crabs, and a sea slug now swimming around in the Deepwater exhibit in the Northern Pacific Gallery. And if it's an especially hot day, cool off at Our Water Future exhibit that shows how the LA basin gets and captures water.
Insider Tip: Knowing that this is a popular destination, we recommend getting here as early as possible (it opens at 9 a.m.).
100 Aquarium Way Long Beach 562-590-3100 Online: aquariumofpacific.org
Explore Pike Outlets at Rainbow Harbor
Andie Huber
Long Beach's newest shopping destination, this waterfront area next to The Aquarium of the Pacific, has retail, dining and entertainment venues to satisfy everyone in the family. Check out the carousel (with its very own Zoltar wish-granting machine for any fans of the movie "Big") and a Ferris wheel that'll give you a bird's eye view of this lovely harbor town.
If you didn't grab something to eat at the aquarium, some lunch options include Bubby Gump Shrimp Co. (seems like it's a Tom Hanks movie-themed trip right?), Gladstones, and California Pizza Kitchen.
Good to Know: Park in the parking structure and take your ticket with you as most dining places will validate.
95 S. Pine St. Long Beach Online: visitlongbeach.com
Shorline Aquatic Park
Andie Huber
Burn off some energy after lunch, and walk along the harbor and head to Shorline Aquatic Park where a real lighthouse stands on a hill. Bonus points: Once you reach the lighthouse there is some interesting history about the area and the Queen Mary that you can read as you walk around it.
And while there is some sand, this park is more for running around the wide open spaces and checking out some of the best views of the Queen Mary, the new and improved exterior of the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Harbor Village.
308 Golden Shore Long Beach Online: longbeach.gov
Take a Harbor Cruise
Andie Huber
Now that everyone has had a good runaround, and watched the boats come in and out of the harbor, now's the time to jump on a Harbor Breeze boat tour for a 45-minute narrated tour of the harbor and its history. From the boat, you'll be able to see sea lions playing or lounging in the harbor, get a closer view of the outside of the Queen Mary, along with a cozy close-up of some massive cargo and container ships. If you have older kids, take the whale-watching tour where you can see migrating Pacific Gray Whales, Humpbacks and more as they migrate.
Insider Tip: While it may be tempting to sit on the upper deck, make sure you have adequate coats and sunscreen. It's both sunny and breezy cold up there. Of course you can retreat the hull of the ship. There are snacks and drinks on board for purchase.
Cost: Kids 5-11 $6; Adults $15; Under 5 are free
100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2 Long Beach Online: 2seewhales.com
After the harbor boat tour, walk or drive to Shoreline Village where a colorful mash-up of restaurants, arcades, souvenir and sweet shops are built along the harbor. At the tip is Parker's Lighthouse, a dreamy seafood restaurant with enviable views and a two-story wine cellar that is the perfect ending to a long day. Here you can enjoy the sunset, a glass of wine, and all the fresh seafood you desire.
On the way out, don't forget to stop at Pirate's Cove for swashbuckling gear, Rocky Mountain Chocolate for some after-dinner sweets and the Pelican Pier Pavilion that houses an antique carousel along with arcade games.
Getting to downtown Long Beach, CA is easy. The biggest hurdle will be traffic, so plan your timing accordingly, especially if you are getting there via the 405.
Parking is expensive. To mitigate the cost, make sure you take your parking ticket with you and get it validated wherever you can. There are also two local services, the AquaLink ($1 per ride) and AquaBus ($5 per ride) that run year round and stop at all the major tourist spots.
This trip was paid for by the Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
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The USS Midway Museum is the largest aircraft carrier in the world that you can tour––and it’s located right here in our fine city as one of the coolest things to do in San Diego! This maritime masterpiece features a flight deck and a hangar filled with more than 30 restored helicopters and aircraft, a firsthand glimpse of what life was like below deck, access to the engine room, flight simulator experiences and so much more. Your crew is sure to have a memorable adventure when you visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum. Scroll down for an insider’s guide that will prepare you for your outing!
Photo-Op Time: Head to the expansive Hangar Deck where little pilots can hop into the cockpits of aircraft. Even more, half-pints can try their hand at flying in the flight simulators, where they can loop, dive and spin on a mission. ($8 per person) Then head to the Battle of Midway Theater (included with admission) for a 15-minute movie on an important WWII naval battle that’s narrated by the heroes themselves.
photo: USS Midway Museum
Top of the Ship Flight Deck: Explore take-off and landing on the smallest “airport” on the open-air flight deck at the top of the ship. You’ll find fighter planes (and pilots), giant naval helicopters and all the technical and mechanical equipment (perfect for STEM learning) that makes it all work. All the more, the littles are welcome to touch, climb and go inside many of the aircraft.
Insider Tip: You’ll see most people accessing this top deck via the giant stairway. However, it’s good to know, there’s an elevator too. Plan on being in direct sunlight and prepare your kiddos with sunblock and hats.
photo: USS Midway Museum
A City Below Deck: Everyone in your crew will find walking through the complex passageways of the lower deck amazing and fun. It’s a city under the sea! From a lunch line and industrial-sized kitchen to the sleeping quarters and all the equipment needed to run the ship, going below deck is worth the trip. Even more, you can do a kid-friendly audio tour (included with admission) to get the details of where you are. Top tip: Bring your own headphones if you plan on doing the audio tour!
Insider Tip: Before you head below, be aware that there are steep narrow stairs to traverse when going up and down the levels, low ceilings and narrow hallways. So, strollers are not feasible on this leg of the journey.
photo: USS Midway Museum
Docents & Volunteers: Helpful and knowledgeable docents and volunteers are stationed throughout the USS Midway, many of whom sailed the ship when she was in service. They love to take photos, dress your kiddos up in their gear (on special event days) and tell you what it was like to do their job when the ship was at sea. Keep a look-out for them!
Insider Tip: Join in the fun of the USS Midway’s Junior Pilot Program. Visit the information booth by the onboard entrance to pick up an activity sheet that has instructions that lead you around the ship to find the answers to questions. Show the completed sheet to the docent at the info booth and your kiddo will receive their Junior Pilot Wings.
Feed Me Please: When tummies start to rumble, the Fantail Cafe is located on the Hangar Deck and serves sandwiches, burgers, pizza, etc. and Starbucks coffee. It’s good to know in advance that prices are on the steep side. The Fantail Cafe menu can be found here. (pdf) Additionally, downtown there are many dining options with Seaport Village and the Gaslamp district close-by.
photo: USS Midway Museum
Special Events: The USS Midway hosts many family-friendly events you’ll want on your radar. July 14-15 is their Family Overnight Experience where you can spend the night on the ship! Their 4th of July celebration is not to be missed either. It’s sold out this year, but plan ahead for next year and you can watch the Big Bay fireworks from the flight deck! Aug. 18, plan on watching Moana under the stars on the flight deck for summer movie night.
Click here for more events held at the USS Midway.
Parking: On special event days and weekends, parking can be tricky downtown. There’s an ACE Parking Lot right next door to the USS Midway Museum that ranges from a $10 to $20 fee. Plan to get there earlier if you want to get a spot. There are several other parking lots as well. For $17/day, we parked by the Santa Fe Train Depot and walked a few blocks. Click here for more parking info.
Know Before You Go
Bags are checked before you’re allowed on board the USS Midway. Some of the prohibited items include outside food and beverages.
Plan on spending three to four hours on the ship to make the most of your visit. Same day re-entry is allowed. Just stop by the Visitors Information Center by the ship’s exit before you get off the ship if you’re planning on coming back.
During your exploration of the ship you’ll be doing plenty of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable, close-toed shoes.
It’s also recommended that you dress in layers because temperatures vary throughout the ship.
Click here for more info on planning your adventure aboard the USS Midway.
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (last admission is at 4 p.m. and the Museum closes at 5 p.m.)
Cost: $21/adult; $8/child; kids age five and under/free
