Top California Observation Decks

Step aboard the legendary Queen Mary in Long Beach and discover one of the world’s most famous ocean liners. From her glamorous Art Deco design and rich maritime history to thrilling haunted encounters and unforgettable tours, the Queen Mary offers something for everyone. Explore the ship that carried royalty, Hollywood icons, and WWII heroes, and experience an attraction unlike any other—historic, iconic, and truly unforgettable.

Soar over Palm Springs on the Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of the desert. Ascending to 5,783 feet (1,790 meters), the tram transports you to the San Jacinto Mountains. View unspoiled wilderness, including mountain spires and Ponderosa pine trees, during your ascent. Disembark and explore the area around Mountain Station, which includes a cocktail lounge, restaurant and observation deck. Hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski on the trails in the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area around Mountain Station.

Take in panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and Alcatraz Island, and sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, on a relaxing San Francisco Bay cruise. Sit indoors or savor cool bay breezes from an outdoor deck and experience San Francisco in a new way. This ticket allows you to skip the line and go straight to the gate. Access an audio guide via your smartphone or other device.

Take a ride in San Francisco's first waterfront observation wheel for magnificent aerial views of San Francisco Bay. Fully enclosed to protect you from the elements, each pod can hold up to six people and every one is private to your group—so you won't have to contend with strangers when getting the best viewing spot.

Enjoy easy skip-the-line access to the California Academy of Sciences with this pre-paid ticket. Walk right in to explore the museum's 4-story rainforest, planetarium, and aquarium, plus the new Tiny Chef, Big Impact exhibit celebrating small actions for the planet.

Cruise off the coast of Orange County in search of whales on this excursion from Newport Beach. Watch the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast glide by as you listen to interesting commentary from your crew about the native California marine life. Watch for blows and tail slaps; these signals indicate that humpback, minke, grey, finback, or giant blue whales are nearby. Dolphins and other marine life are also in abundance during this family-friendly, year-round whale watching tour.

Experience a day of imagination and fun at LEGOLAND® California Resort with over 60 rides, shows, and attractions made for families with kids ages 2–12. Explore Miniland USA, drive at Fun Town, and splash around at the Water Park. Visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium and dive into ocean wonders. Book a Sea Life or Resort Hopper and get a second day free to revisit the adventure.

Learn the stories behind the Bay Area's most notorious former federal penitentiary on a fascinating “Escape from the Rock” cruise around Alcatraz. Listen to audio recordings via your own device, with stories from ex-prisoners and guards about daily life on “The Rock.” Admire views of other San Francisco Bay highlights—including the Golden Gate Bridge—en route. This admission ticket allows you to skip the line and go straight to the gate.

Discover the underwater world of Catalina Island during a 45-minute ride on a semi-submarine. The semi-sub allows you to view the marine life of Avalon Bay as you dive six feet (two meters) below the surface at Lovers' Cove. Stay dry as you get a close look at fish feeding around the submarine, then take in views of the island from your vessel's top deck during the return journey to Avalon.