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Skip the lines and step aboard the USS Midway, a historic aircraft carrier turned museum in San Diego.
Skip the lines and step aboard the USS Midway, a historic aircraft carrier turned museum in San Diego.
Inclusions
The museum itself is housed on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier from the 20th century known as USS Midway. The aircraft carrier was commissioned in 1945 and served until 1992, participating in notable conflicts such as the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm.
See 29 meticulously restored aircraft, including iconic models like the F/A-18 Hornet and WWII SDB Dauntless at this expansive space that shows you about their roles in various military operations throughout history.
Midway’s 90-seat theater presents "Voices of the Midway," a 15-minute multimedia film that recounts the Battle of Midway through the eyes and voices of those who experienced it.
Climb into aircraft cockpits, for a hands-on experience of what it was like to pilot these machines. This interactive feature is particularly popular among children and aviation enthusiasts alike.
The museum offers thrilling flight simulators where visitors can "fly" an F-18 or experience air combat missions. These simulators are an exhilarating experience that mimic the sensation of real military aviation maneuvers.
Take a peek at what daily life looked like for Navy sailors below the deck aboard the aircraft carrier. Explore the cramped sleeping quarters, bustling galley where over 13,000 meals were prepared daily, and the engine room.
See how a day looked for some of the most important crew members on board who kept the show going, Midway’s engineers. You will get a chance to engage with interactive displays and sensory experiences, including a dramatic simulation of a shipboard fire, which emphasizes the challenges and heroism of the engineers who kept the vessel running smoothly during its service.
Imagine a sleepover but inside an aircraft carrier? On the "Overnight Adventure" experience, you get to spend a night aboard the USS Midway, sleeping in authentic Navy bunks and experiencing life as a sailor.
This exhibit features a full-sized replica of the Douglas TBD Devastator, the U.S. Navy's first all-metal monoplane carrier aircraft, which played a significant role in early World War II operations.
Open hours: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm
Closed: Thanksgiving (November 28) and Christmas Day (December 25)
Last admission: 4pm
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit the USS Midway Museum is in the winter months, from December to February. During this season, crowds are generally smaller, and the cooler temperatures (ranging between 10°C and 18°C) make for a comfortable experience. On the other hand, peak season runs from June to August, when visitor numbers increase, leading to longer wait times and busier exhibits. If you’re planning a summer visit, consider going on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and make the most of your time exploring the museum’s many attractions.
Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 | Find on Maps
Nearby landmark: Broadway Pier (0.2 mile)
Wheelchair accessible: While the museum is not completely accessible for wheelchair users, you will find that about 60% of the exhibits are. For areas that are not easily accessible, video kiosks offer brief overviews to ensure you don't miss out on the experience.
Complimentary wheelchairs: The museum offers complimentary wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessible restrooms: You can find wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the Hangar and Flight Decks.
Elevator access: Elevators are available for transportation between various decks of the ship.
Strollers allowed: Infants and small children can ride in a stroller or pram while visiting.
Service animals allowed: The museum welcomes trained service animals that assist guests with disabilities.
Mobility vehicles: The museum accommodates mobility vehicles, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
Audio guides: You can get audio guides at the museum for a self-guided tour in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, French, and German.
Toilets: Restrooms are located throughout the museum.
Paid parking: Parking is available at the Navy Pier parking lot and prices start at $15.
First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies.
Souvenir shop: The museum’s gift shop is centrally located on the Hangar Deck.
Dining outlets: Café 41 is a grab-n-go stop that is great for a quick bite mid-visit.
Information desk: An information desk is located at the entrance to assist you with inquiries.
Café 41
Café 41 at the USS Midway Museum offers a variety of fresh and delicious food options, including salads, sandwiches, and grilled classics. Must-try items on the menu include the Midway Burger, featuring a juicy beef patty, and the Mac and Cheese, which is a favorite among visitors.
Location: Off the Hangar Deck
Open hours: 11am to 3pm
Jet Shop
The Jet Shop at the USS Midway Museum offers a variety of unique Midway-themed souvenirs such as USS Midway apparel, historic naval books, and fun San Diego-themed souvenirs. Take home a piece of your naval escapade from this souvenir store to remember your visit by.
Location: On the Hangar Deck
Open hours: 10am to 5pm
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Your USS Midway Museum ticket grants access to explore the historic aircraft carrier, including interactive exhibits like the Hangar Deck with 29 restored aircraft, the Battle of Midway Theater, cockpit simulations, and the below-deck areas.
Yes, the Guide Island Tour is included in your ticket. The tour is popular but has limited capacity due to the tight quarters in these sections. To avoid missing out, consider starting your visit with this tour. These tours may even close as early as 3:30pm on busy days.
Discounted tickets are available for children between the ages of 4 and 12 as well as US Military Veterans carrying a valid id. Children 3 years old and younger, Active Duty Military, and Reservists can enter for free.
Yes, you can re-enter the USS Midway Museum on the same day with your admission ticket. To do so, simply stop by the Visitors Information Center at the ship’s exit before leaving.
About 60% of the USS Midway Museum is accessible to wheelchair users, with elevator access between decks. Complimentary wheelchairs are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for your visit to USS Midway Museum. This will give you enough time to explore the exhibits and engage with the various interactive experiences on board.
