What is included in my admission ticket?

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.

Is the Guided Island Tour included in my admission ticket?

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.

Are there discounts on USS Midway Museum tickets?

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.

Can I re-enter with the same ticket?

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.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

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.

How much time should I spend at the USS Midway Museum?

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.

Book USS Midway Museum Tickets & Explore US Naval History

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Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Julie

United States

Jan 2026

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I got to spend the day with two people I love, just enjoying the day and seeing all the beautiful animals that God created. Just a great experience

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United States

Jan 2026

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+1 more

I really enjoyed visiting the zoo. I'm originally from Dallas but I came down to visit family. One of the major things on our bucket list was the San Diego zoo. When we arrived, it did not disappoint. Admission was very quick and easy. The employees were extremely helpful with directions. The stores are kept nice and clean. My favorite part was the bus tour. I got the upper level and had an amazing view. Adding on, the captain of the bus was great at explaining each animal along with some cool facts.

Manuel

United States

Jan 2026

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Great tourist attraction. Must see when in San Diego. Highly recommend. Volunteers were great and answered all our questions. Fun trip.

Brian

United States

Dec 2025

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I have been in San Diego for a month and this was the best day I have had so far. I will definitely go again before I leave in February.

Meagan

United States

Jan 2026

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The Safari Park was an incredible experience and made so easy with Headout! It was a breeze getting our tickets the day before we wanted to go and it couldn't have been easier. My partner and I had a memorable day that we will treasure forever! Thanks Headout!

Brendan

Oct 2025

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Beautiful day help enhance the overall experience. We have a 11 year old son on the spectrum and he enjoyed seeing the different variety of animal. He wants to go back.

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USS Midway Museum: Walk through a piece of US Navy history

Tour the USS Midway Museum, a naval aircraft carrier with a storied past as the longest-serving carrier of the 20th century. Having witnessed pivotal moments in history, including missions during the Cold War and airstrikes over North Vietnam, this legendary vessel now stands as a museum. Walk through the decks, experience naval history firsthand, and gain insights into the lives of those who served onboard. Perfect for military history buffs and families, the USS Midway promises an experience like never before. Scroll through to find out what to expect on your naval adventure.

Why visit USS Midway Museum

1/5

Longest-serving aircraft carrier

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.

Experience the thrill of flight simulators

The museum features state-of-the-art flight simulators where you can engage in aerial combat scenarios, letting you experience the action yourself.

Extensive aircraft collection

The museum boasts over 30 meticulously restored aircraft, from World War II fighters to modern jets. You’ll even have the chance to sit in the cockpit and see the interiors of select planes, bringing you closer to aviation history.

Impressive views of San Diego Bay

Situated on the waterfront in downtown San Diego, the views of San Diego Bay are lovely from here. You can even see the iconic 25-foot "Kissing Statue" of the sailor and the nurse from up here.

Veteran-led tours and storytelling

Many of the docents at the USS Midway Museum are veterans who served aboard the Midway or similar carriers, offering authentic, firsthand stories and expert insights that bring the ship’s history and legacy to life.

Things to know before booking your tickets

The museum is largely accessible with elevators available for about 60% of the exhibits. For exhibits that are not wheelchair accessible, you will find video kiosks placed outside that provide brief overviews.
The museum is family-friendly, but some areas of the ship have steep staircases and may not be accessible to strollers or wheelchairs.
While most exhibits are indoors, some outdoor displays, like the flight deck, are affected by weather. Plan your visit in non-monsoon months to be able to enjoy all the attractions.
Opt for combo tickets to visit multiple attractions nearby along with the museum including San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

The best parts of your nautical quest

Hangar Deck

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.

Battle of Midway Theater

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.

Aircraft Gallery

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.

Flight Simulators

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.

Below Deck

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.

Midway’s Engineers

Experience a day in the life of Midway's engineers through interactive displays and sensory exhibits. Take part in a dramatic shipboard fire simulation that highlights the challenges and heroism of the crew who kept the vessel running smoothly.

Overnight Adventure

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.

TBD Devastator

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.

Plan your visit

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)

By trolley: Take the San Diego Trolley to the Seaport Village on the Silver and Green lines. From there, it's just a short walk to the museum.
Nearest stop: Seaport Village (11-minute walk)
By bus: Bus routes 923 and 992 run through the museum’s vicinity.
Nearest stop: Broadway & N Harbor Dr (3-minute walk)
By train: Take the COASTER or Pacific Surfliner trains to Santa Fe Depot. From here, simply head west towards North Harbor Drive, and you'll find the museum.
Nearest stop: Santa Fe Depot (8-minute walk)
By car: Head towards 910 North Harbor Drive, and drive along the waterfront till you reach the museum.
Parking: The nearest parking is at the Navy Pier parking lot, located adjacent to the museum.

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 getaudio 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.

You cannot take DSLR cameras, tripods, selfie-sticks and microphones into the museum.
Cigarettes and e-cigarettes, as well as smoking on the premises, are prohibited.
Laser pointers are not allowed to ensure visitor safety.
Drones are not allowed to be flown in or around the museum area.
Outside food, beverages and glass containers of any kind are not allowed.
You cannot bring your pets along with you.
Vehicles like bicycles, skateboards and scooters are not allowed inside.

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

Beyond USS Midway Museum

San Diego Zoo

Home to over 12,000 animals from more than 680 species, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. As one of the most visited zoos in the world, you'll get to see animals like pandas, gorillas, and polar bears in environments similar to their native ones.

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Balboa Theatre

The Balboa Theatre is a historic venue in downtown San Diego, originally built in 1924 as a movie and vaudeville theater. It now hosts a variety of performances, including concerts and theater shows.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

This vast wildlife park in California, spans 1,800 acres and offers unique safari adventures, like the Africa Tram, where you are taken through expansive habitats in which animals roam freely. They even have a Balloon Safari to give you an aerial adventure while you’re there!

Book Now

Skip the ticket line and board the Midway with a self-guided audio tour to explore the historic aircraft and learn about its prolific military operations.

The USS Midway, is a must-see for aviation lovers, history buffs, and families, with over 30 restored aircraft and historic locations.
Take in the panoramic views of San Diego Bay and get up close to over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters from the top deck.
The self-guided audio tour lets you hear firsthand stories from sailors and aviators about life aboard this iconic aircraft carrier.
Climb into the cockpit of a fighter jet and test your skills in flight simulators for an interactive experience of naval aviation.
Watch a powerful film about the Battle of Midway and learn how the ship played a key role in this pivotal WWII victory.

Inclusions #

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

Tip: For the audio-guided tour, it's a good idea to bring your own headphones for a better experience.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

San Diego Zoo

With your voucher, you can skip the ticketing window and proceed directly to the entrance. Please be aware that this privilege is only applicable for bypassing the admission ticket line and does not extend to the bus or Skyfari lines.
Find the zoo map here.

USS Midway Museum

This experience is wheelchair accessible.

Inclusions #

San Diego Zoo

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Kangaroo Express bus tour
Guided bus tour
Skyfari aerial tram
Access to all shows and exhibits

USS Midway Museum

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

A seamless blend of wildlife exploration and military history ensures a day of fun and learning.

Explore expansive habitats where animals roam free, and experience the African Tram for an up-close adventure.
Skip the lines at the USS Midway and dive into history with 60 interactive exhibits, aircraft displays, and a walk through the life of a Navy crew member.
Enjoy flexible booking, allowing you to visit both attractions on different days or the same to suit your plans.

Inclusions #

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Access to Africa Tram
Access to Cheetah Run
All scheduled shows & exhibits

USS Midway Museum

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Africa Tram Safari is subject to availability.

USS Midway Museum

This experience is wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Skip the ticket line and board the Midway with a self-guided audio tour to explore the historic aircraft and learn about its prolific military operations.

The USS Midway, is a must-see for aviation lovers, history buffs, and families, with over 30 restored aircraft and historic locations.
Take in the panoramic views of San Diego Bay and get up close to over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters from the top deck.
The self-guided audio tour lets you hear firsthand stories from sailors and aviators about life aboard this iconic aircraft carrier.
Climb into the cockpit of a fighter jet and test your skills in flight simulators for an interactive experience of naval aviation.
Watch a powerful film about the Battle of Midway and learn how the ship played a key role in this pivotal WWII victory.

Inclusions #

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

Tip: For the audio-guided tour, it's a good idea to bring your own headphones for a better experience.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

San Diego Zoo

With your voucher, you can skip the ticketing window and proceed directly to the entrance. Please be aware that this privilege is only applicable for bypassing the admission ticket line and does not extend to the bus or Skyfari lines.
Find the zoo map here.

USS Midway Museum

This experience is wheelchair accessible.

Inclusions #

San Diego Zoo

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Kangaroo Express bus tour
Guided bus tour
Skyfari aerial tram
Access to all shows and exhibits

USS Midway Museum

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

A seamless blend of wildlife exploration and military history ensures a day of fun and learning.

Explore expansive habitats where animals roam free, and experience the African Tram for an up-close adventure.
Skip the lines at the USS Midway and dive into history with 60 interactive exhibits, aircraft displays, and a walk through the life of a Navy crew member.
Enjoy flexible booking, allowing you to visit both attractions on different days or the same to suit your plans.

Inclusions #

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Access to Africa Tram
Access to Cheetah Run
All scheduled shows & exhibits

USS Midway Museum

Skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum
Audio guide in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Africa Tram Safari is subject to availability.

USS Midway Museum

This experience is wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tickets

USS Midway Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets

Skip the ticket line and board the Midway with a self-guided audio tour to explore the historic aircraft and learn about its prolific military operations.

The USS Midway, is a must-see for aviation lovers, history buffs, and families, with over 30 restored aircraft and historic locations.
Take in the panoramic views of San Diego Bay and get up close to over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters from the top deck.
The self-guided audio tour lets you hear firsthand stories from sailors and aviators about life aboard this iconic aircraft carrier.
Climb into the cockpit of a fighter jet and test your skills in flight simulators for an interactive experience of naval aviation.
Watch a powerful film about the Battle of Midway and learn how the ship played a key role in this pivotal WWII victory.

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

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Audio guide

USS Midway Museum Tickets

From happy customers

Top things to do in San Diego

USS Midway Museum: Walk through a piece of US Navy history

Why visit USS Midway Museum

Longest-serving aircraft carrier

Experience the thrill of flight simulators

Extensive aircraft collection

Impressive views of San Diego Bay

Veteran-led tours and storytelling

Things to know before booking your tickets

The best parts of your nautical quest

Hangar Deck

Battle of Midway Theater

Aircraft Gallery

Flight Simulators

Below Deck

Midway’s Engineers

Overnight Adventure

TBD Devastator

Plan your visit

Beyond USS Midway Museum

San Diego Zoo

Balboa Theatre

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Frequently asked questions about the USS Midway Museum

USS Midway Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo Safari Park + USS Midway Museum Tickets