Battleship Missouri Memorial Honolulu
Historic Battleship Missouri Memorial, site of WWII's end, offering immersive tours and exhibits on Ford Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Battleship Missouri Memorial Honolulu
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Battleship Missouri Memorial, site of WWII's end, offering immersive tours and exhibits on Ford Island.
"A moving reminder of sacrifices and a must-see for anyone visiting Pearl Harbor or interested in military history."
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Reserve USS Arizona tickets the day before for a small fee to guarantee entry.
🚢 Captain's Tour Recommended
Access restricted areas like the bridge and gun turret #1. Worth the extra cost!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Surrender Deck
Main Deck
Stand where WWII officially ended. A profoundly moving spot for history buffs.
Below-Deck Museum
Lower Decks
Immerse yourself in life aboard a battleship with engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Gun Turret #1
Forward Deck
Marvel at the sheer scale of the battleship's main armament.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for USS Arizona
Choose Your Missouri Tour Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Reserve USS Arizona tickets the day before for a small fee to guarantee entry.
🚢 Captain's Tour Recommended
Access restricted areas like the bridge and gun turret #1. Worth the extra cost!
🎒 Bag Policy
No backpacks or large bags allowed. Check them at the visitor center for a fee.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Wander at your own pace, but consider audio guides for deeper insights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Reserve USS Arizona tickets the day before for a small fee to guarantee entry.
🚢 Captain's Tour Recommended
Access restricted areas like the bridge and gun turret #1. Worth the extra cost!
🎒 Bag Policy
No backpacks or large bags allowed. Check them at the visitor center for a fee.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Wander at your own pace, but consider audio guides for deeper insights.
🚌 Free Shuttle
A free shuttle transports you from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to Ford Island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Battleship Missouri Memorial for its immense historical significance, particularly as the site of WWII's end. The ship's scale is impressive, and the exhibits offer a moving glimpse into naval life and sacrifice. While general admission is comprehensive, specialized tours are highly recommended for deeper exploration.
"Visiting the Battleship Missouri Memorial was an incredible experience. The ship itself is absolutely massive—standing on its deck really gives you a sense of just how powerful and important this vessel was. Touring the ship and hearing the stories tied to it was both humbling and inspiring. From the spot where World War II officially ended to the preserved quarters and weaponry, everything on board honors the history and the sacrifices of the sailors who served. It’s a moving reminder of what those who wear the uniform go through, and a must-see for anyone visiting Pearl Harbor or interested in military history."
Pedro Loran
"So, the battle ship is located at pearl harbor, and there is plenty of parking. But, you are on a military base, so your car will be searched. Best to take a tour bus to the location. Once there, you can board the ship at your own pace... you can take a tour or wander about. Below deck there is a path to follow as you navigate the paths through the ship and after the tour, you can stay dock side and grab some food from the ice cream shop or the food stall..."
X Eng
"Very impressive experience. The new museum below decks gave a real feel for life on a battleship. Seeing a place of such significance was very moving."
Greg Lapps
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center (expect car searches and a small fee) or take a tour bus. A free shuttle operates from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to Ford Island, where the Battleship Missouri Memorial is located.
Yes, there is parking available at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Be prepared for your car to be searched as it's a military base.
TheBus (public transit) serves the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Routes 20 and 42 are common options from Waikiki.
Yes, after visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, you can head to the bus loading area at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for the shuttle to the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
Taking a tour bus or using the free shuttle service is often recommended for families with young children to minimize walking and hassle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, timed entry is not required for the Battleship Missouri Memorial. You can purchase tickets at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center or online, with a small discount for pre-purchased tickets.
General admission allows self-guided exploration. Specialized tours like the Captain's Tour and Engineer's Tour offer access to restricted areas and deeper historical insights.
Ticket prices vary depending on the package chosen, with general admission being the most affordable. Specialized tours cost extra. Check their official website for current pricing.
Pre-purchasing tickets online may offer a small discount. Military and senior discounts might also be available; check the official website for details.
Yes, you can buy tickets for the Battleship Missouri Memorial when you arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A general self-guided tour can take about 1.5 to 2 hours, but you can easily spend longer if you explore all exhibits and take a guided tour.
Many visitors recommend the Captain's Tour for its access to unique areas like the bridge and Combat Engagement Center. The Engineer's Tour is for those with a strong interest in the ship's mechanics.
General admission provides access to many areas, but specialized tours like the Captain's and Engineer's tours grant access to parts of the ship not open to the public.
Yes, children often find the massive ship and its history fascinating. The guided tours can be particularly engaging for them.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you'll be on your feet exploring the ship. Dress in light, breathable clothing due to Hawaii's warm climate.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the Battleship Missouri Memorial, but check for any specific restrictions in certain areas or exhibits.
The Surrender Deck, the massive gun turrets, and the panoramic views from the upper decks offer excellent photo opportunities.
Tripod policies can vary. It's best to check the official Battleship Missouri Memorial website or inquire upon arrival to confirm.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the ship and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior spaces.
Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited on military installations like Ford Island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: Pack light! Backpacks and large bags are not allowed on board and must be checked. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the vast decks. Allow ample time, as kids might want to spend longer in certain areas.
🎖️ Military History Enthusiasts
Recommendation: Dedicate at least half a day to fully appreciate the ship's exhibits, historical context, and the specialized tours. Don't miss the below-deck museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Missouri's service history.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tip: Combine your visit with the free USS Arizona Memorial program (though reservations are recommended and may have a small booking fee) to maximize your historical immersion at Pearl Harbor without incurring excessive costs. Pack your own snacks and water to save on onboard purchases.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Tours: General vs. Specialized
For a more curated experience, consider the specialized tours. The Captain's Tour is highly recommended by visitors for its access to exclusive areas such as the Combat Engagement Center (where weapon operations were managed), the navigation bridge, and Gun Turret #1. This tour provides a deeper understanding of the ship's command and control functions.
The Chief Engineer's Tour delves into the heart of the battleship, taking you to the boiler and engine rooms. While perhaps less visually dramatic than the Captain's Tour, it offers a profound appreciation for the conditions sailors worked under and the complex machinery that powered this historic vessel.
The Significance of the Surrender Deck
Standing on this deck, you can see the exact spot where the surrender documents were signed, a truly humbling experience. The memorial meticulously preserves this area, allowing visitors to connect with a moment that reshaped global history. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and the peace that was hard-won.
Beyond the surrender ceremony, the deck offers panoramic views of Pearl Harbor and the surrounding islands, providing a strategic perspective of the naval base. It’s a place for reflection, honoring veterans, and understanding the profound impact of this historic battleship.
Navigating Ford Island and Logistics
Be aware that Ford Island is an active military installation, so expect security checks upon arrival. When planning your visit, consider the time needed. While the Battleship Missouri Memorial itself can be explored in a couple of hours, combining it with the USS Arizona Memorial and other Pearl Harbor sites can easily fill an entire day.
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