USS Iowa Battleship Los Angeles
Explore the historic USS Iowa Battleship, a floating museum offering a deep dive into naval history with interactive exhibits and tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
USS Iowa Battleship Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic USS Iowa Battleship, a floating museum offering a deep dive into naval history with interactive exhibits and tours.
"Step aboard history at the USS Iowa in Los Angeles! Relive history one deck at a time. 
🚢 Explore Bow to Stern
Take your time to see everything from bow to stern; there's history on every deck!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Wear comfy shoes! You'll be walking a lot across different decks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Armored Control Room
Inside the ship
Step into the heart of the battleship's command center, marveling at the thick armor designed for battle.
Gunpowder Cartridge Display
Ship's interior
See the massive gunpowder cartridges used to fire the ship's main guns, a testament to its firepower.
Navigation Bridge
Deck 04
Experience the primary steering position during general quarters, offering panoramic views and a sense of command.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Explore Bow to Stern
Take your time to see everything from bow to stern; there's history on every deck!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Wear comfy shoes! You'll be walking a lot across different decks.
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Consider booking guided tours for a richer experience and to see areas not always accessible.
📸 Capture the History
This battleship museum is a fantastic spot for photos, especially if you love military history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Explore Bow to Stern
Take your time to see everything from bow to stern; there's history on every deck!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Wear comfy shoes! You'll be walking a lot across different decks.
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Consider booking guided tours for a richer experience and to see areas not always accessible.
📸 Capture the History
This battleship museum is a fantastic spot for photos, especially if you love military history.
🍽️ Lunch Aboard
Enjoy a unique dining experience with lunch served right on the historic vessel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS Iowa for its impressive historical significance and the immersive experience of exploring a real battleship. Many highlight the engaging exhibits and the opportunity to learn about naval history firsthand. However, some guests have expressed disappointment with certain areas being closed off during their visit, impacting the completeness of the exploration.
"We had an amazing time exploring the Battleship IOWA in Long Beach. The ship is massive and well-preserved, offering a fascinating look into naval history. The self-guided tour was easy to follow, with lots of informative signs and interactive displays. Standing on the deck and seeing the huge guns up close was incredible. The staff and volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions. It’s a great mix of education and fun ,perfect for kids and adults. Highly recommend adding this to your Long Beach itinerary!"
Nicole Y.
"Came here March 2025 on a Saturday when they were doing a tribute to police K-9s day. Pretty cool. The museum is quite amazing. Not only is the ship remarkable but also the exhibits and displays inside are fascinating. Right next to the cruise terminal and port facilities, which provided a nice backdrop for this big beauty. Well worth the hour to hour and a half we spent and the cost of admission. Parking was pretty easy and like two bucks."
Jimmer Wagner
"This was a lot of fun especially for the kids... we did the self guided tour and it took about 1.5 hours. It is a part of history that the kids only know about from books and seeing and touching the real thing really gives them a connection to the effort and sacrifice it all took. The place is well curated, maintained and the volunteers are very helpful..."
Marek Minecki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to the USS Iowa Museum from LAX on a Saturday morning can take about 20-30 minutes without heavy traffic. Using Google Maps once on the road is recommended, taking routes like the 105 to 405 to 110. Factor in potential delays, especially around rental car pickup. +2
There are parking lots available near the USS Iowa Museum in San Pedro. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current parking fees and locations.
While public transport options exist to reach the San Pedro area, driving or ride-sharing services are generally more convenient for reaching the USS Iowa directly.
Yes, the USS Iowa is a popular destination for visitors from all over, including international travelers. It's a significant landmark in the Port of Los Angeles.
LA traffic can be unpredictable. For a Saturday morning visit to the USS Iowa, aim to leave early to account for potential congestion, especially if coming from LAX.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official USS Iowa Museum website for the most up-to-date ticket costs and any special offers.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially save time upon arrival.
The USS Iowa offers various tours, including general admission and specialized guided tours that delve deeper into the ship's history and operations.
Operating hours can change seasonally. Always check the official USS Iowa Museum website for the most current opening and closing times before your visit.
The museum often offers discounts for military personnel, seniors, and sometimes children. Verify these details on their official website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore various decks, the armored control room, gunpowder cartridge displays, the navigation bridge, and learn about naval history through exhibits.
Yes, the USS Iowa offers kid-friendly tours and exhibits, making it an engaging experience for families.
A typical visit can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you opt for guided tours.
While you can see the main guns, access to the interior of the guns themselves might be restricted. Check tour details for specifics.
The museum aims to provide an interactive way to explore naval history, with various exhibits designed to engage visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can enjoy lunch aboard the USS Iowa, offering a unique dining experience right on the historic battleship.
Outside food and beverages policies can vary. It's best to check the USS Iowa's official guidelines regarding outside food.
The dining options might include casual fare, providing a convenient way to refuel during your visit.
The San Pedro area offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants, if you prefer to eat off the ship.
Information on specific cafe or snack bar availability should be confirmed on the USS Iowa's official website or upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The decks, the massive guns, the bridge, and the ship's silhouette against the harbor offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the USS Iowa Museum, allowing you to capture its historical significance.
While generally permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and ports. Check with local authorities and the museum for specific regulations.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture details from afar and close-ups. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids can explore the decks, see the massive guns, and imagine life aboard a warship. The interactive nature of the exhibits helps keep younger visitors entertained and curious throughout the visit. To make the most of the experience with children, consider planning your visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings. This allows kids more space to move around and explore without feeling overwhelmed. Bringing snacks and drinks (if permitted) can also be helpful for keeping energy levels up.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food costs, consider packing your own lunch and snacks, provided it aligns with the museum's policies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the USS Iowa: A Journey Through History
Key areas to explore include the armored control room, where the thick armor protected vital operations, and the gunpowder cartridge displays, showcasing the immense power of its weaponry. The Navigation Bridge provides a commanding view and insight into the ship's command structure.
While the ship is a museum, some Reddit users have noted that certain areas might be closed off during visits, which can be disappointing for some. However, the overall consensus is that there is still 'a lot to see,' and the museum itself is 'pretty good.'
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Comfort is key, as visitors will be doing a lot of walking across various decks. Therefore, wearing comfortable shoes is strongly recommended by many who have visited.
Some visitors have compared the USS Iowa to other battleship museums, like the USS Alabama, noting differences in value and accessibility. However, the general sentiment remains positive, with many expressing a desire to revisit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit