USS Midway Museum - a large ship with flags on it
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USS Midway Museum

4.8
·51k reviews·San Diego, United States

Explore a legendary aircraft carrier, home to historic aircraft and immersive exhibits. A floating piece of history!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore.

CrowdLow
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USS Midway Museum - a large ship with flags on it

USS Midway Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a legendary aircraft carrier, home to historic aircraft and immersive exhibits. A floating piece of history!

4.8
(51k reviews)

"This might be one of the only public accessible aircraft carriers in the world."

Vertical photo
TIP

Audio Tour is a Must

Enhance your visit with the self-guided audio tour. It brings the ship's history to life! :microphone:

Talk to the Volunteers

Many volunteers are veterans with incredible stories. Ask them questions! :olderman: :olderwoman:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Flight Deck Aviation

Flight Deck Aviation

Flight Deck

Explore a stunning collection of restored aircraft, from vintage fighters to modern jets. Feel the history of naval aviation.

Below Deck Exploration

Below Deck Exploration

Below Decks

Discover the ship's inner workings: engine room, galleys, and crew quarters. A fascinating glimpse into life at sea.

Flight Simulator Experience

Flight Simulator Experience

Flight Deck

Get a taste of piloting a jet with thrilling flight simulators. An adrenaline rush for all ages!

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While walk-up tickets are available, booking your USS Midway Museum tickets online can save time, especially during peak seasons. Consider combo tickets if you plan to visit other San Diego attractions.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs aboard the USS Midway. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the many decks and exhibits without discomfort.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The USS Midway (now a museum) was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century and being next to it in a speed boat is mind blowing and impressive! @ussmidwaymuseum #sandiego #ussmidway #visitsandiego
sdspeedboat
68.6K likes • 2.6M views

Audio Tour is a Must

Enhance your visit with the self-guided audio tour. It brings the ship's history to life! :microphone:

Talk to the Volunteers

Many volunteers are veterans with incredible stories. Ask them questions! :olderman: :olderwoman:

Maverick called—he wants YOU on deck! ✈️ Tickets for the USS Midway Museum’s annual fan-favorite Top Gun Maverick Party and Movie Night are NOW ON SALE! 🚨 Join us on Friday, May 23, 2025, for an unforgettable night filled with high-flying action, delicious food (including real popcorn), dancing, and more, all on Midway’s flight deck! Plus photo-ops with @californiatomcruise @thearizonaiceman @cali...
ussmidwaymuseum
50.2K likes • 847.3K views
USS Midway Museum- San Diego, CA The USS Midway is the longest serving aircraft carrier in the US. It is now docked in San Diego and open to tour! While visiting on spring break, we knew we had to visit this museum. There are audio guides to take you through all 3 levels (The Hangar, Flight deck & Below deck). Our boys participated in the junior pilot program where they were encouraged to TOUCH EV...
southsoundfamily
66 likes • 4.4K views

Mind Your Head

It can get cramped below deck. Watch your head if you're tall! :person_standing:

Allow Plenty of Time

You can easily spend 4-5 hours here. Don't rush your exploration! :clock:

The COOLEST EXPERIENCE EVER!!! #ussmidwaymuseum
homie4liffe
41 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Audio Tour is a Must

Enhance your visit with the self-guided audio tour. It brings the ship's history to life! :microphone:

Talk to the Volunteers

Many volunteers are veterans with incredible stories. Ask them questions! :olderman: :olderwoman:

Mind Your Head

It can get cramped below deck. Watch your head if you're tall! :person_standing:

Allow Plenty of Time

You can easily spend 4-5 hours here. Don't rush your exploration! :clock:

Check for Discounts

Veterans and military personnel often receive discounts. :military_medal:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(51k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the USS Midway Museum as a highlight of any San Diego trip, marveling at the well-preserved aircraft carrier and the passionate volunteers who bring its history to life. The sheer scale and depth of exhibits offer an immersive experience, though some note the cramped conditions below deck and the ticket price.

"This was a certain highlight of my vacation to San Diego. A definite must see when in the city.

This might be one of the only public accessible aircraft carriers in the world. And the staff has done a spectacular job on bringing this ship to life for the public.

It's a floating museum, with lots to see and do, I would recommend getting a self-guided audio tour, and asking things at the staff. Lots of planes to see, and lots of places to go in the ship.

Spend almost 5 hours in there and it could have been 7 easy if we weren't bound by parking time.

Be careful if you're tall, it's quite cramped inside the bowels of an aircraft carrier."

Dutch Dummy

"It was very cool to tour this ship. The video at the beginning was top notch! There are so many volunteers eager to give information or share historic facts about the Midway. The audio devices are very helpful. They’ve done such a good job with this floating museum. Veterans get a decent discount!"

Josh Moyes

"The USS Midway Museum is an absolutely incredible experience! The ship itself is a magnificent piece of history, so well preserved that you truly feel like you’re stepping back in time. Walking the decks and exploring the hangars gives you a deep appreciation for the scale and power of this machine.

What makes it even more special are the dedicated volunteers—many of whom served on the Midway or similar ships. Their knowledge, stories, and passion bring the history to life in a way that plaques and exhibits alone never could. Credit and gratitude go to them, and to all who served aboard this great vessel."

C L

What People Like

Incredible aircraft collection
Passionate veteran volunteers
Immersive historical experience

What People Dislike

Cramped below-deck areas
Ticket price can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The USS Midway Museum is located at 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. It's easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even a scenic walk if you're staying nearby. Parking is available at the nearby Navy Pier Garage, though it can be pricey. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or public buses that stop close to the Embarcadero.

Yes, there is parking available at the Navy Pier Garage, which is adjacent to the museum. Be aware that parking fees can add up, especially for longer visits. Some visitors suggest looking for slightly cheaper parking options a few blocks away if you don't mind a short walk.

Absolutely! The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates several bus routes that stop near the USS Midway Museum along Harbor Drive. The Santa Fe Depot, a major transit hub, is also within walking distance, connecting you to various trolley and bus lines.

The USS Midway Museum strives to be accessible. While many areas are accessible, some parts of the ship, particularly below decks, have steep stairs and narrow passageways that may be challenging for wheelchairs or mobility issues. They offer accessible routes where possible and have elevators to some decks.

If you're arriving by cruise ship, the USS Midway Museum is conveniently located within walking distance of the cruise terminals along the Embarcadero. It's a straightforward and pleasant stroll to reach the ship.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the USS Midway Museum can vary, but generally, adult admission is around $26-$30, with discounts for seniors, military, and children. It's always best to check the official USS Midway Museum website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance to potentially save time and money. Some visitors look for deals on sites like Groupon, though availability can be limited.

Yes, purchasing your USS Midway Museum tickets online is highly recommended. It allows you to skip the ticket line upon arrival, saving valuable time, especially during busy periods. You can often find the best prices and ensure your entry by booking ahead.

The USS Midway Museum offers discounts for active military personnel, veterans, seniors, and children. It's worth checking their website or inquiring at the ticket counter about any available promotions or special offers, such as those sometimes found on Costco or Groupon for the Midway ship tickets.

The USS Midway Museum typically opens daily around 10:00 AM and closes between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, with the last admission usually an hour before closing. Hours can vary seasonally and for special events, so it's crucial to check the official USS Midway Museum hours on their website before your visit to avoid disappointment.

No, you need a valid ticket to enter the USS Midway Museum. While you can purchase tickets at the entrance, buying them online in advance is generally advised to ensure entry and potentially get better pricing. The Midway ship tickets are essential for experiencing this historic aircraft carrier.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The USS Midway Museum offers a vast array of exhibits, including over 60 restored aircraft on the flight deck and in the hangar bay, interactive displays, and the chance to explore the ship's interior, such as the engine room, sleeping quarters, and the bridge. The audio tour is highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the ship's history and life aboard.

Most visitors spend at least 3 to 5 hours exploring the USS Midway Museum, and some could easily spend 7 hours if they had the time. The sheer scale of the ship and the depth of the exhibits mean you'll want to allocate ample time to fully appreciate everything. Rushing through is not recommended.

Yes, the self-guided audio tour is typically included with your USS Midway Museum tickets. This audio guide provides fascinating insights into the ship's history, the aircraft, and the daily lives of the crew, making it an invaluable part of the experience. It's a great way to learn without needing a live guide.

In addition to the self-guided audio tour, the USS Midway Museum often has knowledgeable docents and volunteers stationed throughout the ship who are eager to share their stories and answer questions. While not formal 'guided tours' in the traditional sense, these interactions offer invaluable personal perspectives on the ship's history and naval life.

The flight deck offers incredible panoramic views of the San Diego skyline and the bay, making it a prime spot for photos. The aircraft themselves provide dramatic backdrops. Don't miss the chance to pose with some of the iconic planes or capture the intricate details of the ship's architecture below deck.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe onboard the USS Midway Museum where you can purchase food and beverages. It offers a convenient option for refueling during your visit. Many visitors also choose to bring their own snacks and water, especially if they plan to spend several hours exploring the ship.

The cafe typically offers standard casual fare such as sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, and snacks. It's a good place to grab a quick bite while you're immersed in the museum experience. Don't expect gourmet dining, but it serves its purpose well for a museum visit.

Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages into the USS Midway Museum. This can be a great way to save money and have snacks readily available, especially if you have children with you or plan a long visit. There are areas where you can sit and enjoy your packed meal.

The USS Midway Museum is located on the Embarcadero, which is surrounded by numerous dining options. You'll find a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, within walking distance. This offers plenty of choices for lunch or dinner before or after your visit.

Prices at the museum cafe are generally in line with what you might expect at a tourist attraction. While not the cheapest option, it's convenient. Bringing your own food is a more budget-friendly alternative if cost is a major concern.

📸 📸 Photography

The USS Midway Museum is a photographer's dream! The flight deck, with its array of aircraft against the San Diego skyline, offers stunning shots. Explore the intricate details of the planes, the ship's architecture below deck, and capture the passion of the volunteers sharing their stories. The bridge and the island structure also provide unique perspectives.

Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the USS Midway Museum for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in areas where it might be disruptive or prohibited. Some exhibits might have specific photography restrictions.

A versatile camera is best. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a good zoom lens will allow you to capture both wide shots of the flight deck and detailed close-ups of the aircraft and ship interiors. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also excellent for capturing the atmosphere, especially in the dimly lit lower decks.

While personal photography is usually allowed, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Check with museum staff if you have specific professional photography needs.

Try capturing the scale of the aircraft by shooting from a low angle. Photograph the intricate details of the ship's machinery below deck. Capture candid moments of volunteers interacting with visitors. The sunset views from the flight deck are also spectacular. Don't forget to get a shot with the iconic 'Welcome Aboard' sign!

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The USS Midway Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Kids are often captivated by the sheer size of the aircraft and the opportunity to explore a real aircraft carrier. The flight deck with its array of planes is a major hit, and the flight simulators offer an exciting, albeit sometimes pricey, adventure. Many interactive exhibits are designed to engage younger visitors, making history fun and accessible. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as the onboard cafe can be a bit pricey for families, and comfortable shoes are a must for little legs navigating the ship's many levels.Reddit

Consider the audio tour as a way to keep older children engaged with the historical narratives. For younger ones, focus on the visual aspects – the planes, the different rooms, and the vastness of the ship. The USS Midway Museum tours are generally well-paced for families, but be prepared for stairs and potentially crowded areas. The midway museum provides a unique educational experience that can spark a lifelong interest in aviation and naval history.

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For true aviation buffs, the USS Midway Museum is a pilgrimage. The collection of restored aircraft is unparalleled, featuring iconic planes from different eras of naval aviation. You can spend hours examining the details of each aircraft, from the powerful engines to the intricate cockpit controls. The flight deck offers a chance to stand among these legends and imagine them in action. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the technology and the pilots who pushed the boundaries of flight.

The midway aircraft carrier museum provides deep dives into the operational history of the ship and its role in various conflicts. The USS Midway CV 41 itself is a marvel of engineering, and understanding its capabilities as a platform for aerial warfare is fascinating. The museum uss midway offers a comprehensive look at naval aviation, making it an essential visit for anyone passionate about planes and military history.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the USS Midway Museum to be an incredibly rich experience. The USS Midway ship itself is a significant piece of 20th-century history, having served for nearly five decades. Exploring the ship's interior, from the command center to the crew's living quarters, offers a tangible connection to the past and the lives of the sailors who served aboard. The battleship midway's role in various historical events is well-documented through exhibits and the personal accounts of veterans.

The museum midway san diego provides a detailed look at naval operations, technological advancements, and the human element of military service. The midway tour with the audio guide is highly recommended for gaining a deeper understanding of the historical context. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a pivotal era of naval history and appreciate the sacrifices made.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the USS Midway: A Floating City

The USS Midway (CV-41) wasn't just a ship; it was a self-contained floating city. Commissioned in 1945, it served for an impressive 47 years, making it one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in U.S. Navy history. As you explore, you'll discover the incredible complexity of its design, from the massive flight deck capable of launching and recovering aircraft to the intricate network of below-deck compartments. These include the engine room, where powerful turbines once generated immense energy, the galley that fed thousands of sailors, and the surprisingly compact crew quarters that housed the ship's personnel. The sheer scale of the midway aircraft carrier is awe-inspiring, and understanding its operational capacity provides a profound appreciation for naval engineering and the lives of those who served aboard.

Many visitors are struck by the sheer number of decks and rooms within the ship, often describing it as a maze. This complexity is a testament to the ingenuity required to house and support a small city at sea. The museum midway san diego has done an exceptional job of preserving and presenting these spaces, offering a tangible connection to the past. You can walk through areas like the commanding officer's quarters, the radio room, and even the sick bay, each offering a unique perspective on the daily routines and challenges faced by the crew. The air craft carrier museum experience is immersive, allowing you to truly step back in time and imagine life aboard this legendary vessel.

For those interested in the battleship midway's operational history, the exhibits detail its various deployments and significant events. The USS Midway CV 41 played a crucial role in numerous naval operations, and the museum effectively conveys this legacy. The midway tour experience, especially with the audio guide, helps piece together the ship's journey and its impact on naval history. It’s a powerful reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who served on this iconic midway ship.

The Aircraft Collection: Wings of History

One of the most captivating aspects of the USS Midway Museum is its extensive collection of restored aircraft. Spread across the flight deck and the hangar bay, these planes represent various eras of naval aviation, from World War II-era fighters to more modern jets. Each aircraft tells a story of technological advancement and the bravery of the pilots who flew them. Visitors can get up close to iconic planes like the F/A-18 Hornet, the A-4 Skyhawk, and the SBD Dauntless, among many others.

The midway museum has meticulously restored many of these aircraft, making them look as if they could take flight at any moment. The air craft carrier museum excels at presenting these machines in a way that highlights their power and historical significance. The midway aircraft carrier tickets grant you access to walk among these giants of the sky, offering incredible photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the engineering marvels they represent. The sheer variety of planes on display provides a comprehensive overview of naval aviation's evolution.

Beyond just viewing the aircraft, the museum offers insights into their operational capabilities and the missions they flew. Interactive displays and knowledgeable volunteers often provide context, explaining the role each plane played in naval history. This makes the museum uss midway not just a static display, but a dynamic educational experience that appeals to aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The midway carrier museum truly brings the golden age of naval aviation to life.

Insider Tips from Visitors and Creators

Travelers and content creators alike emphasize the importance of maximizing your visit to the USS Midway Museum. A recurring piece of advice is to wear comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs across multiple decks. Many suggest dedicating at least 4-5 hours to explore thoroughly, as the ship is vast and packed with exhibits. The audio tour is frequently praised as an essential tool for understanding the ship's history and the stories behind the exhibits, making it a worthwhile addition to your midway tour.Reddit

Don't hesitate to engage with the volunteers; many are veterans with firsthand experience and captivating stories to share about life aboard the USS Midway CV 41.Reddit This personal connection adds an invaluable layer to the museum experience. For those who are tall, a common tip is to watch your head as you navigate the lower decks, as the passageways can be quite cramped.Reddit This practical advice helps avoid minor discomforts and ensures a smoother exploration of the midway ship.

When it comes to USS Midway tickets, booking online in advance is often recommended to save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Keep an eye out for potential discounts for military personnel, seniors, or through third-party vendors like Groupon, though availability can vary for midway discount tickets.Reddit Finally, while there's a cafe onboard, some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks and water to save money and have refreshments readily available throughout your extensive exploration of this incredible aircraft carrier museum.

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