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Embracing Peace: An Iconic Symbol of Hope in San Diego

Experience the iconic 'Embracing Peace' statue in San Diego's Tuna Harbor Park, a symbol of hope and the end of WWII, near the USS Midway Museum.

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The 'Embracing Peace' statue, located in Tuna Harbor Park in downtown San Diego, is a monumental sculpture depicting a sailor kissing a nurse, inspired by the famous 1945 V-J Day photograph. This 25-foot tall, 6,000-pound artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the joy and relief felt at the end of World War II.

A brief summary to Public Art Embracing Peace

  • Tuna Ln, San Diego, Downtown San Diego, California, 92101, US
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue and capture stunning photographs with the San Diego skyline.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby USS Midway Museum for a deeper understanding of WWII history.
  • Take a stroll along the Embarcadero to enjoy other waterfront attractions and public art installations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the USS Midway Museum, walk south along the Embarcadero. Tuna Harbor Park and the 'Embracing Peace' statue will be on your left, a short distance from the museum entrance. The walk is flat and easily accessible.

  • Public Transport

    Take the San Diego Trolley to the Convention Center or Seaport Village station. From either station, walk towards the waterfront and follow the Embarcadero south. Tuna Harbor Park will be on your left. A one-way trolley fare is typically around $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Tuna Harbor Park, 3 Tuna Lane, San Diego. The driver can drop you off directly in front of the park. A short ride from downtown San Diego (e.g., Gaslamp Quarter) will likely cost between $8 and $15.

  • Parking

    Several parking lots are available near Tuna Harbor Park, including the Navy Pier parking lot adjacent to the USS Midway Museum. Hourly rates typically range from $2.50 per hour. Metered street parking is also available, costing $2.50 per hour, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season or special events.

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Discover more about Public Art Embracing Peace

Located in Tuna Harbor Park, right on San Diego's waterfront, the 'Embracing Peace' statue is a captivating piece of public art. Created by artist John Seward Johnson II, it replicates the iconic photograph of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square on V-J Day, marking the end of World War II. The statue, originally named 'Unconditional Surrender,' was installed in 2007 but was later renamed 'Embracing Peace' in 2013. The sculpture captures the exuberance and relief felt at the end of the war, offering a powerful symbol of hope and connection. Standing at 25 feet tall, the statue provides a striking visual against the backdrop of the San Diego harbor. The statue is near the USS Midway Museum and the 'National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military' sculpture, making it a prime location for tourists exploring the waterfront. The park provides informational boards about the local marine life, enhancing the visitor experience. While the statue is widely loved, some have raised concerns about copyright and the depiction of sexual harassment.

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