USS Midway Museum, San Diego Travel Guide

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Explore a historic aircraft carrier, walk in the footsteps of 200,000 sailors, and witness naval aviation history at San Diego's USS Midway Museum.

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USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier docked in San Diego, offers an immersive glimpse into naval aviation and life at sea. Explore the vast ship, see restored aircraft, and experience the stories of the 200,000 sailors who served aboard during its impressive 47-year career.

A brief summary to USS Midway Museum

910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, Downtown San Diego, California, 92101, US
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring USS Midway Museum.

Arrive early, especially during peak season (July and August), to avoid long lines and have ample time to explore the ship.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
Bring earbuds to fully enjoy the self-guided audio tour, which provides valuable insights into the ship's history and operations.
Talk to the docents! Many are veterans who served on the Midway and can share firsthand experiences.
Consider visiting both the flight deck and below-deck exhibits to get a comprehensive understanding of life on board.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Old Town San Diego

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Getting There

Walking

From many downtown San Diego hotels or the cruise port, the USS Midway Museum is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the waterfront and follow the Embarcadero. The museum is located on Navy Pier, at the end of Broadway, and is hard to miss. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

The San Diego Trolley's Green Line has a stop (the 'County Center/Little Italy' station) a few blocks away from the USS Midway Museum. From the station, walk south towards the harbor and follow the signs to Navy Pier. A one-way trolley fare is around $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout San Diego. Request a ride to the USS Midway Museum at 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. A short ride from downtown should cost approximately $10-$15.
Parking

Parking is available on Navy Pier, adjacent to the USS Midway Museum, but it can be expensive and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Rates are around $20 for up to six hours (April through September). Metered street parking is available along Harbor Drive, but it has a 2-3 hour time limit. Nearby parking lots charge approximately $2.50 per hour.

Discover more about USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum, located on San Diego's Navy Pier, is more than just a museum; it's a floating city that brings naval history to life. Named after the pivotal Battle of Midway in 1942, this aircraft carrier served the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1992, witnessing key moments of the Cold War and beyond.Visitors can explore over 60 locations throughout the ship, from the sleeping quarters and engine room to the galley and bridge. The self-guided audio tour, narrated by former Midway sailors, provides firsthand accounts and insights into the daily lives of the crew. The museum boasts an extensive collection of aircraft, many built in Southern California, showcasing the evolution of naval aviation. Climb into cockpits, experience flight simulators, and learn about the technology that propelled naval operations for nearly half a century.The flight deck offers panoramic views of the downtown skyline, San Diego Bay, and active U.S. Navy ships. Knowledgeable docents, many of whom are Midway veterans, are available to share their stories and answer questions, adding a personal touch to the experience. The USS Midway Museum hosts memorial services on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, creating a space for remembrance and reflection. With interactive exhibits, films, and climb-aboard aircraft, the USS Midway Museum offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.