The USS Midway Museum offers a rare chance to get up close with a historic aircraft carrier and experience a piece of living American history. The warship is docked right by San Diego’s downtown area and more than a million visitors are welcomed aboard annually to explore over 60 fascinating exhibits spread throughout this floating city. There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, from engaging museum spaces and aircraft collections to numerous flight simulators.

The USS Midway isn’t any ordinary ship – it’s the 20th century’s longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, having taken part in some of history’s most intense combat situations and humanitarian missions. Since getting decommissioned and repurposed as a museum in 2004, it’s become one of San Diego’s main attractions for history-lovers of all kinds. With 225,000 sailors having called the USS Midway home throughout its active duty, you’ll get to experience what it’s like to spend time on this incredible landmark.

USS Midway Museum in San Diego - one of the highlights of 10 Best Museums in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)

What are the highlights of the USS Midway Museum?

Everywhere you look, the USS Midway Museum offers a different aspect to explore. On the flight deck, you’ll find a great collection of faithfully restored jet fighters, attack helicopters and bombers. The Fresnel Lens Optical Landing System shows you how pilots are guided to safety as you get an incredible glimpse of what take-off and landing on an aircraft carrier takes. Meanwhile, you can head inside the bridge to see precisely where admirals commanded the ship.

There are many more exhibits to delve into as you head below deck through the claustrophobic corridors. Here, you can see what it's like to spend your days aboard the USS Midway, with the Clow Line area helping you appreciate the kitchen that served 14,000 meals every day. If you decide to plunge deeper into the ship, the Engine Room and Main Engine Control show the remarkable power behind this giant steam-powered ship.

Where to eat, drink and shop near the USS Midway Museum?

With the USS Midway Museum located conveniently in San Diego Bay, you’re never far from some of the city’s top culinary destinations. Featuring outstanding views of the aircraft carrier from a rooftop terrace, The Fish Market has been a top spot for those who love fresh seafood dishes since 1982. It serves from oysters and clam chowder to burgers and lobster. You won’t be disappointed with the food or the scenery.

For a wider range of choice, take a short walk to Seaport Village. This stylish complex houses a total of 17 casual eateries and fine-dining options, as well as brewery bars and wine-tasting rooms. If you're looking to visit San Diego’s shops following your visit to the USS Midway Museum, bustling neighbours such as Little Italy, Gaslamp Quarter and Downtown are just a quick stroll or trolley ride away.

Good to know about the USS Midway Museum

Thanks to the USS Midway Museum’s central location, it’s easily reached from San Diego International Airport. If you happen to be driving to the museum, you can find 12-hour paid parking along Navy Pier. Keep in mind that this attraction is one of the most popular in all of San Diego, so be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time and avoid the afternoon crowds for the best experience.

You should also remember that the USS Midway Museum remains much the same as the day it was decommissioned. While there are lifts found in various areas, there are still stairs, low ceilings, and tight spaces to navigate, which some people may find challenging. Fortunately, the museum states that 60% of its exhibits are wheelchair accessible.

USS Midway Museum in San Diego

Ubicación: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

Horarios: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Teléfono: +1 619-544-9600

Hudson Brown | Escritor

Este artículo incluye opiniones del equipo editorial de Go Guides. Hoteles.com compensa a sus autores por los artículos que se muestran en el sitio. La compensación puede incluir costos de viaje y otros costos.

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