san diego ca aircraft carrier tour

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USS Midway Museum

*san diego’s most popular family attraction.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a historic aircraft carrier.  Activities for all ages including self-guided audio tours, theater, flight simulators, climb-in aircraft, ejection seats and cockpits, guided tours of the bridge and more. Audio tours are available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, French and German.

Spectacular flight deck views of the downtown skyline, San Diego Bay Bridge, and active U.S. Navy ships! Midway is an opportunity to experience the uniqueness of San Diego, original home of TOP GUN.

Conveniently located in downtown San Diego along the Embarcadero. Parking available alongside on Navy Pier. Closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

*Cited by TripAdvistor

USS Midway Museum - a real aircraft carrier...fun for the family, once in a lifetime memory for everyone! Create a once in a lifetime memory exploring the USS Midway, the longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century! Imagine living aboard a floating city at sea with 4,500 shipmates, by exploring galleys, officer's country, sleeping quarters and the 4 acre flight deck. Admission includes a self-guided audio tour to over 60 locations from the engine room to control tower, narrated by Midway sailors who lived or worked in each.

Family-oriented activities for all ages abound! Check out the new child's audio tour with content geared specifically for 7-12 year-olds, take the kids and explore, climb-aboard aircraft and cockpits, walk through helicopters, ride three types of flight simulators, climb in bunks, sit in ejection seat theatre, listen to real pilot conversations during Desert Storm, take the family to sea without leaving port!

Located alongside Navy Pier in downtown San Diego, parking is managed by ACE Parking.

Neighborhood: Downtown

910 North Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101

Contact Info

(619) 544-9600

Daily: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Last Admission at 4:00 PM Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving

Admission Prices:

• $31 Adult (Ages 13+)
• $21 Youth (6-12)
• $21 Veterans (w/ valid ID)
• Children 5 and under are free
• Free admission Active Duty Military, Law Enforcement & Firefighter (w/valid ID)

Experiences

• More than 30 restored military aircraft trace 80 years of naval aviation history
• Battle of Midway Theater
• Flight Simulators
• Award-winning audio tour
• Virtual Reality experience

More Information

• Destination Weddings
• Historic Landmark
• World-famous docents bring Midway's flight deck to life
• Kid Friendly
• General Admission - Adult
• General Admission - Child
• General Admission - Senior
• Restaurants

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USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

Year in and year out, the USS  Midway  Museum is one of San Diego’s most popular attractions. This unique destination is actually a United States naval aircraft carrier that has been decommissioned and turned into a museum. Visitors to the USS  Midway  Museum can peruse a series of exhibits that demonstrate what life was like for the crew in every aspect of their time in service, as well as explore the over 30 historic aircrafts that remain onboard the vessel.

Save on your visit to the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum! USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum is included on the Go San Diego Pass . Save an additional 5% on the Go City Pass with Coupon Code: GO5CMANTIS The discount stacks on top the current sale prices! Promo expires on February 29th.

USS Midway History

Over the course of the 20 th  Century, no United States aircraft carrier was in active service for longer than the USS  Midway . Named in honor of the Battle of Midway, a significant naval confrontation that took place in early June 1942, the USS  Midway  was launched in September 1945, just after the close of World War II. The USS  Midway  would go on to see action all over the world, engaging in deployments off the coast of Vietnam, joining in NATO exercises, and serving as flagship naval carrier during Operation Desert Storm.

The USS  Midway  was decommissioned in 1992, and spent the next decade in storage. In 2003, plans were made to transform  Midway  into a museum, and the ship was moved to San Diego Bay. The USS  Midway  Museum opened its doors in 2004, and millions of visitors have passed across its decks ever since.

What’s at the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier

There are four primary exhibit areas at the USS  Midway  Museum: Hangar Deck, Flight Deck, Below Decks, and the Aircraft Gallery. Each one of the deck exhibits contains a plethora of hands-on experiences that share the story of life on the  Midway , details about its lengthy career, and historical artifacts pertaining to some of its many missions. Meanwhile, the Aircraft Gallery is home to over 30 historic aircrafts and helicopters. All of these aircrafts have been meticulously restored, and each one represents an important part of the  Midway ’s service.

The Battle of Midway Theater is a 90-seat facility that shows a 15-minute film called “Voices of Midway.” This riveting movie tells the story of the famous World War II battle that gave its name to the aircraft carrier, and is part of your general admission ticket. If you’re willing to pay a bit extra, you won’t want to miss going for a ride on one of the  Midway ’s flight simulators, Air Combat 360 and Virtual Reality Flight Experience: Screaming Eagles.

The USS  Midway  Museum has its own dedicated, on-site gift shop. Known as the Jet Shop, it occupies a prominent spot on the ship’s hangar deck, in the same location where jet engines were serviced by crew members when the vessel was on active duty. There you’ll have your pick of Navy-related apparel, souvenirs, books, and USS  Midway -themed memorabilia.

Not too far from the Jet Shop is Café 41, USS  Midway ’s in-house restaurant. Café 41 has been recently renovated and now features an all-new menu. Favorites here include staples like sandwiches, burgers, salads, and more. There’s usually a daily special or two available as well. If you’re hungry but in a hurry, Jet Express is a “grab-n-go” option that might work best for you and your needs.

Tips for Visiting the USS Midway

• If you are planning to visit many tourist attractions while in Sand Diego, think about buying a Go San Diego Pass . It includes admission to the Midway Aircraft Carrier as well as lot of other popular tourist attractions for one price.
• The USS  Midway  Museum is a large site, where there’s a lot to see and do. Therefore, it’s recommended you budget three to four hours when planning to visit, and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be on your feet plenty!
• Unlike most museums, the USS  Midway  Museum actually permits same-day re-entry. All you have to do is swing by the Visitors Information Center for more details.
• All visitors are provided a self-guided audio tour with their admission. This terrific resource is divided into three parts covering the flight deck, hangar deck, and below-deck, and since it’s self-guided, you can customize your listening experience to suit your interests. If you were to listen to the entire tour, it could take you upwards of four hours to complete. The museum recommends bringing your own headphones or earbuds. 
• There are plenty of museum docents situated throughout the museum just waiting to answer any of your questions. Many of these individuals have personal experience as navy veterans, and they can easily be identified by the yellow hats they wear. 
• Air Combat 360 is a two-person flight simulator. Both spots must be occupied by participants, each participant must be at least 48” tall, and it costs less than $10 per person. Virtual Reality Flight Experience: Screaming Eagles is similarly priced, and each participant must be at least 38” tall. 
• Traveling exhibitions and special events routinely stop at the USS  Midway  Museum. Make sure you consult the museum’s calendar of events prior to your visit in order to be aware of any exciting, upcoming happenings that might be taking place around the time of your trip.

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San Diego Museum Council

USS Midway Museum

Imagine experiencing life at sea aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers. Visitors to the USS Midway Museum enter a floating city at sea and walk in the footsteps of 225,000 Midway sailors who served our country and upheld the American ideals of strength, freedom and peace.

The USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Guests can spend the day exploring more than 60 exhibits with a collection of 29 restored aircraft. The self-guided audio tour, narrated by Midway sailors, brings the carrier’s history to life. Those who dare can “take to the sky” aboard one of two flight simulators.

Current & Upcoming Exhibitions

• Our Exhibits
• Hangar Deck Exhibits
• Flight Deck Exhibits
• Below Deck Exhibits
• Aircraft Gallery
• TBD Devastator
• Midway Stories
• Remembrance Wall
• Midway Virtual Tour
• Battle of Midway Theater
• Flight Simulators
• Guided Island Tour
• Junior Pilot Program
• Catapult & Trap Talks
• Overnight Adventure
• Little Skippers

SPECIAL DAYS

• Destination: Midway
• Legacy Week
• 4th of July Celebration
• Veterans Day Celebration
• Top Gun Maverick

Visit USS Midway Museum

910 North Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 544-9600

Open daily: 10 AM - 5 PM

https://www.midway.org/

910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA

San Diego Museum Council PO Box 371322 San Diego CA, 92137 (619) 957-4660 Email Us

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USS Midway Museum San Diego

Visit a Museum with a Storied History

If you’ve taken a cruise around the San Diego Bay or walked along the waterfront, chances are high that you’ve seen the USS Midway buoyed along the coast. Seeing this massive aircraft carrier from afar, it’s a sight to behold, but it’s even more rewarding to head inside.

Conveniently located along the Embarcadero , a coastal maritime hub near Downtown San Diego , the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum showcases important military history in a dynamic and interactive environment.

The museum is inside the USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century with over a decade of history.

My Honest Opinion on Visiting USS Midway Museum San Diego

If you’re a military history buff, or if you want to learn more about San Diego’s Naval history, the USS Midway Museum cannot be beat. I really think if you’re headed to San Diego and only have limited time to visit the area’s top attractions , you should consider the USS Midway Museum as a top priority.

This is one of the best resources on Naval exploits on the West Coast, and it’s one of the few places you can see real planes and helicopters that took part in missions, alongside replicas you won’t find anywhere else.

At this point, it’s also an iconic piece of San Diego history that I think you’ll find well worth a visit!

Our team enjoys the museum so much that it’s worth mentioning that we decided to feature the USS Midway Museum in our Most Fun Things to Do in San Diego guide !

A Quick History about the USS Midway

The USS Midway was the largest ship in the world at the time of its creation in 1945, and it remained the largest until 1955. It was named after the historic Battle of Midway, entering service just after the end of World War II and serving throughout the Cold War, and the Vietnam War. Where the USS Midway sailed along side the USS Coral Sea and the USS Enterprise.

The last mission that the USS Midway served on was in Operation Desert Storm. It was the Navy's flagship vessel in the Persian Gulf where it launched more than 3,000 combat missions.

The USS Midway Brought to San Diego

In 1992, the ship was finally retired and renovated so it could open in 2004 as the base for the USS Midway Museum. It is situated along San Diego Bay in between Seaport Village and the Maritime Museum of San Diego in the Embarcadero .

While its days as a warship might be long over, the Midway still serves the important purpose of educating and entertaining visitors who can tour the inside of the ship and learn about its exploits during wartime. People of all ages can enjoy the museum, and military history buffs will find its exhibits especially engaging.

Save on Tickets to the USS Midway

The USS Midway Museum is just one of the many attractions included in the Go City San Diego pass , which can help you save on your trip.

Buy a pass before you go to take advantage of our exclusive additional discount (use code GVSD5OFF) to maximize your savings !

Seeking a 4-star hotel near the bay? Tour the InterContinental San Diego with Todd and learn about its family-friendly features, plus breathtaking views of the San Diego Marina including the Cruise Port and the USS Midway from private balconies and the pool.

What You’ll See During Your Visit

As one of the biggest aircraft carriers ever built, the USS Midway is a sight to behold. Boarding the ship from the Navy Pier is an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience.

During my visit, I could feel the change in atmosphere right away. It was like walking in the footsteps of actual sailors and entering a part of history!

Once you enter the museum, you can look through the different areas of the ship and the featured exhibits. Each exhibit showcases a different aspect of the aircraft carrier’s history, military history, or San Diego’s relationship with the Navy.

You can tour through the museum at your own speed, or you can take a tour guided by a museum docent for additional context and historical facts. Group tours are also available.

Attractions that you can visit with a Go City San Diego pass include:

The San Diego Zoo, Birch Aquarium, SeaWorld, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, Harbor Cruise, USS Midway Museum, the NAT Museum, Whaley House, PETCO Park Tour, iFLY San Diego and many, many more!

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Activities and Military History Exhibits

There’s something for everyone to learn at the USS Midway Museum, regardless of how much you know about naval history. The exhibits in the museum educate visitors on the history of the USS Midway itself, as well as San Diego’s longstanding ties to the US military.

Aircraft Gallery

Throughout the museum, you'll see many restored aircraft, all of which were meticulously restored to ensure they’re as historically accurate as possible. The USS Midway features more than 30 different pieces of aircraft, including helicopters, jets, and propeller planes.

The airplanes on display are pulled from many different eras in military history, some of which haven’t been used for decades and others that are still in use today.

Gallery Deck

The Gallery Deck includes many exhibits that focus on the realities of living on an aircraft carrier and the daily lives of its residents, such as the Carrier Air Group.

Tour through the Command Information Center to see where tactical decisions were made, and learn to tie knots at the Anchor Chain Room, also called the fo’c’sle. The Gallery Deck also includes an exhibit on the role of helicopters in Naval Aviation.

Hangar Deck

The floating Hangar Deck is where you'll find the Battle of Midway Theater, as well as many interactive displays and restored aircraft.

You'll also get an up-close view of the R-2800 Twin Wasp engine, which is a piece of WWII era machinery known for powering the F4U Corsair. You'll even get to try out the bunks enlisted sailors slept in when on the USS Midway.

The Hangar Deck also includes an exhibit on Operation Frequent Wind. Learn how the Midway was instrumental in evacuating Vietnamese refugees and American civilians during the Fall of Saigon in 1975, and see a Bird Dog light plane that was part of the mission.

Flight Deck

Along with many types of restored aircraft, the flight deck also features the island or bridge area. This is the command center for coordination flights off the ship, as well as where the person steering the airplane sits.

If you've ever been curious about what an admiral's living quarters on an aircraft carrier look like, you'll find them right beneath the flight deck.

In addition to the many types of aircraft on display here, you'll also get a glimpse at what life is really like on an aircraft carrier.

The Below Deck section features the Midway chapel, sickbay, main engine control, and the wardroom, where officers had meals and socialized. You'll also get to see the narrow bunks where aircraft occupants spent their nights.

TBD Devastator

The TBD Devastator inside the USS Midway Museum is a replica of the torpedo bomber used in the Battle of Midway during World War II. It is the only one of its kind in the entire world, and the same replica was featured in the 2019 movie Midway.

Battle of Midway Theater

Nearby the TBD Devastator exhibit is the Battle of Midway Theater. This theater seats up to 90 guests at a time and runs various movies and multimedia presentations, including the Voices of Midway presentation.

Voices of Midway is a 15-minute film that tells the story of the Battle of Midway, which was one of the most important battles of World War II. It includes video and audio clips from real soldiers who took part in the battle.

The film is shown multiple times throughout the day, and the ticket price is included in the cost of admission to the museum.

Flight Simulator

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to fly in the cockpit of a military aircraft, now’s your chance!

In the Flight Simulator exhibit, you can try your hand at flying and perform the rolls, spins, and loops of a real fighter pilot, all without ever leaving the ground.

Guided Tours

While you’re welcome to walk through the museum at your own speed, you can also enjoy a guided tour with a small group of other museum visitors.

During the tour, a knowledgeable docent will walk you through the different exhibits and give you additional information. As experts on the museum, with a wealth of naval history, the docents are here to answer your questions and improve your experience.

Catapult and Trap Talks

The catapult and trap talks are delivered from the Flight Deck. Here, volunteer docents explain how huge aircrafts were landed and launched from the ship.

They are experts in their field—after all, the docents giving the presentation have first-hand experience guiding landings and take offs!

The process of landing on or launching from an aircraft carrier, known as trap and catapult respectively, can be both dangerous and exciting for pilots and those directing them. Former Navy pilots will explain what that process is like, what makes it so perilous, and how a trap and catapult can be performed successfully.

Souvenir Photos

There are plenty of perfect places to take a commemorative photo during your visit. Snap a picture of you walking up the ramp to the ship, or take a photo while you’re in the Flight Simulation. Don’t forget to take a picture of the ship when you’re outside!

When you enter the ship, the museum’s photo team will take a professional-quality photo of the whole family. You can choose a photo package and get your photo developed at the Photo Center at the center of the Hangar Deck.

Tours and Programs for Kids

The USS Midway Museum is accessible to all ages. If you’re looking for a way to engage your child and encourage them to learn, the museum runs specially tailored programs for younger visitors.

Little Skippers

The Little Skippers program includes a series of activities for junior pilots to complete to earn their piloting wings. A narrated audio tour guides kids to over 30 different locations in the aircraft carrier, ensuring they make the most of their trip.

Kids can complete fun activities like learning how the Navy communicates with flags, coloring in different aircrafts on display at the museum, and completing word puzzles to learn facts about the USS Midway.

Youth Tours

The museum also offers discounted admission and special guided tours for students and youth groups. There are educational programs for Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts as well, allowing kids to build their character and leadership skills as they work toward their merit badges.

Snooze Crewz

For kids who are comfortable spending the night at the museum, the Snooze Crewz is always a fun option.

During this overnight adventure, kids can really feel like they’re living the life of a Navy sailor when they dine in the ship’s galley, sleep in authentic Navy bunks, and complete simulation activities. Different packages are offered for family Snooze Crewz, youth group programs, and even movie nights.

Junior Pilot Program

The Junior Pilot Program is an audio tour designed to enhance the museum experience for kids. Narrated by Airman Sam Rodriguez, kids are tasked with visiting different parts of the museum, learning from the exhibits, and answering questions on a sheet they can pick up from the Information Booth.

Once kids have filled out the sheet, they can return to the Information Booth for a celebratory ceremony, where they will receive their Junior Pilot Wings.

Important Tips for Your Visit

Below are a few helpful tips worth noting before your next visit to the museum.

Nearby parking is available at the Port of San Diego passenger lot. In the event that the lot is full, street parking is also available near the museum and the parking lot. The museum also offers a shuttle that runs from the lot to the docks, which operates from May to September each year.

Where Can You Stay Nearby?

The hotels of the Embarcadero offer great views of the bay, and many are close enough to the museum that you can see the USS Midway floating in the harbor from the balcony of your room.

One such hotel that I’ve enjoyed staying at is the InterContinental San Diego . It features a modern, stylish room design and a rooftop restaurant and bar that offers the best vantage point for looking out over San Diego

Where to Eat Nearby

The USS Midway Museum includes its very own cafe, the Midway Marketplace, located on the Hangar Deck. Here, you and your family can grab salads, pre-made sandwiches, snacks, sides, and desserts.

The cafe serves lighter fare so you can eat quickly and get back to your visit.

The Jet Shop, located on the Hangar Deck near the cafe, gets its name because it’s situated in the same spot where sailors once repaired the jet engines from planes that would land on the ship.

The clothing, children’s books, unique memorabilia, and San Diego souvenirs offered at the Jet Shop uphold the museum’s mission to entertain and educate, while preserving history and inspiring curiosity in its visitors.

Accessibility

Modifications have been made to the Midway aircraft carrier to ensure all guests are able to enjoy their time at the museum.

Elevators and access routes connect the Hangar and Flight Decks, and about 60% of the museum’s exhibits are wheelchair-accessible. While pets are not allowed, service animals are welcomed, provided they remain on a leash at all times.

For hearing impaired or visually impaired guests, there are accessible alternatives to the standard guided tour options. Pre-recorded videos with tour guide information delivered through American Sign Language with closed captioning are available, as are audio descriptive tour recordings.

Both options are included for no additional cost.

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• San Diego USS Midway and Aircraft Carrier Museum Excursion S3345

San Diego USS Midway and Aircraft Carrier Museum Excursion

San diego, california / usa (excursion id s3345).

• Free Cancellation Until 24 hours Before Excursion
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• Duration At leisure
• Activity Level Low
• Minimum Age All Ages
• Languages EN

Description

• Meeting Point
• Restrictions

Cancellation

• Entrance ticket for the USS Midway Museum!
• Audio narrated and interactive visit!
• Enjoy more than 60 exhibits!
• Available Virtual reality flight simulations (additional cost on site)!

See a piece of history during your stay in San Diego whether you are in town before or after a cruise or on an extended vacation in the area. You will check in at the Midway. As a museum ship, the Midway provides an exciting opportunity for visitors to explore life aboard an aircraft carrier. A general admission ticket provides access to a self-guided audio visit that includes 60 separate exhibits located throughout the ship and more than 29 restored aircraft. You will view several decks as you learn about life aboard an aircraft carrier and why these vessels are called floating cities. The excursion includes the berthing areas for officers and sailors, the galley where over 13,000 meals were served each day, the sick bay and pilot-ready rooms as well as the hangar bay and flight deck. You will learn how the crew produced water, powered the carrier, and maintained the aircraft. Climb the ladders to the bridge and look down on the more than 1,000-foot-long flight deck. Visit primary flight control, the location where the air boss oversaw flight operations, and view the Fresnel lens, the part of the landing system that enabled pilots to "call the ball". This excursion brings this legendary vessel up close for you to experience life as an aviator through high-tech simulators, music videos, and short films. No matter what your age, this excursion will not disappoint!

A voucher will be sent in a separate email from your e-ticket. Please read the voucher for any special information or requirements. This voucher must be printed and presented to the local operator. Without the voucher in hand, you will not be allowed to do the excursion.

What is included?

• Entrance ticket for the USS Midway Museum
• Audio narrated and interactive tour
• Enjoy more than 60 exhibits
• Available Virtual reality flight simulations (additional cost on site)

Excursion Notes

• We recommend you bring your camera and cash for additional purchases, souvenirs, etc.
• When purchasing the Senior discounted ticket, please present a valid photo ID.

Where we meet

For the San Diego USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum Excursion, you will meet after a short walk from your cruise terminal. All necessary details will be printed on your Electronic Shore Excursion Ticket.

Excursion Restrictions

• A voucher will be sent in a separate email than your e-ticket. This voucher must be printed and brought with you to give to the local operator. Without the voucher in hand, you will not be allowed to participate.
• Guests may not book this excursion more than 6 months before their excursion date.
• The ticket holder must present a photo ID.
• Redeem your e-tickets at the USS Midway Museum booth for a timed entrance pass.
• This excursion is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility issues may not be able to see the complete exhibits due to stairs.

Excursion FAQ

• Your ship arrives into port late and you cannot make it in time to the meeting location (we will verify with the tour operator).
• Your ship skips/misses the port.
• Weather conditions or equipment failure prevents the operator from running the excursion.
• A medical problem prevents you from safely participating in the excursion (we will verify with the excursion operator and the guest may send doctor's note). This applies to individuals only and not the remainder of the group.
• Cancellations/deposit refund requests that do not comply with the above may not be subject to refund.
• Refunds may be subject to a service charge fee as determined by the payment processor, please refer to Terms and Conditions for more information.

Book this San Diego Excursion

San Diego USS Midway and Aircraft Carrier Museum Excursion Experiences

This excursion is available to everybody and specially designed to accommodate passengers of the following cruise lines.

San Diego USS Midway and Aircraft Carrier Museum Excursion Reviews

Spanning from the culmination of World War II through Operation Desert Storm, the USS Midway had an illustrious career. Experience the fascinating legacy of this floating museum! Berthed at the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway was named in honor of the pivotal World War II battle.

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• GIVE & JOIN
• Plan Your Adventure
• Buy Tickets
• Directions + Parking
• Public Transportation
• Self-Guided Audio Tours
• Calendar of Events
• Accessibility
• Cafe & Gift Shop
• Souvenir Photos
• Traveler Info

GROUP VISIT

• Docent Tours
• Student & Youth Groups Admission

Exhibits & Activities

• Our Exhibits
• Hangar Deck Exhibits
• Flight Deck Exhibits
• Below Deck Exhibits
• Aircraft Gallery
• TBD Devastator
• Midway Stories
• Midway Virtual Tour
• Battle of Midway Theater
• Flight Simulators
• Guided Island Tour
• Junior Pilot Program
• Catapult & Trap Talks
• Overnight Adventure
• Little Skippers

SPECIAL DAYS

• Destination: Midway
• Legacy Week
• 4th of July Celebration
• Veterans Day Celebration
• Top Gun Maverick

SCHOOL & YOUTH

• School & Youth Overview
• Distance Learning School Programs
• Distance Learning Resources
• School Programs

YOUTH PROGRAMS

• Youth Programs Overview
• BSA Programs
• GSUSA Programs
• Leadership Academy

SNOOZE CREWZ

• Youth Group Overnight
• Family & Individual Overnight

MIDWAY INSTITUTE FOR TEACHERS

• Midway Institute for Teachers
• Teacher Professional Development
• Lesson Plans
• Resources For Education

EDUCATION RESOURCES

• USS Midway Research Library
• Battle of Midway Bookstore
• Connect2Compete

Give & Join

• Membership Overview
• Become a Member
• Renew Membership
• Gift Membership
• Events for Members
• Membership FAQs
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Join the Crew
• Volunteer FAQs
• Job Opportunities

MIDWAY AMERICAN PATRIOT AWARD GALA

• Sponsorship Opportunities
• Buy Gala Tickets

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP

• Partnership Opportunities
• Our Valued Partners

USS MIDWAY MUSEUM

• Freedom Park Navy Pier
• Giving Opportunities
• Artifact Donations

MIDWAY FOUNDATION

• Grant Application

• Plan Your Event
• Venue Spaces
• Event Photos
• Enhancements
• Exclusive Caterers
• Event Inquiry Form

MILITARY EVENTS

• Event Request Form
• Military Events FAQs

• Donation Requests
• Social Media
• Speakers Bureau
• Midway Veteran Resources & Services
• Our Culture
• Job Application Form
• Midway History
• Board of Directors
• Karl’s Korner

MEDIA & PRESS

• Media & Press Overview
• Press Releases
• Media Resources
• Media Request Form

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

• Citizenship Program
• Flag Service
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee

• 360 Virtual Tour

Explore the USS Midway Museum from home!

Enjoy a unique and exclusive virtual opportunity to explore America’s favorite aircraft carrier museum’s most popular spaces and exhibits. Listen to the award-winning audio tour, view a naval aircraft gallery and read amazing historical accounts of the USS Midway.

Scroll down to start your adventure !

• Flight Deck
• Hangar Deck
• Jet Airplanes
• Helicopters
• Visitor Center
• Helicopter Cockpit

Listen to what it was like to live aboard a floating city at sea.

Choose from two engaging audio experiences for the entire family to enjoy! Midway’s award-winning  Audio Tour  &  Family Audio Tour  bring the ship’s history to life.

Our  Family Audio Tour  is perfect for our Little Skippers! Families can follow Airman Sam Rodriguez as he leads youngsters on an eye-opening and entertaining audio tour to more than 30 locations throughout the aircraft carrier.

Our  Audio Tour  is great to listen to Midway pilots describe their incredible experiences flying more than 20 different aircraft from the flight deck off of this floating airport. Learn what it was like to drop anchor, sleep in an enlisted sailor’s bunk or fly a WWII aircraft. From the Sick Bay, Galley, Laundry and Engine room hear Midway sailors describe their daily shipboard life in their own words!

Turn your speakers up and click on the numbered sound bites to begin your tour of the USS Midway!  Tours are available in 6 languages, simply click on the flag to access your desired language.

FREE- Get your official USS Midway cell phone wall paper! Be the talk of your “crew” with these one of a kind photo backdrops for your cell phone.

Midway’s aircraft gallery.

Explore a unique collection of more than 30 Navy aircraft including jets, propeller planes, and helicopters! Aircraft Gallery »

Karl's Korner: History Blog

Meet Karl Zingheim, USS Midway’s ship historian and a San Diego State University military professor and specialist in naval history. Karl shares slices of naval history in his blogs that are family friendly and compelling reads for the military history or curious buff. Click below to read.

Karl’s Korner »

Little Skippers: Activities for Kids

Learn naval history and all about the USS Midway Museum from Airman Sam Rodriguez. Download activity sheets, recipes, and enjoy the Family Audio Tour for some family fun in the comfort of your home. Little Skippers   »

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• The Private USS Midway Tour

Enjoy a private tour guide at the USS Midway Museum, a true naval aircraft carrier offering a unique experience for all. With 60 exhibits, 29 restored aircraft, and exploration of galleys, officer’s quarters, and sleeping areas of this 69,000-ton warship, it's a deep dive into naval life. Located in Navy Town USA, the Midway brings history to life. Positioned majestically in San Diego's harbor, the USS Midway Museum is more than just a ship; it's a living, breathing monument to naval history, inviting you to step back in time and experience the magic and legacy of one of America's most storied vessels. Join us on this VIP Tour and immerse yourself in the unparalleled history of The USS Midway, where every exhibit and aircraft sparks a new sense of wonder and respect for the naval forces that protect our seas.

Approx. 1 Hour. Admission is included and is good all day.

Tour Description

We invite you to be our VIP guests on an exclusive, private guided tour of the USS Midway Museum, one of San Diego's premier attractions, with Another Side Tours. The USS Midway stands as a testament to American naval history, having been the Navy’s longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, from 1945 to 1992. At one time, it was also the largest ship in the world, a floating city at sea. During your personalized tour, led by a knowledgeable local docent, you'll explore over 60 interactive exhibits and 25 meticulously restored historic aircraft. From the depths of the engine room to the heights of the flight deck, each corner of the Midway offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the sailors who served on this iconic vessel. This exclusive package not only includes your private guided tour but also offers the flexibility to continue your exploration at your own pace after the tour concludes. Delve into the heart of naval aviation, experience firsthand the tight quarters of crew living spaces, and marvel at the complexity of the ship's engineering. Your visit becomes even more immersive with stories and anecdotes shared by your guide, bringing to life the extraordinary contributions of the Midway and its crew to global military history. Stand on the bridge and gaze out at the San Diego skyline, imagining the decisions made from that very spot during critical moments in history. But the experience doesn't end there. Another Side Tours ensures your VIP visit is unforgettable, providing insights into San Diego's broader military heritage. Climb inside the history of the Midway for an intimate understanding of not just the ship, but also the city that has been its home. Whether you're a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique way to experience San Diego, this private tour of the USS Midway Museum promises an engaging, educational, and memorable journey through America's rich naval past, all brought to you by Another Side Tours.

Tour Details

$ 149.00 per guest.

TOUR LOCATION:

USS Midway Museum in San Diego, California.

Offered Daily and Hourly, Upon request.

This experience takes place in most weather conditions.

MEETING LOCATION:

USS Midway Museum 910 N Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101

Please contact us for any additional information at 1-619-848-0348 .

TOUR DURATION:

Private Tour.

# OF GUESTS:

Any group size can be accommodated. 2 guest minimum.

WHAT TO WEAR:

Comfortable clothing.

WHAT TO BRING:

Please bring yourself ready for an awesome time!

CANCELLATION POLICY:

No cancellations or refunds within 7 days of your tour date.

The Private USS Midway Tour Includes:

• Admission to explore the USS Midway Museum, the Navy’s longest serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century (1945-1992).
• A friendly and knowledgable docent to lead your 1-Hour guided tour.
• Explore a floating city at sea, the USS Midway Museum.
• Access to the largest ship in the world for a decade, offering a unique historical perspective.
• Self-guided exploration of 60 exhibits and viewing of 25 meticulously restored historic aircraft.
• Comprehensive tour from the engine room to the bridge, unraveling the military history of San Diego.
• Exclusive 1-hour private guided tour with a knowledgeable local docent.
• Insider insights and stories shared by the docent, providing a deeper understanding of the USS Midway's history.
• An unforgettable VIP visit, offering an enhanced and personalized experience.
• An opportunity to climb inside the history of the Midway, gaining a unique and immersive perspective.
• Enjoy military history firsthand with the expertise of Another Side Tours, ensuring a memorable visit.

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USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum in San Diego

Recently Amie and I spent the weekend in San Diego and tried to do a lot of the attractions that we had never done before.  From visiting Cabrillo National Monument, to hiking Cowles Mountain , to seeing the statues of the greatest generation in the port of San Diego. The last attraction that we had on the list, however, was to visit the USS Midway at the Broadway Pier in Downtown San Diego. I had members of my family serve in the military, one even in the Navy, so being able to tour this ship was a great experience and one I would suggest to anyone.

History & Information

“USS Midway was an aircraft carrier of the United States Navy, the lead ship of her class, and the first to be commissioned after the end of World War II. Active in the Vietnam War and in Operation Desert Storm, she is currently a museum ship at the San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum in San Diego, California. She is the only remaining US aircraft carrier of the World War II era that is not an Essex-class ship. When she was completed in 1945, she was the first US warship that was unable to utilize the Panama Canal due to her size. On 10 January 2004, the ship was moored at her final location at the Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego, where she was opened to the public on 7 June 2004. In the first year of operation, the museum doubled attendance projections by welcoming 879,281 guests aboard.”

The ship is open most days from 10 AM to 5 PM and costs $18 for adults (as of 2014). Once you board the ship, the tour is what you make of it. There is an audio tour that you can take with your headset, or you can simply wander the hallways of this famous ship and marvel at what life must have been like for the sailors. There are also 25 different types of helicopters and planes on top of the ship and flight simulators and other activities for the kids. We opted for the self guided tour and began our exploration.

The Interior Decks

What I immediately noticed when walking down to the interior of the boat was that it was not made for people like me. I am 6’3″ and had to duck while walking through doors. If you are much taller than me, you may not like browsing the interior of the ship as it seems to get smaller and smaller; however, it is worth the lack of comfort to see all of the unique sites.

We spent some time walking around the kitchen, which had about 20 tables and a small line where the food could be served before walking further into the ship to the sickbay and dentist area. The sickbay is not somewhere you would want to be while on the ship. It looked like it would make me sicker to be down here with the intensely close quarters and realistic drilling sound they have in the dentist offices. I was not a fan, but it was interesting to see.

From there, we headed into the engine room and saw the colossal engine that propelled a boat of this size. One of the people there informed us that this was one of four engine rooms, which is crazy to think about. All of the grating you walk on is see-through, and you can see parts of the engine below it, almost like a scene out of Aliens.

From there, we headed to the jail. The jail was a collection of tiny compartments to hold the higher offenders as well as one large room for the people who needed a night to readjust themselves. If you are claustrophobic, this is not where you would want to end up. You can even pose for pictures next to the fake jail cells if you so desire. They also have lots of wax figures everywhere which make for some funny photos.

Flight Deck & Planes

After spending an hour in the Interior decks, we headed up to the Flight Deck to check out the planes and the admiral and captain’s quarters.  The aircraft alone were worth the price of admission for me as they were from many different eras and were exciting to check out. You can even sit inside a plane for pictures and walk inside many different types of helicopters. What is immediately evident is how little amount of space they have to take off, and it gave me a much better understanding of how difficult this must be. Check out some of the pictures below.

Next, we headed into the Admiral and Captain Quarters, and I have to say this is the place to be on the boat. They have their private kitchen where cooks can cook for them, as well as living rooms, full bathrooms, and even couches. They also had an entire war room complete with maps and chairs situated around a table, just like in all of the great war movies.

After this, we headed back down to the Hanger Deck to look through the shops before leaving. You could easily spend a whole day here as we walked around for at least 2 hours and didn’t see it all before we headed out. It is a remarkable experience if you are into machinery and military history, and even if you are not, I would still recommend it. Make sure to leave me a comment if you enjoyed it as well.

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USS Midway: Floating Museum in San Diego Harbor

The USS Midway floating museum serves as a tribute to those who served aboard her and other flattops America has sent into battle.

This article appears in: February 2012

By Christopher Miskimon

A boat trip through San Diego harbor provides visitors with tangible proof of America’s military might. San Diego is one of the U.S. Navy’s largest home ports and the headquarters of all naval air forces, including its aircraft carriers. On any given day, one might see everything from nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to hospital ships anchored at the port. Gray-painted helicopters fly overhead, joined by the occasional orange-and-white Coast Guard aircraft. Nearby are the Marine Corps’ Miramar air station and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Camp Pendleton, where thousands of Americans have made the grueling transformation into Marines, is just a few miles north. Standing on the deck of a tour boat in the harbor center, one is literally surrounded by the awesome power of the United States military.

Nestled in the middle of the harbor is a visible marker of the heritage of the sailors and Marines who made the Navy into the respected and feared force it is today. The USS Midway floating museum stands as a tribute to those who served aboard her and all the other flattops America has sent into battle, as well as those who pioneered carrier aviation, ushering in a new era of naval combat. The largest of only five American aircraft carriers in existence as a museum ship, Midway serves as a both an educational tool and historical monument.

Midway was built in Newport News, Virginia, at an original cost of $90 million. She was commissioned on September 10, 1945, just days after World War II ended. When built, she displaced 45,000 tons, much larger than the 30,000-ton Essex-class carriers preceding her. Midway was the lead ship of her class, with two sister ships, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Coral Sea. While she entered service too late for World War II, Midway went on to serve throughout the Cold War, including combat tours in Vietnam and Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm in 1991.

During her service, Midway made several noteworthy achievements. In 1947, as part of the Navy’s budding missile program, she was the only ship ever to launch a German V-2 rocket successfully. Arriving off the shores of Vietnam in the spring of 1965, pilots from Midway were the first Americans to shoot down an enemy MiG fighter jet in the war. After a return to the United States for a controversial modernization project, Midway went back to Vietnam in 1971 to conduct further combat missions. On January 12, 1973, two of her flyers shot down a MiG17 with a Sidewinder missile.

It was perhaps fitting that a carrier with so much service in Vietnam returned in 1975 along with three other carriers and numerous other ships to evacuate South Vietnam after it was defeated by the North. Offloading much of her air wing to accommodate extra helicopters, Midway rescued more than 3,000 refugees. The final combat missions of her air group were flown over Iraq and Kuwait when Midway served as the flagship for the Persian Gulf Battle Force. In 1992, the ship was decommissioned in San Diego and towed to Bremerton, Washington, to join the inactive fleet.

After a few years on the inactive list, most naval ships are consigned to the scrap yard, but Midway was spared this fate. In San Diego, interest grew in acquiring Midway as a floating museum. Once an agreement had been reached in September 2003, the carrier was towed to San Diego, making a brief stop in Oakland for a fresh coat of paint. Midway arrived at her permanent berth on January 10, 2004, and the museum opened on June 7 that year. More than 3,000 visitors toured the ship on her first day as an attraction.

A Tour Through the USS  Midway

The first thing that strikes a visitor to Midway is her size. This ship is enormous, towering over the pier and adjacent parking lot. A sturdy gantry leads up to the main entrance on the ship’s hangar deck, where visitors can pick up an electronic tour guide with a set of earphones. Midway ’s audio guides are easy to use. As you walk through the ship, you will see numbers posted next to the various exhibits. Simply punch in the number on the guide’s keypad and press the play button. A description of the exhibit will play, explaining what you are looking at and how it worked in relation to the rest of the ship. Many include audio recordings of former Midway sailors describing their personal experiences. The museum has gone to great lengths to portray the everyday lives of sailors aboard ship. Midway ’s crew numbered 4,500 in all, with each man having to perform his particular job to keep the carrier operating. Walking through the ship and listening to the crew’s testimonials gives visitors some idea of the thousands of individual tasks involved with running a giant aircraft carrier.

The tour is self-paced, and visitors are free to wander at their own speed. Along with the audio guides, museum docents are posted throughout the ship, ready to answer specific questions. Most of them are former sailors who served aboard aircraft carriers, although not all on Midway. They add a rich level of detail to the experience.

Exhibits on the Hangar Deck

The exhibits run the gamut of the ship’s service, from the post-World War II period through Desert Storm and the early 1990s. Immediately to the right of the hangar deck entrance sits a restored Vought F4U Corsair fighter, perhaps the most recognizable carrier aircraft of World War II due to its distinctive gull wing design. Beyond is a display dedicated to American carrier aviation. Paintings of various carriers and plaques listing the classes and names of all of America’s flattops surround a large-scale model of the USS Gambier Bay (CVE73), an escort carrier sunk during the battle off Samar by a Japanese task force led by the battleship Yamato on October 25, 1944.

The rest of the hangar deck contains not only historic military aircraft but a number of attractions designed for tourists of all ages. Two more of World War II’s famous naval aircraft are on display, a Douglas SBD Dauntless and Grumman TBM Avenger. The Dauntless was America’s prime dive-bomber during the first half of the war, destroying the Japanese carrier fleet at Midway and turning the tide in the Pacific War. The Avenger torpedo bomber made its first appearance at the Battle of Midway, when six of them took part in the attack on the Japanese Navy. Although five were lost in their first engagement, the aircraft went on to do good service throughout the war.

Mixed in among the aircraft on display in the hangar deck are groups of interactive simulators and devices designed to let visitors experience military flight in a number of different ways. The simplest of them are actual cockpit sections from real aircraft, such as the F4 Phantom and F8 Crusader. One can climb in, stare at the vast array of buttons, switches, and displays and imagine what it must have been like to soar through the skies over Vietnam or elsewhere. Farther aft on the hangar deck are a number of video flight simulators that replicate the thrill of flying a combat aircraft; some even twist and turn, taking the rider through full 360-degree turns and rolls. A size requirement prevents smaller children from taking part, but there are other simulators that offer a gentler ride that children can enjoy.

The rest of the hangar deck is taken up with various displays telling the history of Midway and her technical specifications. The mechanically inclined will enjoy a selection of the more common naval aircraft engines. At the rear of the deck are restrooms, a well-stocked gift shop, and a small café serving sandwiches and other snacks. Those interested in learning more about Midway can purchase books about the ship and her sailors written by Scott McGaugh, the museum’s marketing director, who has been involved in the museum for 15 years.

From the Living Quarters to the Flight Deck

As you make your way around the hangar deck, there are several stairs and a few ladders leading below to those sections of the ship open for viewing. The flight deck may be accessed from the hangar deck by elevator. Following the audio tour will provide detailed information on how and where the sailors aboard Midway lived, worked, and relaxed. The ship’s various living spaces highlight the relatively Spartan conditions aboard a Cold War naval vessel and the differing levels of comfort afforded the crew based on rank. Sailor’s berths are simple bunks with a locker underneath to hold personal possessions, while the captain’s suite spans several rooms. Of particular note is the noncommissioned officers’ mess. One of the few amenities afforded petty officers was a nicer place to eat and relax.

While the living spaces exhibit the conditions and social order of the crew, the various working spaces show just how complex a modern warship is. Literally thousands of sailors had to work at hundreds of different tasks to keep Midway functioning at peak efficiency. Touring the engine room, electrical control spaces, machine shops, sick bay, mess, and laundry facilities highlights just how many separate tasks a warship required.

Moving upward, tourists will see the areas most easily recognizable on a carrier: the flight deck and ready rooms. Well-known from numerous films about fighter pilots, the ready rooms on Midway are full of memorabilia of various Navy fighter squadrons and still contain the seating the original pilots used. There are enough period photographs and aircraft models to keep even the most knowledgeable visitor entertained.

The flight deck holds Midway ’s pride and joy, her air group. Spanning the Korean War through Desert Storm and beyond, the aircraft on display represent American naval aviation’s contribution to the Cold War era. Early jets like the F9F Panther sit near state-of-the-art planes like the F/A18 Hornet, still in use today. Most of Midway ’s combat service came during the Vietnam War, so aircraft of that era are well represented. Fighters like the F4 Phantom and F8 Crusader line up next to vintage attack aircraft such as the A6 Intruder and A1 Skyraider. Supporting planes are also present, including the E2 Hawkeye and various helicopters. A T2 Buckeye training jet and several of the helicopters are open to allow visitors and their families to sit in the cockpits and rear compartments. In all, some 26 historic aircraft are on display at the museum.

Beside the planes, docents explain the workings of Midway ’s steam catapults and the complex operations of launching and landing aircraft aboard what is essentially a giant floating airfield that rose and fell constantly. The carrier’s island offers looks at the bridge, admiral’s quarters, and radio room. The bridge is the only space aboard ship where visitors must wait for a guided tour, which occurs frequently.

San Diego’s Proud Naval Tradition on Display

While Midway is by far the largest thing to see in San Diego harbor, a number of other museums and monuments are well within walking distance and worth spending the effort to visit. Immediately south of Midway ’s dock is a row of veteran’s memorials dedicated to San Diego’s proud naval tradition. There are sculptures dedicated to sailors’ homecomings and the USS San Diego, a World War II antiaircraft cruiser that earned 18 battle stars during the war. A nine-foot-tall black obelisk commemorates all of America’s aircraft carriers by name.

Perhaps the most moving tribute is dedicated to Taffy 3, the task force of U.S. Navy vessels that fought in the battle off Samar, part of the larger and better-known Battle of Leyte Gulf. When a large Japanese force attacked the American invasion fleet, all that stood in its way were the destroyers and destroyer escorts of Task Force 77.4.3, known as Taffy 3. Joined by planes from some nearby escort carriers (including Gambier Bay, which was sunk), the tiny, outmatched force attacked the Japanese, putting up stiff resistance and causing so much damage and confusion to the Japanese that they retired without achieving their goal of attacking the vulnerable transports of the American invasion force.

Less than a half-mile north of Midway is another attraction for military history buffs. The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers a number of historic ships from around the world. Two submarines are on display at the museum. First is the USS Dolphin, the Navy’s last diesel-electric submarine. Constructed as a research sub, Dolphin served from 1968 to 2007. In November 1968, Dolphin set a depth record of more than 3,000 feet and fired a torpedo from the greatest depth that one has ever been fired. Much of her career was spent testing the technologies used on current fighting submarines.

The other sub on display was a fighting boat, the Soviet B-39, a Foxtrot-class submarine. Also diesel-electric powered, the Foxtrots were an enlarged and improved version of World War II-era German U-Boats. B-39 was commissioned in 1974 and served until 1994. In fact, one can see a photo of Midway taken through B-39 ’s periscope when she once shadowed the American carrier in the Pacific. Walking through the submarine allows one to see how Soviet sailors lived, and it is interesting to note the comparative roughness of the boat’s fit and finish.

The final ship of interest is HMS Surprise, a replica of the 24-gun frigate HMS Rose of the 18th-century British Royal Navy. Built in Canada in 1970 and based on original drawings, Rose spent decades as a sail training vessel before being sold to the 20th Century Fox Company. Renamed Surprise, she was used in the film Master and Commander and later in one of the Pirates of the Caribbean films. In 2007, the museum bought and restored the ship, which still sails occasionally.

Visiting San Diego Harbor

A visit to San Diego harbor offers a number of interesting sites for the individual military historian or family looking for entertainment. It can easily fill a day, and visitors can take their time and still see everything with time set aside for lunch aboard Midway or at a local seafood restaurant. There is adequate parking on Midway ’s pier, with all the other sites within easy walking distance. Numerous bicycle taxis move up and down the waterfront if walking is a problem. Midway forms a fitting centerpiece to the San Diego experience. For more information, visit www.midway.org .

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Proud to have served on board. Planning on bringing my Daughter ( A. George Washington navy vet herself and my Grandson some tome this year or next.

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Aircraft Carrier Tour - USS Midway Museum

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• USS Midway Museum

Aircraft Carrier Tour

Must do sight in San Diego. Really get feel for the carrier. It is large so bring your walking shoes & energy!

What can you say, this is an AIRCRAFT CARRIER!!! There is so much history just with the aircraft carrier, but all of the added aircraft make even more so. If you are any kind of military buff, Veteran, or into aviation at all, this is a must see while in San Diego.

Plan to spend several hours on board. Follow the tour headset, lots of information . Stop and listen to the flight deck speaker, they are awesome with real live stories and don’t forget the tour of the bridge. The shear magnitude of the ship and the people who ran it, WOW!

An old ship is just an old ship: a museum is just a museum. A ship like a museum only become great when “manned” by top notch personnel. Having the good fortunate to visit many old ship/museums I can state unequivocally that the Midway deserves the BIG E for reaching the top ranks of ship/museum!

We enjoyed a stroll around the ship, you can have a narrated guide if you like with no extra cost. Give yourself at least 2 hours. An ex-naval pilot gave an indepth presentation on the launch of air craft from ship.

It was crowded (day after Holiday Bowl game, so many tourists) but did not spend lots of time in standing in line while going through the tour. Wear comfy shoes and be prepared to walk. Flight deck had no shade, and "cramped" interior therefore it got warm. Very clean interesting attraction.

How to Tour the USS Midway Museum

A visit to San Diego, California is not complete without a tour of the USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier now docked in the bay. With 10 acres of exhibits and displays, this “City at Sea” is open for you to explore – and it’s massive. From the time you enter on the Hangar Deck, you can go up and down to levels from the top “Island,” where the captain steered the ship, down to where you are actually below the outside water line among a nest of water pipes that fed the boiler.

Learn the Basics about the Midway

Enter on the Hangar Deck

Go Below Deck to Learn About Life at Sea

Five doctors, including surgeons, were onboard. Four dentists worked on the ship. Fire was a concern always in the forefront for this self-contained sea-going city. The red pipes carried sea water, and the blue had an added chemical to make foam. Depending on the cause of the fire, various pipes could be opened to quench it. Full Steam Ahead to the Engine Room

Continuing down, you come to the big engine room, with its dials and pipes for water. Midway ran on steam power, so water was important. The phrase “full steam ahead” applied. Four engines moved the huge Midway along.

Climb Up to the Island

Make Your Way to the Radar Room and the Map Room

Go Outside to the Flight Deck

Board a helicopter and get a feel for what it’s like to ride in it. The seats are not plush.

Enjoy the Views from the Flight Deck

Practical Information

For information about tickets, hours, and exhibits, check out the Midway’s website .

PLANNING A TRIP TO SAN DIEGO? GET MORE INFORMATION WITH THESE GUIDES AND MAPS!

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25 comments.

What an awesome place to tour!

A wonderful concept for a museum!

Interesting exhibits! I would love to visit.

What a fantastic experience you had! I have never visited a ship like this.

I’ve visited several ship museums but not the Midway. Sounds marvelous!

Superb what an awesome museum to visit, knocks the spots of ours

Awesome shots, Sharon! We had that same feeling at closing time – now, already? great you took to many pics of the inside, because that is what we skipped – too set on seeing all the different models of airplanes. One wouldn’t think this would be so interesting, even to non-air force people, but you get addicted to it, while viewing and hearing all the stories, and history! Great post for All Seasons, Sharon. Loved your comment about painting in your church. If I get the opportunity, I will sure make use of it:):) Many thanks for the invitation:) and have a lovely week.

We have something similar in Wilmington NC. We did the tour a few years ago, but it was a somewhat claustrophobic experience for me! I don’t think I’d be cut out for that life! Thank you for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2020/02/inside-shop.html

My husband would absolutely love to visit this museum. After reading your article I was amazed to learn just how many things there are to do there.

The Midway is such a cool spot to take visitors to San Diego. I’ve gone to a few events on it as well & it’s always incredible!

I love museums that offer something unique and let you really have an experience, I’ve never been to San Diego but I would def check this out!

This is fascinating! It was in effect a floating city wasn’t it? I laughed out loud at the price a Rolex was back then, but I wonder how many got sold on board? Thank you for sharing, it truly is a unique piece of maritime history.

This is so interesting and unique! I thoroughly enjoy visiting museums and this is definitely one I’d love to add to my bucket list.

This is soooooooo cool!! Love seeing all the pics! I never knew the shipp was very self sufficient and had doctors, surgeons and dentists! Full respect to those who served it there

What a lovely blog! We love to visit museums and especially maritime and ship museums. You could spend half a day exploring this place. Saving your blog for my future reference when I go to San Diego. 🙂

I’ve never visited a ship museum before. This looks like a wonderful experience.

We would have stopped here when we were in San Diego if I would have known how cool it was then! Thanks for sharing!

Believe it or not, I was in San Diego on a work trip, barely left the hotel and missed this completely. Looks like a return trip is in order!

I visited an aircraft carrier ship in NYC once and i loved it, it was interesting. So I definitely will want to see this one in San Diego when I go there 🙂

After dozens of trips to San Diego, I FINALLY got to do this tour and it is so worth it! You got great photos! It was pretty cool to see so much of a naval ship, my dad was in the Army and I have seen plenty of tanks and airplanes, but not ships so I really enjoyed it!

Oh wow – this is truly an experience that we missed out on when we last visited San Diego. Your pictures really help put into perspective how massive USS Midway is – I was amazed to see how large the hangar deck is! It’s nice to take the complimentary audio tours as they can be so informative – glad to hear that there’s one available on deck as well. Will definitely include a visit to USS Midway on our itinerary next time we visit San Diego. Thanks for all the details.

I have visited San Diego dozens of times and I still have not seen the USS Midway Museum. And to be honest, I never thought I wanted to, but after seeing your photos I think I need to go. I had no idea how big it is and how much there is to see on board. Thanks for all of this great information!

My children loves to visit museum and that too which are full of science, technology and automobiles. Now for me too visit to San Diego, California is not complete without taking a tour of the USS Midway. Good to see a retired aircraft carrier which is now put up at the bay and holding 10 acres of exhibits and displays. It is good that we can go up and down to levels from the top “Island,” where the captain steered the ship, down to below the outside water line among a nest of water pipes that fed the boiler. It must be a real experience.

I was one of the Photomates on the Midway 1982-1984. Love to someday walk on her again.

[…] Details about touring USS Midway Museum […]

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Business | Breeze Airways bringing 5 nonstop flights to…

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Business | Breeze Airways bringing 5 nonstop flights to San Diego, just in time for summer travel

The airline also operates in los angeles, john wayne airport and san bernardino and san francisco..

By Lori Weisberg | San Diego Union-Tribune

Just in time for late spring and summer travel, low-cost carrier Breeze Airways is making its debut at the San Diego airport next month with the first of five new nonstop flights to major cities in North Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Leading the slate of new nonstop destinations is Raleigh-Durham, N.C., which will begin April 30. The remaining nonstops — to Jacksonville, Fla., Norfolk, Va., Cincinnati and Pittsburgh — all start in early May.

Each of the flights, Breeze says, are seasonal, which means they will not be available year-round. A Breeze spokesperson said that all of the flights, except for Raleigh-Durham, will end by late August or early September. There is no end date yet for the Raleigh flight.

Breeze Airways is a relatively new airline started in 2021 by David Neeleman, the founder of JetBlue. While none of the new Breeze destinations for San Diego are currently served by any of the airlines operating out of San Diego International Airport, Southwest Airlines will be offering a single nonstop flight weekly to Pittsburgh this summer between June and August.

With the start of the spring season, Breeze Airways announced on Wednesday a promotional discount of 34 percent off all round-trip base fares booked by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time Friday. The promotion is good for travel between March 27 and Oct. 1 of this year.

All the new San Diego routes will be served on Breeze’s new fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

Breeze, which characterizes itself as a “nice low-cost carrier,” offers three classes of fares, with the pricier tiers including seat assignments and complimentary checked luggage. Breeze does not charge change or cancellation fees, and for flights that customers cancel, a credit is available for future use during a two-year period.

In California, Breeze is already operating in San Francisco, Los Angeles, John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, and San Bernardino.

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