Anyone vacationing in California is sure to enjoy the brilliant beaches, temperate weather, and limitless tourist attractions. If your travels take you to San Diego then a true crowd-pleasing adventure is the USS Midway Museum. This massive historical naval aircraft carrier - which is now a floating museum - is so enormous, it was unable to pass through the Panama Canal during its years in use! An essential vessel of the US Navy between 1945 and 1992, this jewel of engineering is the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the past century and accommodated over 4,500 crew members aboard its many polished decks. To get the most out of your visit, we have put together a guide to USS Midway Museum. Scroll down to find out more.
Things to do / highlights
Air combat flight simulators
Too compelling to dismiss is the collection of elaborate air-combat flight simulators in the central hangar. Though not included in the admission price, this is something thrill-seekers find difficult to pass up. The cost for one ride with one or two participants is 16 USD. To experience an action-packed addition to an unforgettable museum experience, this wild ride is completely worth the extra money.
Flight deck
The flight deck is a very popular spot. History and flight enthusiasts revel at what can be seen here! Guests get an intimate look at more than 20 fabulously restored aircraft including a spiffy F-14 Tomcat and marvelous F-4 Phantom jet fighter.
What to eat
Midway Marketplace
Centrally located in the Hangar Deck, Midway Marketplace is a handy self-serve bistro-style eatery. Visitors can enjoy wonderful views of the city while grabbing a quick bite from a selection top-notch lunchtime fare: tasty pre-made sandwiches, fresh salads, a variety of side dishes, sweet desserts, and a nice mishmash of snacks. Cleanse your palate with a refreshing choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks or a hot cup of coffee.
The Fish Market (nearby restaurant)
If the smell of the ocean breeze aboard USS Midway has you craving fresh seafood then a nearby bayfront eatery called The Fish Market is just the place to satisfy. Only a three-minute walk from the museum, this establishment’s menu is packed with top-quality grilled seafood, and the freshest sushi and oysters. The patio seating is inviting and there’s also a fine retail market ripe for exploration.
Things to buy
Jet Shop is the main gift store at the USS Midway Museum. Located on the Hangar Deck where enlisted sailors once repaired powerful jet engines, Jet Shop is the go-to place for every souvenir from t-shirts to key chains to logo-emblazoned apparel to great kids’ toys!
Vintage 1950s candies
If you’re nostalgic for the 1950s, check out the selection of bygone-era candies located near the register. A nice remembrance that fits easily in your suitcase.
Cookie recipe
Don’t leave the gift shop without purchasing an authentic USS Midway chocolate chip cookie recipe that’s been around since 1945! The recipe can also be used to bake scrumptious chocolate chip bars.
Astronaut ice cream
Eat the same sweet treat as astronauts when you buy the official freeze-dried ice cream every astronaut consumed while traveling through space. Ready-to-eat, this indulgence is also available as an ice cream sandwich.
Travelers tips
Wheelchair access
Modification to this retired aircraft carrier makes it an attraction many with limited mobility can enjoy. Many elevators and access routes make it possible for wheelchair-bound visitors to see about 60 percent of the museum’s intriguing exhibits. There’s also ASL - American Sign Language - and audio descriptive tours.
Attire
Because this attraction is an actual battleship that involves lots of walking, bending, and managing ladders, it’s strongly suggested visitors wear comfy closed-toed shoes. Temperatures can vary greatly aboard the ship so layered comfortable clothing is your best clothing option. Umbrellas are allowed in case of inclement weather.
Same-day re-entry allowed
This attraction is huge and can take three to four hours for a comprehensive experience so if you need to take a break and come back later, the museum allows visitors to return as long as it is on the same day.
Early arrival
In the summertime, it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat.
How to get there
Rent a car
For tourists planning to rent a car and drive, USS Midway Museum is located on North Harbor Drive alongside the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego’s famed Embarcadero area.
Public transport
The city’s bus lines have a few routes that pass near USS Midway Museum: Bus number 215, 923, and 992. The nearest train stations to the museum are Santa Fe Depot Station with a 12-minute stroll and North Harbor Dr and Ash St with a 13-minute walk. America Plaza Trolley Station is 14 minutes on foot to the museum. There’s also an efficient trolleybus that will get you there: just hop on the Sycuan Green Line.
Taxi
Hail a taxi off the streets for a stress-free way to get there or arrange for a taxi pick-up.
Uber/Lyft
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft make it easy to book a ride and get to this destination quickly and easily.
Parking information
The USS Midway Museum does not offer specific parking lots for this attraction but there is a parking area situated on Navy Pier adjacent to the museum. The Navy Pier parking lot provides front-row handicapped parking on a first-come-first-serve basis. Be aware this lot only allows passenger vehicles. No RVs are permitted. Parking rates at this lot usually range from 10 to 20 USD. Metered city-street parking is also found adjacent to the museum.
How to book tickets (from USD 32.0)
Visitors can obtain tickets via a third-party website, the official website, or at the on-site ticket booth. This is a very popular attraction so it’s advised you purchase online to avoid the long lines. Admission includes an entertaining, self-guided audio tour showcasing more than 60 exhibits including 29 planes! If you opt for the audio tour, it is recommended you bring earphones. There’s no time limit at this attraction; guests can take as long or as little as they like.
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego
Duration: 2 to 5 hours
USS Midway Museum information
Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Cost: 26 USD
Website: USS Midway Museum
Department of tourism: California
History
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