USS Midway Museum Tickets

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USS Midway Museum: Walk through a piece of US Navy history

Tour the USS Midway Museum, a naval aircraft carrier with a storied past as the longest-serving carrier of the 20th century. Having witnessed pivotal moments in history, including missions during the Cold War and airstrikes over North Vietnam, this legendary vessel now stands as a museum. Walk through the decks, experience naval history firsthand, and gain insights into the lives of those who served onboard. Perfect for military history buffs and families, the USS Midway promises an experience like never before. Scroll through to find out what to expect on your naval adventure.

Things to know before booking your tickets

  • The museum is largely accessible with elevators available for about 60% of the exhibits. For exhibits that are not wheelchair accessible, you will find video kiosks placed outside that provide brief overviews.
  • The museum is family-friendly, but some areas of the ship have steep staircases and may not be accessible to strollers or wheelchairs.
  • While most exhibits are indoors, some outdoor displays, like the flight deck, are affected by weather. Plan your visit in non-monsoon months to be able to enjoy all the attractions. 
  • Opt for combo tickets to visit multiple attractions nearby along with the museum including San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

The best parts of your nautical quest

Hangar Deck

See 29 meticulously restored aircraft, including iconic models like the F/A-18 Hornet and WWII SDB Dauntless at this expansive space that shows you about their roles in various military operations throughout history.

Battle of Midway Theater

Midway’s 90-seat theater presents "Voices of the Midway," a 15-minute multimedia film that recounts the Battle of Midway through the eyes and voices of those who experienced it.

Aircraft Gallery

Climb into aircraft cockpits, for a hands-on experience of what it was like to pilot these machines. This interactive feature is particularly popular among children and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Flight Simulators

The museum offers thrilling flight simulators where visitors can "fly" an F-18 or experience air combat missions. These simulators are an exhilarating experience that mimic the sensation of real military aviation maneuvers.

Below Deck

Take a peek at what daily life looked like for Navy sailors below the deck aboard the aircraft carrier. Explore the cramped sleeping quarters, bustling galley where over 13,000 meals were prepared daily, and the engine room.

Midway’s Engineers

Experience a day in the life of Midway's engineers through interactive displays and sensory exhibits. Take part in a dramatic shipboard fire simulation that highlights the challenges and heroism of the crew who kept the vessel running smoothly.

Overnight Adventure

Imagine a sleepover but inside an aircraft carrier? On the "Overnight Adventure" experience, you get to spend a night aboard the USS Midway, sleeping in authentic Navy bunks and experiencing life as a sailor.

TBD Devastator

This exhibit features a full-sized replica of the Douglas TBD Devastator, the U.S. Navy's first all-metal monoplane carrier aircraft, which played a significant role in early World War II operations.

Plan your visit

Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Facilities
Rules
Dining
Shop
USS Midway Museum

Open hours: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Closed: Thanksgiving (November 28) and Christmas Day (December 25)

Last admission: 4pm

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit the USS Midway Museum is in the winter months, from December to February. During this season, crowds are generally smaller, and the cooler temperatures (ranging between 10°C and 18°C) make for a comfortable experience. On the other hand, peak season runs from June to August, when visitor numbers increase, leading to longer wait times and busier exhibits. If you’re planning a summer visit, consider going on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and make the most of your time exploring the museum’s many attractions.

Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 | Find on Maps
Nearby landmark: Broadway Pier (0.2 mile)

  • By trolley: Take the San Diego Trolley to the Seaport Village on the Silver and Green lines. From there, it's just a short walk to the museum.
    Nearest stop: Seaport Village (11-minute walk)
  • By bus: Bus routes 923 and 992 run through the museum’s vicinity.
    Nearest stop: Broadway & N Harbor Dr (3-minute walk)
  • By train: Take the COASTER or Pacific Surfliner trains to Santa Fe Depot. From here, simply head west towards North Harbor Drive, and you'll find the museum.
    Nearest stop: Santa Fe Depot (8-minute walk)
  • By car: Head towards 910 North Harbor Drive, and drive along the waterfront till you reach the museum. 
    Parking: The nearest parking is at the Navy Pier parking lot, located adjacent to the museum.
USS Midway Museum

Wheelchair accessible: While the museum is not completely accessible for wheelchair users, you will find that about 60% of the exhibits are. For areas that are not easily accessible, video kiosks offer brief overviews to ensure you don't miss out on the experience.
Complimentary wheelchairs: The museum offers complimentary wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessible restrooms: You can find wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the Hangar and Flight Decks.
Elevator access: Elevators are available for transportation between various decks of the ship.
Strollers allowed: Infants and small children can ride in a stroller or pram while visiting.
Service animals allowed: The museum welcomes trained service animals that assist guests with disabilities.
Mobility vehicles: The museum accommodates mobility vehicles, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

USS Midway Museum

Audio guides: You can get audio guides at the museum for a self-guided tour in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, French, and German.
Toilets: Restrooms are located throughout the museum.
Paid parking: Parking is available at the Navy Pier parking lot and prices start at $15.
First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies.
Souvenir shop: The museum’s gift shop is centrally located on the Hangar Deck.
Dining outlets: Café 41 is a grab-n-go stop that is great for a quick bite mid-visit.
Information desk: An information desk is located at the entrance to assist you with inquiries.

USS Midway Museum
  • You cannot take DSLR cameras, tripods, selfie-sticks and microphones into the museum.
  • Cigarettes and e-cigarettes, as well as smoking on the premises, are prohibited.
  • Laser pointers are not allowed to ensure visitor safety.
  • Drones are not allowed to be flown in or around the museum area.
  • Outside food, beverages and glass containers of any kind are not allowed.
  • You cannot bring your pets along with you.
  • Vehicles like bicycles, skateboards and scooters are not allowed inside.
USS Midway Museum

Café 41

Café 41 at the USS Midway Museum offers a variety of fresh and delicious food options, including salads, sandwiches, and grilled classics. Must-try items on the menu include the Midway Burger, featuring a juicy beef patty, and the Mac and Cheese, which is a favorite among visitors. 

Location: Off the Hangar Deck

Open hours: 11am to 3pm

USS Midway Museum

Jet Shop

The Jet Shop at the USS Midway Museum offers a variety of unique Midway-themed souvenirs such as USS Midway apparel, historic naval books, and fun San Diego-themed souvenirs. Take home a piece of your naval escapade from this souvenir store to remember your visit by.

Location: On the Hangar Deck

Open hours: 10am to 5pm

Frequently asked questions about the USS Midway Museum

What is included in my admission ticket?

Your USS Midway Museum ticket grants access to explore the historic aircraft carrier, including interactive exhibits like the Hangar Deck with 29 restored aircraft, the Battle of Midway Theater, cockpit simulations, and the below-deck areas.

Is the Guided Island Tour included in my admission ticket?

Yes, the Guide Island Tour is included in your ticket. The tour is popular but has limited capacity due to the tight quarters in these sections. To avoid missing out, consider starting your visit with this tour. These tours may even close as early as 3:30pm on busy days.

Are there discounts on USS Midway Museum tickets?

Discounted tickets are available for children between the ages of 4 and 12 as well as US Military Veterans carrying a valid id. Children 3 years old and younger, Active Duty Military, and Reservists can enter for free.

Can I re-enter with the same ticket?

Yes, you can re-enter the USS Midway Museum on the same day with your admission ticket. To do so, simply stop by the Visitors Information Center at the ship’s exit before leaving.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

About 60% of the USS Midway Museum is accessible to wheelchair users, with elevator access between decks. Complimentary wheelchairs are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

How much time should I spend at the USS Midway Museum?

Set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for your visit to USS Midway Museum. This will give you enough time to explore the exhibits and engage with the various interactive experiences on board.