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USS Midway

Travelers who are looking for a sunny, scenic, and inviting place to relax and unwind will find it all and more waiting for them in San Diego, California. This appealing locale is loved by visitors from across the map thanks to its natural beauty, year-round amazing weather, and seemingly endless options for customized fun and adventure. While San Diego is a place with plenty of sand, sun, and surf to go around, it’s also a destination that’s rich in military history. If you happen to be a history buff looking for a great place to dig into the past, you won’t want to leave the USS Midway in San Diego off your must-visit list the next time your travel plans bring you in this direction.

Where the Past and Present Go Perfectly Together

When you visit the USS Midway San Diego Museum, it’s hard to ignore the feeling of stepping seamlessly into the past. The museum is located at 910 N. Harbor Drive and is easy to spot in the waters of downtown San Diego. This historic naval aircraft carrier played a pivotal role in military operations before being transformed into a unique and one-of-a-kind museum where guests can learn, explore, and enjoy interactive experiences every time they visit. There’s nothing quite like stepping onto the USS Midway and being immersed in the immense proportions this aircraft carrier possesses. The impressive dimensions are even more evident as you tour the carrier and have options to view other aircraft displayed onboard too. The exhibits and displays sprinkled throughout this museum highlight important events in naval and aviation history alike. It’s a place that’s designed to inspire guests to want to learn more.

Planning Your Visit

There’s a ton to see and do onboard the USS Midway in San Diego, so setting aside anywhere from three to four hours to enjoy it all is typically recommended.  Same-day re-entry is allowed as long as you stop by the Visitor Information Center by the ship’s exit first. The museum is open daily from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm with the last entrance admitted at 4:00 pm. It’s a wonderful stop to add any time you’re in town and tickets for adults start at $31 for those 13 and up. Visitors between the ages of 6 and 12 can enjoy the museum entrance for $21 per person. Visitors 5 and under as well as active military members with a valid ID in hand can enjoy touring the USS Midway Museum for free. Because the museum is built of steel and has heavy doors, low ceilings, and narrow passageways, it’s recommended that visitors wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as well as layered clothing to account for fluctuating temperatures onboard.

What You’ll See

The USS Midway San Diego Museum houses over 60 carefully restored exhibit areas for guests to explore. These range from the engine room to the flight deck and just about everything in between. There are more than 30 restored aircraft onboard as well as access to the bridge and opportunities to experience the sounds of the warship. Below deck, visitors can see where the crew lived, worked, and recreated onboard the aircraft carrier. You can also walk through the galleys, chapel, mess halls, and laundry service areas.

Book Your Getaway Today

When you’re ready to enjoy a trip to sunny San Diego, Vacation Rentals by Kimberly has the accommodations you need to top off your stay in luxury and style. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting property options available including our rentals that will keep you close to the USS Midway Museum.

FAQ

  • Are there audio tours available when I visit the USS Midway?

    Yes! When you purchase an admission ticket to the museum, you’ll enjoy a self-guided audio tour that highlights the history, life, and stories of the USS Midway. Bringing your own set of headphones or earbuds for this experience is highly recommended. The audio tour is split into three sections which take you through the Flight Deck, the Hangar Deck, and the Below Deck areas respectively. The tour is approximately two to four hours long depending on your preferred pace.

  • Where can I park?

    While the USS Midway Museum does not have a private parking lot for guests, there are parking options readily available on Navy Pier. The lot is operated by the Port of San Diego and is exclusively open to passenger vehicles with parking rates running between $5 and $30 depending on the season. Typically, the parking lot is open from 8:30 am until 10:00 pm daily. There is also metered parking available on the street across from the museum that guests can choose as well.

  • Is there on-site dining at the museum?

    Yes. The USS Midway Museum houses Café 41 and Café Jet Express. The café is open from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm daily while Café Jet Express is open from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Here, you can curb any cravings and enjoy options ranging from grilled classics and fresh salads to sandwiches and daily specials too. There’s also a gift shop on-site that you can browse after you’ve eaten and you’re in the mood to pick up some fun souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

  • Does my property have a minimum number of days I have to stay?

    Many properties in our portfolio have a three-night rental minimum in place, but each rental is ultimately unique depending on the season and the owner. Be sure to reach out if you have specific questions about how many days you’re looking to stay in a particular rental you’re interested in.

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