USS Midway Museum Tours and Activities

USS Midway Museum which includes military items
USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum showing interior views
USS Midway Museum featuring military items, aircraft and an aircraft
USS Midway Museum showing interior views


A popular San Diego attraction where you can get on board the USS Midway and learn more about the realities of Navy life.

The USS Midway was once the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the US Navy, in operation from 1945 all the way up until the early 1990s. And since its reincarnation as a museum in 2004, the 296-metre craft has housed an extraordinary military history museum. Nowadays it attracts over 800,000 visitors every year, who come to see its remarkable exhibits.

The attraction’s highlights include over 20 restored aircraft which will take you on a journey through the history of aerial warfare. You’ll also be able to get into the cockpit of some planes and see what it’s really like inside.

Take a turn on some of the amazing flight simulators which will give you a taste of how it feels to be in control of a fighter plane. Making the experience even more exciting and realistic are the genuine recordings you’ll hear of old military missions. Bear in mind you’ll have to pay extra to try the simulators.

The museum also will give you a fascinating insight into daily life on board the ship. You will get to see the sleeping quarters, post office, not to mention the jail, and imagine what life was like for the people who once came aboard and spent months on end here.

As you make your way around the vessel, you’ll be able to find out so much more about the exhibits thanks to the self-guided audio tour for adults and children, included in the admission charge. You’ll even get to hear people who served on the carrier narrating the tour.

The Aircraft Carrier Museum is open every day except at Thanksgiving and Christmas. It takes three or four hours to truly explore and appreciate what’s on display. You’ll also be able to get on board the deck of the ship for free and enjoy the captivating view of San Diego the spot affords.

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History & culture

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Popular places to visit


Top USS Midway Museum Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

4 out of 5
1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Wyndham San Diego Bayside

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

4 out of 5
1355 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

4 out of 5
601 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

4 out of 5
333 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Dextro, Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

Dextro, Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

3 out of 5
1617 1st Avenue, San Diego, CA
Dextro, Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
InterContinental San Diego by IHG

InterContinental San Diego by IHG

4 out of 5
901 Bayfront Court, San Diego, CA
InterContinental San Diego by IHG
The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott

4 out of 5
500 W Broadway, San Diego, CA
The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott
The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego

The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego

4 out of 5
1646 Front St, San Diego, CA
The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego
Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Hilton San Diego Bayfront

4 out of 5
1 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near USS Midway Museum

At the USS Midway Museum in San Diego, you can explore the interactive museum experience, which showcases naval history and aircraft. Nearby, indulge in some retail therapy at the local shopping mall or immerse yourself in creativity at the art museum. With a blend of history, shopping, and culture, there's plenty to keep you entertained during your visit.

Shopping

The closest shopping options include Fashion Valley Mall and Mission Valley Mall, both 6.4km away, offering a mix of business and family vibes. For something unique, check out the Ocean Beach Farmers Market, 8.0km away, featuring local produce and artisan goods.

Recreation

At Petco Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for energising activities. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park offers a serene setting for music enthusiasts, blending relaxation with entertainment. For a larger venue, Snapdragon Stadium provides an exhilarating sports vibe, ideal for an active day out.

Adventure

Explore the Bayshore Bikeway for a scenic ride along the waterfront, only 1.6km from the USS Midway Museum. For a thrilling match, head to the Coronado Tennis Center, 3.2km away, or the Barnes Tennis Center, 6.4km away, both offering fantastic adventure vibes.

Nightlife

At USS Midway Museum, enjoy the vibrant nightlife with a visit to the San Diego Civic Theatre, just 1.3km away, offering captivating performances. For a whimsical experience, check out the Seaport Village Carousel, 644m away, or catch a show at the Old Globe Theater, 3.2km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near USS Midway Museum

When visiting the USS Midway Museum in San Diego, you'll find a variety of attractions to enjoy, including urban parks, beautiful beaches, and serene private gardens. This diverse range of points of interest caters to those seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures. Whether you explore the museum itself or venture nearby, there’s plenty to keep every traveller engaged and entertained.

  • San Diego Convention Center: Situated 1.4km from the USS Midway Museum, this iconic venue buzzes with business vibes, hosting various conferences and events while offering stunning views of the waterfront.
  • Balboa Park: Located 3.2km away, this expansive private garden boasts beautiful gardens, walking paths, and cultural institutions, making it a perfect spot to relax and explore art and nature.
  • Port of San Diego: Just 483m from the USS Midway Museum, this modern civic government building features a vibrant waterfront area, ideal for waterfront strolls and enjoying the picturesque harbour views.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for USS Midway Museum

To save on your visit to the USS Midway Museum, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower compared to the peak season of June to August. Booking your stay on a Tuesday can also help you snag cheaper rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels and consider eco-certified options for sustainable stays. You can further cut costs by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through package deals. Lastly, take advantage of any instant discounts and great rates available for parking and other services.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around USS Midway Museum are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around USS Midway Museum is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around USS Midway Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can easily sort your results by price, so the most affordable hotels appear at the top of the list. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you’ll find sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodation options ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially cut costs by combining your hotel stay near the USS Midway Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.