USS Midway Museum, Maritime museum in Downtown San Diego, United States
The museum displays more than 60 exhibits across multiple decks, including restored aircraft from different periods of naval aviation. Visitors can explore crew quarters, command centers, and hangar decks where historic fighter jets and helicopters are displayed. The facility spans 975 feet (297 meters) in length.
The aircraft carrier served from 1945 to 1992 in the US Navy, participating in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. After decommissioning in 1992, the vessel opened as a museum in 2004. During its service years, the carrier underwent multiple modernizations and deployed across different oceans worldwide.
Former crew members narrate the self-guided audio tours, sharing their experiences and knowledge about daily routines aboard what was once the world's longest-serving carrier of the 20th century.
The museum offers interactive flight simulators, climb-aboard aircraft experiences, and specialized tours covering the engine room, sleeping quarters, and flight control. Audio guides are available in multiple languages. A visit typically takes three to four hours. Comfortable shoes are recommended as exploring the decks involves considerable walking and steep stairs.
During active service, the vessel processed 43,000 pounds (19,500 kilograms) of laundry weekly and performed 80,000 haircuts annually. The galley prepared around 13,500 meals daily for the crew. Aboard were a dental clinic, library, and even a post office with its own ZIP code.
Location: Downtown San Diego
Inception: June 7, 2004
Official opening: June 7, 2004
Length: 296 m
Width: 72.5 m
Reference: CV-41
Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access
Fee: Yes
Address: 910 N. Harbor Drive,San Diego, CA 92101
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00
Phone: +16195449600
Website: http://midway.org
GPS coordinates: 32.71378,-117.17518
Latest update: November 28, 2025 10:25
The historic ships of the United States Navy are a direct testament to the country’s naval development throughout the 20th century. These warships, converted into museums accessible to the public, allow visitors to learn about life onboard and the technologies used during major global conflicts. The collections include Iowa-class battleships such as the USS New Jersey in Camden and the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, destroyers like the USS Laffey in Mount Pleasant, as well as World War II submarines like the USS Cod in Cleveland and the USS Lionfish in Fall River. Visitors can walk the combat decks, examine original weapon systems, and explore preserved interior spaces. The USS Yorktown aircraft carrier at Patriots Point also displays vintage military aircraft, while the Naval Submarine Museum at Keyport features diving equipment and historical torpedoes. These sites, spread across oceans, provide a tangible view of the US Navy's role during Pacific conflicts, the Korean War, and more recent operations, showcasing nearly 80 years of maritime military history.
San Diego contains nature parks, zoos and museums. The city features historic districts including Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy. San Diego Zoo houses 3500 animals, while Balboa Park offers gardens and museums. La Jolla Cove and Mission Beach provide water sports areas. Torrey Pines and Sunset Cliffs nature reserves border the coast. SeaWorld and the Midway Museum stand among main attractions.
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