⚓️ Discover the USS Midway - San Diego’s Naval Treasure
Tammy Searle🚢 History & Background
Commissioned in 1945, the USS Midway was one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in U.S. naval history, remaining active for nearly 50 years. She played a key role during the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm before being decommissioned in 1992. Today, she rests proudly on San Diego’s Navy Pier as a floating museum, honoring the men and women who lived and served at sea. Walking aboard feels like stepping back in time — every hallway, bunk, and hangar tells a story. The Midway is more than just a ship; it’s a living piece of history that connects generations to the sacrifices of the U.S. Navy.
🔗 USS Midway Museum website
🔗 San Diego Toursim website
✈️ Highlights & What to See
The museum features more than 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircraft, making it one of the largest attractions of its kind in the world.
- Visitors can climb into fighter jets, explore the captain’s bridge, and wander the engine room. The flight deck is a fan favorite, offering panoramic views of the San Diego skyline with historic aircraft all around.
- Interactive flight simulators let you experience the thrill of flying, while docent-led tours — many guided by Navy veterans — add powerful personal stories to the exhibits.
- Whether you’re fascinated by aviation, history, or just love a good photo op, the Midway has something for everyone.
☀️ Best Tips & When to Visit
- Plan at least 3–4 hours here, though aviation buffs could easily spend an entire day exploring. Arriving early helps you beat the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be climbing ladders and navigating narrow hallways. Purchasing tickets online ahead of time is recommended, as lines can be long during peak season.
- Don’t skip the free audio tour — it provides fascinating background and really brings the ship’s history to life. If possible, visit during a weekday for a quieter, more immersive experience.
👉🏼 CONNECT WITH TAMMY 👈🏼
👨 Family & Solo Travel Notes
Families love the kid-friendly scavenger hunts and cockpits kids can climb into, which make history interactive and fun. Children also enjoy the “Knot Tying” station and the sheer excitement of exploring such a massive ship. Solo travelers often appreciate the slower pace of moving through the exhibits, listening to audio tours, and taking time to absorb the stories shared by docents. Photographers will find countless opportunities to capture dramatic images of jets against the harbor backdrop. Whether you’re in a group or traveling alone, the Midway is inspiring and unforgettable.
🌴 Accessibility Info
- The USS Midway Museum has worked hard to make much of the ship accessible despite its historic structure. Elevators provide access to the hangar deck and portions of the flight deck.
- Accessible restrooms and companion care facilities are available, and service animals are welcome. Some of the tighter passageways and ladders remain off-limits to wheelchairs, but large portions of the museum are open and welcoming.
- Guests using wheelchairs receive a discounted admission rate, and the museum offers accessibility guides online so visitors can plan ahead for the smoothest experience.