910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Ultimate Guide to San Diego’s Iconic Aircraft Carrier

Step aboard a floating city and experience life at sea without ever leaving the San Diego Embarcadero. The USS Midway Museum is a massive tribute to American naval history, housing an incredible collection of aircraft and high-tech flight simulators. This San Diego gem is a must-visit for history enthusiasts or if you’re a “Top Gun” fan.

What to See at the USS Midway

The USS Midway (CV-41) was the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Today, it serves as a massive interactive museum that lets you explore everything from the engine room to the captain’s bridge. It is consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in San Diego with kids.

The Flight Deck: A Sky-High Gallery

The Flight Deck is the museum’s crown jewel, featuring over 30 restored aircraft.

• Iconic Jets: Get up close to the F-14 Tomcat (made famous by Top Gun), the A-6 Intruder, and the S-3 Viking.
• The Bridge Tour: Led by world-class volunteer docents (many of whom actually served on the Midway), this tour takes you to the “Island” where the captain commanded the ship.
• Panoramic Views: Enjoy 360-degree views of the San Diego skyline, the Coronado Bridge, and the active naval base across the bay.

Immersive Exhibits & Flight Simulators

• The Hangar Deck: Explore the massive interior where planes were repaired. You’ll find interactive cockpits where you can sit in the pilot’s seat.
• Strike Fighter 360: Experience a pulse-pounding, two-person flight simulator that performs 360-degree rolls.
• Battle of Midway Theater: Watch “Voices of Midway,” a moving film that brings the historic WWII battle to life through the eyes of those who were there.

Pro-Tips for a Better Visit

• Arrive Early: The Midway is San Diego’s most popular museum. Arriving right at 10:00 AM ensures you get a spot on the first Bridge Tours, which have limited capacity and often sell out early.
• Listen to the Veterans: Many of the docents are veterans who served on the ship. Take the time to ask them questions—their personal stories are often the highlight of the visit.
• Audio Tour Included: Your admission price includes a self-guided audio tour available in multiple languages. It even features a special “Junior Pilot” version for children narrated by Midway sailors.
• The “Kissing Statue”: Just south of the Midway is the famous “Unconditional Surrender” statue. It’s the perfect spot for a photo before or after your tour.

History of the Midway

The first plans to build the Midway were made in 1945, just eight days after the end of World War II. From then on, the flagship of its class experienced numerous deployments in trouble spots around the world in the years leading up to its decommissioning in 1992. From the Vietnam War to Operation Desert Storm, she has provided a home on the high seas for over 200,000 Navy soldiers in her 47 years of service.

Fortunately, the steel colossus was not scrapped at the end of its service life, like many of its relatives, but rather converted into a museum. The floating naval museum has been on the San Diego Embarcadero since 2004 and attracts over one million visitors every year.

The full portion of military history awaits you inside and outside on 10 acres. The museum has 30 different fully restored airplanes and helicopters. In addition, the rooms inside the ship’s hull offer an impressive insight into the life and work of the approximately 4,100 crew members on board. Not only the living quarters of the stationed soldiers can be visited, but also the kitchen, infirmary, as well as the Midway’s own chapel.

Is the USS Midway Museum Worth a Visit?

Yes, visiting the USS Midway Museum ist absolutely worth it. The iconic ship offers a rare combination of high-octane excitement and deep historical reflection. It is an engineering marvel and a living piece of American history.

More San Diego Attractions