1. Overview of the USS Midway
The USS Midway is an iconic decommissioned aircraft carrier located in San Diego, California. It draws visitors with its rich history and engaging exhibits, making it a must-see attraction.
2. Getting There
The Midway is docked at Navy Pier, situated between the cruise ship terminal and Seaport Village at 910 N. Harbor Drive. If you’re taking public transport, the San Diego Trolley can drop you off just three blocks away at the Santa Fe Train Depot.
For those driving, limited parking is available directly on the pier next to the USS Midway. RVs over 18 feet will need to find metered spots on Pacific Highway, one block east of Harbor Drive. Metered parking is also available along N. Harbor Drive, offering a cost-effective alternative to parking lots, though you will face a three-hour limit.
3. What to Expect During Your Visit
During your visit to San Diego, the Midway is an unmissable experience, and you can admire it even from a harbor cruise.
Once aboard the USS Midway, explore life at sea and discover how aircraft land on a moving ship. Start your journey by watching a short film about the Battle of Midway, included with your admission. This film provides a fantastic introduction to the ship’s storied past.
Enjoy a self-guided audio tour that takes you through various parts of the ship, such as the mess deck, sleeping quarters, hangar deck, and flight deck, featuring personal stories from those who served on the USS Midway.
Volunteer tour guides are available to show you around key areas like the bridge and primary flight control, adding an interactive element to your visit.
For aviation enthusiasts, the flight simulators on board offer an exciting experience for an additional fee.
4. Essential Tips for Your Trip
- Stay hydrated! Bring water, as there is no air conditioning onboard, and the ship’s stairs can leave you thirsty.
- Allocate at least three hours for your visit to fully explore the USS Midway. If pressed for time, consider the Express Tour.
- To optimize your experience, arrive early when the USS Midway opens to avoid long lines for guided portions.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs, some steep, and high thresholds throughout the ship.
- Those who are claustrophobic may want to skip the barracks tour, as they can feel quite confined.
- It can be breezy on the Flight Deck, so a light jacket can be beneficial.
- Limit what you bring; only modest-sized bags are allowed, such as diaper and camera bags.
- If bringing a child in a stroller, be prepared to either take them out or skip certain parts of the ship.
- The USS Midway maintains a strict non-smoking policy.
- Finally, if hunger strikes, stop by the Fantail Cafe for refreshments to keep your energy up during your exploration.
