ntripntrip logo

Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego

4.8
(1949 reviews)
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego Gallery Image 1
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego Gallery Image 2
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego Gallery Image 3
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego Gallery Image 4

Climb aboard the USS Midway carrier in San Diego, a former naval vessel that now plays home to a fascinating range of exhibits on the American military. It’s a fascinating way to learn about military history along with an iconic piece of Americana.Begin your USS Midway visit on downtown San Diego’s Embarcadero, boarding the ship any time during its regular hours of operation. This marvel of engineering once housed more than 4,500 crew members across its various decks, and served in the US Navy between 1945 and 1992, making it the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Over the years more than 225,000 sailors have walked its sturdy decks. Once on board the ship, you have a range of options to explore. For more than a decade this famous carrier was the largest ship in the world (too large to fit through the Panama Canal, in fact), so there’s no shortage of things to do. Continue on a self-guided audio tour, told through the stories of the ship’s former officers and sailors. Or visit some of the 65 highlighted locations throughout the vessel, covering its bridge to its engine room. There’s also 25 restored aircraft lining its deck and a range of interactive exhibits to suit visitors of all ages. You can also get a better sense for life at sea as you explore the ship’s restored living quarters, including the galleys, sleeping quarters and officer’s country. Before you go, don’t forget to check out the flight simulator, and make sure to stop by the gift shop and café to cap off your visit.

Overview

Climb aboard the USS Midway carrier in San Diego, a former naval vessel that now plays home to a fascinating range of exhibits on the American military. It’s a fascinating way to learn about military history along with an iconic piece of Americana.

Begin your USS Midway visit on downtown San Diego’s Embarcadero, boarding the ship any time during its regular hours of operation. This marvel of engineering once housed more than 4,500 crew members across its various decks, and served in the US Navy between 1945 and 1992, making it the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Over the years more than 225,000 sailors have walked its sturdy decks.

Once on board the ship, you have a range of options to explore. For more than a decade this famous carrier was the largest ship in the world (too large to fit through the Panama Canal, in fact), so there’s no shortage of things to do. Continue on a self-guided audio tour, told through the stories of the ship’s former officers and sailors.

Or visit some of the 65 highlighted locations throughout the vessel, covering its bridge to its engine room. There’s also 25 restored aircraft lining its deck and a range of interactive exhibits to suit visitors of all ages. You can also get a better sense for life at sea as you explore the ship’s restored living quarters, including the galleys, sleeping quarters and officer’s country.

Before you go, don’t forget to check out the flight simulator, and make sure to stop by the gift shop and café to cap off your visit.

Itinerary

  • USS Midway Museum

    MUSEUM HOURS 10:00 - 17:00 (LAST ENTRY AT 16:00)The USS Midway was the US Navy's longest serving carrier of the 20th century (1945-1992), and the largest ship in the world for a decade, housing 4,500 crew! Now you can walk in the footsteps of 225,000 sailors on a self-guided audio tour narrated by former Midway sailors and officers.

    USS Midway also contains interactive exhibits and climb-aboard aircraft for all ages. Don't miss the flight simulators, gift shop and cafe.

    Experience what it was like to be part of a "city at sea", explore galleys, officer's country, sleeping quarters and the engine room of the first Navy ship too large for the Panama Canal! You will be amazed by the 4-acre flight deck and the 360-degree panoramic view of downtown San Diego.

    Admission Included

Location

Meeting Point Map

Address

USS Midway, 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

Open Google Map

Experience

Highlights

  • Skip the Line: Proceed directly to the front gate for admission
  • Visit one of the largest aircraft carriers in the US Navy fleet
  • Enjoy over 60 exhibits including the flight deck, galley, engine room and more
  • Audio tour included in the admission price is available in English, Japanese, Spanish, French, German and Mandarin
  • A must for the entire family
  • Inclusions

    • Embarcadero Adventure Offers including discounts for other nearby attractions
    • All taxes, fees and handling charges
    • Audio Tour
    • Ability to skip the ticketing line - does not apply to lines within the attraction.
    • World famous Midway volunteers will bring the flight deck alive

    Exclusions

    • Gratuities
    • Hotel pickup and drop off
    • Parking: please note that during the summer, parking is limited and early arrival is encouraged.

    Additional Information

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Complimentary, loaner wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Elevator access from Navy Pier onto the ship, from the hangar deck down to the second deck and up to the flight deck
    • Approximately 60 percent of the museum’s exhibits are wheelchair accessible.
    • Narrated video tour of all museum exhibits is shown continuously in the hangar deck
    • Parking is available adjacent to Midway for an additional fee through Ace parking.
    • HOURS ARE 10AM TO 5PM HOWEVER LAST ADMISSION IS 4PM.

    Guide Languages

    • English

    • Japanese

    • Spanish

    • German

    • French

    • Mandarin

    Cancellation Policy

    • A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    • No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    Traveler Ratings

    See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences

    4.8 / 5

    4.85 out of 5 stars

    Based on 1949 reviews

    Review histogram

    5

    89%

    4

    9%

    3

    1%

    2

    0%

    1

    1%

    Traveler Reviews

    Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences

    Calum_T
    You can easily spend the whole day at the Midway. Not only can you spend your time wandering around, reading the plaques and seeing the whole ship, you can get tours of the tower & listen to veterans ...
    ronvE2090JK
    Wow! Didn’t expect that at all. We had no plans to do this but curiosity got the best of us after reading the reviews. And yes, the consensus was correct, this place is a must see! We spent over 3 hou...

    Related Attractions

    Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience

    USS Midway Museum: Skip The Line Ticket - Image 1

    USS Midway Museum: Skip The Line TicketUSS Midway Museum: Skip The Line Ticket

    4.9(879)
    Museums

    Climb aboard the longest-serving US aircraft carrier and immerse yourself in over 50 years of world history! At 300 meters long, the USS Midway is a true mammoth, and is stuffed with fascinating stories and hands-on exhibits. Learn what it wa...

    $39

    per adult

    USS Midway Museum: Skip The Line Ticket - Image 2

    USS Midway Museum: Skip The Line TicketUSS Midway Museum: Skip The Line Ticket

    4.9(1078)
    Museums

    Climb aboard the longest-serving US aircraft carrier and immerse yourself in over 50 years of world history! At 300 meters long, the USS Midway is a true mammoth, and is stuffed with fascinating stories and hands-on exhibits. Learn what it was like t...

    $39

    per adult

    Maritime Museum of San Diego general admission tickets - Image 3

    Maritime Museum of San Diego general admission ticketsMaritime Museum of San Diego general admission tickets

    5.0(8)
    Museums

    Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego and discover a world-class collection of historic sailing ships, steam-powered boats, and a submarine, each offering entertaining and educational exhibits. This non-profit Museum enjoys an international ...

    $24

    per adult

    Maritime Museum of San Diego: Entry Ticket - Image 4

    Maritime Museum of San Diego: Entry TicketMaritime Museum of San Diego: Entry Ticket

    4.9(10)
    Museums

    Hoist the anchor of boredom and set your sails for an ocean of fun and fascinating history at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Before air travel killed the seafaring star, the world was shaped by swashbuckling adventures on the high seas. The Mar...

    $24

    per adult

    San Diego Automotive Museum: Entry Ticket - Image 5

    San Diego Automotive Museum: Entry TicketSan Diego Automotive Museum: Entry Ticket

    5.0(6)
    Museums

    Get a year's supply of engine-revving eye-candy all in one afternoon, and see some of the world's most iconic vintage cars and motorcycles, at the awesome San Diego Automotive Museum. This car lover's paradise is located in Balboa Park, and f...

    $17

    per adult

    San Diego Automotive Museum: Entry Ticket - Image 6

    San Diego Automotive Museum: Entry TicketSan Diego Automotive Museum: Entry Ticket

    5.0(8)
    Museums

    Get a year's supply of engine-revving eye-candy all in one afternoon, and see some of the world's most iconic vintage cars and motorcycles, at the awesome San Diego Automotive Museum. This car lover's paradise is located in Balboa Park, and features ...

    $18

    per adult

    San Diego Little Italy Food Tour - Image 1

    San Diego Little Italy Food TourSan Diego Little Italy Food Tour

    5.0(619)
    ToursFood Tours

    Meet your guide on India street and get ready to delve into the delights of San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood. Get an introduction to the history of the enclave, which is packed with trendy boutiques, music venues, and quaint squares.

    $93

    per adult

    Balboa Park Highlights Tour with Coffee - Image 2

    Balboa Park Highlights Tour with CoffeeBalboa Park Highlights Tour with Coffee

    5.0(146)
    ToursWalking Tours

    Balboa Park is a must-do for most San Diego visitors, but many don't appreciate the long and rich history of this treasured cultural center. Go deeper into the park's many museums, gardens, and attractions on a guided walking tour that will h...

    $54

    per adult

    San Diego Sunset Sailing Tour - Image 3

    San Diego Sunset Sailing TourSan Diego Sunset Sailing Tour

    5.0(123)
    Tours

    Experience the beauty of the San Diego coastline on a peaceful sunset sailing tour, avoiding the crowds at popular viewing spots. Relax aboard your vessel as you take in stunning sunset views, along with possible sightings of dolphins, vibran...

    $119

    per adult

    Cali Dreaming Electric Bike Tour of La Jolla and Pacific Beach - Image 4

    Cali Dreaming Electric Bike Tour of La Jolla and Pacific BeachCali Dreaming Electric Bike Tour of La Jolla and Pacific Beach

    4.9(327)
    ToursBike Tours

    Take a guided ride through La Jolla and Pacific Beach on an e-bike. Enjoy the feeling of pedalling with power as you cruise along some of San Diego’s most picturesque spots. See the sea lions at La Jolla Cove, watch the waves crash at Windans...

    $99

    per adult

    San Diego Small-Group Day Sail on Vintage Replica - Image 5

    San Diego Small-Group Day Sail on Vintage ReplicaSan Diego Small-Group Day Sail on Vintage Replica

    5.0(66)
    Tours

    Set sail on the San Diego Harbor without spending a fortune on this dreamy small-group sailing tour. Climb aboard a replica 1904 yacht that's unlike any other in San Diego, and enjoy several hours of cruising the bay and harbor, from Seaport ...

    $95

    per adult

    La Jolla and Mount Soledad Electric Bike 2.5-Hour Guided Tour - Image 6

    La Jolla and Mount Soledad Electric Bike 2.5-Hour Guided TourLa Jolla and Mount Soledad Electric Bike 2.5-Hour Guided Tour

    4.9(434)
    ToursSurfing

    Visit La Jolla and ride to the summit of Mount Soledad with a 2.5-hour guided tour by electric bike. Enjoy the flexibility of your motor assisted bike, so you can pedal up hills or simply cruise along the road as you explore with your local g...

    $119

    per adult

    San Diego Sailing Tour - Image 7

    San Diego Sailing TourSan Diego Sailing Tour

    5.0(47)
    Tours

    San Diego looks spectacular from the water and with this sailing tour, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy having a crew to take the lead. During your sailing trip, you can enjoy onboard perks, such as alcoholic and soft drinks as you enjoy th...

    $101

    per adult

    San Diego Small Group Catamaran Sailing Excursion - Image 8

    San Diego Small Group Catamaran Sailing ExcursionSan Diego Small Group Catamaran Sailing Excursion

    5.0(47)
    Tours

    Relax in the sun aboard a catamaran in San Diego Bay on this small group sailing excursion. Your captain will welcome you aboard with beer, wine, and soft drinks. You can relax, sunbathe, look at the sea life, and help sail if you like. You’l...

    $119

    per adult

    Small-Group Beach Yoga Class - Image 1

    Small-Group Beach Yoga ClassSmall-Group Beach Yoga Class

    5.0(41)
    BeachesBodies of Water

    Let go and relax with this small-group yoga class on the sands of La Jolla Shores Beach—part of the beautiful San Diego Coastline. Begin with meditation, then take part in an energetic yoga flow while taking in the ocean waves. Finally, wind ...

    $42

    per adult

    San Diego Small Group Mountain Hike and Guided Mediation Tour - Image 2

    San Diego Small Group Mountain Hike and Guided Mediation TourSan Diego Small Group Mountain Hike and Guided Mediation Tour

    5.0(17)
    Hiking TrailsMountains

    Make the most of San Diego's natural beauty by exploring it with a guide who knows the area well. Add a guided meditation to your hike to enhance your experience, or skip it if meditation isn't your thing. A small group size of up to 8 guests...

    $69

    per adult

    San Diego GPS Talking GoCar Full-Day Rental - Image 3

    San Diego GPS Talking GoCar Full-Day RentalSan Diego GPS Talking GoCar Full-Day Rental

    5.0(13)
    BeachesBodies of WaterParks

    Explore San Diego the fun and flexible way in a GoCar guided by a talking GPS. The easy-to-drive car is yours for the entire day, so you can go at your own pace as you zip around to highlights like Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, the Mariti...

    $317

    per adult

    San Diego Zoo: Entry Ticket - Image 4

    San Diego Zoo: Entry TicketSan Diego Zoo: Entry Ticket

    4.8(152)
    ZoosParks

    Animal-mad? See elephants, polar bears, cheetahs, gorillas, giraffes and more at the San Diego Zoo. This gigantic 100-acre park houses over 3,700 animals from more than 650 species, with authentically recreated natural enclosures. Book some S...

    $75

    per adult

    Sunset Cliffs Open Top Van Cruise - Image 5

    Sunset Cliffs Open Top Van CruiseSunset Cliffs Open Top Van Cruise

    5.0(9)
    BeachesBodies of Water

    Cruise the streets of San Diego in this open top van, where you will visit the San Diego Bay, Ocean Beach, and then the beautiful Sunset Cliffs for sunset. You’ll have beverages and music the entire way. This will last anywhere from 90-120 mi...

    $213

    per adult

    San Diego 2-Hour Sunset Sail - Image 6

    San Diego 2-Hour Sunset SailSan Diego 2-Hour Sunset Sail

    4.8(71)
    Bodies of WaterIslands

    Cruise around San Diego Bay aboard a spacious sailboat with great views of the city skyline and Pacific Ocean during this 2-hour evening cruise. From your perch on the sailboat, take in views of downtown San Diego, Point Loma, and Coronado Is...

    $130

    per adult

    San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride - Image 7

    San Diego Bay Jet Boat RideSan Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride

    4.7(355)
    Bodies of WaterIslands

    Make your own way to the San Diego waterfront to meet your jet boat for your adrenaline-fueled ride. At check-in, you are provided with a waterproof poncho and plastic bag that helps to keep your clothing and any valuables dry. Named t...

    $40

    per adult

    San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket - Image 8

    San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day TicketSan Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket

    4.7(3087)
    ZoosBodies of WaterForests

    After making your own way to the San Diego Zoo on the day of your choice, you can head into the zoo's visitor center to pick up a map and plan your route through this acclaimed zoo. The animals live in spacious and beautifully designed enclos...

    $76

    per adult

    Private Day Sailing Experience in San Diego up to 12 guests - Image 1

    Private Day Sailing Experience in San Diego up to 12 guestsPrivate Day Sailing Experience in San Diego up to 12 guests

    5.0(48)
    MissionsBridges

    This private day sail, is a excellent if you are looking for a more exciting sail! Day sailing is best to go see our San Diego landmarks along downtown where we will see the US Midway, Sea port Village, the Rady shell and we might even pass u...

    $115

    per adult

    San Diego Guided Pier Fishing Trip - Image 2

    San Diego Guided Pier Fishing TripSan Diego Guided Pier Fishing Trip

    4.9(23)
    Wharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    Go fishing off the San Diego Pier at Ocean Beach and try your luck catching sand bass, mackerel, calico bass, croaker, and more. Your guide will set you up with all your gear, so no need to worry about that. Learn a few pointers if you need t...

    $75

    per adult

    San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure - Image 3

    San Diego Harbor Speed Boat AdventureSan Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

    4.8(645)
    BridgesShips

    After making your own way to the Cabrillo Isle Marina in San Diego Harbor, your guide welcomes you to your speed boat adventure. Start off with a safety briefing taught by your guide, followed by a lesson on hand signals and boating ru...

    $89

    per adult

    San Diego Pier Fishing Experience - Image 4

    San Diego Pier Fishing ExperienceSan Diego Pier Fishing Experience

    4.8(84)
    Wharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    Meet your fishing instructor at San Diego's Crystal Pier on Ocean Boulevard, where your fishing experience begins. There's no need to bring anything as your guide will come equipped with everything you need, including fishing poles and bait. ...

    $75

    per adult

    San Diego Brunch Cruise Unlimited Mimosas, Champagne, Cider - Image 5

    San Diego Brunch Cruise Unlimited Mimosas, Champagne, CiderSan Diego Brunch Cruise Unlimited Mimosas, Champagne, Cider

    4.6(274)
    BridgesShipsWharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    Make your own way to Grape Street Pier with plenty of time to board your boat for your brunch cruise on San Diego Bay. The friendly staff welcomes you aboard and orients you to the deluxe boat's amenities, which includes climate-controlled ca...

    $113

    per adult

    Mission Bay Private Sunset Cruise - Image 6

    Mission Bay Private Sunset CruiseMission Bay Private Sunset Cruise

    5.0(4)
    MissionsObservation Decks/Towers

    Take a private boat trip out into the sunset with this private, romantic cruise. Your skipper will take you out into Mission Bay in a private boat, complete with its own observation tower for 360-degree views of your surroundings. Cheese and ...

    $145

    per adult

    San Diego's first ever Family Sailing Tours - Image 7

    San Diego's first ever Family Sailing ToursSan Diego's first ever Family Sailing Tours

    5.0(4)
    MissionsMonuments/StatuesBridges

    We are based in San Diego and we are designed for families. Our whole mission is to bring families closer together. We want to put smiles on everyone’s faces; parents, children, and grandparents alike.Our vessel, the Sea Monkey, is a 3...

    $475

    per adult

    San Diego Harbor Cruise with Live Guided Commentary - Image 8

    San Diego Harbor Cruise with Live Guided CommentarySan Diego Harbor Cruise with Live Guided Commentary

    4.4(2513)
    Monuments/StatuesBridgesShips

    Explore the huge ships, scenic skyline and wealth of marine life of San Diego Harbor during this 1- to 2-hour cruise. During your ride you can enjoy informative commentary about the city’s history while doing some sunbathing, sightseeing and ...

    $35

    per adult

    The Escape Game San Diego: 60-Minute Adventure in Gaslamp Quarter - Image 1

    The Escape Game San Diego: 60-Minute Adventure in Gaslamp QuarterThe Escape Game San Diego: 60-Minute Adventure in Gaslamp Quarter

    5.0(106)
    Escape games

    Our San Diego location is right by countless, highly-rated dining and entertainment options, perfect for pairing an escape room with a day or night out. Some of our favorite places for a bite to eat include Tacos El Carbon and Cerveza Jack’s....

    $45

    per adult

    Outdoor Escape Room in San Diego - Little Italy - Image 2

    Outdoor Escape Room in San Diego - Little ItalyOutdoor Escape Room in San Diego - Little Italy

    5.0(9)
    Scavenger huntEscape games

    An immersive clue-solving adventure around San Diego's Little Italy. Search for real-world clues, solve puzzles, and discover the neighborhood with an experience you'll never forget!Reschedule anytime with no fees.It's a scaveng...

    $78

    per adult

    Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride - Image 3

    Patriot Jet Boat Thrill RidePatriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride

    4.9(7)
    Rides & Activities

    Take a thrilling high-speed tour of San Diego Bay on the Patriot Jet Boat. See downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge and more, and feel the wind in your hair during 360° turns! It's sightseeing with a bonus adrenaline rush!

    $40

    per adult

    Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride - Image 4

    Patriot Jet Boat Thrill RidePatriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride

    4.9(7)
    Rides & Activities

    Take a thrilling high-speed tour of San Diego Bay on the Patriot Jet Boat. See downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge and more, and feel the wind in your hair during 360° turns! It's sightseeing with a bonus adrenaline rush!

    $40

    per adult

    San Diego Old Town Scavenger Hunt - Image 5

    San Diego Old Town Scavenger HuntSan Diego Old Town Scavenger Hunt

    4.6(12)
    Scavenger hunt

    Explore San Diego's Old Town in a new and engaging way with a self-guided scavenger hunt. Download the game directly to your smartphone, and then follow clues and solve riddles that take you around historic locations like an artisan market, a...

    $42

    per adult

    San Diego Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt in Balboa Park - Image 6

    San Diego Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt in Balboa ParkSan Diego Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt in Balboa Park

    4.0(33)
    Scavenger hunt

    Turn San Diego into treasure-hunting grounds on this self-guided scavenger hunt through Balboa Park. Combining the fun of the Amazing Race with the information of a walking tour, simply use your smartphone to solve clues and complete challeng...

    $21

    per adult

    San Diego Scavenger Hunt Adventure - Image 7

    San Diego Scavenger Hunt AdventureSan Diego Scavenger Hunt Adventure

    4.0(33)
    Scavenger hunt

    Make San Diego your personal game board with a 3-hour smartphone scavenger hunt that leads you through the city’s scenic waterfront, historic sites and atmospheric downtown neighborhoods. Form a team of 2–5 people, then trace a 2.5-mile route...

    $21

    per adult

    Liberty Station Quest Experience in San Diego - Image 8

    Liberty Station Quest Experience in San DiegoLiberty Station Quest Experience in San Diego

    4.0(1)
    Scavenger huntEscape games

    Discover San Diego’s Liberty Station by solving challenges and unlocking stories on your phone. Play the engaging exploration game, taking the role of Brad Dutiful, one of the Naval Training Center's newest recruits.As you solve challe...

    $9

    per adult