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

Explore the legendary USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, with a skip-the-line admission ticket in San Diego. This museum offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to climb aboard restored aircraft, venture below decks, and engage with knowledgeable docents and veterans. With over 60 interactive exhibits and a captivating self-guided audio tour, the Midway provides an in-depth look at the daily life and operations of this iconic vessel. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a unique adventure, the museum promises to transport you back in time and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the men and women who served on board.

Just The Basics

• The USS Midway Museum offers skip-the-line admission tickets, allowing visitors to proceed directly to the front gate and avoid long queues.
• The museum features over 60 interactive exhibits, 25 restored aircraft, and a captivating self-guided audio tour to explore the vessel’s inner workings.
• Visitors can climb aboard restored aircraft, venture below decks, and engage with knowledgeable docents and veterans to enjoy the ship’s rich history.
• The museum provides a truly immersive historical experience, with the opportunity to explore the bridge, engine room, and crew’s living quarters.
• The museum’s convenient location allows visitors to combine their visit with other must-see attractions in the San Diego area, such as the Maritime Museum, San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld.

Overview and History of the Museum

Anchored in San Diego’s harbor, the USS Midway Museum showcases the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, which served in the US Navy from 1945 to 1992.

Visitors can explore the ship’s 4-acre flight deck and sections below, featuring interactive exhibits, a self-guided audio tour, and restored aircraft.

The museum offers an immersive historical experience, allowing guests to step back in time and learn about the ship’s storied past.

With over 65 highlighted locations, including the bridge, engine room, and living quarters, the USS Midway Museum provides an in-depth look at the daily life and operations of the vessel that accommodated over 4,500 crew members during its service.

Interactive Exhibits and Self-Guided Tour

Complementing the ship’s rich history, the USS Midway Museum offers a captivating self-guided audio tour that allows visitors to discover the vessel’s inner workings and enjoy its storied past. Guests can explore over 60 interactive exhibits across the 4-acre flight deck and below decks, including the bridge, engine room, and crew’s living quarters. The museum features 25 restored aircraft, flight simulators, and the opportunity to interact with World War II veterans, providing a truly immersive experience.

Exhibit	Description	Highlights
Flight Deck	Explore the iconic flight deck and view restored aircraft.	Climb aboard vintage planes and experience the thrill of naval aviation.
Engine Room	Step into the heart of the ship and learn about its powerful propulsion systems.	Witness the engineering feats that kept the Midway operational for over 40 years.
Bridge	Ascend to the command center and imagine navigating this massive warship.	Gain insights into the decision-making processes of the ship’s captains and officers.

Exploring the Aircraft Carrier

Visitors aboard the USS Midway Museum can enjoy the rich history and captivating features of this iconic aircraft carrier. From the cavernous flight deck to the intricate engine room, the museum offers a multifaceted exploration of the ship’s inner workings and the experiences of its former crew members.

Visitors can:

• Climb aboard restored aircraft and imagine the thrill of takeoff and landing on the expansive deck.

Visitors can:

• Venture below decks to discover the bustling galley, cramped living quarters, and powerful engine room that kept the Midway operational.

Visitors can:

• Step onto the bridge and survey the commanding views that guided the ship’s captains through countless missions.

Visitors can:

• Engage with knowledgeable docents and veterans who share first-hand accounts of life aboard the Midway.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

The USS Midway Museum offers an immersive and interactive experience, inviting guests to directly engage with the ship’s rich history and captivating features.

Visitors can skip the line and proceed directly to the front gate, where they’ll discover over 60 exhibits, including the flight deck, galley, and engine room.

The museum features 25 restored aircraft, interactive displays suitable for all ages, and a narrated video tour.

Guests can also enjoy a flight simulator experience and explore the gift shop and café.

The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with elevators and narrated videos available to ensure an inclusive and accessible visit.

Museum Hours and Accessibility

The USS Midway Museum operates daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:00 PM, allowing guests ample time to explore the historic aircraft carrier.

Complementary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Parking is conveniently located adjacent to the museum, though an additional fee may apply.

The museum offers several other accessibility features:

1. Elevators provide access to different decks and sections of the ship.
2. Narrated videos are available for visitors who prefer an alternative to the self-guided audio tour.
3. The museum is stroller-friendly, making it a suitable destination for families.
4. Guests can cancel their tickets up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Nearby Attractions and Discounts

Along With the immersive experience aboard the USS Midway Museum, visitors can explore a variety of nearby attractions and take advantage of discounted offers.

The museum partners with the Embarcadero Adventure Offers program, providing discounts on other popular destinations along the San Diego waterfront. These include the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld San Diego.

With the Embarcadero Adventure Offers, guests can save on admission tickets and explore the rich history, wildlife, and marine life that San Diego has to offer.

The museum’s convenient location makes it easy to combine a visit to the Midway with other must-see attractions in the area.

Visitor Reviews and Testimonials

Visitors to the USS Midway Museum have overwhelmingly praised the immersive historical experience and engaging exhibits, with the museum boasting a 5.0 rating based on over 1,700 reviews across popular platforms.

Reviewers highlight several key aspects of the museum:

1. The knowledgeable and friendly docents who share insightful stories and historical anecdotes.

2. The educational value and interactive activities that bring the ship’s history to life.

3. The variety of exhibits, from the flight deck to the engine room, that offer a comprehensive exploration of the Midway’s legacy.

4. The museum’s ability to captivate both history enthusiasts and families, providing an engaging and informative experience for all visitors.

Ticketing and Pricing Information

Admission to the USS Midway Museum starts from $32.00, with a lowest price guarantee, allowing visitors to reserve tickets online and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Visitors can also choose to pay later to secure their spot. The ticket includes an audio tour, all taxes and fees, and access to various amenities and exhibits on the ship.

Ticket Type	Adult	Child (6-12 years)
General Admission	$32.00	$16.00
Active Military/Veteran	$28.80	$14.40
Senior (62+)	$28.80	N/A
Military Family (spouse & children)	$28.80	$14.40
Group (10+ people)	$28.80	$14.40

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Outside Food and Drinks Onto the Museum?

The USS Midway Museum allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks onto the ship. However, they recommend enjoying the on-site café and gift shop offerings for the best museum experience.

Do I Need to Book Tickets in Advance or Can I Purchase On-Site?

Visitors have the option to purchase tickets in advance online or on-site at the museum. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, as it allows visitors to skip the line and proceed directly to the front gate.

Are There Any Age-Specific Discounts or Special Rates for Children?

The USS Midway Museum offers discounted tickets for children aged 6-17, with prices starting at $17. Children under 5 can visit for free. Online reservations are available to secure the best rates.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Museum?

Photography is allowed inside the USS Midway Museum. Visitors can take photos throughout the exhibits and displays, capturing their experience exploring the historic aircraft carrier. However, flash photography may not be permitted in some areas.

Are There Any Guided Tours Available in Addition to the Audio Tour?

Yes, the USS Midway Museum offers guided tours in addition to the self-guided audio tour. Visitors can join docent-led tours to explore the ship’s history and key locations more in-depth. These guided experiences provide a more immersive and interactive museum visit.

Sum Up

The USS Midway Museum offers an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time.

Explore the interactive exhibits, climb aboard restored aircraft, and discover the daily life and operations of this historic aircraft carrier.

With discounts on nearby attractions, the museum provides an excellent starting point to explore San Diego’s top sights.

Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a unique adventure, the USS Midway Museum is a must-visit destination.