USS Midway Museum

Perhaps the most meaningful landmark in San Diego is the USS Midway Museum. For those interested in military affairs, history, or exploring things once out of reach, a comprehensive tour of the aircraft carrier should take at least two to three hours. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and we arranged a morning visit. Generally, a day in advance (US time) is sufficient. E-tickets purchased online in China are significantly cheaper than on the official website. Coronado Island is very close to the harbor, less than a 20-minute drive from the island. We arrived at the museum before 9:30 AM. There's dedicated outdoor parking in front of the museum entrance for $10 per car. Tip: If you're driving and planning to visit the aircraft carrier, arriving at 9:30 AM is a good time to park. Check in first, then explore; after the tour, it's just in time for lunch. It was almost 10:00 AM when we arrived back at the museum, and two long lines had already formed at the entrance: one for the ticket office, the other for the entrance. (Don't get confused when lining up.) Those of us with tickets were naturally in the entrance line. The aircraft carrier has been renovated with user-friendly features. A public restroom is located at the entrance, perfect for those in urgent need. Tickets can be scanned electronically at the entrance, so having a photo of the aircraft in hand can save time. An elevator is also available for access for people with disabilities like us. Upon entering the aircraft carrier, you can receive a free audio guide in various languages from the dedicated staff at the entrance. The staff will provide instructions on how to use the guide, which is very simple. Nearly every piece of equipment, weaponry, and location on view has a sensor light. Simply scan it and the guide will tell you the story in your preferred language. The entire aircraft carrier is roughly divided into three areas: the upper deck (where a large number of various aircraft are displayed and can be experienced); the middle hall (which includes the entrance, central display and experience area, souvenir merchandise area, restaurant area, and entrances to various interior areas); and the interior area (located on the middle and lower floors, housing the various areas necessary for life on the aircraft carrier at the time, including work, rest, medical care, leisure, and dining. It's like a maze, flowing up and down). We toured the aircraft carrier for over two hours without stopping. If we wanted to visit every part and listen carefully to the detailed explanations, we could spend a whole day here. When we came out of the aircraft carrier exit, we saw a constant stream of people coming to visit. The parking lot, which was originally empty, was now full of cars.

Tickets for the USS Midway tour are around $21 USD and allow you to visit the decommissioned USS Midway. Decommissioned in April 1992, the USS Midway is the longest-serving US aircraft carrier, but it did not participate in the Battle of Midway. A boat tour of the harbor provides an up-close look at the active US aircraft carrier.

The USS Midway, named after the Battle of Midway, participated in World War II and served in Vietnam three times.

On the aircraft carrier, there are also veterans who participated in World War II and are now retired and give voluntary lectures here.

Xiaotingzi's English level is limited and he doesn't know much about military affairs, so he was really confused.

But for friends who are interested in military affairs, this place will definitely attract you.

The USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier in US history, is also docked here and has been transformed into a museum showcasing a crucial chapter in American history. The USS Midway boasts three floors. The bottom floor houses the living quarters, a mess hall, and conference rooms. The middle floor houses small aircraft and training equipment. The top floor is a deck, housing many large aircraft. Don't worry about being overwhelmed by the surroundings; a Chinese-language audio guide is available at the entrance, allowing you to listen to each section of the guide, learning not only about American history but also about the operation of an aircraft carrier.

As a military enthusiast, this was a truly eye-opening experience for someone who's never seen an aircraft carrier before. I recommend buying your tickets online in advance, as you'll have to queue up on site, which is a bit more expensive.

Each deck is explained by a retired sailor who previously served on the ship. The ship also provides personal audio guides, available in Chinese. A thorough tour of each deck takes at least three to four hours. The hangar deck, housing a variety of fighter jets, and the lower deck, home to the kitchen, dining room, infirmary, laundry, officers' and soldiers' quarters, and engine room, are all located on this level, creating a maze-like experience.

Washing machines and dryers were already available in the 1940s. This was a luxury for China at the time. The crew constantly monitored the various instruments to ensure they were functioning properly.

The aircraft will be placed on the flight deck outside, and former veterans will explain how carrier-based aircraft take off and land, as well as the working principles of the carrier-based aircraft catapult (take-off) and landing arresting cable (landing).

You have to queue up to go up to the bridge because the stairs to the bridge are short and steep, so only 15 people can pass through in groups every ten minutes or so.

From the ship, we can see that the other side of the harbor should be other fleets.

From the outside, the lifeboat looks more like a space capsule.

Park your car in a nearby parking lot and pay in advance at the self-service payment machine: $8 for 1 hour and $16 for 1-12 hours.

There is also metered parking on the roadside near the "Kiss of the Century," which is closer to the aircraft carrier.

After boarding the aircraft carrier, you can receive a free tour guide in several languages.

When you go to a place with explanations, you can point the instrument at the icon and listen to the explanation with a "beep". It is very convenient.

There are many grandfathers wearing yellow hats on the aircraft carrier. They are all soldiers who have served on this aircraft carrier. Now they come here to be volunteers. They must love and miss everything here!

From the cabin to the deck and then to the control tower, our tour took nearly five hours! My son was very interested in the fighter jets and helicopters. I still felt like we hadn't seen enough, so I'll definitely come back sometime!

The USS Midway, the lead ship of the Midway-class aircraft carriers, was named in commemoration of the Battle of Midway in World War II. It was the first US aircraft carrier with an armored flight deck and the first US warship designed to have a maximum width sufficient to pass through the Panama Canal.

The USS Midway was laid down at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company on October 27, 1943, launched on March 20, 1945, commissioned on September 10, 1945, and decommissioned on April 11, 1992.

The Victory Kiss, a statue depicting a U.S. Navy sailor and his girlfriend sharing a kiss upon victory in World War II, has become a symbol of the end of World War II. This massive statue, located adjacent to the USS Midway aircraft carrier, has become a San Diego landmark, and taking a photo with it is a must-do in San Diego.

Huge aircraft carrier, various aircraft, detailed explanation, very good experience

You can't enter after 4 pm. It's worth experiencing it inside. The magnificence of the aircraft carrier can definitely bring a different feeling.

A retired aircraft carrier is very spectacular and educational for children. The aircraft and some equipment on the aircraft carrier are restored to their original appearance before retirement. It shows the strength of military power.

I think the most worthwhile attraction in San Diego is the USS Midway. The hangars and decks are filled with various aircraft, and the interior facilities, including the bridge lounge, are worth a full day to explore. It's truly an eye-opener.

The USS Midway was retired in April 1992 and is the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the United States. It is a must-see for aviation fans.

My first time aboard an aircraft carrier! The USS Midway (CVB-41) was the first US Navy ship named after Midway Island and was once a symbol of the US Navy. It participated in numerous military operations, including the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s and Desert Storm in the 1990s.

This aircraft carrier was decommissioned in 1992, and the staff in yellow hats were all crew members and navy personnel at that time.

I bought the Midway ticket online. You definitely need to spend 2-3 hours in this place. As soon as you enter, there will be a free small phone, haha, the kind that will introduce it to you as you point. When you walk in the aircraft carrier, you will feel like everyone is making a phone call, haha.

Older children will love this place. Since its launch in March 1945, it has remained majestic and full of combat effectiveness as a museum. From the outside, it looks just like the other active aircraft carriers on the other side.

We arrived at the San Diego Naval Base a little after 11:00 AM and parked in a parking lot not far from the USS Midway. We first visited the famous "Embrace Peace" sculpture. The setting is beautiful, but it was too crowded and too sunny, so we took some photos and then headed towards the USS Midway. The USS Midway is incredibly large; I wonder if it's the same ship that participated in the Battle of Midway. I originally planned to tour the interior, but when I got closer, the line was so long it would probably take over an hour, and the entrance fee seemed quite expensive. So, I gave up and decided to just look around and take some photos from the outside. We then walked along the seawall toward the passenger port and airport. There were many large passenger and cruise ships docked there, and we even saw a large Greenpeace ship docked there. This section of the seawall is quite nice. Nearby is the passenger port, and a little further away are the naval base and the international airport. Along the seawall, there are walking paths, parks, and green spaces, as well as numerous leisure and entertainment facilities and commercial facilities. The scenery is beautiful.

The USS Midway Museum is a must-see for military enthusiasts. Despite being named Midway, the longest-serving battleship in the US military, it did not participate in World War II. However, it saw action in the Vietnam War and other conflicts in the 1990s. The ticket office was incredibly accommodating. After I complained about my online troubles, the ticket agent offered to sell me tickets at the online price, albeit a mere two dollars off. The museum is broadly divided into three sections. The flight deck and hangar are the most eye-catching, showcasing the various military aircraft. Curious individuals should be patient and find the right time to experience them. The stories told during the tours will allow you to imagine the thrilling scenes. Reaching the lower deck to see the dining room, lounge, dormitories, conference rooms, and the "heart" and "arteries" of the aircraft carrier is a truly dizzying climb. While China's military is becoming increasingly powerful, there's still much room for improvement compared to this 1940s behemoth! What was most touching was the retired veterans who volunteered on the deck, sharing their stories and experiences of war with those of us living in a peaceful country. Somehow, a tear fell from my eye. Yes, our time isn't one of widespread peace. The reason we're able to live in a peaceful country is truly because someone else is carrying the burden for us.

Tickets are $23 per person at the door, but we bought them on China-TravelNote for 88 yuan, which is much cheaper. Save your e-ticket and scan the barcode to enter directly. Once inside, you'll get a free audio guide, and the staff will teach you how to use it. However, the Chinese audio guide's voiceover is simply indescribable...

The first floor is a cafeteria and other facilities, so we didn't explore. The second floor is mainly a hangar, filled with numerous aircraft. There's also a simulator for two people, $16 per session, four minutes. It looks simple, but it's incredibly challenging. I kept flipping around and didn't hit a single enemy plane. There's also a souvenir shop on the second floor, so military enthusiasts shouldn't miss it.

Upstairs is the upper deck, where many planes are parked, some of which can be visited.

There is also an upper deck room to visit, but you need to queue up in groups of 20. A volunteer grandfather will lead the tour and explain the whole process, which takes about half an hour. However, since it is all in English, the speed is fast, and there are professional vocabulary, I can't get the point at all...

If I were to go around by myself, it would probably take me an hour to finish, but my friend who was with me is a military enthusiast, so it took us more than three hours.

I later discovered that buying tickets online was cheaper. This attraction is well worth a visit. It's a rare opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of an aircraft carrier, and one not available in China. The museum offers audio guides in five languages, including English and Chinese. It's truly fascinating to explore the interior of the carrier and the aircraft on its deck while listening to the guide's explanations. If the audio guide doesn't provide enough details, you can ask the staff wearing yellow or red hats. Many of these staff members are veterans who served on the carrier, now elderly and gray-haired. They are very enthusiastic and happy to share information about the carrier and other stories with interested visitors. This is a matter of great pride and accomplishment for them. My girlfriend and I asked an elderly man about how the carrier was powered by steam. He enthusiastically explained it to us and even took a photo with us. It was a very sweet gesture.

Midway participated in the Vietnam War, and the self-guided tour machine contains various stories.

It takes about 3 hours to visit Midway Island. To be honest, I was just there to accompany the group. What interested me most were the laundry room, kitchen and clinic on the lower deck.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego is the Maritime Museum, also known as the USS Midway Museum.

The weather was so good, the sun was so bright that I could barely open my eyes. It was mid-week so there were few tourists. Across the street was the Marine Corps base. I first came to San Diego five years ago and have been there about five times in total. Every time I could see two active aircraft carriers.

You can board retired aircraft carriers, and you can also observe active aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, and hospital ships.

The USS Midway, the lead ship of the Midway-class aircraft carriers, was once an icon of the US Navy. Construction began in 1943, she was launched in 1945, and she was withdrawn from the fleet in 1992 and officially decommissioned in 1997, completing a 42-year service life. Launched in September 1945, just one month after Japan's surrender, she missed World War II in the 1940s. She participated in numerous US Navy operations, including the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s and Operation Desert Storm in the 1990s. The ship achieved numerous firsts, including being the first aircraft carrier to launch jet aircraft and the first to launch guided missiles. In 1992, she was decommissioned as the longest-serving warship in the US Navy. Approximately 225,000 US troops served aboard Midway during her time. In 2004, the carrier rested near the San Diego Naval Pier, where she was taken over by a non-profit organization and opened as a museum.

It is well worth a visit. It was once a symbol of the United States.

It should be noted that the Warship Museum will close at 5 pm, and 4 pm is the last time to visit the ship.

The USS Midway Museum, a retired US aircraft carrier, is home to numerous retired aircraft, making it a must-see for military enthusiasts. Even if you're completely unfamiliar with military matters, there are free audio guides explaining each aircraft and key locations on the carrier. The carrier is enormous, and you'll first enter the middle floor, which has been converted into a museum with restaurants, souvenir shops, and entertainment facilities.

Standing on the side, you can see the famous "Victory Kiss" statue.

If you stand on the deck, you can see all kinds of retired aircraft.

In addition to standing on the deck and the entrance level, you can also walk down to the crew public area, which mainly includes the entertainment room and canteen for crew activities, which is enough for you to experience.

South of the aircraft carrier, there's a "Victory Kiss" statue. There's a parking lot in front of it, but we couldn't find a sign. We later discovered it's for staff working on the ship. We parked there for about 15 minutes, but it's best not to park there for longer, as there's a paid parking lot behind the carrier. There's ample parking, but the fee is quite high, around $10. The online admission to the Midway is $21. Staff will guide you at the entrance, and inside, you can get a map and audio guide, both in Chinese, free of charge. There's a photo booth inside, and someone was trying to take a photo as we walked by. We were a bit confused, but a quick snap of the camera passed by. When we came out, they said the photos were ready. They'd printed several copies, and if we wanted them, we'd have to pay $46. We figured if we didn't pay, they'd just throw them away in the trash, so we decided to buy them. It turns out Americans, like Chinese tourist attractions, are all very experienced and cunning. There's a flight simulator here, offering a thrilling WWII air battle experience, but seeing the long line, we didn't try it. I saw all sorts of airplanes I'd never seen in person, let alone named. The interior of the Midway was like a mini city, with a kitchen, bedrooms, a dining room, a conference room, a dentist's office, an operating table, a chapel, a laundry room...it was truly eye-opening.

It was too late and closed, but from the outside one could already sense the enormity of humanity's largest weapon.

This is a patriotic education center for the US, and it's packed with tourists. We arrived around 10:30 AM, and the parking lot was almost full. After boarding the ship, we went to the left to pick up a free audio guide, available in Chinese. During the tour, we listened to the explanations as we saw them. Volunteers wearing yellow hats, who appeared to be retired veterans, regularly gave explanations. Everyone listened attentively, asking questions from time to time.

As a Chinese national, it's truly rare to see something like an aircraft carrier! In San Diego, I actually boarded an aircraft carrier for the first time! It was truly spectacular! The museum offers a detailed look at the lives and combat operations of the officers and soldiers aboard, as well as a wide variety of naval equipment. As a hub for American patriotism education, it allows not only Americans but also foreigners to experience the might of the US military. Veteran volunteers on board also gave explanations, in English, which were well worth the trip! It was fascinating, engaging, and educational! I highly recommend visiting! Tickets are around $25, and well worth it.

Five-star recommendation, very interesting, but a little cold. The sea breeze on the deck gave my mother and me a headache. My mother had diarrhea and finally did not go to the bridge (control room).

The USS Midway is divided into several floors, and a tour of each would take about 3-4 hours. There's a pre-mission briefing room, where many comrades reportedly met for the last time. Many Vietnam veterans now serve as volunteers on the ship.

We spent a total of five hours on the ship. It must have been a long time since I'd visited such an interesting museum. We walked every corridor and listened to a female pilot explain the principles of catapult launch on deck. Under the deck is a huge boiler, using steam to launch the plane like a gun. There were also numerous explanations on deck by staff members wearing colorful vests, each with their own specific duties, but I forgot about them once I disembarked...

After listening to the explanation, there is still the bridge part that has not been visited, but it is time to stop admission. If you are interested, you should come earlier so that you can see the entire aircraft carrier in one day.

From afar, the decommissioned aircraft carrier sat sluggishly at the dockside. The museum's parking lot is charged, though I've forgotten the exact amount. Cash is accepted at the entrance, and there are ample spaces. I purchased my ticket for the aircraft carrier through China-TravelNote, a popular online shopping site, and it was a significant discount compared to window purchases. Entrances and exits are both located on the hangar deck (main deck), and staff are available at the entrances. Both paper maps and audio guides are available in Chinese and are free of charge. Upon entering, my two sons, one older and one younger, were captivated by the flight simulator. After queuing, paying, and taking the necessary acclimation procedures, we climbed into the metal box and strapped ourselves into the cockpit seats to experience the thrill of World War II dogfights. Even though we were a bit clueless and didn't know if we shot down any enemy planes, and even performed several 360-degree somersaults that nearly threw the boy out of his seatbelt, we still had a blast and couldn't get enough. Next, we went up to the flight deck, where I was dazzled by the sheer variety of fighter jets. Not being a military enthusiast, I couldn't recount many anecdotes, so I could only feign familiarity with familiar models like the F-14 and F-15. The 30-minute tour up to the upper deck required patiently queuing and climbing a tall, narrow spiral staircase. My friend mentioned we'd seen that on the USS Intrepid in New York last year, so we decided against it. We then went down to the lower deck (the "Floating City"), where we were given a fascinating look at the daily life of an aircraft carrier: the kitchen, dining room, dentist's office, operating tables, laundry, engine room... even the chapel. It was truly eye-opening. San Diego is the birthplace of the US Navy, and sailors in their white uniforms can be seen everywhere on the ship. They stand tall, confident, and exude military pride in every gesture. Many veterans who served on the carrier have volunteered to return to their beloved ship to offer tours. If you're willing to stop and ask, they'll surely share some interesting anecdotes. Taking a closer look at this World War II-era aircraft carrier, I was filled with emotion. We won't be here to encourage others or undermine the prestige of the Chinese Empire. Finally, after a light meal on the flight deck, enjoying the sea breeze and watching the seabirds, I noticed another aircraft carrier anchored not far away. Then, I indulged my souvenir-buying habit and left this sea giant with great satisfaction. The entire tour lasted about three hours.

Children love it. The aircraft carrier exhibits many aircraft and has great free Chinese self-service. Each exhibition area is very attentive to restore the scene at that time, including sounds and smells. It is worth a visit.

Highly recommended, it's cooler than the Shenzhen aircraft carrier. There are many retired aircraft on the top deck, and there is also a Chinese audio guide.

There is a military enthusiast at home, and we came to see the aircraft carrier on behalf of others. The child was buttoning here and moving there, and was excited to see everything. He especially liked the various scenes inside the cabin, and kept asking what it was and what it was for. Who says you can't learn while having fun?

It was a very satisfying visit. The retired veterans came to maintain order for free. Not a single screw was removed from the ship, and it was ready for service at any time.

It's a former aircraft carrier. When I think about the fact that the United States operated such advanced aircraft carriers during World War II, it's no wonder their title as world supremacist was well-deserved. Back then, we were completely isolated, and the eternal truth was that falling behind meant being attacked. Imagine the awe-inspiring experience of boarding an aircraft carrier. The various fighter planes parked on the deck were truly fascinating. As a woman with no military background, I honestly didn't know the types of fighters, so I could only observe. While the deck was clearly visible, the interior was also quite mysterious. I went inside to see the internal structure. The radar, control consoles, and telegraph transmission equipment still look very modern today.

Next to the aircraft carrier is a small park commemorating the victory of World War II. When the war was declared over, a nurse stood beside a sailor. They were strangers, but upon hearing the news, they cheered and leaped for joy. The sailor then embraced the nurse and kissed her passionately. This story lives on today, and to commemorate the victory, a statue of them was placed there. Interestingly, they were not a couple.

San Diego is primarily a naval base and the largest home port in the United States. Over half of all naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines, call it home. The U.S. Third Fleet and Seventh Fleet are stationed here year-round. The USS Midway, an aircraft carrier in the harbor, was decommissioned in 1979.

Legend has it that in 1945, during the broadcast of the end of World War II in Times Square in New York City, a sailor, overwhelmed with joy at victory and his glorious return home, grabbed a nearby nurse and kissed her for a long time. This kiss, captured by a New York Times reporter, later became known as the "Kiss of the Century," also known as the Victory Kiss. The statue, symbolizing peace, love, and romance, was dedicated in San Diego in 2005.

Parking cost $10, and I bought an e-ticket and scanned the QR code to enter. It was quite impressive. They said many veterans who had dedicated their youth to the ship were now volunteering on board, wearing yellow hats.

In the hangar, you can see various fighter planes and queue up to experience what it's like to sit in a plane. Going to the next level, you'll find the cafeteria, payroll room, post office, steam boiler, soldiers' quarters, and even a brig.

On the deck, we saw a wide platform for fighter jets to take off and land. A former pilot explained the landing process, and there was a performance by the student honor guard.

In addition, everyone will be given an interpreter after entering the entrance, which supports Chinese.

The USS Midway offers virtually unlimited access to visitors, including the bridge, flight deck, hangar, air traffic control tower, strategic command center, engine room, officers' and crew quarters, and the commander's and captain's quarters. Twenty-five US Navy aircraft from World War II to Desert Storm are also parked in the hangar and on the upper flight deck. To enhance the visitor experience, the museum has set up a dedicated cockpit experience area.

The stern of the aircraft carrier has been converted into a cafe, where you can see the leisurely and romantic side of San Diego everywhere.

When I arrived, they were off work and I didn't get on board. I felt a little disappointed.

The parking time I left was too short. I suggested you give me more time. I didn’t finish the tour in 3 hours.

Since I am not an aviation fan, I did not go up and just admired it from the outside. It is indeed spectacular, hmm!

It's a place you can spend most of the day exploring. There are free Chinese guides. There aren't many floors open to the public, but the explanations of the planes on the deck are enough to last a whole day. There are also paid aircraft experiences. The Victory Kiss is in the open park. After 3 hours on the boat, I was too tired to walk and didn't go to the park. I just took pictures of the Victory Kiss on the deck.

While the aircraft carrier wasn't as large as I'd imagined, it was still quite impressive! The guides in yellow hats were mostly former service members of the ship, and they were very enthusiastic and stylish!

The aircraft carrier is truly enormous, with various aircraft exhibits and Chinese language guides. Speaking Chinese to the staff is easy, and they'll switch the explanations to Chinese. It's very convenient. Even with my limited English, I managed to get it. There were also explanations by veterans, but unfortunately, I couldn't understand them. Inside the cabin, there are also various exhibits, but unfortunately, I couldn't get a glimpse into the soldiers' work and life. The figures, especially the captain, are life-size. If you're brave enough, you can listen to his speech. I thought it was very realistic; it scared me so much I ran away. 😓 You can climb up the aircraft carrier to see the stairs, but they're narrow, steep, and hollow. There are voice prompts, so those afraid of heights shouldn't try. I was quite obedient...

This museum is packed with information, giving you a great sense of the space and organization of an aircraft carrier. Having never been to a place like this before, it's quite refreshing! It takes about three hours, and it's best to go in the afternoon. While you won't be able to see the sunset before closing time, it's nice to sit on the deck for a while in the afternoon sun and enjoy the breeze.

I've been there several times and highly recommend it. The interior of the aircraft carrier is truly enormous, divided into three decks: upper, middle, and lower. The upper deck features a variety of retired US military aircraft, including a statue of a famous commander commanding a takeoff. The lower deck, where the crew, enlisted personnel, and officers live, is incredibly spacious and well-equipped with amenities like a barber shop, a dentist, and more.

Uber drivers in San Diego are incredibly friendly and will share their insights into the history of each city, both old and new. Anyone interested in history and military affairs shouldn't miss this museum. It features information on various aircraft types, and you can get a pair of headphones upon entering. Each aircraft comes with detailed background information, and some even feature realistic re-creations of the aircraft. The museum is enormous, with multiple floors. Free brochures are available, and visitors can see authentic scenes of the crew's daily life aboard an aircraft carrier. The museum also offers many interactive activities, making for a truly engaging experience.

Before visiting the aircraft carrier museum, I was concerned about parking, but there was no need to worry. Parking too far from the aircraft carrier is not recommended. There's a large parking lot across from the aircraft carrier's boarding entrance. We parked in the small park where the Victory Kiss sculpture is located to see it. The parking meter charges $1 per hour, accepting both credit cards and coins, with a maximum of two hours. It was plenty for us, but if you're a military enthusiast or traveling with children, parking in this area is not recommended.

As the name suggests, the museum is a renovated decommissioned aircraft carrier. Getting up close and personal is key to truly appreciating its sheer size. The entrance is directly adjacent to a large parking lot, making parking convenient. Buy your tickets in advance, board the carrier, and receive an audio guide available in multiple languages. The carrier is divided into three levels: the deck and mezzanine display dozens of fighter jets. The mezzanine also features a flight experience (for a fee). Interestingly, those outside can watch the screens react to the crew inside, perhaps as they hear the engine room rumble. The decks have more aircraft on display. Listening to the explanations, you'll learn about different fighters' missions, flying across the skies to protect America during major battles. Now quietly parked on the carrier, these retired aircraft speak of their past glory. This is a paradise for military enthusiasts. Guides are stationed in the corners of the decks, regularly leading visitors to the higher floors, home to the carrier's control center. The ocean views from the highest vantage point are a true delight. Returning to the lower levels, the crew's rest and relaxation areas are a maze-like maze of rooms. The captain and first officer's elegant bedrooms are also located there, and treatment varies significantly between crew ranks. Next to the aircraft carrier is the famous Victory Kiss, a statue of a victorious World War II sailor embracing his girlfriend. It's incredibly romantic and charming. Many couples take photos in front of the statue, imitating the pose. Whether you imitate it or not, being in such a beautiful place with your loved one is the happiest thing.

I used the hotel coupon from before, and the adult ticket was $20, which was a discount of $3 per person.

Inside the aircraft carrier, there are free Chinese explanation headsets for you to listen to as you go.

We spent 1-2 hours on the aircraft carrier, but found nothing useful in the souvenir shop as the merchandise was still made in China.

This retired aircraft carrier is now a museum. It's free, but you have to wait in line. It's basically a cafe. There are various new warships docked in the harbor not far away, and currently serving warships often dock here, open to the public for tours, with American soldiers providing explanations. This shows how powerful patriotic education is in the United States.

You can book your tickets online beforehand, which is cheaper than buying them on site! Even a full day wouldn't be enough for a military enthusiast. Even a cursory tour of the ship took me almost three hours! After all, it's an aircraft carrier, and it's massive!

Very good experience. The aircraft carrier is really spectacular

I came to San Diego just to see the USS Midway, and it was worth the trip! The ship is well-arranged, with all kinds of classic American aircraft models available. The explanation was also very good. I saw many models up close that I drooled over in magazines back then. It was great.

The USS Midway was decommissioned in 1992 and decommissioned in 1997. In 2003, the Navy donated the ship to a private organization for conversion into a museum. The museum opened in June 2004 in Oakland, California. This is a real aircraft carrier converted into a museum, allowing you to see all its equipment and experience this massive vessel up close, making it a truly unique experience for military enthusiasts.

To be honest, it's not as impressive as I imagined. I think I'd have to watch the current one to be more exciting. However, now that I have it myself, there's no need to watch it anymore.

It can be reached by tram from the city center, and the ticket for the aircraft carrier museum is a bit expensive.

This is a truly unique attraction, a real aircraft carrier. Parking is right below the ship for $20. Once on board, you can pick up guides in various languages, including Chinese. From the living quarters to the operations room, from the dining room to the brig, from the hangar to the deck, it's worth spending a full day exploring. The island tour is limited in number, and the guide is a Navy veteran (though I couldn't understand him). He's very humorous and, knowing we were Chinese, even offered us the captain's seat! A fantastic experience!

Personally, I don't think it's interesting. Unless you are particularly interested in military affairs, there is no need to arrange it specifically. Just take a photo of the appearance near the Victory Kiss.

It costs ten dollars to enter the door and listen to it. It takes half a day to look carefully at the top, middle and bottom. It is recommended to go up to see the control console first and there will be veterans explaining that you have to queue up. The lower level is complicated and has prisons, hospitals, restaurants, accommodation, conference rooms, cinemas, etc. It is very interesting. It is even more meaningful if you have children.

I didn't have the chance to board the Liaoning, but the Midway looks very similar. Let's feast our eyes.

It's very good, you must go. The famous kissing statue can be seen on the aircraft carrier

The landmark of San Diego is not my cup of tea, but it is suitable for people who are interested in aircraft carriers.

I bought the tickets on Taobao on Singles' Day. It only cost RMB 198 for three people, which was much cheaper than buying tickets on site (20 dollars per person).

The carrier is divided into three levels: underground, hangar, and deck. We ascended the stairs directly from the dock to the hangar. Under the guidance of the hangar staff, we first received a Chinese guide. Inside, the hangar exhibited the famous SNZ two-seat trainer aircraft from World War II, the TBM Avenger torpedo plane, and the SDB Dauntless dive bomber. There were also real aircraft cockpits where visitors could take photos. My son and I took pictures of each aircraft, switching planes one by one. There were also game simulators in the hangar, capable of 720-degree rolls. My son and I each paid $8 and eagerly jumped in to play. I quickly went over to take their picture.

On the deck, there are more than 20 types of fighter jets used over the years on display, including the famous F-4 Phantom, F9F Panther, F-8 Crusader, F-14 Tomcat, F/A-18 Hornet, T-2 Buckeye, C-1 Trader, E-2 Hawkeye, A-6 Intruder, A-1 Skyrader, H-46 Sea Knight, H-34 Seabat, etc.

After watching the fighter planes, we waited in line for almost half an hour to enter the ship tower. We were divided into groups of ten or twenty people, led by a tour guide.

After visiting the museum, I felt very knowledgeable and learned a lot. It is definitely worth a visit!

I am not very interested in various fighter jets, but this is a must-see place for foreign tourists visiting this city, and you can snap a few photos of the harbor kiss under the warships.

A truly classic kiss of the century. I've seen a life-size statue of one next to the USS Missouri before. This one was truly stunning. Although I didn't get to go on board, just looking at it was enough to captivate the eyes!

I personally think the USS Midway Museum is worth a visit. The ship is enormous, and exploring every floor should take at least three hours. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students (ages 13-17), $10 for children (ages 5-12), and free for children under five. There's a Visitor Center on San Diego's west side of *** Drive, where you can pick up a map with a coupon for $18 for adults. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with entrances closing at 4:00 PM. (Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.) During peak season, the lines close at 3:30 PM. It's recommended to arrive early. If you don't finish exploring the ship the first day, you can return the next day with your ticket valid. However, you'll need to register on the first day to reenter with your ticket.



The USS Midway, once an icon of the US Navy and the lead ship of the Midway-class aircraft carriers, was withdrawn from the fleet in 1992 and officially decommissioned in 1997. In 2004, the carrier's final resting place was located near the San Diego Naval Pier, where it was taken over by a non-profit organization and opened as a museum. Visitors can tour this behemoth, including its bridge, flight deck, hangar, air traffic control tower, strategic command center, engine room, officers' and crew quarters, and the commander's and captain's quarters. Within the decks and hangars are 25 US Navy aircraft from World War II to Desert Storm, some of which allow visitors to sit in the cockpit. The next level offers a tour of the fully equipped medical department, complete with examination rooms, operating rooms, a dentist's office, a laboratory, an X-ray room, a pharmacy, and a ward with bunk beds. Nearby is a post office for personal mail and parcels. There's also a payroll office that issues US Navy military tickets, valid both on board and at the base. Some shops near the base also accept military tickets. Also on this level is the mechanical repair department, with several large workshops, including a lathe room, a locksmith's room, and a tool room. There's also a communal mess hall with a kitchen and dining area. It's a buffet-style dining area, with everyone picking up their food from a tray. There are also drink and ice cream dispensers, and menus are placed on the tables. There are also large dishwashing facilities, and there are likely several such mess halls. The ship's cabin is a small world, packed with everything, but it's easy to get lost.



Official website***

I came to San Diego specifically for this, and it was well worth it. There was a small glitch along the way; the ticket I bought on Taobao wouldn't let me in after scanning the QR code. So, be careful when buying from Taobao and choose a good one. I chose a store with average sales, and they sold tickets for 10 bucks cheaper than others on the day they were issued. I later bought them at the door for 20 bucks. The aircraft carrier is divided into three levels: underground, middle, and upstairs. At the entrance, someone will take your photo and give you a code. You can go to the middle level and get it to take a photo of you in front of the aircraft carrier. It costs $40 for four photos. Remember, if you just want to look, don't give her the code. Tell her you want to see it first. We gave her the code, and she printed it out for us. You have to pay. The underground isn't very interesting, just the former military living area. There are a lot of things to do in the middle, including a flight simulator, which costs $8 per person. Don't go there; it's very boring. The upstairs platform is the most fun, filled with all kinds of planes. We spent nearly two hours upstairs taking pictures of the planes. It was truly beautiful, and it was worth the trip.

The USS Midway, the lead ship of the Midway-class aircraft carriers, was once a symbol of the US Navy. Commissioned in 1945 after the victory in World War II, it was decommissioned in 1997. In 2004, the carrier's final resting place was near the San Diego Navy Pier, where it was taken over by a non-profit organization and opened as a museum (the USS Midway Museum). Tickets are $20, but online tickets are cheaper. I bought mine on China-TravelNote for just under $16. Simply scan the barcode at the entrance and board the ship (tickets can be printed or viewed on your phone). Tuanzi, eager to enter, rushed in! We first entered the hangar, which featured displays and hands-on areas. The children were delighted to sit in the flight seats. After all, every child dreams of flying and yearns to take to the skies. The adults and I each rented a free audio guide. Without anyone to explain, it was just a curiosity. With so many Chinese visitors, they had many Chinese-speaking services, such as a Chinese option for the audio guide and a Chinese-language guide map. It was a thoughtful touch! This is a fighter jet. I don't know the model, so I'll read the sign. The key point is, on the ground, it's already connected to the catapult, ready to launch. The Midway used steam catapults, which are connected to a complex system. According to my aunt Tuanzi's grandfather, who was traveling with me, even though the Midway has been retired for many years, it's actually even more advanced than our Liaoning. If you have an audio guide, you can enter the numbers on the sign. The three numbers above represent different languages or different audiences for the guide, whether it's for adults or teenagers. The parking area on the deck is full of planes, but the airfield is very empty. It's a long walk, so everyone should remember to wear sunscreen.

Like national parks, there are also youth educational activities here. We originally received the Little Pilots homework, but it was so difficult that even Mom and Dad couldn't finish a few of the questions. We decided to give up! Tuanzi was a little reluctant about it, so we finally encouraged her to wait until she was older and learned more knowledge before doing the homework.

After touring the decks, we headed to the island. There's a height requirement for visiting the island, as you have to climb dozens of steep stairs. Tuanzi barely made it past the threshold. Before we went up, the staff explained the precautions, such as carrying your backpack in front of you, keeping children between you as you go up and down the stairs, and always facing the direction of the stairs. The stairs and hatches are incredibly narrow. It's said that the most common injury here is scalp bruises. And come to think of it, with the size of Europeans and Americans, it's a wonder they didn't get bumped during an emergency. There's also the officers' and enlisted personnel quarters on the lower decks. An aircraft carrier can hold thousands of people, and this is where they all live, eat, and sleep. There's a hospital, dining hall, dormitories, activity rooms, and even a chapel and detention cells. We spent so much time on the upper deck that we didn't go down there! It's recommended to plan at least 2-3 hours for the Midway Atoll tour. Opening hours start at 10:00 AM, so don't go too early!