The 296-metre USS Midway is truly a city on the sea, having carried up to 4,000 navy personnel at any one time. As the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, a visit to this vessel will immerse you in US military history dating back from 1945 right through to Operation Desert Storm in 1991. With over 60 exhibits, it is no wonder that the USS Midway attracts over 800,000 visitors each year.
The museum’s meticulously restored collection of 29 aircraft take pride of place in the exhibition. Discover aeroplanes and helicopters from World War II to Desert Storm, as well as craft that saw action in the Korean and Vietnam wars. There is no better way travel back in time, than to climb into the cockpit and let your imagination run free.
For a more immediate flying experience, take a turn on one of the two flight simulators in the museum. Air Combat 360 will take you on an adrenaline-pumping aerial combat sortie complete with rolls, somersaults, spins and loops. Fly a daring mission in Operation Desert Storm when you climb into the Flight Avionics Naval Combat Mission simulator. You’ll experience air-to-air combat aboard an F18 Hornet, while recordings of authentic pilot conversations add to the experience.
Discover what life at sea would have been like for the navy personnel on board. An audio tour is included in the entry fee to guide you around the vessel. The descriptions and explanations are narrated by people who have previously served on the carrier, so you know you are getting a true picture of events as you explore the sleeping quarters, the post office and even the jail. If you don’t have time in your schedule for a full museum visit, you can still climb aboard the USS Midway without having to buy a ticket to admire the wonderful view of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean around you.
Tickets to the museum can be bought at the gate or from the official website. Entry is free for children of 5 years of age and younger. The museum is open every day apart from Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
