uss missouri engine room tour

Visit the USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor: Tours & Volunteer Work

BY JARED DILLINGHAM

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A

Visit to battleship missouri.

Pearl Harbor is the final resting place for many ships that played important roles in American History, including the USS Missouri, a Navy battleship built in the 1940s.

Battleship Missouri, known as the “Mighty Mo,” is now a floating museum which provides a truly unique visitor experience!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The USS Missouri is perhaps best known as the site of the Japanese surrender at the end of World War II. On September 2, 1945, the Japanese delegation signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the Missouri, officially bringing an end to the war.

On a visit to the battleship, now permanently docked at Pearl Harbor, you’ll learn about its role in other conflicts, including the Korean War and the Gulf War. Plus you have the unique opportunity to volunteer on various restoration projects onboard.

Battleship Missouri Tours and Tickets

The Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor offers a variety of tour options . I’ll describe what you’ll see onboard as part of the different tours down below. Here are the options and prices:

• General admission for adults: $34.99
• General admission for children(4-12): $17.49
• Captain’s Tour: $65
• Chief Engineer’s Tour: $65
• Passport to Pearl Harbor: $90

The memorial is open daily, from 8:00am – 4:00pm, with the last admission allowed at 3:00pm.

USS Missouri & Pearl Harbor Tours from Waikiki

There are a variety of other tours from Waikiki offered to Pearl Harbor and the USS Missouri. Here are several options, in case one is booked for your dates. They have excellent reviews:

➡️ Tour of Pearl Harbor from Waikiki [CLICK for details]

• This 7-hour tour for history buffs includes pickup in Waikiki, plus skip-the-line admission to the USS Missouri and USS Arizona Memorial.

➡️ Pearl Harbor Passport from Waikiki [CLICK for details]

• This full-day tour begins with a pickup at your hotel in Waikiki. You’ll skip-the-line to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, the USS Bowfin Submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

➡️ Pearl Harbor “Bookends” tour from Waikiki [CLICK for details]

• This 7-hour tour begins with a pickup from Waikiki, and includes a knowledgeable guide who will take you to the USS Arizona, USS Missouri, and more sites at Pearl Harbor. (The site is home to the “bookends” of WWII: the ships sunk during the initial invasion, and the Missouri, where the Japanese surrendered.)

A Visit to the USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor

The USS Missouri was decommissioned in 1992 and eventually turned into a museum ship, which is open to the public. On different tours, visitors can explore the ship’s decks, living quarters, combat engagement center, captain’s quarters, and more to learn about the ship’s history in service.

Where is the Battleship Missouri Memorial?

The Battleship Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are on Ford Island, which is an active military base at Pearl Harbor. Here’s a map of Oahu, which you can click on to get a better sense of where exactly the Missouri is docked:

The Missouri is located near the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. In fact, you can see the USS Arizona Memorial from the deck of the Missouri:

Shuttle to the Battleship Missouri Memorial

You can’t drive over the bridge to Ford Island on your own since it’s an active military base.

You’ll park at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and take a bus over to Ford Island.

The shuttle is free with your admission, and they depart every 15-20 minutes or so. The buses run a loop, from the visitor center to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, then the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, then back to the center.

The shuttles begin running each morning at 8:00am, and the final bus leaves the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum on Ford Island at 5:00pm.

History on the Deck of the USS Missouri

Right from your first steps onto the Battleship Missouri, you’ll be in awe of the history that’s taken place on the decks!

Stand at the Site of the Japanese Surrender

The USS Missouri is perhaps most famous for its role in the Japanese surrender of World War II.

On September 2, 1945, the Japanese delegation led by Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri, officially bringing an end to the war.

It will definitely help to have one of the knowledgeable guides, like Cedrick Badua, along on your tour to point out all of the significant pieces of history onboard.

A circular gold plaque marks the spot of the official surrender on the deck:

The occasion is represented in exhibits on the main deck, including a photo with the names of all parties present:

Photos of General MacArthur, Commander of the Allied Powers, and others signing the surrender documents are part of the exhibit on the deck of the USS Missouri:

The Kamikaze attack on the USS Missouri

During World War II, and the Battle for Okinawa, 5,000 American sailors lost their lives in kamikaze attacks by Japanese pilots. The suicide missions sank 36 ships.

The USS Missouri was targeted on April 16, 1945, about 300 miles south of Okinawa. Radar picked up a Japanese plane, known as a Yokosuka D4Y “Judy” dive bomber heading for the battleship.

The plane hit just below the deck, killing the pilot. There were no casualties on the Missouri. While it resulted in some plane debris on the deck, the damage done to the ship itself was minor.

Someone will definitely have to point it out, because the impact of the plane made such a small dent:

On the deck, you can see an exhibit with a few photos from the kamikaze attack. The crew of the Missouri found the pilot’s body in the wreckage, and the Captain ordered him prepared for burial at sea.

Inside the USS Missouri

Different tours, called the “ Captain’s Tour ” and the “ Chief Engineer’s Tour ” will allow you into different parts of the Battleship Missouri.

Walk Down “Broadway” on the Chief Engineer’s Tour

The “Chief Engineer’s Tour” will take you down to the long hallway connecting all four engine rooms, known as “Broadway.”

It’s the longest passage on the ship, and where the Chief Engineer and 500 sailors under his command would work below the waterline on the boiler and equipment that propelled the Missouri to top speeds of 30 knots.

It’s pretty incredible to step onto “Broadway” and see how far down it goes in each direction!

You can see how tight the doorways and hatches are on the ship. Sailors get used to the tight openings, but you’ll definitely have to watch your head as you walk through and crawl around parts of the ship!

The “Captain’s Tour”

The “Captain’s Tour” will bring you into the Combat Engagement Center, which is home to the ship’s modern weapons systems.

It’ll also take you to the navigation bridge, where the captains commanded the Missouri over the decades while at sea and engaged in battle.

Inside the Captain’s Quarters

“The Captain’s Tour” also brings visitors into the captain’s quarters on the USS Missouri. The quarters have been restored to their original condition and provide a fascinating glimpse into life onboard.

The captain’s quarters are on the ship’s “Flag Bridge” level, which was the highest level of the ship’s superstructure. The captain’s quarters are the most spacious and ‘luxurious’ on the ship. While most of the crew lived in bunks, the captain had his own private sitting room, bedroom, and bathroom.

The sitting room was typically furnished with a desk, and other amenities. The bedroom includes a bed, a wardrobe with plenty of uniforms, and other furnishings. The bathroom is small, but fully-equipped with a sink, shower, and toilet.

The captain’s quarters on the USS Missouri were designed to be both comfortable and functional. In addition to leading the crew and overseeing the ship’s operations, the captain also hosted diplomats and other officials onboard.

The list of VIPs on the USS Missouri included President Harry Truman, Bob Hope, and Marilyn Monroe.

A memorial to the USS Missouri’s 20 commanding officers currently stands in this part of the ship:

The Battleship’s Weapons

Battleship Missouri was equipped with three, three-gun turrets in the main battery, which could hit targets 23 miles away.

The ship’s other weapons systems included a second battery, and an air defense system. It was capable of firing at a rate of 50 rounds per second against incoming missiles or planes.

The Missouri could also carry 32 Tomahawk missiles and 16 Harpoon missiles.

One of the most significant moments in the USS Missouri’s involvement in the Gulf War came on February 28, 1991. The ship fired its 16-inch guns at Iraqi targets along the Kuwaiti coast. It marked the first time in more than 40 years that the ship had fired its guns in combat.

Volunteer & Work on the USS Missouri!

I learned about the opportunity to volunteer on the USS Missouri while researching other volunteer ideas for tourists in Hawaii. This one truly stands out, as an amazing chance to help preserve a piece of American history!

Repairs & Renovation on the Battleship

As a museum ship, the USS Missouri requires ongoing preservation efforts to ensure that it remains in good condition for future generations.

Admission fees and other money spent at the Battleship Missouri Memorial all go back to the maintenance and preservation of the ship. Their “ All Hands on Deck ” capital fundraising campaign is also taking donations for future projects.

As you walk around the battleship, you’ll find different areas surrounded by scaffolding, or taped off for painting.

Preservation Work on the Battleship

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is a nonprofit, which does not rely on government funding. Funding is a main challenge of keeping up the maintenance on a floating museum.

Another challenge is finding enough surplus material to use, from paint to teak for the deck. The active duty ships take priority for paint and other supplies.

Painting the USS Missouri

To handle the elements at Pearl Harbor, the Battleship Missouri is stripped down the metal (in sections), covered in 6-layers of primer, and then painted the traditional “Navy Haze Grey.”

The paint color, believe it or not, is apparently in high demand! So they celebrate whenever a shipment comes in, and put it to use.

Repairing the decks of the USS Missouri

Walking around the Missouri, you’ll notice the deck looks different in different spots. Some of it looks brand new (and it is!) while other areas are rotting away or even covered in plywood.

Our guide, Cedrick pointed out the trouble spots. It’s pretty easy to see the water damage done over the years:

The deck of the USS Missouri was made of teak wood planks during its active service in the United States Navy. The teak wood was chosen for its durability, water resistance, and non-slip properties, which made it an ideal material for the decks of battleships.

Replacing more than 50,000 square feet of teak is a huge job, which is taking years.

Most of what you see rotting now is a spruce or fir-teak laminate installed during renovations in the 1980s.

The new decking includes an anti-rot epoxy and teak, designed to weather many more years docked at Pearl Harbor. And the new teak deck looks great:

Who can Volunteer on the Battleship?

Down from a crew of 2,500 sailors, the USS Missouri now has a dedicated maintenance staff of 25.

Volunteers play an important role in bolstering the work being done on the battleship… AND… you’ll get to see parts of the ship that aren’t open to the public!

Volunteer duties vary based on ability and skillset and need. They include cleaning, sanding, sweeping, painting, and moving equipment.

You can be as young as 16 and come on your own, or as young as 13 if you’re accompanied by an adult.

Anyone interested can click here to fill out the volunteer application form for the USS Missouri.

The volunteer coordinators prefer a week’s notice before you arrive, and shifts generally run from 9:00am to 2:00pm.

Who Oversees Work on the USS Missouri?

Keven Williamson is a longtime volunteer coordinator on the Missouri, who’s friendly and eager to work with anyone who’d like to pitch in and help preserve this piece of history.

You can contact the Battleship Missouri volunteers department at 808-455-1600 (ext. 224) or email them at: [email protected].

Pearl Harbor Hotels & Lodging

The closest hotels to Pearl Harbor are going to be near Honolulu’s airport. Waikiki is home to most of the resorts and rental options on Oahu, and as I mentioned up top, many of the tours will pick you up right from the hotel.

You can use this interactive map to search around and check out the different lodging opportunities and prices for your dates:

Without traffic, it’s about a 20 minute drive from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor. Honolulu traffic can be rough at times, so budget more drive time especially if you’re traveling during rush hour.

Visit Pearl Harbor: Tips & Hours

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is open daily, from 8:00am – 4:00pm, with the last admission allowed at 3:00pm.

Pearl Harbor is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Allowed at Pearl Harbor Visitor Center:

• Clear, see-through bags
• Bags containing medical devices or medication
• Cell phones

NOT Allowed at Pearl Harbor Visitor Center:

• Backpacks & bags (storage lockers available to rent)

Plus, remember, there are other stops to make at Pearl Harbor, including the Aviation Museum and the USS Bowfin submarine.

(Brief) History of the USS Missouri

The USS Missouri was the first American battleship ever built (at the Navy Yards in Brooklyn) and the last to be decommissioned.

The Battleship in World War II

Commissioned in 1944, the USS Missouri saw action in several major battles and operations in the Pacific Theater of the war.

One of the USS Missouri’s most notable roles in World War II was its participation in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, where it provided support to Allied forces and engaged in combat against Japanese forces. The ship also participated in the bombardment of Iwo Jima and served as a flagship for Admiral William F. Halsey during the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

The Battleship Hosts the Japanese Surrender

The USS Missouri was chosen as the site for the formal Japanese surrender ceremony at the end of World War II due to several factors.

First, the Missouri was the flagship of Admiral William Halsey’s Third Fleet, which played a significant role in the Pacific.

Second, the USS Missouri was one of the largest and most powerful battleships in the United States Navy, so its size made it a fitting choice for a ceremony of such significance.

Third, the USS Missouri’s location in Tokyo Bay was convenient, as it was close to the Japanese capital and easily accessible by the Japanese delegation.

The Battleship in Korea

The ship was recommissioned in 1950, a few months after the outbreak of the Korean War.

One of the USS Missouri’s primary roles during the Korean War was to provide naval gunfire support to troops on the ground. The battleship participated in several major engagements during the war, including the Battle of Chumonchin Chan in 1950 and the Battle of Wonsan in 1951.

The Battleship in the Gulf

The USS Missouri, which was recommissioned in 1986 after several years of retirement, played a significant role in the Gulf War in 1991. The Missouri participated in several major engagements, including the Battle of Khafji in January 1991.

In addition to its role in providing fire support, the USS Missouri also served as a command and control center for Allied forces in the region. The ship’s advanced communication and surveillance equipment allowed it to coordinate with other naval vessels, aircraft, and ground troops to carry out a range of missions in the Gulf.

How Battleship Missouri Arrived at Pearl Harbor

The ship was decommissioned for the final time in 1992 after more than 50 years of service in the Navy, and its fate was uncertain for several years.

In 1995, the USS Missouri Memorial Association was formed with the goal of preserving the ship as a museum and memorial to those who served on it and to the events it played a role in.

After extensive negotiations with the Navy, the USS Missouri was selected to be the museum ship and was towed from the United States Naval Reserve Fleet in Bremerton, Washington, to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

The USS Missouri was permanently docked at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, where it underwent extensive restoration and preservation work to prepare it for its new role as a museum ship.

The ship was opened to the public in 1999.

Wrap: Battleship Missouri

Touring the “ Mighty Mo ,” and learning about the preservation work was such an honor for us.

And again, a special thanks to Cedrick, our very patient and well-informed guide!

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Self-Guided

Battleship missouri and aviation museum passport.

Get access to the best Pearl Harbor sights + lunch (wine or beer included) & self-guided narrated tour.  Take your time and get the most out of your experience. Includes:

• Admission to the Battleship Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Pearl Harbor Visitors Center
• Lunch including 4 options for adults and beer or wine
• Shuttle transportation between the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Ford Island
• $10 gift card at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Gift Shop ($5 for Children)

Transportation to/from Pearl Harbor is not included. Find out how to get to Pearl Harbor   here.

What’s Included

Tickets to the best Pearl Harbor sites including: Battleship Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, & Pearl Harbor Visitors Center.

Lunch includes beer or wine for adults and a choice of 4 options for adults (including vegan and vegetarian) and 2 choices for children with a chocolate milk or canned juice.

Shuttle transportation between the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Ford Island is included.

USS Arizona boat and Memorial tickets are NOT included – There are 2 ways to secure tickets to the USS Arizona: Book online by clicking here . Or book one of the tours that include tickets to the USS Arizona.

$ 99.99 / Adult

Tour upgrade.

Top of the Tower Add on

Tour highlights.

The Battleship Missouri (1-1.5 hours)

The USS Oklahoma Memorial

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (1-1.5 hours)

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

Tour requirements.

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (Includes the USS Bowfin)

Please be aware that children younger than four years of age may not enter the submarine for safety reasons.

Aviation Museum Top of Tower Add On 

Children must be at least 42″ tall to join the Top of the Tower Tour.  

All visitors are required to climb 2 flights of steep stairs to reach the observation tower.

Jack Farwell

Submit a review, frequently asked questions, what is the baggage policy.

No bags of any size are allowed anywhere at Pearl Harbor. This includes backpacks, camera bags, purses, luggage, and fanny packs must all be left at the baggage storage at the entrance to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. For diaper needs, we suggest parents and caregivers include these baby items in a clear sealable under the stroller seat for clear visibility and access.

Where can I pick up my audio tour headset?

You can pick up your headset for the audio tour near the Information Desk at the Visitors Center.

Can I bring a stroller, wheelchair, or mobility device?

Pearl Harbor is an accessible site, there are no hills, and the paths are mostly flat. Wheelchairs are not available for rent at the park. There are benches placed around the visitor center and there are wheelchair locks on the US Navy navy boats to and from the memorial that sport visitors back and forth to the Memorial.

Motorized mobility devices are welcome at the Visitor Center and on US Navy Vessels, and the USS Arizona Memorial.

Strollers are welcome on site but can only go so far as the USS Arizona Memorial pre-boarding area at the Park Theater. Strollers are not permitted on US Navy vessels or the USS Arizona Memorial, please bring a baby carrier as an alternate option in these areas.

Can I bring food and beverages?  

Due to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial's no-bag policy, only bring snacks and water bottles that you can carry. There is a small snack shop on site that carries various sundry snacks and cold beverages as well as restaurants throughout the area. There are water fountains located throughout the park to use or refill water bottles.

What is appropriate dress and attire?

We recommend that all visitors consider this site is for remembrance and reflection of the loss of life in service to the United States, therefore please plan for appropriate dress. Battle dress uniform is not allowed on the memorial, though it is allowed throughout the visitor center and at sites on Ford Island. Military visitors are welcome to wear civilian attire when visiting.

Come prepared with comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet throughout your visit, including a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are recommended.

When should I start the day?

Start your day early for ample time to see the sights. Your round-trip shuttle service to Ford island is about a 5-8 minute ride from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center (8:00am-4:00pm) The last shuttle returning visitors to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center leaves the museum at 4:05pm.

What can I bring and wear?

Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sun block. 

Don’t forget your photo ID and leave all bags behind, as you are not allowed to bring them into Pearl Harbor.

When should I buy a USS Arizona Ticket?

8 weeks before tour date – At 7:00 am Hawaii Standard Time 300 tickets are made available for reservations. Tickets can sell out quickly depending on the season so it’s best to plan early if you want to get these. There is a $1.00 service fee for each reserved ticket.

The day before your tour date – At 3:00 pm Hawaii Standard Time 300 tickets are made available for reservations. These frequently go even faster depending on the season, so be prepared to make your reservations as soon as possible after 3:00 pm. There is a $1.00 service fee for each reserved ticket.

Where can I get food?

The Aviation Museum is also a great place for a lunch break, the air-conditioned cafe offers an American-style menu with quick meals and drinks.

Find a Tour

Remember Pearl Harbor Tour from Waikiki

Guided Tour

The Complete Pearl Harbor Tour Experience With Lunch

Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour from Waikiki

Official Passport to Pearl Harbor

Booking and cancelling are easy with pearl harbor oahu., cancellations on tours without airfare.

• Tours - Changes and cancellations are allowed up to 24 or 48 hours before tour time depending on the tour. FULL REFUND PROVIDED.
• Passport to Pearl Harbor - Changes and cancellations are allowed up 24 hours before tour time.  10% cancellation fee applies.
• Any cancellations made within 24 hours of tour time are non-refundable.
• No-Shows are non-refundable.
• Groups of 8 or more may make changes and cancellations up to 17:00 local time, 7 business days prior to the activity. Cancellations made later are subject to a 100% charge.

Cancellations on Tours with Airfare

• Tours that include airfare are non-refundable.
• Airfare is not transferable and not changeable.

Although flights are non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-changeable, please give us notice as soon as you know that you will not be able to go on the tour and we will try to work with our airline partners to reschedule you. While this has happened, it is not a guarantee.

What happens if Pearl Harbor closes for weather or security reasons?

Most of our tours will include a full refund in such cases. Tours including airfare and combo tours may operate depending on the circumstances. If they operate, unused admissions will be refunded.

The movie at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center, the boat to the Arizona Memorial, the Arizona Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center are all out of our control. If there is a closure for safety, weather, mechanical or other causes, tours that have already departed are not eligible for refunds.

Other Pearl Harbor Tour Cancellation Policies

Rescheduling is not allowed within 24 hours of the tour. Because this is within the 24-hour cancellation policy, it is non-refundable.

Your pick-up location will be sent to you after booking. It is the guest's responsibility to be at the pick-up location at the time scheduled. Failure to be at the correct location or the correct time is considered a no-show and will not be rescheduled or refunded.

Plan Your Visit

Battleship Missouri Memorial

USS Missouri was the last U.S. battleship ever built and the last active battleship in the world. World War II ended on her deck on September 2, 1945, with a formal ceremony and the signing of the Instrument of Surrender. You can visit the historic site of the Surrender Ceremony and tour the ship.

General Admission

Adult (Ages 13+) - $34.99 ​​ ​​

Child (Ages 4-12) - $17.49

​ At least 2 hours 

Open daily - 8:00am - 4:00pm

Our knowledgeable tour guides will share the fascinating stories and history of the Mighty Mo. They bring history to life as you walk in General Douglas MacArthur's footsteps and stand on the Surrender Deck where World War II ended. Tour guides are available in English, Japanese, Chinese and Korean depending on daily availability.

Add on Tours at Battleship Missouri Memorial

All add on tours are an additional fee in addition to general admission. This is a physically strenuous tour and is not recommended for those with mobility constraints. You must be able to climb several sets of “ladders” and navigate through tight doorways and low overheads. Closed toe shoes are recommended. Children must be 10+ years old to participate in this tour.  

Captain's Tour*

45 minutes The Captain’s Tour showcases authority and command operations as the Captain would have experienced on board. Guests will walk in the footsteps of 20 great commanding officers who served on one of our nation’s most historic battleships.   

Chief Engineer's Tour*

1 hour The Chief Engineer’s Tour showcases the power and mechanics behind the Mighty Mo that made her one of the biggest and fastest battleships in history. Venture down Broadway, the longest and widest passage on the ship, and learn about the role of the Chief Engineer, or CHENG, and the more than 500 Sailors under his command. 

*For your safety, please note that these tours are physically strenuous and are not recommended for those with mobility constraints. You must climb several sets of "ladder," (Navy-talk for steep, narrow stairs) and navigate through tight doorways and low overheads. Closed toed shoes are recommended and the tour is limited to guests ages 10 and above. 

The Battleshop offers snacks, drinks, souvenirs and historical items. Please have any US Veterans in your party stop by to put their name in our “Book of Heroes.”

Everything you purchase helps to support the Battleship Missouri Memorial.  

Open 8:00am – 4:00pm

Sliders Grill & Wai Momi Shave Ice

At Slider's Grill you can enjoy a tasty Hawaiian plate lunch or hamburger hot off the grill along with a refreshing ice-cold drink. There is ample pier side seating offering spectacular views of the USS Arizona Memorial.

Open 10:30am - 2:00pm

Also pier side is the Wai Momi Shave Ice stand where you can cool down with a sweet Hawaiian treat, or get a slice of pizza or a giant churro.

Open 8:30am - 3:00pm

PASSPORTS DO NOT INCLUDE RESERVATIONS TO THE USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL. Please visit the National Park Service website at  National Park Service  to reserve tickets.

Passport to Pearl Harbor 

See everything Pearl Harbor has to offer with the Passport to Pearl Harbor. One historic location, four very distinct destinations, each as compelling as the next and none that you'd want to miss.

Visitor Center Self-Guided Multimedia Tour  Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center  ​ Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum General Admission  Battleship Missouri Memorial General Admission Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum General Admission

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New "Heart of Missouri" tour - Battleship Missouri Memorial

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New "Heart of Missouri" tour

This new tour which costs $45 (which includes the basic admission and tour) was an informative fun tour if you are at all interested in the inner workings of a battleship. We recommend taking the 35 minute tour and self tour of the living quarters first. There is also a video in the ward room which gives you an idea of the history and actual ship in action. The additional tour is about 2 hours long and allows you to go into the turret of the large guns, engine room and boiler section of the ship. Our guide Chelsea was enthusiastic and quite knowledgeable about everything. We particularly enjoyed the interesting tidbits from an actual engineer of the ship. We learned so much about the history of the ship. We highly recommend going to the Pearl Harbor exhibits and USS Arizona. There was so much to learn about the attack of the island of Oahu, information every American should know.

I am 12 and My family and I went to see the ship and it was huge!! There was so much history on the decks.. Where the Japanese surrendered was really neat because we got to see the actual documents that got signed by the Japanese and the Allies ( including Canada )!! After we looked around we went and had lunch in the old style canteen that was on site.. Good prices for a lot of yummy food!!! The only thing I would say that could make it better is to maybe have some more of the ship open to the public and some more places to sit down throughout.

You can go for several decks below and above and take your time to visit this part of history. All the guides and volunteers in the ship are very helpful and friendly. Maybe your wife does not like the ride, up and down the stairs and the heat in lower decks but I'm back to being a child exploring the ship. Arrive early to avoid lines.

We both thought that this was a very good & worthwhile tour! You can take as long as you like looking at everything! This ship is pointing in the direction the Japanese planes came from! Below decks is really a site & makes me feel glad I wasn't in the navy(Army & Airforce for me).

As part of our time in Pearl Harbor, we toured the USS Missouri following our visit to the USS Arizona Memorial and the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument. This is a great pairing as it ties together the start and end of the Second World War and also follows the career of the USS Missouri and her crew through subsequent conflicts in Korea and the Middle East. After our tour to the USS Arizona Memorial, we purchased tickets to the USS Missouri and caught the shuttle bus to Ford Island. Once at the Missouri, there is a short orientation that describes the tour options (self-guided with or without an audio tour or a guided tour). We took the self guided tour took the audio tour device, but never used it. The map of the ship, the placards and the volunteers scattered along the walking tour route were sufficient. I reckon if you really wanted to get into the details, the audio tour would be the way to go. The volunteers who work on the Mighty Mo are obviously very dedicated and want to keep the old girl in great shape. There was a lot of working going on around the ship. When we were there, large portions of the teak decking was being replaced. The tour was educational from several aspects, from historical (getting to walk over the surrender deck where Japan signed their unconditional surrender to end WWII) to logistical (seeing the learning how the Sailors and Marines on these fighting ships lived and worked). We walked everywhere we were allowed to go on the ship. The only real disappointment was not getting to see the engines and more of the below deck operations. I guess we spent about an hour walking through the ship, so a little over an hour total including the drive time to and from Ford Island. While not the emotional impact of the USS Arizona, the Missouri does provide an interesting contrast and makes for a very complimentary tour.

Whilst visiting Pearl Harbour my husband and I took the time to visit the USS Missouri at berth at Ford Island. The USS Missouri (BB-63) is part of the recently dedicated WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument. After alighting from the National Park Service shuttle that transports you from the Pearl Harbour visitors centre you are immediately struck by the sheer size of this ship. The USS Missouri is an amazing floating piece of history. On September 2, 1945 in Tokyo Bay the surrender of Japan took place on board, with Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu signing the Instrument of Surrender on behalf of the Japanese government. The site of this historic event is marked by a plaque on the deck. There are a variety of ways to experience the Missouri. You can purchase a ‘Mighty Mo” pass $22 for Adults & $11 children 4-11 which includes a choice of three tours. They are: • a 35 minute ‘Might Mo’ tour with an expert guide who will walk you through the historic signing of 1945. • a 45-120 minute Acoustiguide tour which you can do at your own pace • the 60-90 minute Guide2go iPod tour. Any of these are a great option but we actually opted to just take a map and walk around and explore on our own and we enjoyed that experience. Security of course is tight on entering Pearl Harbour so be prepared to not bring aboard any backpacks etc. There is a souvenir shop and refreshments available on the dock. When boarding the ship you are stopped for a souvenir photo to purchase and at first we were a little reluctant to bother about checking it out before we left but we are glad we did. All profit from the sale of the photos goes back to the preservation of the USS Missouri but in addition to that the photo package is well presented and it is nice to have the souvenir to take home. Whilst on board do make sure to explore below decks (watch out for the ladders that take you below deck, they are quite tricky especially if you are not good with heights, sure footed or walking backwards), it is well worth the effort. It is a mini city below and to see how the crew lived whilst at sea is quite an eye opener, especially their bunks, not the place to be if you are claustrophobic! The USS Missouri saw action not only during WWII but in the Korean conflict and Operation Desert Storm. The final mission of the USS Missouri was on December 7, 1991, when the Missouri returned to Pearl Harbor for the 50th anniversary commemoration of the attack on the Hawaiian Islands. On March 31, 1992, the Missouri was finally decommissioned, the last active service battleship in the world. Don’t leave Oahu without visiting this ‘mighty’ ship. The USS Missouri holds a unique place in history and she certainly deserves a visit!

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• Battleship USS Missouri (7)

Pearl Harbor Battleship Missouri General Admission & Self-Guided Tour

Pearl Harbor visit

Available daily, pick-up not available, not accessible, what to expect, general admission: self-guided tour.

Price per Adult :

USS Missouri Captain's Quarters Exclusive Guided Tour

Uss missouri chief engineer's exclusive guided tour.

Transportation add-ons

Important activity information, restrictions.

• Due to enhanced security measures, the Navy has increased its security checks to enter the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument. All guests must have a legal form of identification to enter the USS Battleship Missouri, the Pacific Aviation Museum and the USS Bowfin Submarine.
• The WWII Valor of the Pacific has implemented a "No Bags Allowed" Policy. No purses, handbags, fanny packs, backpacks, camera bags, luggage, diaper bags and other items that offer concealment are not allowed in the Visitor Center or the Memorial. Strollers with pockets and compartments must be empty before being allowed in. Personal cameras area allowed.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Only the top deck of the USS Missouri is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs cannot access the interior of the ship.

Other requirements

• Enter the Pearl Harbor national Memorial (USS Arizona Memorial) and proceed to board the motor coach shuttle, located in front of the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, for transfer over Ford Island Bridge to Missouri Pier, you need to present your voucher to ticket office on the Missouri Pier.

Required items to bring & attire

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• QR Code Ticket that will be emailed to you after the booking is confirmed.
• Shirt and shoes are required, and no swimsuits are allowed to be worn.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• This activity operates regardless of weather.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• The WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1).
• Admission to the USS Arizona Memorial is free. Free tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis for timed programs to the memorial. Timed programs include a 23-minute documentary film about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial. Programs begin at 7:45 a.m. The last program each day begins at 3:00 p.m. The wait time for a program may be as long as two hours depending on the season.
• For a small convenience fee, you can reserve tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial on the U.S. Parks & Recreation website.

Check-in at the Pearl Harbor Visitor's Center

Head to the USS Missouri and enjoy a self-guided tour of the ship before or after your guided Captain's Tour. Meet your guide and see areas that once hosted historic icons and dignitaries in the Captain's cabin, Combat Engagement Center with amazing views, and step inside a massive gun turret.

Pick-up/Check-in Time & Location

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

Start time :

• Ticket Counter
• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• Children 8 years old and above can participate in this activity.
• Participants must be able to comfortably climb and descend multiple ladders during this tour.
• You are welcome to check-in early and explore the USS Missouri before your guided tour, or stay after your guided tour is complete.

Head to the USS Missouri and enjoy a self-guided tour of the ship before or after your guided Chief Engineer's Tour. Meet your guide and learn about the role of the Chief Engineer and the inner workings of USS Missouri with access to the Engine Room, Boiler Room, and the weapon's plotting room.

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Overall rating

Arizona comes with the tour, which is half the troubles on the park. Great and easy experience!

Surreal experience seeing the ship WW2 ended on. Having a guide made it very pleasant.

USS Missouri

What a fantastic experience, this was definitely something that my hubby wanted to do on his bucket list, so glad we got to do this. The tour guide we had was informative and friendly and we had plenty of time to wander ... about after our tour. Definitely a must see.

Activity Provider USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc.

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 15:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, how do i get to the uss battleship missouri since it's on ford island.

After you check-in at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, you will be directed to the USS Missouri Memorial's security tent where you will catch a shuttle to the Battleship Missouri for your tour.

Am I allowed to take pictures or video of on the tour?

Of course! Please bring your camera.

How far in advance should I book this activity?

We recommend booking at least 2-3 days in advance. If you have very specific schedule requirements and are not flexible, please book sooner. Last minute availability is often possible, but limited.

Are there food and drinks available to purchase in the area?

Food and drinks are available to purchase from Slider's Grill at the Battleship USS Missouri Memorial. The menu is subject to change, but usually includes Hamburgers (with Veggie Burger options), Hot Dogs, Chicken Nuggets, Cold Sandwiches and Plate Lunches (such as Loco Moco, Teriyaki Chicken and Pork Curry). Bottled water and fountain drinks are also available. Menu items range in price from approximately $6 to $12. A shave ice stand can also be found nearby.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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"Mighty Mo" Rejuvenated: USS Missouri's Superstructure Restored for Future Generations

O n February 26, 2018, a historic event unfolded at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, when the Battleship Missouri Memorial unveiled its meticulously restored superstructure, bringing the legendary “Mighty Mo” back to its 1991 state of glory. This momentous occasion marked the culmination of a four-year journey, involving three years of meticulous planning and a year-long repair project, and was funded entirely by the USS Missouri Memorial Association without government aid, primarily through ticket sales to those touring the battleship.

The Mighty Mo’s superstructure, the ship’s tallest section at approximately 110 feet above the main deck, with a mast extending even further into the skies, underwent a substantial preservation effort. The task was complex, requiring the replacement of around 17,000 pounds of steel, the sandblasting of nearly 27,000 square feet of steel surface to remove rust and corrosion, and a complete repaint with protective coatings to improve rainwater drainage and preserve the superstructure for the future. The restoration work was carefully executed during evening hours to ensure daily tours were unaffected, showcasing a remarkable commitment to visitor experience and operational efficiency.

As part of the restoration, visitors can now access the newly restored Navigation Bridge, including the Chart House, Captain’s At-Sea Cabin, Pilot House, and Conning Tower. An immersive audio experience, recorded with the assistance of active-duty sailors, provides an authentic glimpse into the ship’s ambiance during its operational mission on December 7, 1991, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. Furthermore, the exhibit features multilingual text panels in English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, making it one of Hawaii’s first museums to offer such an inclusive experience.

The $3.5 million project also saw the installation of replicas of two SLQ-32 electronic warfare antennas and a radome, equipment that was part of the USS Missouri before its decommissioning in 1992. These additions are a testament to the Association’s dedication to historical accuracy, as they step closer to achieving the goal of restoring Mighty Mo to its 1991 appearance, culminating the battleship’s 48-year operational history during three wars—World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm.

The USS Missouri, an Iowa-class battleship, was the last battleship ever built and arguably the most formidable. With a length of 887 feet and a speed exceeding 30 knots, Missouri was a titan of naval engineering. Her nine 16-inch guns, each capable of firing a 2,700-pound shell 23 miles in 50 seconds, became legendary.

The preservation of the USS Missouri’s superstructure is not just about maintaining the integrity of the vessel; it is a tribute to America’s maritime history and a symbol of peace and strength. The Association’s commitment to preserving the USS Missouri ensures that future generations will be able to walk the decks of the Mighty Mo, understand its pivotal role in world history, and pay homage to those who served aboard her.

Relevant articles:

– “Mighty Mo” Superstructure Unveiled , Battleship Missouri Memorial

– Preservation of “Mighty Mo” Superstructure is Underway , Battleship Missouri Memorial

– USS Missouri Memorial Association Completes Preservation Project in Advance of 75th Anniversary of the End of World War II , Historic Hawaii Foundation, Jun 12, 2020

Your Guide to Visiting Pearl Harbor

Updated : November 16, 2023

Michelle Palmer

Table of contents, pearl harbor national memorial, uss arizona memorial, uss oklahoma and uss utah memorials, pacific fleet submarine museum and the uss bowfin, battleship missouri memorial (aka mighty mo), pearl harbor aviation museum, security/bag policy, how to get to pearl harbor national memorial, where to eat in pearl harbor, tour on your own or book a guided tour of pearl harbor, start your next vacation with aaa.

On December 7, 1941, just before 8 a.m. on a Sunday, Japanese pilots flew over the Pearl Harbor naval base in Hawai’i, attacking U.S. aircraft and naval ships. They fired guns, shot torpedoes and dropped bombs. Several ships and airplanes were destroyed and even more were damaged. The worst damage was to the USS Arizona . The ship was hit by a bomb, causing the onboard artillery to explode. The Arizona sank quickly, leaving no time for crewmen to escape. The attack lasted nearly two hours and resulted in more than 1,000 wounded and the deaths of 2,400 Americans.

It was such a shocking and tragic event that President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress the next day saying, "Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan." Following the speech, Congress declared war against Japan, and the United States formally entered World War II.

In 1964, Pearl Harbor was declared a National Historic Landmark and is still the active joint military base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Parts of the base are open to visitors, so the public may visit the memorials and museums to learn more about the Pearl Harbor attack and World War II. About 1.4 million people visit Pearl Harbor annually, and it is one of the top three most visited points of interest in all of Hawai’i.

Keep scrolling to learn about what there is to see and do at Pearl Harbor, how to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, how to get there and how to plan the best visit for you.

Time needed: 2 to 3 hours

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is the first part of Pearl Harbor that you'll enter from the parking lot. This is the only section run by the National Park Service (NPS). The memorial includes the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater, two exhibit galleries and a gift shop. This is also where you'll check in and board the shuttle boat to see the USS Arizona Memorial (keep reading to learn about this program and how to make reservations) and the bus tour to view the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah memorials.

The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and the USS Bowfin , Battleship Missouri Memorial, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are on the military base but are not part of the National Park Service-operated national memorial. The Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are on Ford Island and are only accessible by shuttle bus unless you have a valid military ID. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the last shuttle bus departs for the visitor center at 5 p.m. While they are not run by the NPS the same security guidelines apply. Visiting the memorial is free, but the museums and ship tours beyond the memorial have entrance fees.

It takes about 2-3 hours total to view the documentary as well as the memorials and galleries at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. It takes approximately 7 to 8 hours to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and the USS Bowfin , Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Accessibility: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, including the visitor center, theater and galleries are wheelchair accessible. Signage is offered in Braille, and tactile models are available for people with blindness or low vision. Visitors who are deaf and hard of hearing can contact the NPS to request an ASL interpreter. Visit NPS.gov/perl to access guidelines and the request form.

Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

The NPS offers two audio tours for a fee that have narration for the galleries, grounds and USS Arizona Memorial. The base audio tour typically takes visitors 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and the deluxe tour also includes video about the Pearl Harbor attack. Audio tours can be purchased ahead of time or on-site.

Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater

There's a 23-minute documentary about the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor showing in the theater, which plays every 15 and 45 minutes after the hour. No food or drinks except water in clear bottles are permitted in the theater.

Accessibility: The documentary is captioned and there is an induction loop for people who use hearing aids.

Exhibit Galleries

There are two galleries at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, The Road to War and Attack. The exhibits utilize oral histories from military personnel present during the attack and artifacts from the time.

Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center

The Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center allows visitors to take a virtual tour of Pearl Harbor before and during the attack using virtual reality headsets. Virtual experiences include, "Walking the Deck of the USS Arizona Before the Attack," "Witness the Attack on Battleship Row" and "Experience the USS Arizona Memorial." Tickets can be purchased on-site or ahead of time on Recreation.gov .

Time needed: 1 hour

The USS Arizona Memorial commemorates and honors the 1,177 crewmen aboard the ship who died as a result of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The sunken ship became the final resting place for more than 900 sailors.

Today, you may visit the memorial built over the sunken ship through an NPS-run program. The program is about 45 minutes in length. Once you depart from the dock on the Navy-operated ship, it is about a 15-minute ride to the memorial. You will have 15-minutes at the memorial before having to reboard and return to land. At the memorial are the engraved names of the crewmen who died aboard the ship, and you can see the Arizona beneath the water.

Before visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, book a reservation for the USS Arizona Memorial program. Tickets are released by Recreation.gov 8 weeks in advance and again 24 hours in advance at 3 p.m. Hawai’i Standard Time. The program is free, but Recreation.gov charges a small fee for reservations. Sometimes it is possible to get a standby ticket the day of, but availability is not guaranteed, wait times are unpredictable, and you have to be present in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

The National Park Service recommends arriving at least one hour before your reservation time, so you can make it through the security checkpoint and check in at least 10 minutes prior to your program start time; spots are not held for late visitors. Also, many visitors find that seeing the documentary and visiting the galleries first provides context that makes visiting the memorial a more somber and meaningful experience.

Visitation at Pearl Harbor peaks during spring, summer, winter and Thanksgiving breaks. For the best chance at reservations and for the smallest crowds, plan your vacation outside of these times.

Accessibility: The shuttle boats and the memorial are said to be wheelchair accessible.

Time needed: 2 hours

Ford Island Bus Tour visits the USS Utah Memorial (only accessible by this tour) and the USS Oklahoma Memorial, near the Battleship Missouri Memorial. It's a 90-minute park-ranger-led tour. Reservations are required and can be made at Recreation.gov . While the tour is free, there is a small fee for the reservation.

The Ford Island Bus Tour departs at 3:15 and ends at 5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The bus tour conflicts with the USS Arizona Memorial program times of 2:30, 3 and 3:30 p.m.

USS Utah 's construction was completed in 1911, and the ship was utilized for the entirety of World War I. It was hit during the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. It capsized and sank, resulting in the deaths of 58 people.

USS Oklahoma was commissioned in 1916 and was nicknamed "The Okie" by its crew. During the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, the ship was hit by a torpedo and capsized in 12 minutes. Unable to escape, 429 sailors and marines went down with the ship and died.

Time needed: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours

The USS Bowfin submarine launched on December 7, 1942, exactly one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the crewmen aboard fought in the Pacific Theater of World War II. Visitors may board the submarine and tour the narrow corridors to see the inner workings of the vessel.

The Pacific Fleet Museum has three indoor galleries about the United States submarine force during World War II, the Cold War and the present day. Among the displays on the museum grounds are a missile, a torpedo as well as other submarine-related devices. You may also visit the Waterfront Memorial which commemorates the 52 U.S. submarines that were sunk during World War II and the 3,600 crewmen and officers who died.

Admission to the museum includes an audio guide.

Accessibility: The USS Bowfin submarine is not wheelchair accessible and requires visitors to use stairs and step through narrow doorways. The museum, however, is said to be wheelchair accessible.

Age restrictions: Children under age 4 are not permitted on the USS Bowfin .

Construction of the USS Missouri began in January 1941 before the December 7 attack on Pearl Harbor. Construction was completed in 1944. Crewmen stationed on the USS Missouri fought in the Pacific theater during the last part of World War II, and the deck of the ship was the site of Japan's formal surrender.

Afterward, the USS Missouri was used in the Korean War in the 1950s and again in the Gulf War in the 1990s. Today, the ship has been preserved and now serves as a memorial and museum.

As a visitor, you have a few options to tour the ship. General admission comes with a 35-minute guided tour, or you can tour on your own. For an additional fee, you can add on the Captain's Tour, which gives you access to the captain's quarters, command operations and the officers' dining room. The Engineer's Tour also is available for an additional fee, and you can see and learn more about the boilers, the engine room and the ship's artillery.

Accessibility: People with mobility limitations and wheelchair users can board the USS Missouri and take an elevator to the surrender deck, though most parts of the ship are not accessible. The Captain's Tour and the Engineer's Tour both require visitors to climb up and down ladders.

Age Restrictions: Children under age 4 are not permitted on the Battleship Missouri, and children under age 10 are not permitted on the Captain's Tour or the Engineer's Tour.

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is located on Ford Island. The museum is organized into four main areas. Hangar 37 is a World War II-era facility that houses planes and exhibits that describe the United States' involvement in World War II, including the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the Battle of Midway in 1942. Hangar 79 houses aircraft and exhibits related to the Korean War, Vietnam War and the Gulf wars. A popular part of Hanger 79 is The Shealy Restoration Shop, where vintage aircraft are repaired and restored. The Raytheon Pavilion currently houses an exhibit about Bob Hope, and lastly, the Ford Island Control Tower, which was under construction during the 1941 attack, can be accessed on the museum's Top of the Tower Tour.

Accessibility: Exhibits at the museum are marked as wheelchair accessible, but the Top of the Tower Tour requires visitors to climb two flights of stairs.

Age restrictions: Children must be at least 42 inches tall to take the Top of the Tower Tour.

All visitors must go through security before entering the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Clutches and wallets that are 1.5 inches by 2.25 inches by 5.5 inches or smaller are permitted. Bags larger than that must be clear and all contents visible. The only exception is bags containing medical equipment that cannot be carried in a clear plastic bag. Storage is available for a fee at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial if you bring any bags or luggage that does not comply with security guidelines.

For a complete list of permitted and not permitted items, check the Pearl Harbor National Memorial webpage.

There are a few options to get to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which is the only visitor entrance for Pearl Harbor. Remember that Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is an active military base, so security measures are in place and parts of the base are not open to visitors or only accessible by shuttle bus or guided tours.

Arriving by car: To get to the visitor entrance of Pearl Harbor, go to 1 Arizona Memorial Place in Honolulu. There is a daily fee to park, which can be paid through a website on your mobile phone or at the on-site kiosk. If you choose to drive, plan to arrive early; the visitor lot fills quickly.

Arriving by city bus: Buses 20 and 42 from Waikīkī have a stop just outside the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. For the most up-to-date information about the city bus routes, fares and what attractions you can get to by bus, check Honolulu's public transit website .

Arriving by shuttle: Some hotels offer shuttle service to Pearl Harbor — service can be complimentary or cost a fee. Check with your hotel front desk clerk or concierge to arrange this service. If your hotel does not offer shuttle service, there are private companies with which you can arrange transportation. You can book these on your own or arrange them with the help of your hotel concierge.

Guided bus tours: If you opt to visit Pearl Harbor on a guided bus tour, then your tour operator will arrange transportation to and from Pearl Harbor. Check the description of the tour closely before booking, and contact the tour operator if you have any questions.

There is a small sundry shop in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial that sells snacks, bottled water and sodas.

Outside of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum at the Lanai Food Court is a food truck with a small selection of items for lunch.

At the USS Missouri Memorial, there is a food truck that serves lunch options and a shaved ice stand. The gift shop at this memorial also sells an assortment of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

You can dine in air conditioning at the Hangar Café, part of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The museum café offers American fare. Hours for the food trucks and café at Pearl Harbor may vary, but they are typically open for lunch and close by 2 or 3 p.m.

Whether you should tour Pearl Harbor on your own or book a guided bus tour depends on the experience that you'd like to have. If you only want to join the USS Arizona Memorial program and tour the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, it's best to go on your own because bus tours typically last all day and visit all the museums. It's also best to travel on your own if you prefer to move at your own pace, wish to visit some of the memorials and museums but not all, or hope to save money.

If you want to spend the day at Pearl Harbor and have ticket purchasing and transportation handled for you, then a guided bus tour may be the way to go. Read the itinerary carefully when booking a tour — especially if visiting the USS Arizona Memorial is important to you. Tours that include the USS Arizona audio tour do not always include reservations for the shuttle boat to visit the memorial.

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Michelle Palmer is a development editor who has over 10 years of experience in the travel publishing industry. She loves telling the stories, histories and culture of places that inspire others to go and experience new destinations. When not traveling, she participates in circus arts, goes to live shows and is a “Murder, She Wrote” aficionado.

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The Big Stick: A photo tour of the battleship USS Iowa

The USS Iowa served her country for over 47 years and was the lead ship in the last class of battleships the US will ever make. Here's a full tour.

The USS Iowa was the first ship in her class, designed to escort the new, and fast, aircraft carriers. Started in June 1940, and launched just over 2 years later, the Iowa was big, fast, and powerful.

Nicknamed "The Big Stick," she was decommissioned and recommissioned several times over the decades, fighting in World War II, the Korean War and again through the '80s.

After years in the mothball fleet , she joins her three other sister ships in their new role as stately museums. Sitting at the Port of Los Angeles, you're able to tour the Iowa right now. Here's how it looks.

The Big Stick: A tour of the battleship USS Iowa (pictures)

Fast battleship

Prior to the Iowa class, the US Navy generally favored heavily armored and gunned ships, with a slight sacrifice of speed. In order to keep up with the new aircraft carriers, the Navy needed faster battleships .

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The Iowa is fast, with a top speed over 38 mph (61 kph), yet it still has heavy armor and nine 16-inch guns. She was the first in her class built and launched, though her sister ships followed shortly after.

She served in both the Atlantic and the Pacific. In the Atlantic, she carried President Franklin Roosevelt to Algeria on the way to the Tehran Conference . In the Pacific she was part of many battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea .

After the war she was decommissioned, and then recommissioned only a few years later as part of the Korean War. Again, a few years after that war, she was decommissioned.

As part of President Ronald Reagan's 600-ship Navy , she was brought out of mothballs and thoroughly refitted and modernized. The ship was the site of an explosion of the main turret during a drill in 1989 , during which 47 crewmen were killed. Two separate major investigations ensued, with conflicting results.

The Iowa was decommissioned a final time in 1990, which was earlier than expected, because of the damaged turret.

Museum ship, complete with app

After many years in the reserve fleet, the Iowa finally became a museum ship, and made her way to her new home at the Port of Los Angeles. Friendly docents have answers to every question. In a nice touch, any former military have their name, rank and where and when they served broadcast as they come aboard.

It's a self-guided tour, but exceptionally well laid out, letting you easily navigate through a single path around all the open areas on the ship.

Something I haven't seen before on a tour is the availability of an official app. It's surprisingly elaborate, with additional info, including historical pictures, audio, and video. You don't need to download the app to do the tour, but it adds a lot.

Though most of the features are designed for use while you're on board, you can access most of the additional info no matter where you are. It's worth checking out, and is available for both Android and iOS .

Sister ships

The USS Iowa was the lead ship in her class, which included four ships. The USS Missouri holds vigil over the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii . A tour I did of that ship a few years ago is below. The New Jersey you can tour in Camden, New Jersey , while the Wisconsin is in Norfolk, Virginia .

A tour of the legendary USS Missouri

The Big Stick

Though the oldest of the Iowa-class ships, it's the newest of them to be converted to a museum. As such, there's less to see than others. What there is to see, basically everything above decks, is wonderfully maintained. Not being able to access the engine room and other below decks areas is a bit of a disappointment. No doubt those areas will be opened eventually, as the restoration continues. Even so, the USS Iowa is still definitely worth the trip if you're in the LA area. Depending when you visit, there are also guided tours that show areas off-limits for regular visitors. There's more info on their website .

As well as covering audio and display tech, Geoff does photo tours of cool museums and locations around the world, including nuclear submarines , aircraft carriers , medieval castles , epic 10,000-mile road trips and more.

Also check out Budget Travel for Dummies , his travel book, and his bestselling sci-fi novel about city-size submarines. You can follow him on Instagram and YouTube . 

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