Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy the scavenger hunt, open cockpit and kid-height exhibits, but some graphic WWII footage and a 42-inch height rule for simulators require parental guidance.
Positives:
- Stroller Access: Wide ramps and flat aisles let you bring strollers into hangars.
- Free Child Audio Guides: Audio in simple language keeps kids engaged around each plane.
Challenges:
- Height Restrictions: Flight simulator and tower tour require minimum heights for children.
- Uneven Floors: Hangar floors have slight slopes and cracks; watch toddlers closely.
- Loud Noises: Engine sounds and simulators can startle very young kids; bring ear protection if needed.
What is Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum?
- A military aviation museum on Ford Island, housed in original hangars scarred by the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor
- A collection of over fifty historic aircraft, ranging from World War I biplanes to World War II fighters and bombers
- A facility that blends preserved wartime architecture with modern restoration workshops and exhibition spaces
What is so special about Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum for with kids?
- Kids can climb into a real fighter cockpit.
- Interactive scavenger hunt keeps children focused.
- Short flight simulator adds a thrilling hands-on experience.
- Wide, stroller-friendly hangars make moving around easy.
- Audio tours explain history in simple, kid-friendly terms.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives families time to explore hangars, do the scavenger hunt and try the flight simulator without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Explore Hangars 37 & 79:
Walk among over 50 WWII and WWI aircraft in restored hangars that still show attack damage.
Tip: Use the free audio tour for kid-friendly stories at each exhibit.
Photo Mission Scavenger Hunt:
Pick up a checklist and find themed stops around the museum.
Tip: Collect stamps at each station; kids earn a small prize at the end.
Open F-5 Cockpit:
Climb into a real fighter jet cockpit for hands-on photos.
Tip: Hold children’s hands and use handrails for safety.
Fighter Ace 360° Flight Simulator:
Ride a full-motion simulator for a WWII dogfight experience.
Tip: Kids 42”+ can ride with an adult; check height at the desk first.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
- Arrive Early: Beat crowds and heat by entering when the museum opens.
- Download Audio App: Get the museum’s free audio guide on your phone to avoid waiting for devices.
- Plan Breaks: Rest at the Hangar Café mid-visit to recharge before more exploring.
Reviews of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
S. Sen
A Must-See For Aviation and History Enthusiasts Alike The Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in military history and aviation. The museum showcases an incredible collection of historic aircraft, including World War II fighters and bombers, and provides context about their roles during pivotal battles in the Pacific. Walking among these planes gives ...
Gregory Walker
Located on Ford Island this museum is excellent. General public have to take a shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to gain access to the museum. Active and retired military will be able to drive to the museum. Aircraft from WW2 to modern aircraft are on display. The hangar holding aircraft related to the attack of December 7th is very informative. Seeing the B-17 Swamp Ghost is a journey...
Peter Ramirez
We were visiting on vacation when we came to the Aviation Museum. I was really impressed by the staff and displays inside. Everything had it's own diorama and helped tell a story. I loved all the pictures of Hawaiian life before Pearl Harbor. The renovated lighthouse is amazing and the static displays outside were great to get up and close. Someday, maybe the Swamp Ghost will be up and viewable, t...
Pedro Loran
Visiting the Pearl Harbor Museum was an incredible and moving experience. It was surreal to walk through areas that still bear the bullet holes from the attack—tangible reminders of a day that changed history. The museum does a phenomenal job preserving and presenting artifacts recovered from the conflict, giving visitors a real sense of what those who lived through it endured. From the detailed e...
Michael Ong
Great aviation museum. They have great displays, and definitely don't miss going out to historic Hangar 79. They have moved a lot of the aircraft outside which is great for viewing. There is also the Hangar Cafe inside along with the gift shop. Air Tower is a separate fee.
When is the best time to visit Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (Hawaii, United States)?
Hawaii is warm year-round. Visit in the morning to avoid midday heat and pack hats, sunscreen and a light rain jacket for brief showers in winter months.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult tickets | USD 59.98 |
| 2 Child tickets (ages 4–12) | USD 35.98 |
| Total Estimated | USD 95.96 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Address: 319 Lexington Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96818, USA
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About Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-441-1000Explore Popular Things to Do
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