Pearl Harbor National Memorial (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Pearl Harbor National Memorial?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can earn a Junior Ranger badge and try kiosks, yet war themes are intense, no play zones exist, and the boat lacks toilets, so parents must supervise patience and silence.
![[4K] A Full Walking Tour Of Pearl Harbor National Memorial | A Very Eerie Experience in 2025](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ggk6HCyjkEM/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Educational Experience: Hands-on activities and exhibits teach kids about WWII in age-appropriate ways.
- No Admission Fee: Core programs and galleries are free for all ages, helping families stay on budget.
- Stroller-Friendly Grounds: Wide paths and benches make it easy to navigate with young children.
Challenges:
- No Restrooms on Boat: Plan restroom breaks before boarding as the shuttle has no facilities.
- Limited Shade: Outdoor areas have few shaded spots, so bring hats and extra water.
- Solemn Atmosphere: The reflective tone may feel heavy for very young children.
What is Pearl Harbor National Memorial?
- A national memorial site preserving the sunken hull of the USS Arizona and commemorating lives lost during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor
- A complex of memorial structures, exhibition galleries and interpretive displays managed by the National Park Service
- A white, open-air shrine straddling the submerged remains of the USS Arizona within Pearl Harbor’s waters
What is so special about Pearl Harbor National Memorial for with kids?
- Join a free boat tour to the USS Arizona Memorial.
- Explore interactive WWII exhibits in the galleries.
- Kids earn badges with the Junior Ranger program.
- Engaging child audio tours share survivor stories.
- Easy parking and stroller-friendly paths.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Time to join the USS Arizona tour, explore galleries, and complete the Junior Ranger program without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Pearl Harbor National Memorial
USS Arizona Memorial Program:
Watch a 23-minute film then ride the NPS boat to the memorial shrine.
Tip: Reserve tickets online early and visit restrooms before boarding, as none are on the boat.
Road to War & Attack Exhibit Galleries:
Browse artifacts, photos, and interactive kiosks tracing the events of December 7, 1941.
Tip: Head here right after the boat tour when kids are still engaged and curious.
Junior Ranger Program:
Kids complete activity booklets to earn badges and learn history hands-on.
Tip: Download the booklet in advance or buy one onsite before you start exploring.
Child Audio Tour:
Let children follow a narrated path with survivor stories and interactive stops.
Tip: Rent devices early at the bookstore to avoid waits during peak times.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Arrive Early: Get to the Visitor Center 60 minutes before your tour time to clear security and avoid lines.
- Pack Snacks & Water: Bring refillable bottles and small snacks; there are no food vendors onsite.
- Use Free Parking: Park at the Visitor Center lot and take the complimentary shuttle to the memorial boat dock.
- Download Junior Ranger Book: Print the activity booklet at home to save time and start exploring immediately.
Reviews of Pearl Harbor National Memorial
S. Sen
Profoundly Moving and Unforgettable Historical Experience Visiting Pearl Harbor is an absolute must when in Hawaii. The USS Arizona Memorial and surrounding sites provide a powerful, emotional glimpse into the events of December 7, 1941, and the sacrifices made by so many. The exhibits are well-curated, informative, and provide context that makes history come alive in a deeply personal way. The ...
Matthijs
We had a 8 o'clock clock reservation. They also have a standby list so if you forgot to reserve before you got to Oahu you can probably still get in if you're early. There's a small museum with artefacts and stories of the attack on Pearl Harbour. Then there's an impressive 20-minute movie, that contains old videos of the time and really shows the chaos. The trip to the memorial is about a 5 minut...
M B
The site rightly emphasizes that this is a cemetery, not a tourist attraction, and urges visitors to show respect. However, I noticed a Navy staff member joking with a coworker while docked at the USS Arizona memorial, which felt a bit out of place given the solemn atmosphere. The theater show presenting a documentary with real footage from the time was powerful and informative. Walking around the...
Lisa M
The memorial is a lovely tribute to our fallen soldiers and honor to those that did not fall. Lovely to both sides of that fight. Sad but lovely. I wanted to go to the Arizona to honor my husband, but the prices are too much for me. I understand the charge for the upkeep and pay. Also know before you go, to put your bags larger than a large wallet in your trunk. You can bring a bag, fanny pack, or...
M Sam
OMG, one of the best historical places which MUST visit while you are there in the city. It's a heart touching, unbelievable event stored in this museum with a video screen. They show a movie about it's info. They have a boat ride & takes you to Arizona warship where it sunk and people died when the ship sank. I can write an essay here, better just go see, feel, and realize what happened that day ...
When is the best time to visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Hawaii, United States)?
Visit early mornings to avoid mid-day heat. Pack rain ponchos from November to March and use sunscreen year-round. Reserve timed tickets well before holiday seasons.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Junior Ranger booklets (2) | USD 6 |
| Child audio tour rentals (2) | USD 16 |
| Total Estimated | USD 22 |
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 National Memorial
Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, USA
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About Pearl Harbor National Memorial
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
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