Pearl Harbor (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Pearl Harbor?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children 4-12 earn Junior Ranger badges, ride Navy boats, and join scavenger hunts; child tickets, restrooms, and open spaces make the long educational visit manageable and fun.
Positives:
- Free Admission Options: The Visitor Center, film, USS Arizona Memorial, and bus tour all have no admission fee.
- Accessible Facilities: Wheelchair rentals, ramps, and family restrooms are available throughout the site.
Challenges:
- Crowd Levels: Peak times (10 AM–2 PM) can have long lines; book USS Arizona tickets early or arrive at opening.
- Stroller Restrictions: Strollers are not allowed on shuttle boats or inside the memorial; bring a lightweight collapsible stroller.
What is Pearl Harbor?
- A natural deep-water harbor on Oahu that serves as the primary base for the United States Pacific Fleet
- The location of the December 7, 1941 surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy that drew the United States into World War II
- A National Historic Landmark district preserving memorials to the USS Arizona, Battleship Missouri and other submerged naval vessels
What is so special about Pearl Harbor for with kids?
- Ride the USS Arizona boat and explore the starboard deck together
- Watch the 23-minute film and self-guide through interactive WWII exhibits
- Climb aboard a real submarine with audio tours that engage older kids
- Hunt for trivia and take photos at the Aviation Museum’s open cockpit
- Earn badges in the Junior Ranger program to keep kids motivated
Recommended visit duration: 4-6 hours
Why 4-6 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the Visitor Center film, USS Arizona Memorial, and one paid museum without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Pearl Harbor
USS Arizona Memorial Program:
Guided boat ride to the white memorial above the sunken USS Arizona.
Tip: Arrive 1 hour before your scheduled time to secure boarding passes at the Visitor Center.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center & Film:
23-minute park film and two on-site museums with WWII artifacts.
Tip: Watch the film first to set context before exploring exhibits at your own pace.
Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum & USS Bowfin:
Self-guided audio tour through a WWII submarine and indoor exhibits.
Tip: Pick up free audio guides; children under 4 can explore the museum but not board the sub.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum:
50+ historic aircraft across two hangars with an interactive scavenger hunt.
Tip: Take the free shuttle from the Visitor Center and grab scavenger hunt sheets at the entrance.
Junior Ranger Program:
Kids complete activities to earn a badge from a park ranger.
Tip: Stop by the ranger station early to pick up booklets before touring exhibits.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pearl Harbor
- Pre-book Tickets: Reserve USS Arizona Memorial passes online up to 60 days in advance to guarantee a time slot.
- Pack Snacks and Water: Carry refillable water bottles and light snacks; food options are limited inside the Visitor Center.
- Use Free Shuttles: Hop on the Aviation Museum shuttle every 15 minutes to save walking time and energy for kids.
Reviews of Pearl Harbor
Wade Z
Visiting Pearl Harbor was an unforgettable and humbling experience. To stand at such a historic site and see the memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941, was truly powerful. It was mind-blowing to see the evidence, exhibits, and actual remains of the ships, and to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many men and women who served. The site is well-preserved and prese...
Michael Ostertag
I found it super interesting. I recommend also to visit the USS Midway (~39$)
Diana Ta
A dream come true to be able to finally visit! We were able to get tickets at the counter. Main area and museum opens 9:30am, we arrived 10:30am on a Sunday. Everything closes at 5pm. Parking was easy to find as they are 3 small lots adjacent can host ~150 cars, paid $7 for parking with the QR code just before the entrance. Personal bags are not allowed! Bag holding/storage is available, if you in...
MC Derin
My husband is currently in Hawaii for business. However, he had a rare day off and took the opportunity to check out the local sites and the Pearl Harbor national site. It’s very impressive. You definitely can feel the history when you are there. If you are in Hawaii, make a point to spend some time at this memorial and taking a bit of history!
Amy
Pearl Harbor Memorial: Definitely ideal way to see the Pearl Harbor Memorial!!! We stayed at the Outrigger on Waikiki. They picked us up a block away, which was great~ it gave us time to walk, grab a coffee, abd meet the van- at 6:45am. We had 2 stops after ours to pick up more people, then our driver told us facts about Dec 7th, Pearl Harbor on the 30 min drive there. He was knowledgeable, very f...
When is the best time to visit Pearl Harbor (Hawaii, United States)?
Visit in the morning to avoid midday heat and afternoon showers. Winter months are slightly cooler with fewer crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| USS Arizona Memorial booking fee | USD 4 |
| Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum tickets (2 adults + 2 children) | USD 76 |
| Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum tickets (2 adults + 2 children) | USD 88 |
| Total Estimated | USD 168 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Pearl Harbor
Address: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, USA
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