USS Midway Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is USS Midway Museum?
What makes it 84% Kids-Friendly: Children to age 12 earn Junior Pilot wings, climb into cockpits, steer RC boats, and enjoy a kid audio track; adults must guide them on steep ladders and watch noise levels in engine rooms.
![[4K] 🇺🇸 USS Midway Museum Ship Walking Tour 2025, San Diego, CA #walking #walkingtour](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eylegTCMwBc/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Free Family Activities: Audio tour, Junior Pilot Program, and theater film are included with admission.
- Stroller Access: Hangar and Flight Deck are spacious and accessible; leave strollers before going below deck.
Challenges:
- Narrow Below-Deck Ladders: Children under 4 may struggle with steep ladders and tight hatchways.
- Open Flight Deck: Deck is exposed to sun and wind; bring layers, hats, and water.
What is USS Midway Museum?
- A decommissioned U.S. Navy aircraft carrier that serves as a maritime museum in San Diego Bay.
- A 972-foot-long steel warship that entered service in 1945 and retired in 1992, exemplifying mid-20th-century naval engineering.
- A preserved floating vessel that retains original flight deck, hangar deck and engineering spaces and contains over thirty restored military aircraft.
What is so special about USS Midway Museum for with kids?
- Hands-on Junior Pilot Program and cockpit play for all ages
- Immersive 15-minute WWII film to hold kids’ attention
- Paid simulators and RC boats for extra thrills
- Spacious hangar and flight decks with stroller access
- Free audio tour with kid-friendly narration
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for exhibits, Junior Pilot Program, paid rides, and breaks at a comfortable pace for kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in USS Midway Museum
Junior Pilot Program:
Grab a free activity packet and complete tasks at exhibits to earn pilot wings.
Tip: Pick up your packet first at the Info Booth on the Hangar Deck.
Cockpit & Helicopter Play:
Climb into 5 restored cockpits and touch real flight controls.
Tip: Let younger kids go first while older kids explore the next cockpit.
Battle of Midway Immersive Theater:
Watch 15-minute film with real voices and battle sounds.
Tip: Sit near the center for best audio; kids stay engaged by the sound effects.
Air Combat 360 Flight Simulator:
Experience full-motion jet loops and dogfights ($10 per person).
Tip: Children 42"+ ride with an adult; schedule early to avoid lines.
Middie’s Fleet RC Boats:
Steer Navy-style boats on the Flight Deck ($3 for 2 min, $5 for 4 min).
Tip: Use quieter times before noon for more space on the deck.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to USS Midway Museum
- Start at Opening: Arrive at opening time to beat crowds and cooler temperatures on the Flight Deck.
- Collect Pilot Packet First: Get the Junior Pilot Program packet at the Info Booth to complete all stations.
Reviews of USS Midway Museum
Manuel Mezo Gómez
I spent 5 hours nonstop at the USS Midway Museum and still felt like I could have stayed longer. This is easily one of the best museums I have ever visited in my life. Why it’s a 5-Star Experience: • Massive Scale: The sheer size of the ship is unbelievable. You get to explore a vast range of areas, from the flight deck and bridge to the engine rooms and living quarters. The variety of functions a...
Justin Schaller
Best museum experience for me personally. The ease of entry to different walking loops scattered throughout the ship was greatly appreciated. I did not expect to spend 6 hours even after reading previous reviews. But I honestly did not want to leave! Every passage, compartment, audio tour commentary, sign and artifact were fascinating. The history from the video on the battle for which the sh...
Tatyana Edem Aglobitse
The most amazing place called museum I’ve ever seen! It feels more than real, tells a beautiful story of power and strength of a people. Planes that fought and won the world war displayed for individual experiences. It’s a big huge tour, wear comfortable shoes. Food and souvenirs are available. My greatest takeaways: 1. Workers there are veterans, doing what they’ve always known and love. They ar...
Two Rivers Explorer
An absolutely outstanding experience and one of the highlights of visiting San Diego. Walking aboard the USS Midway is like stepping directly into history. The ship itself is massive and incredibly well preserved, and the depth of exhibits is impressive—from the flight deck and hangars to the engine rooms and crew quarters. You truly get a sense of what life was like at sea and the scale of opera...
SunnyCityBites
If you’re in San Diego, this museum is an absolute must-see. It’s even more impressive in person, with remarkable attention to detail throughout. The ship has been exceptionally well preserved, so you can clearly see how it once looked without having to imagine much. It was truly fascinating. Docents also gave my family a tour of the captain’s deck, and the views from the top were incredible. The ...
When is the best time to visit USS Midway Museum (San Diego, United States)?
Bring sunscreen and hats year-round. In summer, arrive at opening to avoid midday heat and crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General admission (4×$39) | USD 156 |
| Flight simulator (4×$10) | USD 40 |
| RC boats (4×$5) | USD 20 |
| Café snacks (4×$8) | USD 32 |
| Total Estimated | USD 248 |
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 USS Midway Museum
Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
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About USS Midway 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
+1 619-544-9600Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
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