The USS Iowa Museum in Los Angeles is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of the United States Navy.
It showcases the history and legacy of the USS Iowa, a battleship that served in the United States Navy from 1943 to 1990.
This historic ship is the largest and most decorated battleship in the U.S. Navy’s history.
It operated from World War II to the Cold War and is now permanently docked in the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro.
Learn more about the Battleship USS Iowa Museum, entry ticket, best time to visit and more in this article.
What to Expect in Battleship USS Iowa Museum
The museum offers visitors an up-close look at the ship’s history through exhibits, interactive displays and historic artifacts.
When visiting the Battleship USS Iowa Museum, visitors explore the ship’s nine decks, which span more than 887 feet in length.
Get close to the ship’s engine room, the bridge and the mess decks and experience the ship’s history through interactive exhibits and videos.
Visitors also observe the ship’s four main guns, the 16-inch guns that were used to fire shells at enemy ships and shore batteries.
The museum is also home to the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, which showcases a variety of maritime artifacts and photographs.
From the engineering marvels of the ship to the remarkable stories of the sailors who served aboard, the USS Iowa Museum is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Learn about the ship’s role in World War II, the Korean War and the Cold War through various exhibits and showcases.
Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as the annual “Battleship Blast” celebration, which includes fireworks and live music.
The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the history of one of the most famous battleships.
Battleship Iowa Museum General Access Pass Ticket
Visiting the Battleship Iowa Museum provides an opportunity to explore the legacy of the USS Iowa.
This renowned vessel, nicknamed the Big Stick, was in service for nearly two-thirds of a century, from its commission in World War II to its retirement in 2011.
Guests can take a self-guided tour and use the complimentary app to enjoy augmented reality elements, historical information and themed tours.
Children can join Victory, the mascot dog, in a scavenger hunt.
Ticket prices
| Visitors’ Age | Tickets’ Price ($) |
|---|---|
| Adult (12 to 61 years) | $22 |
| Children (12 to 61 years) | $14 |
| Senior (12 to 61 years) | $20 |
| Military (12 to 61 years) | $20 |
Note: Kids under 3 years enjoy free admission.
Battleship Iowa Museum Opening Time
The Battleship Iowa Museum opened its doors to the public on July 7th, 2012.
The museum is open 7 days a week, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Make sure to book your tickets online to secure your visit to the museum.
Best Time to visit Battleship Iowa Museum
The museum is open year-round and the best time to visit Battleship USS Iowa Museum is spring and fall.
During this time, the weather is milder and temperatures are typically comfortable.
In the spring, visitors can experience the ship while it is still in the harbor and participate in various activities and programs.
The museum also hosts a variety of special events, such as
- Memorial Day 2021
- Summer Drive-In Movie Series: Toy Story
- STEM Adventure Camp
Visitors can explore the ship, learn about its history, and enjoy the numerous interactive exhibits and activities.
In the fall, visitors can witness the ship’s annual voyage back to Los Angeles.
The museum also hosts a variety of special events, such as
- Halloween celebration
- Fantail-gating: Game Day On IOWA – MLB Playoffs
- Veterans Day 2022 Aboard Battleship IOWA
The ship will be open for public tours during this time, and visitors can explore its bow and deck.
They may also be able to witness the ship’s arrival into the harbor and the celebration that follows.
Visitors can also enjoy the ship’s many attractions and activities, such as
- The Battleship Museum,
- The USS Iowa Museum Store
- The Officer and Enlisted Mess and
- The Admiral’s Quarters
There are also a number of special events and programs that are held throughout the year.
No matter what time of year you visit the Battleship Iowa Museum, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
How to Reach Battleship Iowa Museum
The Battleship USS Iowa Museum lies on Harbor Blvd, Los Angeles (San Pedro), CA, and can be easily reached by the following modes of transport.
By Bus
Bus stations with the distance closest to the Battleship USS Iowa Museum are listed below.
| Station Name | Distance |
|---|---|
| Beacon / 1st | 6 min walk |
| Harbor / 6th | 11 min walk |
| 7th / Palos Verdes | 14 min walk |
| Pacific / 1st | 14 min walk |
Bus lines with directions to the Battleship USS Iowa Museum
| Line Name | Directions |
|---|---|
| J | El Monte Stn via Dtla – J-Line (Silver) |
| 205 | Willowbrook / Rosa Parks Station |
| CE142 | Westbound |
| 246 | Harbor Gateway Transit Center |
Things to do in Battleship Iowa Museum
The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a floating museum located in Los Angeles Harbor.
It is the only battleship museum on the West Coast and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history of the United States Navy.
Here are some of the things to do at the Battleship USS Iowa Museum:
Waterfront Views
Enjoy beautiful views of the harbor and the San Pedro waterfront while exploring the USS Iowa.
Take in scenic views of the Pacific Ocean from a vantage point unlike others.
Overnight Programs
The museum offers overnight programs for groups of up to 40 people.
Participants will explore the ship, learn about its history and enjoy a night of stargazing activities.
Education Programs
The museum offers educational programs for students of all ages.
There are guided tours, lectures and interactive activities available.
Veterans Resource Center
The Veterans Resource Center is a special place for veterans to go and receive assistance.
The center provides information and assistance with benefits, health care, housing and employment.
Escape the Mothball Fleet
Guests can participate in this interactive game, in which they must work together to solve puzzles and riddles to escape the “mothball fleet.”
Gun Tour
Take a guided tour of the ship’s guns and learn about its history and the role it played in World War II.
Engineering Tour
This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the engineering spaces of the USS Iowa.
Museum Exhibits
The museum has a variety of exhibits featuring artifacts, memorabilia and photographs from the USS Iowa’s history.
Vicky the Dog Scavenger Hunt
Kids of all ages can join Vicky the Dog on a scavenger hunt to explore the museum and learn about the USS Iowa’s history.
Ship’s Store
Guests can find souvenirs and gifts to commemorate their visit to the museum.
Featured Image: PacificBattleship.com