Documenting Lovely Moments
A Day At Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and Fascinating Museums
Visiting Pearl Harbor was one of the most memorable parts of our Oahu trip. From the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, Aviation Museum, and Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, walking through these iconic landmarks gave us a deep appreciation for the history and each stop offered a unique perspective on the events that unfolded during World War II.
What To Know Before You Go
Timing & Hours: Pearl Harbor is open daily, but the USS Arizona Memorial has timed entry tickets, so plan ahead. Arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds.
Tickets & Cost: Some sites, like the USS Arizona Memorial, are free but require advance reservations. Other attractions, such as the Battleship Missouri, Aviation Museum, and Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, have entrance fees.
We used the Go Oahu pass that covers the admission tickets to all of these sites. Read more about The Smart Way to See Oahu Without Overspending
Parking & Transportation: Parking is available at the visitor center, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours. Many visitors also take shuttles or book guided tours that include transport.
Security & Rules: Expect airport-style security at the memorial and museums. Bags may be checked, and large items are not allowed. Respect the solemnity of the memorial—no food, drinks, or sitting on the memorial.
Timing for Each Attraction: Plan about 1–2 hours at the USS Arizona Memorial, 1–2 hours for the Battleship Missouri, and 45 minutes–1 hour for the aviation and submarine museums.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a camera. The museums and battleships require a lot of walking, and you’ll want to capture the experience.
Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
As soon as we arrived at Pearl Harbor, we made a reservation for the USS Arizona Memorial Boat Tour for later that morning. While waiting for our tour time, we visited the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. The museum is home to the USS Bowfin, a historic World War II submarine that earned the nickname “Pearl Harbor Avenger” for its role in the Pacific.
Walking inside the submarine gave us a sense of what life was like for the crew living in such tight quarters during wartime. Definitely a must-see if you’re at Pearl Harbor.
USS Arizona Memorial
After we got out of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, it was time for the USS Arizona Memorial Tour. To reach the memorial, we took a short boat ride from the visitor center across the calm waters of the harbor.
Once inside, the memorial is simple but powerful. Photography is allowed, but everyone must remain respectful of the solemn space. There are plaques and exhibits detailing the history of the attack, as well as a shrine room that lists the names of those who lost their lives during the attack on December 7, 1941. Standing there, looking down at the remains of the ship beneath the water, was a profoundly moving experience.
Our group spent around 15 minutes inside the memorial before heading back to the boat, making room for the next visitors.
Battleship Missouri
After visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, we took a short bus ride across the harbor to the Battleship Missouri.
The size and scale of the ship are hard to fully grasp until you’re on deck. Inside, the museum exhibits and guided tour highlight the ship’s role in World War II, including its connection to the Japanese surrender that ended the war. We loved exploring the officer quarters, the main deck, and the gun turrets, imagining what life was like for the sailors who served here.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Last but definitely not least, we took another short bus ride to visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and it was a perfect way to round out the experience. The museum is located on historic Ford Island, right in the middle of the harbor, and it’s packed with vintage aircraft, exhibits, and stories that bring the history of naval aviation to life.
One of the most memorable parts of the museum is Hangar 79, the main exhibit hall filled with historic aircraft and incredible displays. The windows still show bullet holes from World War II.
Must-See for History Lovers
We weren’t sure what to expect, but Pearl Harbor turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you leave and we’d recommend it to anyone visiting Oahu who wants to connect with history.
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