As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, cities across the country are going bigger than ever for the Fourth of July with massive drone shows, stunning fireworks and historic parades.
If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday by stepping inside a piece of history, few experiences are as unforgettable as this… Packed with restored aircraft, interactive exhibits, and decades of fascinating history, it’s one of the state’s most extraordinary attractions.
Visiting America’s favorite “floating city”
Permanently docked along San Diego Bay, the USS Midway Museum occupies the historic USS Midway (CV-41), the longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Since opening as a museum in 2004, it has welcomed millions of visitors and become one of SoCal’s most popular attractions.
Once aboard, visitors can wander through more than 60 restored spaces spread across the massive ship, including the captain’s bridge, engine room, sleeping quarters, and flight control center. Admission also includes a self-guided audio tour narrated by former crew members, while retired sailors stationed throughout the museum share firsthand stories and answer visitors’ questions.
The sprawling flight deck is lined with dozens of restored military aircraft, and many exhibits are designed to be hands-on. Visitors can step inside select aircraft and cockpits and try flight simulators, making it perfect for families.
The remarkable history of the USS Midway
When the USS Midway entered service in September 1945, it ranked among the largest ships in the world, stretching nearly 1,000 feet from bow to stern. Over the course of its 47 years in active service, approximately 200,000 sailors served aboard before the carrier was retired in 1992, making it the longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century.
Since opening in June 2004, it has allowed millions of visitors to explore one of America’s most recognizable ships from an entirely different perspective.
