The Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of America’s involvement in World War II. Over the course of 6 hours, travelers can pay their respects at the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, examine preserved WWII aircraft, and gain deeper insights into the strategic importance of the Pearl Harbor attack and the Battle of Midway. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to honor those who sacrificed, this tour promises an immersive and thought-provoking experience. But what exactly can you expect to discover along the way?

Key Points

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Key Points

  • The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of America’s involvement in World War II, including a visit to the iconic USS Arizona Memorial.
  • The tour includes boat tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, a ticket to the Aviation Museum, and a narrated drive through Honolulu and the National Memorial Cemetery.
  • At the Aviation Museum, visitors can examine the preserved wreckage of the Japanese ‘Val’ dive bomber, sit in the cockpit of a restored P-40 Warhawk fighter, and learn about the role of Hawaii in the Battle of Midway.
  • The USS Arizona Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the devastating 1941 attack, and visitors can take a short boat ride to the memorial and observe the rusting hull and oil slick.
  • The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and provides a knowledgeable driver experience with vivid historical narratives and insightful commentary.

Overview of the Tour

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Overview of the Tour

The USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums tour from Waikiki offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of America’s involvement in World War II, lasting approximately 6 hours.

Guests will first pay their respects at the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, followed by a narrated drive through Honolulu and the National Memorial Cemetery.

They’ll then explore the history of Pacific aviation, from the Pearl Harbor attack to the Battle of Midway, at the Aviation Museum.

With access to over 50 aircraft and exhibits, guests can learn from knowledgeable drivers and explore the museum’s Hangar 37, Hangar 79, and The Raytheon Pavilion.

Flexibility is key, as the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Inclusions of the Tour

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Inclusions of the Tour

Included in the tour are boat tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, a ticket to the Aviation Museum, pickup and dropoff from Waikiki hotels, and an in-person briefing at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center.

The tour offers visitors the chance to explore the following:

  1. Pay homage at the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of many sailors who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

  2. Enjoy a narrated drive through Honolulu and the National Memorial Cemetery.

  3. Explore the history of Pacific aviation from the Pearl Harbor attack to the Battle of Midway at the Aviation Museum.

  4. Access over 50 aircraft and exhibits in the Aviation Museum’s Hangar 37, Hangar 79, and The Raytheon Pavilion.

Activities Included

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Activities Included

Visitors can pay homage at the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of many sailors who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. They’ll then enjoy a narrated drive through Honolulu and the National Memorial Cemetery before exploring the history of Pacific aviation from the Pearl Harbor attack to the Battle of Midway at the Aviation Museum.

Aviation Museum Exhibits Description
Hangar 37 Showcases aircraft and artifacts from the Pacific air war
Hangar 79 Features aircraft and exhibits on the Battle of Midway
The Raytheon Pavilion Highlights the development of radar technology during WWII

Visitors will have access to over 50 aircraft and exhibits, learning from the knowledgeable driver throughout the experience.

Exploring the Aviation Museum

Within the Aviation Museum, visitors can explore three key exhibit areas: Hangar 37, Hangar 79, and the Raytheon Pavilion.

In Hangar 37, guests can get up close with over 30 aircraft, including the famous Japanese Zero fighter.

Hangar 79 houses a collection of WWII-era aircraft and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the Pacific air war.

The Raytheon Pavilion features interactive displays, highlighting the technological advancements that shaped aviation history.

Visitors can:

  1. Examine the preserved wreckage of the Japanese ‘Val’ dive bomber.
  2. Sit in the cockpit of a restored P-40 Warhawk fighter.
  3. Discover the role of Hawaii in the Battle of Midway.
  4. Experience the sights and sounds of the Pearl Harbor attack through multimedia exhibits.

Honoring the USS Arizona Memorial

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Honoring the USS Arizona Memorial

Solemn reverence pervades the USS Arizona Memorial, as visitors pay tribute to the 1,177 sailors and marines who perished during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.

The memorial, built partially over the sunken battleship, stands as a poignant reminder of the devastating event that propelled the United States into World War II.

Visitors can take a short boat ride to the memorial, where they can gaze upon the rusting hull and see the oil slick that still seeps from the wreckage.

Through this somber experience, guests gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives on that fateful day, honoring their memory and the resilience of the American spirit.

Narrated Drive Through Honolulu

After paying homage at the USS Arizona Memorial, the tour takes visitors on a narrated drive through the historic city of Honolulu. The driver provides insightful commentary, highlighting the city’s vibrant blend of cultural landmarks and modern developments.

The tour includes:

  1. A drive past the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, where fallen soldiers from various wars are laid to rest.
  2. A glimpse of the iconic Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil and a symbol of Hawaii’s monarchy.
  3. A view of the Honolulu Hale, the city’s grand government building, showcasing its impressive architecture.
  4. An opportunity to see the bustling streets of downtown Honolulu, with its array of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Flexibility in Booking

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums - Flexibility in Booking

The tour offers flexibility for travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. This allows customers to book their spot without having to commit to full payment upfront.

The cancellation policy provides a safety net, ensuring travelers can adjust their plans if needed without financial penalties. This level of flexibility is particularly valuable for those with unpredictable schedules or who want to have the option to change their minds closer to the tour date.

Knowledgeable Driver Experience

Complementing the flexible booking options, the tour also provides a knowledgeable driver experience. Travelers can expect an informative and engaging journey, as the driver shares their expertise on the history and significance of the sites visited.

The driver’s deep understanding of the Pearl Harbor attack and the subsequent Pacific aviation history enriches the tour experience in several ways:

  1. Providing vivid historical narratives that bring the past to life.
  2. Offering nuanced insights into the strategic importance of the sites.
  3. Answering questions and addressing curiosities with depth and clarity.
  4. Highlighting lesser-known facts and anecdotes that enhance the overall knowledge gained.

The knowledgeable driver elevates the tour, ensuring visitors leave with a profound appreciation for the events that unfolded at Pearl Harbor and the pivotal role of Pacific aviation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Avoid overly casual attire like swimsuits or short shorts as the sites visited require respectful attire.

Can I Bring a Camera to the Memorial?

Visitors are generally permitted to bring cameras to the USS Arizona Memorial. However, flash photography is not allowed out of respect for the site’s solemn nature. Visitors should follow any instructions from staff regarding photography during the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the subject matter may not be suitable for very young children. Parental discretion is advised.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The tour operator provides assistance and ensures those with mobility challenges can fully participate in the activities and access the memorial and museums.

Are There Any Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food options. However, there are several dining options available near the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center that visitors can explore during their free time before or after the tour.

Recap

The Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Aviation Museums tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of America’s involvement in World War II.

Guests can pay homage at the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, examine preserved WWII aircraft, and gain a deeper understanding of the strategic importance of the Pearl Harbor attack and the Battle of Midway.

With a knowledgeable driver, this 6-hour experience provides a flexible and immersive look into the Pacific theater of WWII.