Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial and City Highlights Tour

Oahu’s USS Arizona Memorial and City Highlights Tour offers visitors a profound and comprehensive exploration of the island’s history and culture. From the poignant experience at the memorial honoring those lost in the 1941 attack, to the insightful museums and iconic Honolulu landmarks, this tour provides an immersive journey through Hawaii’s past and present. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable destination, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. Prepare to be captivated as you uncover the rich tapestry that defines Oahu’s enduring legacy.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best City Tours In Oahu.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place for many sailors who perished in the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack.
• Learn about the events leading to the infamous raid through a powerful 23-minute documentary film at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
• Discover Honolulu’s historic landmarks, including Iolani Palace, Aliiolani Hale, and the grand King Kamehameha statue.
• Visit the Pearl Harbor Museum and Pacific Aviation Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the Pearl Harbor attacks.
• Enjoy the rich heritage and culture of Hawaii through this comprehensive Oahu tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center serves as the main entry point for visitors to explore the historic site of the 1941 Japanese attack.

Guests can purchase tickets and begin their journey through the exhibits and memorials at the visitor center.

The center features two on-site museums – the Pearl Harbor Museum and the Pacific Aviation Museum – which provide in-depth information about the fateful day and the events leading up to it.

Visitors can also watch a documentary film that gives a powerful overview of the attack.

From the visitor center, guests will board a ferry to the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place for many of the sailors who perished on December 7th. This solemn experience is a highlight of any tour of Pearl Harbor.

Paramount Documentary Film

At the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, visitors can watch a gripping Paramount documentary film that provides a powerful overview of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

The 23-minute film, narrated by a veteran who experienced the attack firsthand, offers a comprehensive historical account of the events that led to the infamous raid.

Visitors will be captivated by the vivid footage, personal testimonies, and meticulous reenactments, gaining a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.

The documentary film serves as an essential prelude to the visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, setting the stage for a profoundly moving and educational experience.

Iconic USS Arizona Memorial

Visitors can take a poignant ferry ride across the harbor to reach the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, a solemn tribute to those who perished during the 1941 attack.

This sacred structure straddles the final resting place of the battleship’s sunken hull, offering a powerful and deeply moving experience for all who come to honor the memory of the fallen.

At the memorial, guests can reflect on the sacrifices made and gain insights into this pivotal moment in history through informative displays and exhibits.

The visit culminates with a chance to lay a wreath in remembrance of the brave servicemembers who lost their lives defending their country on that fateful day.

Onsite Museums and Shops

Along With the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center houses two onsite museums that delve deeper into the history and significance of the 1941 attack.

Guests can explore the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Museum, which offers multimedia exhibits and artifacts that provide a rundown of the events leading up to and during the fateful day.

The adjacent Pacific Aviation Museum, meanwhile, showcases a collection of vintage aircraft and interactive displays that shed light on the role of aviation in the Pacific Theater.

Together, these museums enable visitors to gain a nuanced understanding of the Pearl Harbor attacks and their lasting impact.

Visitors can:

1. Browse historical photographs and documents
2. Interact with touch-screen displays
3. Examine restored WWII-era aircraft
4. Shop for souvenirs at the gift shops

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Scenic Honolulu Landmarks

The panoramic city tour showcases Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks, offering visitors a rundown of the island’s historic and cultural significance.

Guests will have the opportunity to marvel at the stately Iolani Palace, the only royal residence on American soil, and gain insights into Hawaii’s monarchical past.

Plus, the tour highlights the grand Aliiolani Hale, which houses the Hawaii Supreme Court and features an impressive statue of King Kamehameha the Great, the legendary leader who unified the Hawaiian Islands.

Iconic landmarks like the King Kamehameha statue, Kawaiahao Church, and the State Capitol Building provide a glimpse into Honolulu’s rich heritage, making the city tour a must-do activity for visitors seeking to enjoy Hawaii’s unique history and culture.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation to and from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for participants. Tickets for the documentary film and the ferry ride to the USS Arizona Memorial are also provided, allowing guests to fully enjoy the historical significance of the site without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets.

Exploration of the two onsite museums, providing a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Access to the gift shop, offering a wide selection of souvenirs and memorabilia to commemorate the experience.

Informative commentary from the tour guide, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour.

Flexibility to explore the site at one’s own pace, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.

Exclusions and Considerations

While the tour covers a comprehensive Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city experience, participants should be aware of certain exclusions and considerations.

The tour doesn’t include admission to the USS Missouri Battleship, which is an additional optional attraction at the Pearl Harbor site. On top of that, the package excludes the cost of food, drinks, and gratuities, which visitors will need to budget for separately. It’s important to note that visitors will need to pay for these extras on their own.

Although the tour provides a well-rounded overview of the historic Pearl Harbor and Honolulu landmarks, guests should plan accordingly to ensure they can fully enjoy all aspects of their experience.

Tour Duration and Highlights

This 4-hour tour packs in a wealth of activities and sights, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in Oahu.

It begins with a visit to the iconic USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, where guests can pay their respects and learn about the pivotal events of December 7, 1941. The experience includes:

1. Watching a powerful documentary film about the attack.
2. Exploring two onsite museums brimming with historical artifacts and information.
3. Browsing the gift shop for souvenirs.

Visitors will then enjoy a panoramic tour of Honolulu’s famous landmarks, from iconic skyscrapers to picturesque beaches.

Throughout the journey, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Oahu’s rich history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs at the Memorial?

Yes, visitors are generally permitted to take photographs at the USS Arizona Memorial, but they must follow certain guidelines to be respectful of the site and its significance. Photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided?

The tour provides transportation to and from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. This usually takes the form of a bus or shuttle, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for guests to reach the memorial site.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though young children may require parental supervision during certain activities like the documentary film viewing.

Can I Purchase Additional Items at the Gift Shop?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional items at the gift shop during the Pearl Harbor tour. The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, memorabilia, and educational materials related to the historic site and the Navy’s history.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disabled-Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair and disabled-accessible. Visitors in wheelchairs or with mobility issues can participate in all aspects of the tour, including the ferry ride to the USS Arizona Memorial and exploration of the onsite museums.

Recap

The USS Arizona Memorial and City Highlights Tour provides a comprehensive and deeply moving experience for visitors to Oahu.

Exploring the historic significance of Pearl Harbor, honoring the sacrifices made, and discovering Honolulu’s iconic landmarks, this tour offers an educational and immersive journey into Hawaii’s rich heritage.

With the Paramount Documentary Film, on-site museums, and scenic landmarks, it’s an must-do activity for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal moment in history.

You can check availability for your dates here: