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What to Expect on the USS Battleship Missouri
Pearl Harbor, also called Pu'uloa by the Hawaiians, meaning “long hill,” or Wai Momi, literally “pearl waters,” is the largest natural harbor in the state of Hawaii and an active U.S. military base. Pearl Harbor became world-famous due to the surprise attack by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. Over 2,400 Americans lost their lives, and more than 1,000 were injured. Today, Pearl Harbor remains an active military base but is also a museum, memorial, and final resting place for many fallen soldiers.
Pearl Harbor consists of historic parks and four memorials. Among them is the U.S.S. Missouri, also known as “Mighty Mo” or U.S.S. Missouri (BB-63) Memorial, the third-largest ship in U.S. Navy history. It is renowned for its role in World War II when the Japanese Empire officially surrendered to the United States.
The Missouri was launched in 1944 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and marked a significant advancement over its predecessor. During its 51-year career, it served extensively in the Korean War and the Gulf War. It also played key roles in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
After its service in the Ryukyu campaign and the Atlantic, the Missouri returned to Hawaii and became part of a national museum after being decommissioned in 1955. A massive marble wall honors the names of those who died on December 7, 1941. Another historic moment took place on the Missouri’s deck: in September 1945, Japan officially surrendered, ending World War II.
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The USS Battleship Missouri Tour in Action
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Despite Pearl Harbor’s serious history, you will experience a relaxed and respectful environment. You cannot change the course of history, but you can engage with it consciously and pay tribute to the fallen. Since there is a lot to see, we recommend planning a full day.
If it rains, just bring an umbrella or rain jacket, as most of the tour is indoors. Ramps and an elevator allow strollers and wheelchairs to access the main deck and captain’s deck, though other areas are not accessible.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Tour Options, Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
Duration: There are many fantastic organized tours. The best part is that you always have someone exclusive by your side to ask. Tours that visit all of Pearl Harbor in small groups last around 10 hours.
Cost Pearl Harbor tours that visit more than one historic site start from around 140 dollars.
Get Guided through the Battleship Missouri
Self-Organized Tour
Duration: If you want to visit the whole ship at your leisure, plan around 2 hours.
Cost: A single ticket for the USS Battleshop Missouri costs around 40 dollars for adults.
Is the USS Battleship Missouri Worth It?
For us, it was an absolute yes. Standing on the “Surrender Deck” where World War II officially ended is a powerful moment in history. The sheer size and power of the “Mighty Mo” are just incredible to witness up close.
Here’s our take on who will absolutely love the Battleship Missouri:
- History Buffs: This is a must-do. You are standing on the very spot where the documents were signed that ended the most widespread war in history. The sense of palpable history is incredible. The juxtaposition of the Missouri (end of the war) watching over the Arizona (beginning of the war) is profoundly symbolic.
- Naval and Engineering Enthusiasts: Exploring this massive warship is a dream. You can walk the decks, stand under the enormous 16-inch guns, and see the complex inner workings of the ship. It’s a masterpiece of 20th-century engineering.
- Anyone Looking for a Comprehensive Pearl Harbor Story: A visit to the Missouri completes the narrative of Pearl Harbor. It takes you from the tragic beginning of the U.S. involvement in the war to its triumphant and final conclusion.
On the other hand, it might not be the right fit if:
- You are short on time or have "museum fatigue." The ship is enormous, and a proper tour takes at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're trying to squeeze all of Pearl Harbor into a short visit, you might feel rushed.
- You're on a tight budget. Like the other museums at Pearl Harbor, the Missouri has a significant admission fee. If you have to choose, the free USS Arizona Memorial program should be your top priority.
Our Final Word:
We think it's an essential part of the Pearl Harbor experience. The historical significance is off the charts, and the ship itself is an awe-inspiring sight. To stand on the Surrender Deck is a moment that gives you goosebumps.
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How to Get to the USS Battleship Missouri
With an Organized Tour
An organized tour is perfect for your visit to Pearl Harbor because you don't have to worry about anything organizational, and you can fully concentrate and get involved in the day. You can ask any of your questions directly and have an experienced tour guide by your side who will be happy to answer everything.
On Your Own (Self-Organized)
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open from 7 am to 5 pm. If you're traveling by car, make sure to use this as your address: Pearl Harbor National Memorial, 1 Arizona Memorial Place. Otherwise, you'll end up at the active military base. You can also get there by bus; you can find out which line and time is best for you here: thebus
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Battleship Missouri Memorial: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the historical significance of the Battleship Missouri?
The “Mighty Mo” is one of the most famous battleships in history, primarily because World War II officially ended on its deck. On September 2, 1945, representatives of the Allied and Japanese forces signed the Instrument of Surrender in Tokyo Bay, and you can stand on that very spot on the Surrender Deck. Her final resting place in Pearl Harbor, overlooking the USS Arizona Memorial, poignantly symbolizes the beginning and end of the war for the United States.
How much of the battleship can I explore on my own?
Your general admission ticket gives you incredible access to explore a large portion of this massive ship. You can walk the main decks, see the giant 16-inch guns, and follow a self-guided route through multiple interior levels. This includes crew quarters, the mess hall, officer's staterooms, and the bridge. For access to more restricted areas like the engine rooms or the conning tower, you'll need to join one of the special guided tours offered on board.
Do I need a separate tour guide, or is a self-guided tour enough?
A self-guided tour is fantastic and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The ship is well-marked with informative signs that explain the history and function of different areas. However, if you are a true history or naval buff, the guided tours offered on board, like the “Captain's Tour” or “Chief Engineer's Tour,” provide fascinating in-depth stories and access to areas not open to the general public, making the experience even richer.
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