Popular Aviation Museum Exhibits

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum stands out because of its immersive exhibits and rare collection of aircraft. Housed in two hangars that saw the attack firsthand—Hangar 37 and Hangar 79—the museum tells the story of aviation in the Pacific theater during WWII and beyond. One of its most popular displays is a Japanese Zero, the same type of fighter plane used during the attack. It also features American aircraft like the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, making history come alive through real artifacts.

What makes the museum even more compelling is the chance to see up-close the bullet holes that still mark the windows of Hangar 79. These scars from the attack serve as a chilling reminder of what happened on that historic day. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, like flight simulators, where visitors can get a feel for what it’s like to fly a fighter jet. It’s not just a walk through history—it’s an experience that engages all ages.

When you’re booking tickets to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, you can either go for general admission or opt for a guided tour. Many visitors choose to purchase a combo ticket that includes access to the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and the USS Bowfin Submarine, making it a full-day educational experience. But even on its own, the aviation museum offers enough to fill several hours with learning and exploration.

The museum is especially popular because it blends history, technology, and personal stories in one powerful location. It’s not just about planes—it’s about the people who flew them and the moments that defined the war. For students, veterans, and travelers of all kinds, this is a place that fosters reflection and appreciation. Because of its powerful message and unique setting, the museum continues to rank as one of Hawaii’s best historical sites.

How to get Pearl Harbor Tickets

To make the most of your visit, it’s best to book your Pearl Harbor tickets online in advance here, especially during peak travel seasons which are Spring Break, Summer, and Christmas. For those that know their history, December 7th is the anniversary of the attack and the monument usually puts on ceremonies hosting special guests. The museum is located on an active military base, so access is only possible via a shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. With timed entry and limited daily capacity, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on one of the most unforgettable experiences in Oahu.

Pearl Harbor Tours to the Aviation Museum

Booking tickets in advance can be cumbersome when trying to plan your visit to Hawaii. Booking a Pearl Harbor tour can be much more fluid than having to worry about whether Pearl Harbor Tickets are available as well as trying to plan out your own transportation. Tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel and provide access to all historic sites. If that’s something you are more interested in, you can book a tour here. Whether you’re into history or just looking for a meaningful adventure, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is a can’t-miss destination.

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Origins and Name Changes: The museum’s origins trace back to 1983 with the establishment of the Pacific Aerospace Museum at Honolulu International Airport. However, due to airport expansion, the museum relocated and was renamed the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor. In 2018, it adopted its current name, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Establishment on Ford Island: The museum officially opened its doors on December 7, 2006, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. It occupies historic Hangars 37 and 79 on Ford Island, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the past.

Major Exhibits: The museum houses a vast collection of over 22,000 artifacts, including aircraft, photographs, and archival materials. Notable exhibits include:

• Hangar 37: Features artifacts and aircraft related to the Pearl Harbor attack, offering insights into that pivotal day.
• Hangar 79: Showcases over 75 years of aviation history, displaying aircraft from World War II through the Vietnam War and beyond.

Dedication and Mission: The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in the Pacific, particularly during World War II. It aims to honor the legacy of those who served and provide educational experiences that highlight the significance of aviation in shaping modern history.

What are the Most Popular Exhibits at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum?

Among its extensive collection, one exhibit consistently stands out as a visitor favorite: the “Swamp Ghost” B-17 Flying Fortress.

“Swamp Ghost” B-17 Flying Fortress

The “Swamp Ghost” is a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress that holds a unique place in aviation history. On December 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor, this aircraft was scheduled to depart but experienced engine trouble, inadvertently sparing it from the assault. Later that month, it participated in a bombing mission over Rabaul, New Guinea, where it was damaged and subsequently crash-landed in a swamp. The aircraft remained in the swamp for nearly 64 years before being recovered and transported to the museum in 2011. Today, visitors can view the B-17 in its partially restored state, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Inside the B-17 Flying Fortress | The Swamp Ghost

Other Notable Exhibits

Beyond the “Swamp Ghost,” the museum features a diverse array of artifacts, including:

• Douglas SBD Dauntless: A dive bomber renowned for its role in the Battle of Midway.
• Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero: A Japanese fighter plane that played a significant role during World War II.
• Fighter Ace 360º Flight Simulators: Interactive simulators that provide visitors with a thrilling flight experience, allowing them to engage in virtual dogfights over tropical waters.

Pearl Harbor Educational Film

To enhance the educational experience, the museum presents historical documentaries such as “East Wind, Rain,” a 12-minute film that recounts the events of the Pearl Harbor attack. This film has been recognized with awards for its insightful portrayal of that pivotal day.

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Museums play a crucial role in preserving history, and sometimes, a name change is necessary to better align with their mission. That’s exactly what happened with the Pacific Aviation Museum, which was renamed Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in 2018. The decision was made to create a stronger connection to the historic site where it stands—Ford Island, the heart of the infamous attack on December 7, 1941.

By adopting the name Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the institution clearly identifies itself as part of the national historic landmark, making it easier for visitors to recognize its significance. The update also helps honor the legacy of those who served and fought at Pearl Harbor, ensuring that the world remembers this pivotal moment in World War II history.

When Did the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Open?

The museum officially opened its doors on December 7, 2006, exactly 65 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Located in the historic Hangars 37 and 79 on Ford Island, the museum was established to showcase the role of aviation in World War II and beyond.

Visitors can explore a wide collection of aircraft, including planes that were directly involved in the Pacific Theater of WWII. The exhibits also provide insight into the resilience of the American forces and the technological advancements in aviation that followed the war.

Did Any American Pilots Get in the Air During the Pearl Harbor Attack?

Though the Japanese launched a devastating surprise attack, a few American pilots managed to take to the skies and fight back. Among them were Lieutenants Kenneth Taylor and George Welch, who quickly jumped into their P-40 Warhawks and engaged the enemy.

• They took off from Haleiwa Airfield, a small auxiliary base, since their main airfields were under heavy attack.
• The duo shot down multiple Japanese aircraft, despite being heavily outnumbered.
• Their quick response made them some of the first American heroes of the attack.

Taylor and Welch’s bravery is now legendary, and their efforts demonstrated the courage of U.S. forces even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Who Shot Down the Most Japanese Planes at Pearl Harbor?

One of the most successful American pilots on that fateful day was Second Lieutenant George Welch. He, along with his wingman Kenneth Taylor, managed to shoot down at least four enemy aircraft, making him one of the most effective defenders during the attack.

Although records vary on the exact number of kills, Welch’s actions were recognized with a Distinguished Service Cross, one of the highest military honors. His remarkable performance in combat made him a symbol of American resilience and determination.

Why the Name Change Matters

The shift from Pacific Aviation Museum to Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum wasn’t just about branding—it was about ensuring that the museum remains deeply connected to the history it preserves. The new name provides:

Stronger historical significance – It directly ties the museum to one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
Improved visitor recognition – The new name makes it clearer what the museum represents.
A lasting tribute to those who served – Honoring the men and women affected by the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Honoring the Skies of the Past for the Generations of the Future

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum continues to stand as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in World War II. Its mission remains unchanged: to educate, inspire, and preserve aviation history. By embracing a name that better reflects its location and legacy, the museum ensures that future generations will always remember the significance of December 7, 1941.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the past, visiting the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offers an unforgettable journey into the skies of history.

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What is the USS Arizona?

The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship of the United States Navy, best known for being sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

When was the USS Arizona built and launched?

• Keel Laid Down: March 16, 1914
• Launched: June 19, 1915
• Commissioned: October 17, 1916

When was the USS Arizona decommissioned?

The ship was never officially decommissioned. After being sunk at Pearl Harbor, it was declared “out of commission” on December 29, 1941, and later “stricken” from the Naval Vessel Register on December 1, 1942.

USS Arizona Specs

How big was the USS Arizona?

• Length: 608 feet (185 meters)
• Beam (width): 97 feet (29.6 meters)
• Draft (depth in water): 29 feet 3 inches (8.9 meters)
• Displacement: 31,400 tons standard, 37,654 tons fully loaded

What type of guns did the USS Arizona have?

• Main Battery: 12 × 14-inch (356 mm) guns in four triple turrets
• Secondary Battery: 22 × 5-inch (127 mm) guns
• Anti-Aircraft: 4 × 3-inch (76 mm) guns
• Torpedo Tubes: 2 × 21-inch (533 mm)

Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Legacy

What happened to the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor?

During the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the USS Arizona was hit by several bombs, with a catastrophic explosion in its forward magazine. The ship sank in minutes, taking 1,177 crew members with it.

Why wasn’t the USS Arizona raised?

The damage was too severe, and the ship was considered a war grave. Instead of being salvaged, it remains at the bottom of Pearl Harbor as a memorial to the fallen crew.

How many men died on the USS Arizona?

A total of 1,177 officers and crew were killed, making it the greatest loss of life on any U.S. Navy vessel during the attack.

Can you still see the USS Arizona today?

Yes, the USS Arizona Memorial was built above the wreckage in 1962. Visitors can see parts of the ship submerged below the water at Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Hawaii.

What Happened to The USS Arizona?

See the memorial for yourself by purchasing the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket here.

Obscure Facts of The USS Arizona

What is still leaking from the USS Arizona?

The ship continues to leak oil, sometimes called “the Black Tears of the Arizona.” It is estimated that around 500,000 gallons of oil remain in the wreckage.

Was the USS Arizona ever used in combat before Pearl Harbor?

No, the USS Arizona never saw combat before the attack. It was primarily used for training and diplomatic missions.

Did anyone survive the USS Arizona sinking?

Yes, 335 crew members survived, including those who were on leave at the time.

Can USS Arizona survivors be buried with the ship?

Yes, surviving crew members can have their ashes interred in the wreck, a tradition that has continued since the 1980s.

What happened to the USS Arizona’s bell and guns?

One of the ship’s bells is on display at the University of Arizona. Some of the ship’s gun turrets were later used on other U.S. Navy ships. To get tickets to see the USS Arizona Memorial, consider purchasing the Passport ticket to Pearl Harbor here which will grant you access to all of Pearl Harbor’s historic sites!

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What is the USS Missouri?

The USS Missouri is an Iowa-class battleship of the U.S. Navy, famous for being the site where Japan formally surrendered, ending World War II.

Where is the USS Missouri located today?

The USS Missouri is now a museum ship located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, near the USS Arizona Memorial.

How big is the USS Missouri?

• Length: 887 feet 3 inches (270.4 meters)
• Beam (Width): 108 feet 2 inches (33 meters)
• Height: 209 feet 3 inches (63.8 meters) from keel to mast
• Displacement: Over 58,000 tons fully loaded

USS Missouri Service History

How old is the USS Missouri?

The USS Missouri was commissioned on June 11, 1944, making it over 80 years old as of 2024.

When was the USS Missouri commissioned and decommissioned?

• Commissioned: June 11, 1944
• First Decommissioning: February 26, 1955
• Recommissioned: May 10, 1986
• Final Decommissioning: March 31, 1992

What wars did the USS Missouri serve in?

• World War II (1944–1945)
• Korean War (1950–1953)
• Persian Gulf War (1991)

Why is the USS Missouri famous?

The USS Missouri is best known for hosting the formal surrender of Japan on September 2, 1945, in Tokyo Bay, officially ending World War II.

Tour of The USS Missouri

See it for yourself by purchasing tickets here.

Obscure Facts of The USS Missouri

Was the USS Missouri ever attacked?

Yes, on April 11, 1945, a Japanese kamikaze pilot crashed into the ship. The damage was minor, and the ship continued fighting.

Did the USS Missouri fire its main guns in combat?

Yes, the battleship’s 16-inch guns were used in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War to provide heavy bombardment.

What kind of firepower does the USS Missouri have?

• Main Guns: Nine 16-inch (406 mm) guns
• Secondary Guns: Twenty 5-inch (127 mm) guns
• Anti-aircraft guns: Various over the years, including 40mm and 20mm guns
• Missiles: In the 1980s, it was upgraded with Tomahawk cruise missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

How fast is the USS Missouri?

The ship has a top speed of 33 knots (38 mph, 61 km/h).

What happened to the USS Missouri after decommissioning?

After being decommissioned in 1992, it was moved to Pearl Harbor in 1998 to serve as a museum and memorial.

Has the USS Missouri appeared in movies?

Yes! It has been featured in movies like “Under Siege” (1992) and “Battleship” (2012).

Can you purchase tickets to visit the USS Missouri?

Yes, the ship is open to the public as part of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites in Hawaii.
To get your tickets to step aboard The USS Missouri (BB-63) Battleship, click here!

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Tickets to The USS Missouri

If you want to set foot aboard the “Mighty Mo,” you can purchase tickets here and pay your respects to our fallen soldiers. Stepping aboard the USS Missouri is like walking through a portal into history. You can feel the weight of its legendary past. The size of the battleship is overwhelming, with towering gun turrets and endless corridors that once housed thousands of sailors. Standing on the very spot where World War II ended, there’s a profound sense of reverence. The deck beneath you once held world leaders, brave servicemen, and the turning point of global conflict. As you explore its massive structure, from the towering 16-inch guns to the tight living quarters, you gain a deep appreciation for the sailors who lived and fought aboard this floating fortress. It’s both humbling and awe-inspiring, a true connection to the past that leaves an unforgettable impression.

USS Missouri Battleship History

The USS Missouri was constructed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and commissioned into service on June 11, 1944. It was part of the powerful Iowa-class battleships, known for their combination of speed, firepower, and advanced technology. With a length of 887 feet, it was a floating fortress capable of reaching speeds up to 33 knots. Armed with nine 16-inch guns, twenty 5-inch guns, and multiple anti-aircraft weapons, it was one of the most heavily armed warships of its time.

One of the most defining moments of the USS Missouri’s career occurred on September 2, 1945. On that day, in Tokyo Bay, representatives of the Japanese government signed the official surrender documents on the ship’s deck, bringing World War II to an end. The event was attended by U.S. General Douglas MacArthur and other Allied leaders. This historic moment made the USS Missouri a living monument to the war’s conclusion and the dawn of a new era.

USS Missouri: Naval Legend

After World War II, the Missouri continued to serve the U.S. Navy. During the Korean War, it provided fire support for United Nations forces, bombarding enemy positions along the coast. Although battleships were becoming less relevant in modern warfare due to the rise of aircraft carriers and missiles, the Missouri’s firepower remained a valuable asset. In 1955, it was decommissioned and placed in reserve, seemingly marking the end of its storied career.

However, the USS Missouri was not done yet. In the 1980s, as part of President Ronald Reagan’s efforts to modernize the U.S. Navy, the battleship was reactivated and updated with Tomahawk cruise missiles, Phalanx CIWS for defense, and improved radar systems. It saw combat once again in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm, launching missiles at Iraqi targets. This marked its final combat service before being retired for good in 1992.

The battleship was officially donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association and moved to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1998. Its final resting place was chosen for a symbolic reason—it sits near the USS Arizona Memorial. The USS Arizona represents the beginning of the United States’ involvement in World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor, while the USS Missouri represents the war’s conclusion. This placement creates a powerful historical connection between the two ships.

Today, the USS Missouri is a popular museum ship that attracts visitors from around the world. Tourists can walk on the deck where the surrender documents were signed, explore the ship’s massive gun turrets, and see how sailors lived and worked aboard a battleship. The ship is carefully maintained by the USS Missouri Memorial Association, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn about its incredible history.

How Long is The USS Missouri?

One of the most awe-inspiring features of the USS Missouri is its sheer size. At nearly 900 feet long, it is about three football fields in length. Its weight, when fully loaded, reached over 57,000 tons. Standing next to it, visitors can truly appreciate the scale of battleships and the engineering marvels that they represent. Despite its age, the Missouri remains an imposing presence, showcasing the pinnacle of battleship design.

USS Missouri Popularity

The USS Missouri has also made its mark in pop culture. It has been featured in movies such as Battleship and Under Siege, where its legendary status added to the excitement of these films. Its legacy as a symbol of American military power and history ensures that it remains in the public eye. Few ships have had such a long and distinguished career, spanning multiple wars and different eras of naval technology.

The USS Missouri’s fame comes from its role in shaping world history. From its battles in the Pacific to its final role as a guardian of peace, the ship has become an enduring icon of American strength and perseverance. Today, as it rests in Pearl Harbor, it continues to educate, inspire, and remind visitors of the sacrifices made by those who served aboard it. Whether for history enthusiasts, veterans, or casual tourists, the USS Missouri remains a must-visit destination that offers a glimpse into one of the most pivotal moments of the 20th century.

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Here’s what you need to Know:

The Memorial is located on Ford Island which is still an active military base. If you don’t have an active-duty military ID, you can visit the USS Oklahoma Memorial by joining the Ford Island Bus Tour. Reservations are required and can be booked online. A non-refundable $1 fee applies per person. Fees go towards the Pearl Harbor Memorial upkeep. This bus tour also includes the USS Utah Memorial.

The following individuals can enter without a ticket:

• Active-duty military personnel (with valid ID)
• Government employees (including military retirees with ID)
• Escorts with trusted traveler permissions

Important Information:

• The Pearl Harbor Memorial is open everyday throughout the year from 7 AM – 5 PM except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
• The roundtrip Ford Island Bus Tour operates Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:15 PM to 5 PM.
• Tour duration is 90-minutes.
• Limited to 25 participants per tour.
• Reserve up to 5 tickets per day (this includes infants and children)
• This does not include the USS Arizona Memorial which requires a separate reservation ticket.
• Arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center by 2:30 PM for check-in at 3 PM as the tour will depart at 3:15 PM.
• Military and contractor personnel with a permit can access Ford Island directly.
• For a more emersive visit to The Pearl Harbor Memorial, consider getting the Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket which gives you access to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Pacific Aviation Museum, and the USS Bowfin + Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. You can book here.

Directions to the USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The History of the USS Oklahoma (BB-37) Battleship

The USS Oklahoma (BB-37) was a Nevada-class battleship that played a crucial role in the U.S. Navy before meeting its tragic fate during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Commissioned in 1916, the battleship was built with cutting-edge technology for its time, featuring oil-fueled boilers and enhanced armor protection. It served in World War I, escorting convoys across the Atlantic, and later underwent modernization to improve its firepower and defenses. By the late 1930s, the USS Oklahoma was stationed at Pearl Harbor as tensions with Japan escalated.

On December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was one of the first ships targeted during Japan’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Within minutes, the battleship was struck by multiple torpedoes, causing it to capsize and trapping hundreds of sailors inside. Despite heroic rescue efforts, 429 crew members lost their lives, making it one of the deadliest losses that day. The sinking of the USS Oklahoma, along with other devastating blows to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, propelled the United States into World War II.

The USS Oklahoma Battleship: The Lost Sister of Nevada

After the attack, efforts were made to salvage the USS Oklahoma. Unlike other damaged battleships that were repaired and returned to service, the Oklahoma was deemed beyond full restoration. It was refloated in 1943, stripped of useful materials, and sold for scrap. However, while being towed to the mainland in 1947, the ship mysteriously sank in the Pacific Ocean, never reaching its final destination. Its disappearance remains one of the lesser-known yet haunting chapters of Pearl Harbor’s history.

The USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor stands as a tribute to the sailors and Marines who perished during the attack. Dedicated in 2007, the memorial features 429 white marble columns, each representing a life lost. Positioned near the USS Missouri, the site symbolizes both the tragic beginning of America’s involvement in World War II and its victorious conclusion, as the Missouri was where Japan officially surrendered in 1945.

Visiting the USS Oklahoma Memorial offers a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. Unlike the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors those entombed in the sunken battleship, the Oklahoma’s tribute focuses on remembering the individuals who were aboard when it capsized. The design of the memorial allows visitors to reflect on the cost of war while standing on the very ground where history unfolded.

The USS Oklahoma’s story is a testament to the resilience and bravery of the U.S. Navy. Its loss at Pearl Harbor was a devastating moment, but it also marked the turning point that led the United States to emerge as a global force in World War II. Today, the battleship’s legacy lives on through the memorial, ensuring future generations remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served aboard the USS Oklahoma.

Where is the USS Oklahoma Now?

The USS Oklahoma went down in the Pacific Ocean in 1947, approximately 500 to 700 miles northeast of Oahu, after being towed from Pearl Harbor during a storm. The crews of the tugboats let go of their tow cables to protect themselves, causing the ship to sink in waters far deeper than those at Pearl Harbor. However, the exact location of the wreck was never recorded.

Even with these difficulties, there is still hope that the USS Oklahoma will be discovered. The search for the ship continues to inspire people and serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.

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Here’s what you need to know:

• The USS Utah Memorial is located on Ford Island which is still a part of an active military base. To reach the memorial, you’ll take the Ford Island Bus Tour, which is operated by the National Park Service. The tour includes stops at the USS Utah and USS Oklahoma Memorials.
• The USS Utah is a battleship that was sunk by torpedoes on December 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship still lies where it sank and can only be visited via the bus tour.

Additional Important Information:

• The Pearl Harbor Memorial is open everyday throughout the year from 7 AM – 5 PM except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
• The roundtrip Ford Island Bus Tour operates Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:15 PM to 5 PM.
• Limited to 25 participants per tour.
• Reserve up to 5 tickets per day (this includes infants and children)
• This does not include the USS Arizona Memorial which requires a separate reservation ticket.
• Arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center by 2:30 PM for check-in at 3 PM as the tour departs at 3:15 PM.
• Tour duration is 90-minutes.
• Military and contractor personnel with a permit can access Ford Island directly.
• For a more emersive visit to The Pearl Harbor Memorial, consider getting the Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket which gives you access to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Pacific Aviation Museum, and the USS Bowfin + Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. You can book here.

Directions to the USS Utah Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The History of the USS Utah (BB-31) Battleship

The USS Utah (BB-31) was a Nevada-class battleship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1911. Built to serve as a symbol of American naval power during the early 20th century, the Utah was involved in numerous key naval operations throughout its active years. However, its most significant moment came on December 7, 1941, during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship’s history, from its early days of service to its tragic end, provides a remarkable glimpse into the evolution of naval warfare and the impact of World War II on the Pacific theater.

At the time of its commissioning, the USS Utah was considered a modern battleship, designed with powerful guns and armor to withstand enemy fire. Initially, the ship was stationed on the U.S. East Coast before being reassigned to the Pacific Fleet. Throughout the years, the Utah took part in several training exercises and maneuvers, demonstrating the growing importance of naval presence in the Pacific as tensions increased between the United States and Japan. The ship, like many others, was part of the prelude to the eventual conflict that would engulf the world.

The USS Utah Battleship: Pearl Harbor’s Forgotten Casualty

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Utah was moored at Pearl Harbor, alongside several other ships of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. As the Japanese launched their surprise attack, the Utah was struck by torpedoes, causing significant damage to the ship. The attack led to the loss of 64 crew members, and the Utah was eventually sunk. Despite being severely damaged, the ship did not fully sink right away and was left partially submerged, marking it as one of the few battleships that survived the initial attack but never returned to active duty.

The sinking of the USS Utah during the Pearl Harbor attack had profound implications for both the U.S. Navy and the broader American military strategy. The event was one of the key moments that propelled the United States into World War II. In addition to the Utah, other battleships like the USS Arizona were also destroyed, but the loss of these ships underscored the vulnerability of the fleet to modern warfare tactics. In the aftermath of the attack, the U.S. Navy quickly shifted focus, investing in aircraft carriers and submarines to dominate the Pacific in the coming years.

Today, the USS Utah’s wreck remains submerged at Pearl Harbor, a haunting reminder of the events that unfolded that day. Although the ship is no longer a symbol of active naval power, its legacy lives on as a memorial to those who lost their lives. The site where the Utah rests is preserved and visited by thousands each year, as part of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. The sunken ship serves as a testament to the resilience of the U.S. Navy and the ultimate sacrifice made by its sailors.

The significance of the USS Utah extends beyond its role in the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship’s story represents the broader narrative of American military engagement in World War II. The loss of the Utah, along with other ships, served as a pivotal moment in naval history that helped the United States and its allies pivot from defensive strategies to aggressive campaigns in the Pacific. The Utah’s history serves as a reminder of the bravery of those who served aboard it and of the broader sacrifices made during one of the most defining conflicts in world history.

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Pacific Aviation Museum Tickets

General admission grants access to the museum’s aircraft, exhibits, and outdoor displays.

• Children aged 4 to 12 receive free admission, as do children under 3.
• Discounted tickets for military personnel and Kamaʻaina residents are only available onsite with a valid ID.
• Additional tours can be added to your ticket for an extra fee.
• Hours of operation: 9:00am – 5:00pm, every day (closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & New Year’s Day)

Transportation to Pacific Aviation Museum

• Free shuttles to the museum, from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center operate daily from 8:00am-4:00pm. They depart approsimately every 15 minutes.
• The last shuttle returning from the Museum to the Visitor Center leaves at 5:00pm.
• Those with base access may drive directly to Ford Island and park.

Where to Buy Tickets

• Online: Tickets can be purchased here
• At the Museum: Tickets are available for purchase at the museum’s front desk.
• At the Pearl Harbor Office: You can also buy tickets at the Pearl Harbor office.

History of The Pacific Aviation Museum

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, situated on Ford Island in Hawaii, stands as a testament to the rich history of aviation in the Pacific region. Established in 1999, the museum opened its doors to the public on December 7, 2006, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Its location on Ford Island is historically significant, as this area was central to the events of December 7, 1941, when Japanese forces launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, propelling the United States into World War II.

The museum occupies two historic seaplane hangars, Hangar 37 and Hangar 79, both of which bore witness to the events of World War II. Hangar 37, constructed in 1939, serves as the primary exhibition space, housing a vast collection of aircraft and exhibits that chronicle the evolution of aviation in the Pacific theater. Hangar 79, notable for its windows still bearing bullet holes from the 1941 attack, contains additional exhibits, including the Flying Tigers exhibit and various helicopters, jets, and civil aircraft.

One of the museum’s most significant features is the Ford Island Control Tower. This historic structure, which transmitted the first radio alert during the Pearl Harbor attack, has been meticulously restored to preserve its legacy. The control tower offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding area, providing a tangible connection to the events that unfolded during the war.

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and presenting the history of aviation in the Pacific. Its exhibits encompass over 75 years of aviation history, featuring more than 50 aircraft on display. Visitors can explore authentic World War II-era hangars, engage with interactive exhibits, and even experience state-of-the-art flight simulators, offering an immersive journey into the past.

Beyond its role as a museum, the institution is dedicated to education and scholarship. It offers various programs aimed at inspiring and educating future generations about the significance of aviation and the history of the Pacific region. The museum’s commitment to education is evident through its scholarship opportunities and educational programs that reach thousands of young individuals each year.

In recognition of its efforts to preserve and promote aviation history, the museum was named an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution in 2012. This affiliation underscores the museum’s significance as a center for historical preservation and education. Through its comprehensive exhibits and programs, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum ensures that the legacy of the Pacific’s aviation history continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the world.

Passport to Pearl Harbor

If you want to see all historic sites, including the four main historic sites at the Pearl Harbor Memorial, consider purchasing The Passport to Pearl Harbor which is an all-access ticket. You can go on a self-guided narrated tour.

What’s included:

• USS Arizona Memorial self-guided narrated tour (1 hour)
• USS Arizona Virtual Reality Center (15-20 minutes)
• USS Battleship Missouri Memorial Admission (1.5-2 hours)
• Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum Admission & self-guided narrated tour (1.5-2 hours)
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum & self-guided narrated tour (1-1.5 hours)

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• The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
• Museums and temporary exhibits
• The park film about the attack on Pearl Harbor
• The grounds of the Pearl Harbor Memorial

Pearl Harbor Tickets & Reservations

To visit certain attractions at Pearl Harbor, reservations or tickets are necessary. Here’s what you need to know:

Passport to Pearl Harbor

For a comprehensive experience, you can purchase the Passport to Pearl Harbor here, which is an official, complete self-guided tour to Pearl Harbor historic sites. This official pass grants admission to:

• USS Battleship Missouri
• USS Oklahoma
• USS Bowfin & Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• Pearl Harbor Visitors Center
• Round-trip transportation to Ford Island
• Audio tours included

USS Arizona Memorial

Advance reservations are highly recommended for this popular program due to its limited availability. Book your spot easily online.

Ford Island Bus Tour

This is a fully-guided 90-minute tour, which includes visits to the USS Utah and USS Oklahoma Memorials, requires reservations in advance.

USS Missouri – USS Bowfin – Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Tickets are necessary to access additional attractions like the USS Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. You can secure your tickets by booking a tour or purchasing them individually.

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