How to get your Pearl Harbor Ticket

Many are excited to set foot on the grounds of the Pearl Harbor Memorial to pay respects to our fallen heroes, but there are many questions when it comes to the best way to do so. For a hassle-free experience it is best to book a Pearl Harbor Tour which includes all transportation and tour guides who are educated in the history of Pearl Harbor and the ins and outs of the national monument. They run on a specific schedule and may also include other tours to make your trip to Oahu, Hawaii an unforgetable experience. Clicke here to see what type of Pearl Harbor tours there are to choose from. For those who want to see things at their own pace, you can purchase Pearl Harbor tickets to each of the historical sites and go at your own pace. You will have to find your own transportation and if you are planning on seeing the USS Arizona Memorial, be sure to book your non-refundable $1 boat shuttle reservation at recreation.gov. This is also a good way to see specific sites if you’re not interested in seeing everything or have already visited Pearl Harbor before. Check out all ticket options here.

The Attack on Pearl Harbor

On the morning of December 7, 1941, more than 350 Japanese aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and torpedo planes, descended upon Pearl Harbor. In a matter of hours, they destroyed or severely damaged eight battleships, three cruisers, and four destroyers. Over 180 aircraft were also either destroyed or damaged during the assault. The human cost was equally tragic, with 2,403 Americans killed and 1,178 wounded. The attack targeted both military personnel and civilians, many of whom were on the base at the time.

The surprise nature of the attack shocked the United States and left the country reeling. President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the nation the following day, declaring December 7, 1941, “a date which will live in infamy.” Roosevelt’s speech galvanized the American public, rallying the nation to war. In response to the attack, the United States Congress quickly declared war on Japan on December 8, 1941, marking the official entry of the United States into World War II. This was not only a direct response to the attack but also a recognition of the growing global conflict.

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor had long-lasting repercussions for the United States, both in terms of military strategy and national sentiment. Initially, many Americans felt a sense of anger and disbelief, but this soon transformed into a unified effort to defend the country and fight back. The attack served to unite a previously divided nation, with people from all walks of life volunteering to enlist in the military. The U.S. military began rapidly mobilizing its forces and preparing for an extended war that would see battles fought across multiple continents.

How the attack on Pearl Harbor unfolded

In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, the United States quickly adopted new tactics to counter the threat posed by Japan and the Axis powers. One of the first strategic moves was to secure the Pacific Theater. The Battle of Midway, fought in June 1942, was a major turning point. U.S. forces, having learned from the attack on Pearl Harbor, were able to anticipate and counter Japan’s next move. The U.S. Navy, using intelligence gathered from intercepted Japanese communications, successfully ambushed and destroyed four Japanese aircraft carriers, significantly weakening Japan’s naval capabilities.

The United States also adopted a strategy of “island hopping,” which involved bypassing heavily fortified Japanese islands and focusing on capturing strategic islands that could be used as bases for further assaults. This approach allowed the U.S. to gain ground in the Pacific while minimizing casualties and maintaining momentum. Key battles such as the Battle of Guadalcanal, the Battle of Iwo Jima, and the Battle of Okinawa demonstrated the effectiveness of this strategy, though they came at a high cost in terms of lives lost.

The United States’ entry into World War II marked a dramatic shift in the global balance of power. Prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. had maintained a policy of neutrality, providing material support to the Allies but avoiding direct involvement in the conflict. The attack not only brought the U.S. into the war against Japan but also led to declarations of war against Germany and Italy, following their alliance with Japan. This expanded the scope of the conflict, transforming it into a truly global war.

As the United States mobilized its economy for wartime production, the country experienced a profound transformation. Factories that had once produced civilian goods were repurposed to produce weapons, vehicles, and other military supplies. This massive shift in production helped pull the United States out of the Great Depression and created millions of jobs. Additionally, the war effort saw the integration of women and minority groups into the workforce in unprecedented numbers, marking a significant step toward social change in the U.S.

Pearl Harbor Spawned U.S. Military Advancement

One of the key outcomes of the U.S. involvement in World War II was the development and use of advanced military technologies. The United States focused on creating more effective weapons and vehicles, including tanks, bombers, and naval vessels. The most significant technological advancement came in the form of the atomic bomb, developed as part of the secret Manhattan Project. The atomic bomb would later be used in the final stages of the war, leading to the surrender of Japan after the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945.

The attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent U.S. entry into World War II also had lasting effects on international relations. The United States emerged from the war as a superpower, with both military and economic dominance. The experience of the war and the lessons learned during the conflict reshaped U.S. foreign policy for decades to come. The attack on Pearl Harbor served as a stark reminder of the importance of military preparedness and intelligence, and it underscored the global nature of the conflict that was to follow.

It was a defining moment in American history. It led to significant loss of life, but also spurred the United States to action, both on the battlefield and on the home front. The events of December 7, 1941, set the stage for America’s pivotal role in World War II and the eventual defeat of the Axis powers. The attack also had a lasting impact on U.S. military strategy, the economy, and the nation’s position in the world. The memory of Pearl Harbor continues to shape the collective consciousness of the United States, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience of the American spirit during one of history’s darkest periods.

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Why Choose Pearl Harbor Tours with Hotel Pickup?

Pearl Harbor is a must-see spot on Oahu, famous for its role in World War II. But getting there on your own can be tricky—traffic, parking, and finding the right spot might eat up your vacation time. That’s where Pearl Harbor tours with hotel pickup shine. They take care of everything, so you can relax and soak in the history. Plus, you’ll get a guide who knows all the cool stories and facts about the attack on December 7, 1941.

• Convenience: No need to rent a car or figure out directions—your ride picks you up at your hotel.
• Expert Guides: Learn from pros who share details you won’t find in a guidebook.
• Stress-Free: Skip the hassle of parking or getting lost, especially if you’re staying in busy Waikiki.

What’s Included in These Tours?

Most Pearl Harbor tours with hotel pickup offer a full experience. You’ll usually visit the USS Arizona Memorial, where you can see the sunken ship and honor the 2,008 crewmen who lost their lives. Many tours also include stops at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, with its museums and exhibits. Some even add extras like the Battleship Missouri or the Pacific Aviation Museum.

Here’s a quick list of what you might get:

• Round-trip transportation from your hotel (Waikiki, Ko Olina, or other spots).
• Tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial boat ride.
• A guided tour with history lessons on the way.
• Time to explore museums and memorials.

Where are Hotel Pickups for Pearl Harbor Tours?

Pickup locations depend on where you’re staying. If you’re in Waikiki, most tours grab you right at your hotel or a nearby spot—super easy since it’s just a short walk. Staying in Ko Olina? No problem—many tours offer pickups from resorts like Disney’s Aulani. For North Shore visitors, some tours start at Turtle Bay Resort, saving you a long drive to Waikiki.

Tips for a Great Tour

To make your Pearl Harbor tour with hotel pickup even better, plan ahead. Book early, especially for the USS Arizona Memorial, since tickets can sell out fast. Wear comfy shoes and clothes—swimsuits aren’t allowed at the memorial. Also, leave big bags behind, as security is strict.

Ready to Book a Pearl Harbor Tour with Hotel Pickup?

Pearl Harbor tours with hotel pickup are a fantastic way to visit this historic site without the fuss. Check out the Pearl Harbor tours with hotel pickup! Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, these tours offer a mix of education and ease. So, grab your spot, get picked up, and step back in time at Pearl Harbor!

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General Admission

• General admission tickets are free and give you access to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, its museums & exhibits, and the surrounding grounds.
• To see the main historical sites, you must either purchase tickets or book a tour.
• It is strongly advised that you purchase ahead of time to assure your complete experience at Pearl Harbor.

Pearl Harbor Tickets

Tickets to Pearl Harbor historical sites

• The Battleship Missouri Memorial – purchase here.
• The USS Battleship Missouri + Captain’s Tour – purchase here.
• The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum – purchase here.
• Top of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Tower – purchase here.
• The USS Bowfin Submarine + Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket

• The Passport to Pearl Harbor covers entry to all the museum locations, such as the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri, and the USS Bowfin + Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum.
• Many people find the Passport convenient because it eliminates the need to purchase separate tickets for each attraction.
• Purchase your Passport to Pearl Harbor here.

The USS Arizona Memorial

• You must purchase a non-refundable $1 ticket to reserve your spot on the boat shuttle to the USS Arizona Memorial.
• Reservation tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial are very popular and can sell out quickly. Most tickets are reserved ahead of time and can be booked at recreation.gov.
• You can book a Pearl Harbor Tour which will include access to the USS Arizona Memorial as tour companies secure tickets for you.

Other Pearl Harbor ticket options

• There is no fee to enter the Pearl Harbor National Memorial or the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
• The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offers special tours, including Disney tours and additional experiences like the Fighter Ace 360° Flight Simulator and the Top of the Aviation Tower Tour.

Attack on Pearl Harbor | Drain the Oceans | Nat Geo

Pearl Harbor Tours

If you’re looking for a more complete experience with historically educated tour guides and don’t want to worry about reservations to the USS Arizona Memorial, check out the following tours!

• Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City – details here.
• Pearl Harbor Remembered – details here.
• Ultimate Pearl Harbor Experience – details here.
• WWII Pearl Harbor Heroes – details here.
• Helicopter Ride over Pearl Harbor – details here.

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Pearl Harbor Tickets

Tickets allow for a more self-guided experience, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, although there might be some educational materials like audio guides to enhance your visit. Keep in mind, you will need to provide your own transportation to and from Pearl Harbor, schedule ride share, or you can schedule round-trip services with local shuttle companies. If providing your own transportation via a personal or rental car, keep in mind there is public parking by the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center that costs $7.00 per day.

Available Tickets

• The Passport to Pearl Harbor – more details here (must also reserve the shuttle boat to Arizona Memorial on recreation.gov)
• USS Battleship Missouri – more details here
• Captain’s Tour + USS Battleship Missouri – more details here
• The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum – more details here
• Top of the Aviation Tower – more details here
• USS Bowfin Submarine + Pacific Fleet Museum

PROS

• Go at your own pace (open daily from 7AM-5PM – closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s Day)
• See the historic sites you want to see
• Not a part of a large tour group

CONS

• If you are planning to see the USS Arizona Memorial, you must reserve your spot on the shuttle boat in advance at recreation.gov. Be aware that sometimes the shuttle boat is booked a few months out.
• You are responsible for transportation to and from Pearl Harbor
• For personal vehicle or rental car, parking is $7.00 per day. The parking lots fill up fast, so get there early
• You’ll need to understand your way around the National Monument and figure out any extras that are available, like audio tours. There are employees at the Visitor Center that can help you get started.

Pearl Harbor Tours

Pearl Harbor tours offer several advantages over simply buying tickets on your own. First, guided tours provide deeper context and a richer understanding of the historical significance of the sites. Knowledgeable guides share personal stories, historical insights, and details that you might miss when visiting independently. Tours often include skip-the-line access, allowing you to avoid long waits, especially during peak tourist seasons. Additionally, many tours cover multiple Pearl Harbor attractions in one convenient package, saving you time and effort in planning. The convenience of transportation is another benefit—many tours include hotel pickups and drops off, ensuring you don’t have to navigate on your own. Finally, booking a tour often provides a more organized and educational experience, making it easier to fully grasp the emotional and historical importance of Pearl Harbor.

Available Tours

• Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City – more details here
• Pearl Harbor Remembered – more details here
• Ultimate Pearl Harbor Experience – more details here
• WWII Pearl Harbor Heroes – more details here
• Helicopter Ride over Pearl Harbor – more details here

PROS

• Hassle-free round-trip transportation is provided at locations close to or at your hotel
• Shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial is included
• You don’t have to worry about finding or paying for parking
• Timing of tour is organized and structured so that you’re not waiting in line like other ticket holders
• Tour guides know their way around and are educated in historical facts about The Attack on Pearl Harbor providing you with a more robust experience of the National Monument.
• You understand the start and finish time of the tour so that you can plan your day or week accordingly.
• Tours offer more than just walking the grounds of Pearl Harbor and can include a tour of historical Honolulu, the National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific, or a helicopter tour over Pearl Harbor

CONS

• You are a part of a large group and on a specific time schedule. Delays can happen if another part of the group is late.
• Some tours can be lengthy and you are at the mercy of the tour’s time schedule.

Ticket to the USS Arizona Battleship Memorial

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Pearl Harbor Tickets & Tours

• All Pearl Harbor Tour program purchases include boat and bus shuttle services at the Memorial. These tours are catered to time frames and how you want to experience the Pearl Harbor Memorial. Some will even combo with a tour of Honolulu or fun activities like a dolphin boat tour or snorkel tour. Plan your visit here.
• Ticket purchases to the Battleship Missouri Memorial & Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum include a FREE bus shuttle service to Ford Island. Click on Missouri or Aviation Museum to find tickets.
• The USS Bowfin & Pacific Fleet Museum are on the grounds of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, but require a ticket to see them.
• The Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket includes self guided audio tours of all attractions except for the USS Arizona Memorial which you can reserve at recreation.gov. Find your Passport here.
• There is a tour that specifically goes to the USS Oklahoma Memorial & USS Utah Memorial which requires a non-refundable $1 bus shuttle reservation ticket at recreation.gov. This tour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3:15 PM to 5:00 PM with a limit of 25 participants.
• Standby Option – This requires arriving at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center as early in the morning as possible, you can try the same-day standby system in person, but this is risky as tickets sell out fast.
• For a smooth experience, plan ahead, book your reservations early here, and explore everything Pearl Harbor has to offer!

Bus Shuttle to Battleship Missouri Memorial & Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Both historic sites are located on Ford Island, which is an active military base and requires base access. If you do not have base access and have purchased tickets to these two Pearl Harbor Historical sites, you must take the FREE shuttle. The shuttle leaves the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center every 15-20 mintues daily, starting at 8:00 AM. Keep note that the last shuttle departing from the USS Missouri Battleship leaves at 4:05 PM and the last shuttle departing from the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum leaves at 5:00 PM. The shuttle runs a route where the first stop will be the Battleship Missouri Memorial, then the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and back to the Visitor Center. When planning your trip to Ford Island via the FREE shuttle add another hour to your itinerary.

Free Pearl Harbor Memorial Attractions

Areas You Can Visit Without a Ticket

• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center – Open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM (closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day)
• Museums & Exhibits at the Visitor Center – Includes both permanent and temporary displays at no cost
• Visitor Center Grounds – Feel free to walk around the park outside the center as it offers nice vistas and other smaller memorials.

Visiting the Pearl Harbor Memorial

Pearl Harbor Basic Information

Parking

• You can park at the Visitor Center for $7.00 per day. You are able to pay using a mobile app or at an on-site kiosk, easily located in the complex.
• There are no park entrance fees.
• Double check that your vehicles are secured. There are federal law enforcement officers patroling the parking lots, but be aware that the National Park Service is not responsible for anything lost or stolen.

ADA Complicance

• All museums, memorials, the visitor center and surrounding areas are wheelchair accessible.
• For patrons visiting the Memorial that need assisitance with mobility, this can be arranged on request.
• All service animals are welcome.

Pearl Harbor Memorial Bag Policy

What’s Prohibited

• Bags and Containers: Any purses, packs, or cases that provide concealment (e.g., handbags, backpacks, waist packs, camera cases, diaper totes, suitcases) and exceed 1.25″ x 2.25″ x 5.5″ in size are not permitted. A baggage storage facility, located near the museum entrance, is available for a $7.00 fee and can accommodate all sizes, including oversized luggage at $10.00, for visits to Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.
• Spray Containers: Aerosol cans of any kind are forbidden.
• Glass Items: Glass containers are not allowed, with the exception of baby food jars and shatter-resistant water bottles.
• Musical Equipment: Instruments and their respective cases are prohibited unless authorized by an NPS-issued Special Use Permit.
• Sports and Recreation Gear: Items like skateboards, wheeled shoes, flying discs, and balls are not allowed.
• Floral Arrangements: Potted plants, vases, or any flower containers are not permitted.
• Weapons and Sharp Objects: Knives, multitools, and other bladed or weapon-like items, including pocket knives, are prohibited.
• Alcoholic Drinks: The possession or consumption of alcohol is not allowed on the premises.
• Personal Transport Devices: Bicycles, scooters, electric bikes, Segways, and similar rideable equipment are not permitted.
• Protective Headgear: Motorcycle, bicycle, and other types of helmets are not allowed.
• Banners, Flags, and Signs: Items mounted on poles or posts are not permitted unless connected to an approved permit.
• Memorial Wreaths: Wreaths on stands are only allowed with proper authorization.

What’s Permitted

• Transparent Bags: Clear plastic bags that allow easy visibility of contents, similar to those permitted at sporting events.
• Medical Equipment Bags: Bags used to carry medical necessities that cannot be transferred into lightweight, see-through plastic shopping bags.
• Small Clutches and Wallets: Handheld clutches (with or without a strap) and wallets that do not exceed dimensions of 1.25″ x 2.25″ x 5.5″ are permitted.
• Reusable Shopping Bags: Small canvas or recycled-material shopping bags bought within the secure area may be used on the day of purchase but cannot be brought back in after exiting.
• Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs with permanently attached bags that cannot be detached.
• Baby Strollers: Strollers featuring a built-in storage pouch that cannot be removed.
• Musical Equipment: Instruments and their carrying cases permitted under an NPS-issued Special Use Permit or an equivalent partner authorization.
• Food and Beverages: Food and drink are allowed as long as they are not hidden within another container.
• Firearms: Law enforcement officers carrying firearms under LEOSA must inform a law enforcement ranger upon arrival.

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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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Pearl Harbor is a place that is very important in American history. It was the location of a surprise attack by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. This attack led the United States to enter World War II. Today, many people visit Pearl Harbor to remember the soldiers who lost their lives and to learn about this important event.

Two Ways to Visit Pearl Harbor

When planning a trip to visit Pearl Harbor, there are two options: buy tickets or go on a guided tour.

Pearl Harbor Tickets

Pearl Harbor tickets give you access to three different places: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. The USS Arizona Memorial is a special place to honor the soldiers and Marines who died in the attack. The memorial is built over the ship they died on and offers a beautiful view. Visitors can also see displays and exhibits about the attack and its effects.

The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is a cool place to visit too. It shows one of the most successful submarines of World War II. The museum has information about the submarines and their crews, as well as a tour of the submarine. The Pacific Aviation Museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of flying in the Pacific. From early flying to the role of airplanes in the attack on Pearl Harbor, this museum covers it all.

Pearl Harbor Tours

Pearl Harbor tours are a great option for visitors who want to learn as much as possible about the attack and what happened after. Tours include tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. They can also include a visit to the USS Missouri Memorial, the place where Japan surrendered in World War II. Tours are led by guides who are very knowledgeable and can give visitors a lot of information about what happened at Pearl Harbor.

How to Book Your Visit

Visiting Pearl Harbor is a special experience, whether you buy tickets or go on a tour. It is a chance to remember the soldiers who died, learn about this important event, and understand the sacrifices made by the brave people who served in the military. Whichever option you choose, you will leave with a better understanding of what happened at Pearl Harbor and how it changed the world. So, book your tickets or tour today!

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