Battleship Missouri Memorial

More about Battleship Missouri Memorial

Discover History and Honor: Your Guide to the Battleship Missouri Memorial

The Battleship Missouri Memorial, a floating museum, offers a powerful and immersive experience into American naval history. Step aboard this iconic battleship, witness the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, and gain a deeper understanding of World War II and beyond.

What Is the Battleship Missouri Memorial?

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is a museum ship located in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. More than just a static display, it allows visitors to walk the decks of the USS Missouri (BB-63), the last battleship commissioned by the United States. It's most famous for being the site of the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945, officially ending World War II. The memorial offers guided tours and exhibits that explore the ship's history, technology, and the lives of the sailors who served on board.

Where Is the Battleship Missouri Memorial Located?

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is located at Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI, USA. It is situated on Ford Island, within Pearl Harbor.

Getting There:

To access the Battleship Missouri Memorial, visitors must first go to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. From there, a shuttle service is available to transport visitors to Ford Island, where the Missouri is docked.

• Public Transportation: Several bus lines service the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Check the local Honolulu public transportation website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
• By Car: From Honolulu, take H-1 West to Exit 15A (Pearl Harbor/Arizona Memorial). Follow the signs to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Parking is available at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial visitor center.

For a seamless trip, visitors can plan their entire journey from flights, hotels, buy Battleship Missouri Memorial tickets to local transport like car rentals or airport transfers using Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform.

What Is the Best Time to Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial?

Planning your visit to the Battleship Missouri Memorial can significantly enhance your experience. Here's a breakdown of the best times to go:

• Best Day: Weekdays (Monday-Friday) are generally less crowded than weekends.
• Best Time of Day: Arriving in the morning, ideally before 10:00 AM, allows you to avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat.

What Are the Top Things to Do at the Battleship Missouri Memorial?

• Surrender Deck: Stand on the very spot where World War II officially ended. This is a powerful and moving experience.
• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the ship's history, technology, and the stories of the sailors who served on board. Several tour options are available, focusing on different aspects of the ship.
• Explore the Ship: Wander through the ship's decks, including the bridge, engine room, and crew quarters, to get a sense of what life was like for the sailors.
• Exhibits: View exhibits that showcase the ship's history, weaponry, and role in various conflicts.

Insider Tips for the Battleship Missouri Memorial That Most People Don't Know

• Skip the Line (Potentially): Purchase your tickets online in advance to potentially save time at the ticket counter.
• Best Photo Spot: For a stunning photo, position yourself on the deck with the Arizona Memorial in the background. This captures both iconic landmarks in one frame.
• Explore Below Decks: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the lower decks, including the engine room and crew quarters. These areas offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors.

How to Prepare for Your Visit to the Battleship Missouri Memorial

For Solo Visitors

Take your time exploring the exhibits and reflecting on the historical significance of the site. Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the ship's history.

For Couples

Share the experience of walking in the footsteps of history. Take photos of each other on the Surrender Deck and explore the ship together.

For Families with Kids

Engage children with the interactive exhibits and stories of the sailors. Consider a shorter tour option designed for families with young children.

How to Prepare for the Weather While Visiting the Battleship Missouri Memorial

For a Hot, Sunny Day

Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

In Case of Rain

Bring an umbrella or raincoat. While some areas of the ship are covered, others are exposed to the elements.