USS Midway, San Diego

Moored in the sparkling waters of San Diego Bay, the USS Midway stands as a majestic testament to American naval history. A Midway-class aircraft carrier, this colossal vessel, now a museum, invites visitors to explore a floating city at sea and the legacy of those who served on the high seas.

Commissioned shortly after the end of World War II, the USS Midway served the United States for an illustrious 47 years, making it one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in American history. Throughout its operational tenure, the Midway saw action in the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War, reflecting the evolution of modern American naval warfare.

Now anchored in the heart of downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Museum offers a unique window into naval life. The ship, which spans over 1,000 feet in length, boasts an extensive collection of aircraft, ranging from propeller-driven planes of the World War II era to the jet fighters that streaked across the skies during the Gulf War. Each aircraft tells its own story of technological innovation and the brave pilots who flew them.

Visitors to the USS Midway can experience the thrill of naval aviation on the flight deck, where docents, often retired servicemen and women, share their personal stories and insights. Below deck, the crew's quarters, galley, engine room, and the ship's jail, known as the "brig," offer an authentic glimpse into the daily life of sailors.

For those looking to delve deeper, the museum presents a variety of interactive exhibits and simulators. Guests can engage in a flight simulation, take the controls, and get a taste of what it's like to pilot a jet off the carrier's deck. The "Battle of Midway" theater immerses visitors in one of the most pivotal naval battles of World War II, after which the ship is named.