With the changing world, please also make sure to check out the official Pearl Harbor NPS website with the most up-to-date information www.nps.gov/perl/index.htm. My visit was in early 2021.
As a US Navy sailor I first went to the USS Arizona in 1977. I dropped to my kness in front of the plaque and cried. I was overwhelmed. Very humbling. Sad that all these sailors died for our freedom and yet we don’t have the freedom to take a bag with you. Ironic, isn’t it?
I was there last month (June 2023). I was extremely surprised at how overwhelming it knowing what happened in Pearl Harbor knowing that where you stood was potentially in the line of fire by the attackers. The Arizona memorial doesn't have a single dry on there, certainly not on the day I went. As far as planning the trip goes, I had a 7 day all inclusive Honolulu pass which included all of the Pearl Harbor locations (USS Arizona, USS Bowfin, USS Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. This made life super easy. We spread our visit over two days by doing USS Arizona and Bowfin then coming back the day after to go to Missouri and the Aviation museum. There is so much to take in that trying to do any more than two locations in the heat of the day is just too much. Just a note and something to consider for those turning their nose up at the though of having to pay $7 to drop your bag off before going in.....the people that died in the process of the event of Pearl Harbor and any other conflict for that matter, did so during their service for their country and for your freedom. That freedom was fought for so that you or me can be free to visit these beautiful locations, have our daily Latte Coffee or whatever your preference is. So if you think that paying $7 is too much for the privilege of paying your respects to those that have fallen then don't bother going, but if you do, don't complain about it.
It's hot and sunny there (except when it's raining) so dress accordingly. Light, loose clothes and a hat that's good for sun. Don't fall in! Pearl Harbor is ehhhh .... not all that clean. Be sure to visit the USS Bowfin and the Battleship New Jersey and the Pacific Missile Museum because you'll regret it if you don't.
I visited from very far away, just two weeks ago. It was very moving. I was surprised though with the whole plastic bag business. I was unaware of this rule and had to pay $7. What further surprised me is there is no other type of security check. Why haven't they set up those machines like at airports and search visitors, if there is so much concern over security, which of course is justifiable? It's pretty hard to go out for the day ( P.H. is outside the city) so takes awhile to drive, go by public bus or even on an organized tour, with just those very few items. I really think they could find a more efficient way to ensure safety.
Good idea! Also, you'll get the best exchange rate if you stop at the rest stop 1/2 way there, to stop and rest and change your US money for Hawaiian money. protip!
I want to go some day. I can picture my wife like when we went to the Smithsonian Air and Space museum. She hates history and sat on a bench waiting for me to be done. 😳
We’re in Maui for our vacation but planning on a day trip to visit Pearl Harbour. Are there restaurants etc on site that we can visit for lunch? We are flying in and taking a taxi from the airport to the Pearl Harbour site.
If it’s not too late, Please visit the LaMariana Sailing Club’s Restaurant. It’s on Sand Island Access Road. It’s only about 7 miles from Pearl Harbor. It’s retro style and one of the last original Tiki Bars left in Hawaii. As a Kama’aina since 1970, I highly recommend it. 🤙🏽
I was there in February/March 2021. It's free to enter, but the reservation for the Arizona was $1. The Missouri was a little more at $29.99. But you always want to check their respective websites for more up-to-date pricing!
We booked our tour 10am and we will be done 2.30 or so . Thts 4 hours or so. Can we take our lunch or snack with us. We have 2 kids with us.or is there place to eat??
The hard part is that you can't bring in bags. There are lockers in a building just outside that you can pay to use and store your food in there. There are some benches inside the memorial and plenty of grass inside and out. If you take the food with you in ziplock bags, you should be able to bring it in.
ussmissouri.org/plan-your-visit/buy-tickets for the ticket. It's a self-guided tour, so it can take as long as you want. Once you're inside, it's quite a maze and there aren't any emergency exits if you need to bail. I spent about an hour total.
@@adventureisneverfaraway I saw online it said I need to get the ticket from the visitor center one hour prior to my reservation. Do you view the video at your reservation time also or before? So like if I have a 2pm reservation should I visit the amphitheater at 1:30?
@@shapho4056 I was one of the first groups to go and they didn't show us a video. We did have to congregate at the doors of the auditorium a few minutes before our time, and then they just led us straight through to the boat that was going to take us over. If they're back to showing the video, I'm guessing they'd be starting it right before your reservation time.
@@adventureisneverfaraway thanks for all the help with this! I'll check with the desk and find out what the deal is. Kind of interested in seeing the video. Really changes the environment imo.
Per the government website: “Bags, packages, or containers that offer concealment, such as purses, handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, diaper bags, luggage, etc. that exceed the measurements of 1.5" X 2.25" X 5.5," are not allowed at the monument.”
@@7bendecidaI don't want to give outdated information, so instructions can be found here for the USS Arizona: www.nps.gov/perl/uss-arizona-memorial-programs.htm?fbclid=IwAR0Dfnw6AoyQW1yZ6yysB0MZ1eT9RupVgUCx-u7RAGmxFfRIBzGRgAEgQBk. The Battleship Missouri Memorial is not managed by the NPS, so you have to make your plans here: ussmissouri.org/plan-your-visit/buy-tickets
It's so overwhelming! I needed this video haha... Btw do you suggest using a different audio tour like I usually find them online. Or should I just get the audio tour there...for $7 each. Also, do they offer anything for senior citizens?
If you're set on doing an audio tour (I didn't personally, but have at other museums and have enjoyed it), it would be easier to just use the one they have. Less stressful and they are on-hand to help out. Not sure what specifically you're asking about the senior citizens. The memorial is fully accessible and follows ADA guidelines. There are tons of benches and seating areas as well. The navy vessels that take you out to the Arizona have wheelchair locks as well as ramps. Access to the Arizona is already free, so no senior discount is needed.
With the changing world, please also make sure to check out the official Pearl Harbor NPS website with the most up-to-date information www.nps.gov/perl/index.htm. My visit was in early 2021.
Great advice. Thank you. This has been on our bucket list forever. We will be there in May. Can’t wait
As a US Navy sailor I first went to the USS Arizona in 1977. I dropped to my kness in front of the plaque and cried. I was overwhelmed. Very humbling. Sad that all these sailors died for our freedom and yet we don’t have the freedom to take a bag with you. Ironic, isn’t it?
I loved it ! Hubby & I went this pass Sunday. 1/22/23
I was there last month (June 2023). I was extremely surprised at how overwhelming it knowing what happened in Pearl Harbor knowing that where you stood was potentially in the line of fire by the attackers. The Arizona memorial doesn't have a single dry on there, certainly not on the day I went. As far as planning the trip goes, I had a 7 day all inclusive Honolulu pass which included all of the Pearl Harbor locations (USS Arizona, USS Bowfin, USS Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. This made life super easy. We spread our visit over two days by doing USS Arizona and Bowfin then coming back the day after to go to Missouri and the Aviation museum. There is so much to take in that trying to do any more than two locations in the heat of the day is just too much.
Just a note and something to consider for those turning their nose up at the though of having to pay $7 to drop your bag off before going in.....the people that died in the process of the event of Pearl Harbor and any other conflict for that matter, did so during their service for their country and for your freedom. That freedom was fought for so that you or me can be free to visit these beautiful locations, have our daily Latte Coffee or whatever your preference is. So if you think that paying $7 is too much for the privilege of paying your respects to those that have fallen then don't bother going, but if you do, don't complain about it.
Wish I had seen this video before we went to Pearl Harbor. Great advice!
Thank you!
I was born in Hawaii honolulu to be exact and proud of it
Thank you so much for these tips! I appreciate it! Especially about getting the first time slot available :)
Thanks for the video. It was very helpful
It's hot and sunny there (except when it's raining) so dress accordingly. Light, loose clothes and a hat that's good for sun. Don't fall in! Pearl Harbor is ehhhh .... not all that clean. Be sure to visit the USS Bowfin and the Battleship New Jersey and the Pacific Missile Museum because you'll regret it if you don't.
This was super helpful. Thanks for sharing! I'm headed to Oahu for the first time next week and this place is high on my bucket list. 😄
Oh, I am so glad! I hope you have a great time!
I visited from very far away, just two weeks ago. It was very moving. I was surprised though with the whole plastic bag business. I was unaware of this rule and had to pay $7. What further surprised me is there is no other type of security check. Why haven't they set up those machines like at airports and search visitors, if there is so much concern over security, which of course is justifiable? It's pretty hard to go out for the day ( P.H. is outside the city) so takes awhile to drive, go by public bus or even on an organized tour, with just those very few items. I really think they could find a more efficient way to ensure safety.
I would love to see it but I am afraid to fly when the road is made I'll drive there
Good idea! Also, you'll get the best exchange rate if you stop at the rest stop 1/2 way there, to stop and rest and change your US money for Hawaiian money. protip!
Great info and tips. Thank you
I want to go some day. I can picture my wife like when we went to the Smithsonian Air and Space museum. She hates history and sat on a bench waiting for me to be done. 😳
There are plenty of benches that are simply stunning outside the memorials and exhibits...
We’re in Maui for our vacation but planning on a day trip to visit Pearl Harbour. Are there restaurants etc on site that we can visit for lunch? We are flying in and taking a taxi from the airport to the Pearl Harbour site.
No, I would recommend either eating before you arrive or after. I had a granola bar in my pocket.
If it’s not too late, Please visit the LaMariana Sailing Club’s Restaurant. It’s on Sand Island Access Road. It’s only about 7 miles from Pearl Harbor. It’s retro style and one of the last original Tiki Bars left in Hawaii. As a Kama’aina since 1970, I highly recommend it. 🤙🏽
What is / was the cost to visit the museums / ships when you went? And what month & year did you visit? TIA!
I was there in February/March 2021. It's free to enter, but the reservation for the Arizona was $1. The Missouri was a little more at $29.99. But you always want to check their respective websites for more up-to-date pricing!
We booked our tour 10am and we will be done 2.30 or so . Thts 4 hours or so.
Can we take our lunch or snack with us. We have 2 kids with us.or is there place to eat??
The hard part is that you can't bring in bags. There are lockers in a building just outside that you can pay to use and store your food in there. There are some benches inside the memorial and plenty of grass inside and out. If you take the food with you in ziplock bags, you should be able to bring it in.
Hi! Where did you get your missouri tickets and how long did your tour take?
ussmissouri.org/plan-your-visit/buy-tickets for the ticket. It's a self-guided tour, so it can take as long as you want. Once you're inside, it's quite a maze and there aren't any emergency exits if you need to bail. I spent about an hour total.
You mentioned going to the USS AZ first. Should I still do that if we have our reservation in the afternoon? Do I need to pickup the tickets early?
You can go at your reservation time. I just recommend going early in the day to avoid crowds.
@@adventureisneverfaraway I saw online it said I need to get the ticket from the visitor center one hour prior to my reservation. Do you view the video at your reservation time also or before? So like if I have a 2pm reservation should I visit the amphitheater at 1:30?
@@shapho4056 I was one of the first groups to go and they didn't show us a video. We did have to congregate at the doors of the auditorium a few minutes before our time, and then they just led us straight through to the boat that was going to take us over. If they're back to showing the video, I'm guessing they'd be starting it right before your reservation time.
@@shapho4056 You can also ask at the front desk. With the constantly changing protocols and procedures, it might be different from when I was there.
@@adventureisneverfaraway thanks for all the help with this! I'll check with the desk and find out what the deal is. Kind of interested in seeing the video. Really changes the environment imo.
Are small cross body purses allowed?
Per the government website: “Bags, packages, or containers that offer concealment, such as purses, handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, diaper bags, luggage, etc. that exceed the measurements of 1.5" X 2.25" X 5.5," are not allowed at the monument.”
@@adventureisneverfaraway how do I go about buying tickets for the Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri?
Thank you!
@@7bendecidaI don't want to give outdated information, so instructions can be found here for the USS Arizona: www.nps.gov/perl/uss-arizona-memorial-programs.htm?fbclid=IwAR0Dfnw6AoyQW1yZ6yysB0MZ1eT9RupVgUCx-u7RAGmxFfRIBzGRgAEgQBk. The Battleship Missouri Memorial is not managed by the NPS, so you have to make your plans here: ussmissouri.org/plan-your-visit/buy-tickets
It's so overwhelming! I needed this video haha... Btw do you suggest using a different audio tour like I usually find them online. Or should I just get the audio tour there...for $7 each.
Also, do they offer anything for senior citizens?
If you're set on doing an audio tour (I didn't personally, but have at other museums and have enjoyed it), it would be easier to just use the one they have. Less stressful and they are on-hand to help out. Not sure what specifically you're asking about the senior citizens. The memorial is fully accessible and follows ADA guidelines. There are tons of benches and seating areas as well. The navy vessels that take you out to the Arizona have wheelchair locks as well as ramps. Access to the Arizona is already free, so no senior discount is needed.