San Diego: USS Midway With Waterfront Walking Tour

Explore San Diego’s naval heritage on the "USS Midway With Waterfront Walking Tour." This captivating journey takes you through the city’s military history, from the Merchant Seamen Monument to the USS Midway Museum. Enjoy maritime tradition as you discover Coronado Island and Seaport Village, all while enjoying stunning photo opportunities. With prices starting at $39.00, this 1.5 to 3.5-hour tour promises an enriching experience led by knowledgeable local guides. Uncover the stories that have shaped San Diego’s proud naval legacy.

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Key Points

The tour includes a self-guided visit to the USS Midway Museum and photo stops at Coronado Island, Seaport Village, and the USS San Diego Memorial.
The tour covers San Diego’s naval and military history, highlighting the city’s maritime heritage and the significance of the USS Midway.
Tour prices start from $39.00 per person, with a duration ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 hours and free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with the USS Midway accessible to 60% of the attraction.
Experienced local guides provide engaging stories and historical context, and there is an opportunity to purchase lunch on the USS Midway.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The San Diego Waterfront Walking Tour with USS Midway offers visitors a comprehensive experience, with prices starting from $39.00 per person.

The tour lasts 1.5 to 3.5 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility.

The tour covers San Diego’s naval and military history, with photo stops at iconic landmarks and a self-guided visit to the USS Midway Museum.

Highlights include the Victory Kiss sculpture and filming locations from the movie "Top Gun."

This tour provides an immersive and educational journey through San Diego’s maritime heritage.

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Experience and Itinerary

Participants begin the San Diego Waterfront Walking Tour at the Merchant Seamen Monument, 100 The Embarcadero, in downtown San Diego.

The San Diego Waterfront Walking Tour begins at the Merchant Seamen Monument in downtown San Diego.

They’ll discover the city’s rich naval and military history, including photo stops at landmarks like Coronado Island, Seaport Village, and the USS San Diego Memorial.

The highlight is a self-guided tour of the USS Midway Museum, where they’ll see the "Victory Kiss" sculpture and the "National Salute to Bob Hope."

The tour also covers the filming location for the movie "Top Gun."

With an experienced local guide, participants enjoy San Diego’s maritime heritage.

Historical Context

San Diego’s maritime heritage dates back to 1759 with the hotel of the Presidio Military Fort, which marked the beginning of the city’s long history as a strategic naval hub.

Over the decades, the port has evolved significantly, including the arrival of the Great White Fleet in 1908 and the hotel of naval bases on Coronado Island.

The USS Midway, which serves as the centerpiece of the tour, has a storied past of its own, having served as the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century from World War II through the Cold War era.

Naval and Military History

Visitors exploring San Diego’s naval and military history on this tour will uncover the city’s strategic importance as a hub for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

From the arrival of the Great White Fleet in 1908 to the hotel of key naval bases on Coronado Island, San Diego has played a vital role in America’s maritime defense.

The USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, stands as a testament to the city’s storied military past, serving in World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War.

This tour offers a unique window into San Diego’s pivotal naval heritage.

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Photo Opportunities

Along the tour, participants can capture stunning photographs at several iconic San Diego landmarks. From the scenic vistas of Coronado Island to the historic Tuna Harbor Park, the walking tour offers a wealth of photogenic opportunities. Visitors can snap pictures of the awe-inspiring USS Midway aircraft carrier, the renowned "Victory Kiss" sculpture, and the National Salute to Bob Hope. The tour also passes by the filming location for the iconic movie "Top Gun." Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a casual shutterbug, this tour provides ample chances to immortalize your San Diego experience.

| Location | Photo Opportunities |

| — | — |

| Coronado Island | Sweeping ocean views, historic architecture |

| Seaport Village | Quaint waterfront setting, bustling shops and restaurants |

| Tuna Harbor Park | USS San Diego Memorial, maritime displays |

| USS Midway Museum | Iconic warship, military artifacts, "Top Gun" site |

| Victory Kiss Sculpture | Iconic embrace, scenic backdrop |

There's plenty more to explore in San Diego

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum offers an immersive exploration of one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers of the 20th century.

Visitors can:

Discover the ship’s storied past, from World War II to the Cold War.
Explore the bridge, engine room, and flight deck, experiencing life aboard the historic vessel.
Climb into restored aircraft and learn about the Midway’s role in shaping naval aviation.

With interactive exhibits and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who served, the USS Midway Museum provides a unique window into San Diego’s rich maritime heritage.

Tour Highlights

Though the San Diego Waterfront Walking Tour with USS Midway covers a range of highlights, its centerpiece is the immersive exploration of the historic aircraft carrier itself.

Guests can step aboard the USS Midway and discover its storied past, from WWII operations to the Cold War era. Key highlights include the "Top Gun" filming location, the Victory Kiss sculpture, and the National Salute to Bob Hope.

Throughout the self-guided tour, visitors can imagine the bustling life onboard, from the control room to the hangar deck. The tour offers an engaging and educational glimpse into San Diego’s rich naval history.

Accessibility and Feedback

How accessible is the San Diego Waterfront Walking Tour with USS Midway? The tour covers almost 2 miles at a leisurely pace, making it wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The USS Midway itself is accessible to 60% of the attraction. Visitors can enjoy:

Experienced local guides to provide engaging stories and historical context.
Entrance ticket to the USS Midway Museum for a self-guided tour.
Opportunity to purchase lunch on the USS Midway.

With these features, the tour offers an immersive and accessible experience to explore San Diego’s naval and military heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drink on the tour, but there are also options to purchase lunch at the USS Midway Museum during the self-guided portion of the experience.

Are Pets Allowed on the USS Midway Museum Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the USS Midway Museum tour. Only service animals trained to assist people with disabilities are permitted on the ship and throughout the museum’s exhibits.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is primarily offered in English, but the company may provide audio guides or other language options upon request. Visitors should check with the tour operator for availability of alternative language options.

Are Discounts Available for Military, Seniors, or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for military, seniors, or students. However, it’s best to contact the tour provider to inquire about any available discounts that may apply.

How Much Time Should I Allocate for the USS Midway Museum Visit?

The USS Midway Museum visit typically takes 1.5-3.5 hours to explore, according to the tour overview. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to discover the aircraft carrier’s storied past and highlights like the "Top Gun" filming location.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour offers a unique opportunity to explore San Diego’s rich naval and military history. Visitors can enjoy the city’s maritime heritage, marvel at stunning photo spots, and discover the iconic USS Midway Museum. With an affordable price tag and a flexible duration, this tour caters to history enthusiasts and photography lovers alike, providing an engaging and memorable experience.