Battleship Missouri Memorial
The Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor is a historic and interactive museum aboard the “Mighty Mo” battleship. Visitors can explore decks once walked by World War II sailors, stand on the site of Japan's surrender, and experience immersive tours that highlight naval life, battle stations, and the ship's powerful armaments. This floating monument offers a compelling look into American military history and heroism.
Battleship Missouri Memorial, Oahu
A place of national pride, of enormous historical significance, and a museum full of interest and intrigue. The Battleship Missouri Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is a living, working, all-action monument. It provides the chance to discover not only a U.S. naval vessel, but also the personal experiences of crewmembers and other war veterans through oral history recordings and transcriptions.
Built during World War II this Iowa class battleship was a part of the Pacific Third Fleet and was later made famous as the site of the Japanese surrender to the Allied Forces in September 1945, officially ending World War II. Going on to serve during the Korean War and the first Gulf War, the Missouri was officially transferred to the non-profit USS Missouri Memorial Association on May 4, 1998.
Since opening its decks and hatches to the public as part of the Historic Pearl Harbor Site the following January, the “Mighty Mo” as the battleship lovingly called, has attracted millions of visitors eager to share in the memory of this historic vessel and those who so bravely manned it.
As an international standard, modern, floating museum, there is a fantastic array of options for visitors to chose from. A variety of tours are available, accompanied either by specially trained tour guides, audio-visual equipment, or straightforward walking tours following set routes, at one's own leisurely pace.
The tours take in a look at the most famous historical aspects of the ship, the chance to learn about life at sea for crew members, and the command and control areas. A new addition to these options is the Battlestations tour. This, the most comprehensive tour option, includes a look at what would happen when the alarm sounded, "General Quarters, General Quarters, All hands man your battle station!" This tour gives an insight into one of the most fascinating elements of life on board, the roles and experiences of individual crew members during battle and the armaments they used, including nine enormous, 116-ton guns.
Key Features of Battleship Missouri Memorial
- Historic surrender site: The deck where Japan formally surrendered in 1945, ending World War II.
- Guided and self-guided tours: Multiple tour options including the popular "Battlestations" immersive experience.
- Interactive exhibits: Learn about life at sea, weapons systems, and the stories of crew members.
- Massive naval artillery: View the ship's iconic 16-inch guns, each weighing over 100 tons.
- Part of Pearl Harbor Historic Sites: Located near the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk on the Battleship Missouri?
Yes, visitors can walk across the decks of the Battleship Missouri and explore interior areas through guided or self-guided tours.
What is the historical significance of the Missouri?
The Missouri was the site of Japan's official surrender in World War II, marking the end of the war on September 2, 1945.
Where is the Battleship Missouri located?
It is docked at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii, and is accessible via shuttle from the visitor center.
Do you need a ticket to visit the Battleship Missouri?
Yes, admission is required. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
How long does it take to tour the Missouri?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the type of tour you choose.