San Diego USS Midway with Waterfront Walking Tour

Exploring San Diego’s Naval Heritage: A Review of the USS Midway with Waterfront Walking Tour

San Diego’s waterfront is a lively, scenic hub packed with stories of ships, soldiers, and history. This tour offers a fantastic way to explore the city’s naval roots while enjoying a leisurely walk along the bay. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered insights from reviews, the itinerary, and the overall experience to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.

What I love about this tour is the mix of informative storytelling from guides, the opportunity to see iconic landmarks up close, and the value for money—especially with the included USS Midway Museum entrance. The scenic views along the waterfront also stand out, making it a visually engaging experience. A potential drawback is that some reviews mention that certain historical details could be more accurate or complete, so if you’re a history buff, you might want to supplement this with additional research.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy learning about military history, want to experience San Diego’s waterfront from a local perspective, or are looking for a family-friendly activity that combines walking and museum exploration. It’s a good fit for travelers of most ages, especially if you appreciate a mix of outdoor activity and museum visits.

Good To Know

• Balanced Experience: Combines a scenic waterfront walk with a detailed visit to the USS Midway Museum.
• Informed Guides: The guide provides local insights, although some historical details may vary in depth.
• Iconic Sights: Highlights include Coronado Bridge, Victory Kiss sculpture, and the USS San Diego Memorial.
• Value for Money: For $39, you get a guided tour plus entry to the USS Midway, offering a comprehensive day out.
• Duration & Pacing: The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it manageable yet fulfilling.
• Ideal for History & Navy Enthusiasts: Offers authentic insights into San Diego’s naval significance.

Starting Point and Tour Flow

The tour begins at Malibu Farm on W Harbor Drive, a charming spot with views of the bay. From there, you’ll set out on a guided walk that lasts a little over three hours, covering a variety of landmarks. One of the best parts? The tour is capped at 25 participants, which tends to keep the group small enough for personalized attention.

The Waterfront Walk

As you stroll along the San Diego bay, you’ll pass some of the city’s most recognizable sights. The San Diego Convention Center is notable for its sustainability efforts, with a row of sails that face the bay—perfect for photos and admiring architecture. The Coronado Bridge offers spectacular views, and your guide will explain how it was constructed and its strategic importance.

Next, you’ll visit Seaport Village, a bustling shopping and dining area along the water. It’s a great spot to soak in the atmosphere, snap some photos, or grab a quick snack (though most prefer to do this before or after the tour).

Historic and Cultural Landmarks

The tour pauses at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market, a reminder of San Diego’s maritime past, having served as a coal wharf and naval landing site. Then, you’ll pay homage at the USS San Diego Memorial, honoring the WWII crew of this famous ship. Many reviews mention the emotional impact and respectful atmosphere here.

The “Embracing Peace” statue is another highlight—depicting a sailor and a woman in the aftermath of WWII, capturing the relief and hope of that era. Visitors often comment on how meaningful these statues are, adding depth to the tour.

You’ll also see a display honoring Bob Hope and military service members, realized through bronze figures that showcase different eras of service.

Movie and Naval Locations

A fun stop involves Top Gun Street, where you learn about the filming locations of the iconic film. This is a lively, engaging part of the tour that appeals to fans of the movie or aviation enthusiasts.

The USS Midway Experience

The tour culminates at the USS Midway Museum, a highlight for many. Named after the pivotal Battle of Midway, this aircraft carrier served from WWII through the Cold War. Your guide offers tips on how to navigate the ship, which is essential given the size and complexity of the vessel.

Once inside, you’re free to explore at your own pace for about two hours. The museum features aircraft, exhibits, and interactive displays that bring the ship’s history alive. One reviewer emphasized how the guided preparation made the visit more meaningful, especially understanding the daily lives of the crew.

The Value of This Tour

At $39, this tour offers substantial value. It includes a professional local guide, a scenic waterfront walk, and entry to the USS Midway Museum—a major attraction in San Diego. For those who want a combination of outdoor exploration and museum time without the hassle of planning multiple tickets, this package hits the mark.

While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of food options available in Seaport Village or on the Midway itself, allowing flexibility for a midday break. The tour’s length and small group size make it accessible for most travelers, including families and seniors.

Insights from Reviews

One reviewer described it as a “very informative and up-close” experience, emphasizing the personal touch of the guide. Others appreciated that the actual USS Midway visit was “amazing” and provided insights into the lives of crew members. However, some noted that while most historical information was good, a few facts could have been more precise, so if accuracy is your top priority, you might want to do some extra reading afterward.

Practical Details

• Meeting point: Malibu Farm on W Harbor Dr at 10:00 am.
• Duration: About 3 hours 30 minutes total, including the museum visit.
• Group size: Limited to 25 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation and service animals are allowed.
• Booking: Recommended approximately 35 days in advance, as it’s a popular tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in military history or naval architecture, you’ll find this tour’s mix of sights and stories engaging. It’s particularly good for families with older children, history buffs, and anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to San Diego’s waterfront.

It’s also ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection. The small group size means you can ask questions and get personalized insights, making it more than just a walk and museum visit.

The Sum Up

This San Diego waterfront and USS Midway tour strikes a solid balance between scenic walking, historic storytelling, and interactive museum exploration. The inclusion of the USS Midway Museum makes it a standout experience, especially for those curious about naval history or wanting a memorable, multi-faceted outing in San Diego.

The tour is priced reasonably for what you get, and the knowledgeable guide helps bring the sights to life. While some factual details might vary in depth, the overall experience offers great value, captivating views, and a chance to connect with San Diego’s maritime past.

If you’re visiting San Diego and want an engaging way to explore the waterfront while learning about its naval legacy, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable option.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours 30 minutes, including the walk and the visit to the USS Midway Museum.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Malibu Farm on W Harbor Dr at 10:00 am and ends at the USS Midway Museum.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are dining options available at Seaport Village or within the museum.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guided walk with a knowledgeable local guide and a ticket to the USS Midway Museum.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families with older children interested in history and ships.

How many people are in a group?
The tour caps at 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.