San Diego: USS Midway With Waterfront Walking Tour

San Diego’s naval legacy comes alive in a captivating 3.5-hour waterfront walking tour that culminates with an up-close exploration of the legendary USS Midway. Dive into the city’s storied past, from the Merchant Seamen Monument to the iconic Coronado Island, as you uncover the tales that shaped this maritime hub. But the real adventure awaits on the deck of the Midway, where you’ll step back in time and discover the vessel’s storied history. Prepare to be immersed in a world of naval power and wonder – the only question is, are you ready to set sail?

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 3.5-hour tour covering naval and maritime sites in San Diego, including Coronado Island, USS San Diego Memorial, and the USS Midway Museum.
• Self-guided audio tour of the USS Midway featuring iconic landmarks like the Victory Kiss sculpture and panoramic views of the San Diego skyline.
• Tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with 60% accessibility on the USS Midway, ensuring inclusivity for visitors of all abilities.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.
• Captivating storytelling that brings San Diego’s maritime heritage and strategic naval significance to life, spanning over 300 years of history.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 3.5-hour naval and military history tour whisks visitors through San Diego’s waterfront, offering a comprehensive exploration of the city’s maritime heritage.

Priced from $65 per person, the tour allows guests to explore the region’s strategic significance as a port, from the Presidio Military Fort in 1759 to the Great White Fleet’s arrival in 1908.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the tour provides flexibility and convenience.

Highlights include Coronado Island, the USS San Diego Memorial, and the renowned USS Midway Museum, providing an immersive experience of San Diego’s illustrious naval past.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Merchant Seamen Monument by the San Diego Convention Center, the 3.5-hour waterfront walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s naval and maritime heritage.

The tour explores Coronado Island, Seaport Village, and Tuna Harbor Park, offering photo stops and guided sightseeing along the way.

Highlights include the USS San Diego Memorial and the renowned USS Midway Museum, where guests can enjoy the history and legacy of the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century.

With a leisurely pace and accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers, this tour offers an engaging and informative experience for all.

Historical Significance

Tracing San Diego’s rich maritime heritage back to 1759, the tour uncovers the city’s strategic evolution as a vital port.

From the Presidio Military Fort to the arrival of the Great White Fleet in 1908, visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of San Diego’s naval significance.

Coronado Island, home to numerous naval bases, offers a glimpse into the region’s military history.

The tour seamlessly weaves together these pivotal moments, providing a captivating narrative that brings San Diego’s waterfront to life.

USS Midway Museum Experience

Visitors aboard the USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, embark on a self-guided tour brought to life through the included audio guide.

They’ll witness the iconic Victory Kiss sculpture, a poignant tribute to the end of WWII. The tour highlights the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military, honoring the legendary entertainer’s tireless efforts to uplift troops.

Here’s what else you’ll experience:

1. Explore the ship’s expansive hangar deck, where aircraft were once stored and maintained.
2. Step onto the bridge, enjoying the command center of this maritime marvel.
3. Descend into the engine room, marveling at the sheer power that propelled this colossal vessel.
4. Climb the tower, soaking in panoramic views of the San Diego skyline and harbor.

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Practical Information

The tour’s meeting point is the Merchant Seamen Monument, located at 100 The Embarcadero in downtown San Diego. Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to make the most of this 3.5-hour experience. The tour covers nearly 2 miles at a leisurely pace, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, the USS Midway Museum is only 60% accessible to visitors.

Practical Info
Meeting Point	Merchant Seamen Monument, 100 The Embarcadero, San Diego, CA 92101
Recommended Attire	Comfortable shoes, camera
Tour Distance	~2 miles at a leisurely pace
Accessibility	Wheelchair and stroller friendly, USS Midway 60% accessible

Starting Point and Duration

The tour’s starting point lies at the Merchant Seamen Monument, a fitting tribute that sets the stage for a journey through San Diego’s naval and maritime past.

From this landmark, the 3.5-hour experience unfurls, allowing explorers to:

1. Traverse Coronado Island, absorbing the strategic significance of this naval hub.
2. Wander Seaport Village, immersing in the city’s seafaring heritage.
3. Pay respects at the USS San Diego Memorial, honoring those who served.
4. Culminate at the iconic USS Midway Museum, where the past comes alive through a self-guided tour and audio guide.

With comfort and accessibility in mind, this captivating tour invites you to uncover San Diego’s storied waterfront at a leisurely pace.

Free Cancellation and Payment Options

This tour offers a convenient cancellation policy, allowing visitors to fully refund their booking up to 24 hours in advance. Flexibility is key, and the tour provider understands that plans can change. For those who prefer to reserve now and pay later, that option is also available, making it easier to secure their spot. With these hassle-free policies, visitors can explore San Diego’s naval history with peace of mind.

Policy	Details
Cancellation	Full refund up to 24 hours in advance
Payment	Reserve now, pay later option available
Accessibility	Tour covers 2 miles at a leisurely pace, wheelchair/stroller friendly
Duration	3.5 hours of guided sightseeing and photo stops
Price	From $65.00 per person

Accessibility and Recommended Gear

Accessible for visitors of all abilities, the tour covers almost 2 miles at a leisurely pace.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience. A camera is encouraged to capture the stunning waterfront vistas and historic sites.

Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome, though the USS Midway Museum is only accessible to 60% of the attraction.

With its immersive storytelling and attention to detail, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into San Diego’s maritime heritage, perfect for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The itinerary doesn’t mention any opportunities to consume outside provisions. It’s best to purchase refreshments at the venues along the way or ahead of time.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available at several stops along the tour, including at the starting point, Seaport Village, and the USS Midway Museum. Guests can take breaks as needed throughout the 3.5-hour experience.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is offered in English only. While multilingual options aren’t available, the guided portions provide engaging narratives to immerse guests in San Diego’s naval history, regardless of their native tongue.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, with a camera at the ready to capture the historic sights.

Can I Take a Private Version of This Tour?

There’s no private version – it’s a group tour. But private tours are available for other San Diego attractions. You can opt for this tour or request a custom excursion suiting your interests and needs.

The Sum Up

Discover San Diego’s naval heritage through this captivating Waterfront Walking Tour. Explore iconic landmarks, culminating in a self-guided adventure aboard the legendary USS Midway. An immersive, accessible experience that transports you back in time, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s storied maritime past.

You can check if your dates are available here: