USS MIDWAY MUSEUM
ABOUT THE USS MIDWAY
The USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century. Named after the climactic Battle of Midway of June 1942, Midway was built in only 17 months, but missed World War II by one week when commissioned on September 10, 1945. Midway was the first in a three-ship class of large carriers that featured an armored flight deck and a powerful air group of 120 planes.
From the beginning of its service, the Midway played key roles in the Cold War. In 1946 it became the first American carrier to operate in the midwinter sub-Arctic, developing new flight deck procedures. The following year Midway became the only ship to launch a captured German V-2 rocket. The trial’s success became the dawn of naval missile warfare. Just two years after that, Midway sent a large patrol plane aloft to demonstrate that atomic bombs could be delivered by a carrier.
Midway served with the Atlantic Fleet for ten years, making seven deployments to European waters, patrolling “the soft underbelly” of NATO. A round-the-world cruise took Midway to the west coast in 1955, where it was rebuilt with an angled deck to improve jet operations. Midway’s first combat deployment came in 1965 flying strikes against North Vietnam. Midway aircraft shot down three MiGs, including the first air kill of the war. However, 17 Midway aircraft were lost to enemy fire during this cruise. In 1966 Midway was decommissioned for a four-year overhaul.
Over a chaotic two day period during the fall of Saigon in April 1975, Midway was a floating base for large Air Force helicopters which evacuated more than 3,000 desperate refugees during Operation Frequent Wind. As potential threats to the Arabian oil supply grew, and to relieve strain on U. S.-based carriers, Midway transferred to Yokosuka, Japan, making it the first American carrier home ported abroad.
In 1990 Midway deployed to the Persian Gulf in response to the Iraqi seizure of Kuwait. In the ensuing Operation Desert Storm, Midway served as the flagship for naval air forces in the Gulf and launched more than 3,000 combat missions with no losses. Its final mission was the evacuation of civilian personnel from Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines after the20th century’s largest eruption of nearby Mount Pinatubo.
On April 11, 1992 the Midway was decommissioned in San Diego and remained in storage in Bremerton, Washington until 2003 when it was donated to the 501(c)3 nonprofit San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum organization. It opened as the USS Midway Museum in June 2004.
MUSEUM EXHIBITS
With more than 30 restored aircraft, and nearly 10 acres of exhibits and displays, the Midway brings you the most complete cross-section of carrier aviation in the world. From high up on the bridge down to the main engine room, taking you on a unique warship journey that engages the sights, sounds, and aromas of this symbol of American freedom.
HANGAR DECK EXHIBITS
Inspect restored WWII era aircraft and climb aboard real cockpits! Experience the breathtaking Battle of Midway Theater and interactive displays.
FLIGHT DECK EXHIBITS
Over 20 Aircraft populate the massive Midway Flight Deck. Take a tour of the Bridge and Captain’s and Admirals Cabins.
BELOW DECK EXHIBITS
Explore the spaces where the crew lived, worked and played aboard ship. Walk through mess halls, galleys, chapel, laundry services and much more.
AIRCRAFT GALLERY
Midway has more than 30 restored aircraft and helicopters on display. Explore the Hangar Deck and Flight Deck to see them all!
MARRIOT SAN DIEGO MARINA HOTEL
The Marriot San Diego Marina Hotel overlooks a private marina and is near numerous attractions, including Seaport Village, San Diego Convention Center, the Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park and Balboa Park. Every hotel room and suite has impressive views of the city or San Diego Bay. Recharge on indulgent bedding and take advantage of the relaxed reading chairs, flat-screen TVs, desks and Wi-Fi; many rooms have private balconies. Concierge-level rooms grant access to Lounge perks, including free breakfasts, while suites offer generous living areas. Pamper yourself at our hotel's day spa, work out in our 24-hour gym or take a dip in our outdoor pools. Indulge with creative American, Mexican and Asian-fusion fare at our award-winning restaurants.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Recharge while enjoying the incredible views from the accommodations in our downtown San Diego hotel. Accommodation amenities include Wi-Fi, reading chairs and flat-screen TVs, and balconies. Plus, cool off in one of two free-form pool areas and a relaxing whirlpool.
DINING
Indulge in many distinct dining concepts at Marriot San Diego Marina Hotel, including Tequila Bar & Grille, offering Baja Cali inspired cuisine, one of the world's largest tequila menus. Enjoy Asian flavors Blending classic techniques with adventurous Pacific Rim flavors at Roy’s. Savor mouthwatering comfort food at Exchange and relax with a Starbucks coffee.
SPA
Inspire true harmony within your body, mind and soul at The Hideaway Spa in San Diego. Featuring outdoor day spa and couples' massages services in semi-enclosed cabanas, explore a wide selection of wellness services that invigorate the senses.