U.S.S. Iowa Naval History Museum

If you're in Los Angeles and are looking for something unique to do aside from the normal hustle and bustle of celebrity, look no further than the waterfront in San Pedro. Here, the USS Iowa Museum floats as a monument to the U.S. Navy's storied past and a tribute to key U.S. events. This massive battleship served the United States for nearly five decades and now allows visitors to step aboard and experience naval history firsthand.

Whether you’re a military history enthusiast, a fan of engineering marvels, or simply looking for a unique day trip in Los Angeles, touring the USS Iowa offers a memorable journey through the stories of sailors, world leaders, and pivotal global events.

My family and I revently visited the USS Iowa and would strongly encourage anyone to visit. It was a great trip and even my 6 year old son thoroughly enjoyed seeing and learning all about the ship.

The History of the USS Iowa

The USS Iowa (BB-61) was the lead ship of the Iowa-class battleships and one of the most powerful warships ever built by the United States Navy. She was commissioned on February 22, 1943, during the height of World War II.

Over her career, the Iowa served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War, earning 11 battle stars and becoming known for both her firepower and strategic importance.

World War II Service

During WWII, the USS Iowa participated in numerous Pacific campaigns, including operations around the Marshall Islands, the Marianas, and the Philippines. She also escorted aircraft carriers and supported major battles such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

One of the ship’s most unusual missions occurred in November 1943, when Iowa transported President Franklin D. Roosevelt across the Atlantic for the Tehran Conference. The ship even had a specially installed bathtub and elevator to accommodate the President.

Korean War Operations

The Iowa returned to combat in 1951 during the Korean War, delivering devastating naval gunfire support against North Korean positions along the coast. During this deployment alone, the battleship fired over 2,000 16-inch shells in support of ground forces.

Cold War and a Tragic Incident

Reactivated again in the 1980s as part of the U.S. Navy’s “600-ship Navy” program, the Iowa received modern upgrades including missile systems. However, tragedy struck in 1989, when an explosion in one of the ship’s gun turrets killed 47 sailors during a training exercise.

The battleship was finally decommissioned in 1990, ending nearly half a century of service.

Becoming a Museum Ship

After years in the reserve fleet, the USS Iowa was donated to the Pacific Battleship Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving naval history.

The ship was refurbished and towed to the Port of Los Angeles, passing under the Golden Gate Bridge on its way south. It officially opened to the public as the USS Iowa Museum on July 4, 2012 at Berth 87 in San Pedro.

Today, the museum welcomes visitors from around the world and hosts educational programs, ceremonies, special events, and overnight experiences aboard the historic battleship.

What You'll See Onboard

A self-guided tour of the USS Iowa takes visitors through several decks and major areas of the ship, offering a glimpse into both combat operations and daily life at sea.

Highlights include:

• Massive 16-inch guns – the largest guns ever mounted on a U.S. Navy battleship

• The armored bridge where officers directed combat operations

• President Roosevelt’s cabin, complete with the famous bathtub installed for his voyage

• Crew berthing areas, where sailors slept in tightly packed bunks

• Mess decks and wardrooms, where meals were served

• Missile and weapons systems added during the ship’s Cold War modernization

• Helicopter deck and command spaces

Many exhibits include multimedia displays and stories from sailors who served on the ship. The tour typically takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on how deeply you explore.

USS Iowa seen from the sky at dock.

Boarding ramps at the USS Iowa Museum

USS Iowa bridge and Radar seen from the main deck

3 main guns on the USS Iowa seen from the main deck

Communication room on the USS Iowa

Why the USS Iowa Is Worth Visiting

The USS Iowa Museum is more than just a static display—it’s a fully immersive experience that brings naval history to life. Standing on the deck beside the towering gun turrets or walking through the tight sleeping quarters gives visitors a powerful sense of what life aboard a battleship was really like.

With its deep historical significance, interactive exhibits, and spectacular waterfront setting, the USS Iowa remains one of the most unique museums in Los Angeles—and a lasting tribute to the sailors who served aboard her.

Visitor Information

The information below is accurate as of March 10, 2026

Location

• Battleship USS Iowa Museum

• 250 S Harbor Blvd

• San Pedro, CA 90731

• Located at Berth 87 near the Los Angeles World Cruise Terminal.

Operating Hours

• Open daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Last tour entry: 4:00 PM

• Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Tips for Visiting

• Plan for 1.5–2 hours to explore the ship fully.

• Wear comfortable shoes—there are ladders and narrow passageways.

• Download the museum’s mobile app for an enhanced tour experience.

• Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt that leads them around the ship.

Parking is available at the nearby cruise terminal lot, and the museum is easily accessible from downtown Los Angeles in about 25–30 minutes by car.