• USS Arizona Memorial and museums: About 3 hours for a brief visit.
• Battleship Missouri Memorial: Plan for 1.5 to 5 hours, as the ship is large and full of exhibits. If you love naval history and want a deeper experience, we highly recommend joining an upgraded guided tour. This enhanced tour provides insider stories, access to areas not included on the standard tour, and more in-depth exploration of the ship’s history, technology, and life aboard the Mighty Mo. It’s the perfect choice for visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in the Battleship Missouri experience.
• All four major sites with a “Passport to Pearl Harbor” ticket (USS Arizona, USS Missouri, the Submarine, and the Aviation Museum): Most visitors need 6 to 8 hours.

By planning ahead, you can make the most of your visit and experience the full story of Pearl Harbor in a way that fits your schedule.

Visitors often get the "bookends" of the war confused. The USS Arizona represents the beginning (the attack) and is a somber tomb. The Battleship Missouri represents the end (the surrender) and is a massive "living" museum you can walk through.

While it's a tropical climate, it is also a cemetery and a place of honor. Respectful attire is encouraged (no swimwear), and footwear is required at all times.

This is the #1 question. Many don't realize that while the National Park is free, the boat ride to the USS Arizona requires a reservation via Recreation.gov. These often sell out weeks in advance, though a small batch is released 24 hours prior.

Visitors often ask if it's still worth going. The answer is usually yes—you can still see the museums, the shore-side memorials, and visit the other "Big Three" sites (the Battleship Missouri, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum).

Yes. The site is a partnership between the National Park Service and three private non-profits. You can buy individual tickets or a "Passport to Pearl Harbor" that bundles the major experiences.

Yes, and it’s strictly enforced. No purses, backpacks, camera bags, or even fanny packs are allowed. Only very small clutches (wallets) or clear bags for medical/baby supplies are permitted. There is a storage locker near the entrance for a small fee.

Cameras are allowed, but they cannot be in a bag. Most people end up carrying them around their necks.

Since the Missouri and Aviation Museum are located on Ford Island (an active military base), visitors cannot drive themselves there. A free shuttle runs every 15–20 minutes from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.