Frequently Asked Questions – Pearl Harbor
Visiting Pearl Harbor is a powerful and educational experience, offering a deep connection to a pivotal moment in American history. Located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Pearl Harbor is home to several historic sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Whether you’re planning a solo visit, bringing family, or joining a guided tour, it’s essential to know practical details such as ticketing, entry fees, and what to expect during your visit. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your trip to this significant memorial site.
Pearl Harbor FAQ
Pearl Harbor is a historic naval base in Hawaii that was attacked by Japan on December 7, 1941, leading the United States to enter World War II. It is now a memorial site that honors those who lost their lives. Learn more about the Pearl Harbor attack.
Pearl Harbor is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, near the city of Honolulu.
Admission to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the USS Arizona Memorial is free, but tickets for certain tours and other exhibits, such as the USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, have fees.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the USS Arizona Memorial, as tickets are limited. You can reserve them online.
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
A complete tour of Pearl Harbor can take anywhere from 3 to 7 hours, depending on how many sites you plan to visit, such as the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
No, bags are not allowed inside the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. However, you can store bags in a locker for a small fee. Cameras, water bottles, and small items are permitted.
There is no official dress code, but visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully since it is a solemn memorial site.
Yes, Pearl Harbor is accessible to individuals with disabilities. The visitor center and most sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, have accommodations such as ramps and wheelchairs.
Yes, photography is allowed at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and most of the attractions, but drones are not permitted.
Yes, there is free parking available at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
Yes, children can visit Pearl Harbor, but some exhibits may not be suitable for very young children due to the sensitive nature of the historical content.
Visitors will take a short boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, where they can see the remains of the sunken battleship and a wall inscribed with the names of those who died in the attack.
Yes, Pearl Harbor is part of the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, managed by the National Park Service.