Where a Battleship Sparked a Movement
Battleship USS IOWA, the National Museum of the Surface Navy, and LA Fleet Week: inspiring learning, supporting veterans, connecting communities.
The Museum of the Future—A Community Anchor Today
We’re not just preserving history. We’re building a more connected, resilient, and inspired nation.
From the decks of the Battleship USS IOWA to classrooms, neighborhoods, and civic celebrations across the country, our nonprofit reaches and uplifts Americans of all ages and backgrounds.
Through the National Museum of the Surface Navy, LA Fleet Week, and a diverse range of mission-driven programs, we engage more than 250,000 people each year, creating meaningful moments that spark curiosity, inspire pride, and create lasting connections. We empower over 10,000 veterans, providing purpose, recognition, and opportunities for reintegration. We educate more than 10,000 youth annually through formal STEAM and leadership development pathways that prepare the next generation for success.
In addition to our human-centered mission, we contribute significantly to the region’s prosperity, generating over $13 million in annual economic impact and donating more than $500,000 in community value through accessible programs, event support, and outreach initiatives.
As the first national museum dedicated to the Surface Navy, we’re pioneering a new model: where history inspires purpose, and connection builds a better future.
Battleship USS IOWA
Climb aboard a real battleship and explore massive guns, sailor bunks, and even a bathtub made for a president! Battleship USS IOWA is an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Your visit and donation help preserve her legacy and keep history alive for future generations.
National Museum of the Surface Navy
Launching in 2026 aboard Battleship IOWA, this family-friendly museum will immerse guests in life at sea through hands-on exhibits and inspiring stories. It’s a celebration of courage, community, and service. Your visit and donation help bring this one-of-a-kind experience to life.
LA Fleet Week
Each Memorial Day weekend, LA Fleet Week brings ship tours, live music, military displays, and fun for the whole family to the LA Waterfront. Meet today’s sailors and enjoy an unforgettable holiday. Your visit and donation help support this free, public event year after year.
ABOUT US
Pacific Battleship Center
Who or what is the Pacific Battleship Center?
The Pacific Battleship Center is a Los Angeles–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered aboard Battleship USS IOWA at the Port of Los Angeles. We are more than a museum — we are a civic platform that uses the power of storytelling, immersive experiences, and public engagement to build bridges between generations, communities, and those who serve.
Our focus is on people, not artifacts, and on creating impact through programs that inspire purpose, spark curiosity, and bring people together in meaningful ways.
- Learn more about our purpose and people.
- View our financial information.
- View our most recent news and updates.
What is your Vision & Mission?
Our Vision
To inspire global awareness of freedom of the seas.
Our Mission
To ignite curiosity, connect communities, and enhance understanding of America’s role in maritime peace and prosperity.
What programs do you offer?
Our programs fall under three core pillars — Education, Veterans, and Community — each focused on building bridges, inspiring curiosity, and fostering human connection. We use history as a platform, not a destination, creating inclusive spaces where people can discover purpose, relate across differences, and contribute to something greater than themselves.
🧭 Education
We ignite curiosity and inspire purpose through immersive experiences that connect people to stories of service, innovation, and leadership. Our education efforts reach both youth and the general public, creating learning environments that challenge, engage, and empower.
Programs include:
- Battleship IOWA Experience
- Life of a Sailor (coming in 2026)
- National Museum of the Surface Navy (coming in 2026)
- Camp Battleship Youth Overnight Encampment
- STEAM at Sea, Day of Discovery, and Field Trips
- Youth Career Pathways (coming in 2026)
🎖 Veterans
We serve those who served by fostering connection, identity, and opportunity beyond the uniform. Our veterans programs are designed to reduce isolation, celebrate service, and create new pathways through soft-skills training, mentorship, and workforce access.
Programs include:
- Transition Pathways
- Skillbridge
- Veterans Ceremonies & Events
- Comradery & Purpose
- Freedom of the Seas Pavilion (Veterans Resource Center – opening 2026)
Learn more about our Veterans Programs.
🌎 Community
We activate public space, civic dialogue, and shared experiences that bring people together. Whether through regional resilience, neighborhood events, or national celebrations, our community programs strengthen trust, pride, and preparedness.
Programs include:
- LA Fleet Week
- Freedom of the Seas Park & Pavilion
- Los Angeles Disaster Resilience and Recovery Collective (LADRRC)
- Public Events & Community Engagement
How can I get involved?
The Pacific Battleship Center is powered by a passionate community of donors, volunteers, partners, and advocates. If you believe in honoring service, building stronger communities, and inspiring future generations — we invite you to join us.
You can:
Where are you located and/or contact information?
We are located aboard the historic Battleship USS Iowa at the Port of Los Angeles on the LA Waterfront in San Pedro, one of the most vibrant and diverse waterfront communities in Southern California.
Our address:
Pacific Battleship Center
250 S Harbor Blvd
San Pedro, CA 90731
Our phone:
877-446-9261
Open 7 days a week (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas) for tours, programs, and public events.
PROGRAM SPONSORS
