Experience Battleship USS IOWA:
A Living Adventure for All Ages
Step aboard the legendary Battleship USS IOWA and set off on an unforgettable journey where history comes to life through the powerful stories of those who served. From the towering guns to the captain’s bridge, every deck holds a tale of courage, innovation, and life at sea.
Kids and families will join Vicky the Dog, the ship’s beloved mascot, on an exciting scavenger hunt that turns every corridor into a clue-filled adventure. Along the way, young explorers discover what it takes to serve aboard a mighty battleship — from decoding signal flags to learning sailor speak.
This isn’t just a museum — it’s an immersive, hands-on experience that connects generations, celebrates service, and inspires future maritime careers. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious child, or someone looking for something unique to do in Los Angeles, Battleship IOWA invites you to explore, engage, and set sail through time.
EXPERIENCES
Meet Victory “Vicky” the Dog
Mascot, Explorer, and Legend of the Seas
During World War II, amidst the steel decks and towering guns of the Battleship USS IOWA, one very special crewmember stole the hearts of sailors and presidents alike — a little dog named Victory, lovingly known as “Vicky.” A gift to the crew, Vicky quickly earned his place aboard, wandering the passageways, warming bunks, and even sleeping at the foot of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his secret wartime voyage in 1943. He became more than a mascot; he became part of the ship’s story — and was even awarded his own set of military “orders” and credentials.
Today, Vicky’s spirit lives on in a new mission: guiding young adventurers through the same decks he once roamed. The Vicky’s Scavenger Hunt turns the historic battleship into a floating playground of curiosity and discovery. Kids follow his pawprints from bow to stern, unlocking clues, solving mysteries, and learning about life at sea — all while earning a special prize designed by acclaimed animator and USS IOWA crewmember, Brent Noll.
It’s an adventure that bridges generations. Parents rediscover history through the eyes of their children, kids become curious explorers, and everyone walks away with a deeper connection to the ship and her stories. Whether you’re crawling through tight corridors or standing in awe on the main deck, you’ll come to see the IOWA not just as a warship, but as a home — one once shared with a small dog who made a big impact.
Come aboard, meet Vicky, and see the Battleship IOWA in a way few ever have — through the eyes of her most unexpected sailor.
USS IOWA (BB-61)
Only Navy ship with a bathtub… built for a President
Only battleship to host 5 U.S. Presidents
Earned 11 battleship stars across WWII, Korean War, and the Cold War
Unmatched firepower with nine 16-inch and twelve 5-inch guns
Pioneered 1980s tech with Tomahawk missiles, Harpoons, and spotter drones
Innovated modern ship design — built bigger, faster, and stronger than ever before
