Some sailors like big guns.

Some sailors like big guns. This exclusive, behind-the-scenes journey puts you inside the systems that made Battleship IOWA one of the most powerful warships ever built.

Begin with the self-guided IOWA Experience, exploring five decks of presidential legacy, interactive exhibits, and sailor stories — plus Vicky the Dog’s scavenger hunt for the kids. Then go deeper with a 2.5-hour crew-led tour into rarely seen spaces that powered IOWA’s dominance through WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Descend through hatches and climb through passageways as you explore the 5-inch gun house where sailors loaded live rounds, the upper handling room and magazine that fed it, and the aft battery plot that aimed and fired both the 5-inch and 16-inch guns. The highlight: stepping inside one of the ship’s massive 16-inch gun turrets — among the most powerful naval gun systems still in existence today.

Hear stories of courage, innovation, and daily life aboard from a member of today’s crew, who helps preserve this legendary ship for the next generation. End your visit with a trip to the ship’s store and a famous hot dog from Vicky’s Doghouse.

Approx. 4.5 hours total, including the Self-Guided tour. Ages 10+. Offered Saturdays and Sundays only — advance reservation required due to limited space. Please arrive early to complete the self-guided IOWA Experience before your 1:30 PM “Big Guns” Tour.