Experience the Surface Navy’s Life of a Sailor (and Vicky)

Aboard Battleship IOWA — the Battleship of Presidents

Step aboard the legendary Battleship USS Iowa and experience the new National Museum of the Surface Navy’s Life of a Sailor in one of America’s most iconic naval settings.  Saved by civilians in 2012, Battleship IOWA continues to be maintained and preserved by a nonprofit organization so visitors can experience and enjoy the ship today.

Now open: Explore what life was like aboard a real Navy battleship through immersive exhibits, powerful stories, and hands-on experiences.

During your visit, you’ll:

• Explore 7 decks of a battleship that served in three wars, hosted five U.S. Presidents, and was home to tens of thousands of sailors — and Vicky the dog.
• Over 75 different exhibits and displays including the new immersive Surface Navy Museum exhibits.
  Stand on the navigation and signal bridges where missions were directed.
• Walk past massive 16-inch and 5-inch guns, Tomahawk missile systems, and historic ship spaces.
  Step onto the Captain’s and Admiral’s verandas, crew living areas, and mess decks.
• Hear real stories through videos, exhibits, and knowledgeable volunteers.
• Go deeper with a guided tour for behind-the-scenes access.
  For families, kids can follow Vicky the Dog on an interactive scavenger hunt that turns the ship into a fun, hands-on adventure.
• This isn’t just a museum. It’s a 2–3 hour immersive experience aboard one of the most powerful battleships ever built, located along the LA Waterfront.

Perfect for families, visitors, veterans, history lovers, and anyone looking for something meaningful and memorable to do near Long Beach and Los Angeles.