Self-Guided Life of a Sailor Experience
Every sailor or mascot begins their journey somewhere.
Where's Vicky?
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.
What You'll Experience
- Self-guided walking experience.
- Visit 7 decks.
- See over 75+ displays and exhibits.
- Includes Vicky's Scavenger Hunt.
- 2+ hrs of stories and exploration.
Include a Sailor
You or someone you know a sailor? Include a life-sized cutout in the experience!
PLAN YOUR VISIT
LOCATION
- 7 ship decks.
- 3 football fields long.
DATE OPENED
July 2012
REFRESHED
Memorial Day 2026
OPEN
7 days per week.
CONTINUE YOUR JOURNEY
Self-guided Exploration
- Explore the Surface Navy’s Life of a Sailor aboard a real battleship.
- 75+ exhibits and displays.
- Hear stories from our crew.
- Vicky the Dog kids scavenger hunt.
- Stunning views of the Port of Los Angeles.
guided Exploration
- Guided tour with themed Sailor career tracks.
- Access exclusive areas beyond the self-guided tour.
- Visit President Roosevelt’s famous bathtub.
- Led by a knowledgeable crewmember.
- Includes all self-guided experiences.
pathways programs
- Group outings and special events.
- Youth field trips and overnights.
- Eat at Vicky’s Doghouse Cafe.
- Attend LA Fleet Week.
- Become a volunteer crewmember.
LIMITED TIME ONLY! Receive a digital commemorative Plank Owner certificate.
Join Free. Earn Points.
Become a Surface Navy Museum and Battleship IOWA Patron and, for a limited time, receive a free digital commemorative Plank Owner certificate.
Stay connected with special updates and invitations, earn points for your support, and redeem them for experiences, apparel, and more.