One of the most important sites to visit in Hawaii is Pearl Harbor, the site of the attacks of December 7, 1941, which now stands to honor the heroes that bravely fought off the surprise airstrike by the Japanese Imperial Army. Oahu rose to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, forever changing the island and the United States, thrusting the country into World War II. Eventually, the United States and the Allied Forces would claim victory, finding revenge for the damage that was done to the Pacific Fleet that was stationed at Pearl Harbor. Today, the entire harbor features memorials and museums that honor those who fell victim during the attack, forever remembered through the stories that are told and the various exhibits that you will find around Pearl Harbor, the Visitor Center, and Ford Island.
Pearl Harbor Museums and Memorials
USS Arizona Memorial
Currently, the USS Arizona Memorial is closed due to structural issues, though you are still able to enjoy a boat ride around the memorial and the wreckage of the battleship, plus you get a great view of the Visitor Center. The ship has never been raised from the bottom of Pearl Harbor as it is the resting place for more than 1000 sailors who are entombed within its wreckage. The plan is for the memorial to reopen to the public in the fall of 2019.
USS Bowfin Submarine
Located at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, this sub is one of the more controversial vessels in United States history. Launched one year to the day after the attacks, the USS Bowfin is known as the Pearl Harbor Avenger for the numerous missions that it successfully completed during World War II. Audio tours are available on full-day Pearl Harbor Tours.
USS Missouri
Perhaps the most important battleship in the history of the United States, the USS Missouri served a long career, beginning with World War II and concluding with the Gulf War. The deck of the battleship is where the war formally ended and during a guided deck tour, you’ll get to see the interior of the ship, the surrender deck, and the massive turrets that are now permanently positioned to protect the USS Arizona Memorial.
Pacific Aviation Museum
Near the USS Missouri on Ford Island, the Pacific Aviation Museum shows off the aviation history of the United States, and the role that it has played in the history of wars dating back to World War I. You’ll see actual planes that fought missions and see the bullet holes that remain in the exterior of the building, bringing the entire narration of Pearl Harbor full circle.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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