Aircraft Carriers

The museum showcases an abundance of artifacts, historic archives and interactive exhibits that explore all aspects of the ship's history from its deployment in World War II to its service in Vietnam and beyond. Visitors can explore inside and outside the ship, from its flight deck to its officers’ quarters to the engine room. The flight deck displays more than two dozen restored historic aircrafts including an A-6 intruder and an F-4 phantom fighter jet. There are also two interactive space exhibits which recreated experiences aboard the Space Shuttle Enterprise, as well as a tour through a submarine Growler. The museum is home to numerous educational exhibits including demonstrations on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as well as live performances by actors depicting historical figures or significant events. Visitors can also attend lectures given by leading historians on topics related to naval warfare, international relations or economics. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts visiting exhibitions focusing on various military endeavors around the world. The USS Intrepid Museum is a unique experience where visitors can get a taste of life aboard an aircraft carrier while learning about US military history in a vibrant environment filled with artifacts and interactive multimedia exhibitions.

The USS Midway Museum in San Diego offers an unforgettable journey into the history of naval aviation. Once the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, the USS Midway now stands as a floating tribute to the evolution of aviation and the men and women who served aboard her.

With over 30 restored aircraft on display, the museum provides a comprehensive look at naval aviation history. From World War II-era planes like the SBD Dauntless to modern jets like the F/A-18 Hornet, the aircraft showcase decades of technological advancements. These planes are displayed on the flight deck and hangar deck, giving visitors a real sense of the Midway’s role in air operations.

The museum experience goes beyond static displays. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the challenges of naval aviation, from flight simulators replicating carrier landings to hands-on activities in the Ready Rooms and Combat Information Center. Veteran docents, many with firsthand experience, bring the ship's history to life with personal stories and insights.

Visitors can also explore the ship's operational areas, including the flight deck, hangar deck, and crew quarters. These spaces illustrate the teamwork and precision required to maintain the ship and its aircraft.

From its pivotal role in conflicts like the Vietnam War to its current mission of education, the USS Midway Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It’s more than a museum—it’s a living testament to naval aviation’s legacy.

The USS Yorktown Museum is a museum located at Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, dedicated to preserving and honoring the history of the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10). Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, documents, and artifacts from over 80 years of naval history, from battleships to modern aircraft carriers. The museum features interactive displays that allow visitors to explore almost every area of the ship, including the bridge, engine room, and flight deck. Visitors can also explore the ship’s history through multimedia presentations featuring video footage and photos from key battles such as Pearl Harbor. The museum also contains an extensive collection of artifacts such as uniforms, weapons, flags, pictures, posters and memorabilia from World War II to the present day. Special activities at the museum include guided tours with knowledgeable volunteer guides who teach visitors about the ship’s rich history; special events such as living history days featuring costumed reenactors; flight simulator rides; and educational programs designed specifically for school groups. The USS Yorktown Museum is an incredible tribute to all those who served aboard this grand old warship—a lasting testimony to courage and commitment in times of conflict.