USS Midway

The USS Midway (CV-41) is a retired United States Navy aircraft carrier that now serves as a museum ship on San Diego’s downtown Embarcadero. Commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1992, it served through the late 20th century in multiple theaters and roles.

Museum exhibits occupy the ship’s flight deck and internal spaces, interpreting carrier operations, naval aviation and life aboard ship; audio tours and veteran-guided programs are a major part of the visitor experience. The flight deck displays roughly thirty restored military aircraft and offers broad views over San Diego Bay.

Built and brought into service at the end of World War II, Midway went on to a long operational career during the Cold War, Korea, Vietnam and later deployments; after decommissioning the vessel was converted into a public museum. The museum preserves the ship’s interior spaces and runs educational programming about 20th-century naval history.

Moored at Navy Pier along the Embarcadero in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Museum sits within walking distance of other waterfront attractions and is easily reached from the city centre.

• Hull number: Hull number CV-41; a Midway-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1992.
• Aircraft on display: Around 30 restored aircraft are exhibited on the flight deck and in the hangar deck.
• Museum opening: Opened as a museum ship on San Diego's Embarcadero in 2004.

What to See #

• Flight Deck: Open-air flight deck that displays the carrier's aircraft and provides panoramic views over San Diego Bay; the deck hosts roughly thirty restored military aircraft.
• Hangar Deck: Interior hangar deck converted into exhibition galleries with restored aircraft, displays on carrier operations and audio-visual exhibits.
• Island: The ship's island contains the bridge, pilots' ready rooms and interpretive exhibits explaining command and control on an aircraft carrier.