Pacific Battleship Center

Located at Berth 87 in the Los Angeles Harbor in San Pedro, the Pacific Battleship Center allows visitors to explore a famous battleship, the USS Iowa. Serving the United States during WWII, Korean War and Cold War, the ship was once touted as the “World’s Greatest Naval Ship,” a nickname referencing her enormous guns, top speed, heavy armor and advanced fire control systems. Back in the late 1930’s/early 1940s the ship cost $110 million to build, which by today’s calculations would be about $1.8 billion.

Visitors to the museum can take a self-guided Tour Alpha, where you can board and explore the USS Iowa, getting to stroll around the same ship sailed by notable people like President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, President Ronald Reagan, First Lady Nancy Reagan and George H.W. Bush. You’ll see where daily operations took place, where officers enjoyed leisure time, where the ship was steered from, the Galley and even go onto the flying bridge for a unique view of the ship. Below deck, a digital theater allows visitors to play an educational and interactive combat game and defend it from attacks. Afterward, peruse informational exhibits on the USS Iowa to learn more about her unique history. During your visit, former military will be on hand to answer questions.

Practical Info

The Pacific Battleship Center is located at 250 S. Harbor Boulevard. Open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours are 10am to 5pm daily. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, with prices being $18 for general admission,  $10 for youth 6-17, and $15 for seniors 62 and over and military with ID. Keep in mind, there are many steep stairs and narrow passageways, so this attraction may not be ideal for those with disabilities and physical ailments.