Included are a few thoughts from my first visit to Pearl Harbor in the hopes that some of you guys can benefit from it when planning your trip. There are a few very important things to keep in mind and some planning to be done if you want to take your time
and see everything.
1. Get there early. As you come into the museum and visitor's center, they will give you a ticket that has your video time punched on it. The later in the day, the longer the wait. In the meantime, you can walk around the museum, take photos, and such. After the video, they take you out to the Arizona to spend as much time as you would like. Just hop on the next boat when you are ready to come back. Website:
Welcome - Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund
2. Across a parking lot is the USS Bowfin Submarine and Park. There is plenty to see at this site and I was there a while. By getting to the Arizona early I was able to tour the park and museum of the Bowfin before lunch without hurrying. In May it was not very busy, though in the summer I would guess it packs out. Website:
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
3. Don't forget the Missouri across the water. When you exit the Bowfin Park there is a shuttle that will deliver you right in front of the USS Missouri. There are several different tours of the Missouri. I took the Explorer tour and felt justified in making the added expense for the extra half hour of tour. It is well worth the money and definately something that should be booked ahead of time during busy seasons. Like I said, I did it mid-week in May and ours was full. Website:
Home | USS Missouri
I am slow and like to read everything. I also walked around the Missouri for a little while after the tour for some extra pictures and exploratory time. That being said, it took me the entire day to do all three sites and it was wonderful. Now, there's no doubt that I left something out or forgot something, so if someone has a question or added information -- just chime in! Hope this helps somebody out.