Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
 
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational field trip activities, trip organization and student ticket.
 
 
About the USS Battleship Iowa Museum
The USS Battleship Iowa Museum, located in Los Angeles, is a premier naval museum dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the USS Iowa (BB-61) and the service of the United States Navy. The museum offers visitors an immersive experience through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs that highlight the significance of this historic battleship.
 
Historical Overview
Foundation: The USS Iowa was commissioned in 1943 and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War before being decommissioned in 1990. In 2012, the battleship was permanently docked in Los Angeles and opened as a museum to educate the public about its storied history.
Growth: Since its opening, the USS Iowa Museum has expanded its exhibits and educational programs, becoming a major cultural and historical institution that attracts visitors from around the world. It serves as a tribute to the men and women who served on board and the broader history of the U.S. Navy.
 
Key Features and Exhibits
The Deck Tour: Visitors can explore the main deck of the battleship, including the massive 16-inch guns, anti-aircraft guns, and the ship's bridge. The tour provides insights into the ship's firepower and strategic importance during its service.
The Captain’s Cabin: This exhibit allows visitors to see where the ship’s captain lived and worked, offering a glimpse into the daily life and responsibilities of commanding a battleship.
Combat Engagement Center: A recreated space where visitors can experience the high-tech command and control operations used during the ship's active duty. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations provide an understanding of naval tactics and technology.
Sailor’s Life: This exhibit showcases the living conditions of the crew, including the mess deck, bunks, and recreational areas. Personal stories and artifacts from sailors provide a human perspective on life aboard the battleship.
The Korean War Exhibit: Dedicated to the ship's involvement in the Korean War, this exhibit includes photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts that highlight the USS Iowa’s contributions during the conflict.
The Cold War Exhibit: This area focuses on the ship’s role during the Cold War era, featuring displays on nuclear deterrence, the ship's modernization, and its strategic significance during this tense period.
 
Interactive Learning
Educational Programs: The USS Iowa Museum offers a wide range of educational programs for students, educators, and the general public. These include lectures, workshops, and special events that promote understanding and appreciation of naval history and technology.
Family Programs: Family-friendly programs include hands-on activities, storytelling sessions, and special events designed to engage children and families in learning about naval history.
STEM Education: The museum emphasizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through its exhibits and programs. Interactive displays and activities encourage students to explore these fields and understand their relevance to naval operations and technology.
Veteran Programs: The museum hosts programs and events honoring veterans, providing a platform for sharing their experiences and preserving their stories for future generations.
 
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead: Check the USS Iowa Museum’s website for current exhibits, special events, and educational programs to make the most of your visit.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable closed toe walking shoes as the tour involves navigating stairs and various decks of the battleship.
Engage with Staff: Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who can provide insights and answer questions about the exhibits and naval history.
Participate in Activities: Encourage children to participate in the interactive exhibits and family programs to make learning about naval history fun and memorable.
Explore the Surroundings: The museum is located on the Los Angeles waterfront, offering additional opportunities for sightseeing and dining.
 
By visiting the USS Battleship Iowa Museum, students and families can immerse themselves in the rich history and legacy of this iconic battleship, learn about the significant contributions of the U.S. Navy, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who served. The museum offers a dynamic and educational environment that inspires a lifelong interest in naval history and maritime heritage.