Built over the remains of the wrecked and besieged battleship USS Arizona, this white concrete and steel Pearl Harbor historical site is one of the most significant and heart-wrenching museums to visit in the city of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Almost half of the thousands of casualties at Pearl Harbor occurred on the USS Arizona naval ship, which was attacked no less than four times by Japanese bombers, which eventually led to the ship sinking.

Today, you can book USS Arizona Memorial tickets to gain insight into the events that occurred in 1941 and pay your respects to the fallen members.

Here's everything you need to know about USS Arizona Memorial, one of the most interesting attractions in Oahu.

How much are USS Arizona Memorial tickets?

Entry to the USS Arizona Memorial is free of charge and can be booked online at least 24 hours prior to your visit. Visitors should note that there’s a US$1 reservation fee if booked online. You can also try to secure tickets in person on the day of your trip, but bear in mind that tickets are limited, so it’s best to arrive early.

Narrated, deluxe and package tours are also available to visit the historic site.

Ticket for USS Arizona Narrated tour

Adults: US$7.99
Children (4-12): US$5.35

Ticket for USS Arizona Deluxe tour

Adults: US$17.98

USS Arizona Package

Adults: US$19.95

Can you visit the USS Arizona Memorial for free?

Entry to USS Arizona Memorial is free, and there are free boat tours to the memorial site available every day. You can book your ticket online 60 days in advance, or 24 hours before your departure, though this option is limited. Online ticket bookings require around US$1 non-refundable reservation fee.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including USS Arizona Memorial?

Absolutely! Combined tours, which include a USS Arizona Memorial visit, are some of the most popular guided tours to take in Honolulu. Tours of this nature ensure that you save time on your Oahu excursion by cramming in as many historic sites as possible.

You’ll also have a knowledgeable guide on hand to offer insight into the events in December 1941.

USS Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri Battleship tour: Prepare to get emotional on this sobering yet inspiring excursion, as you visit also USS Missouri, one the most popular Pearl Harbor sites.
Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and city tour: Relive the memory of the pivotal day that launched the world into the Second World War. After visiting Pearl Harbor’s historic monuments, you’ll stroll down Oahu to discover the city’s highlights.
Deluxe Arizona Memorial and historical city tour: Experience the USS Arizona Memorial in style, as you cruise in a comfortable, air-conditioned Deluxe Royal Star vehicle. Pass the city’s most popular landmarks, including the King Kamehameha statue and the Punchbowl National Cemetery located in downtown Honolulu.

Should you book USS Arizona Memorial tickets in advance?

For ease and a hassle-free trip, book your tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial in advance, as they are incredibly popular and get snapped up quickly. Some 1,300 tickets are available on the day, though during peak season, these are usually all sold out by 10 AM, and queuing for a few hours is common.

What will you see at the USS Arizona Memorial?

As one of Pearl Harbor’s most important Second World War sites, the USS Arizona Memorial commemorates the fallen soldiers and military personnel from the 1941 attack. There are three chambers inside the historical site, where the names of the servicemen killed in the battle are engraved onto a marble enclosure.

The central section of the memorial has drawings and diagrams that showcase the skeletal remnants of the ship. In a frenzy to recover from the horrific attack and prepare for war, the US Navy exercised the course of action to leave 900 military servicemen inside the wrecked ship, where they remain laid to rest in its hull to this day.

What is the best way to get to the USS Arizona Memorial?

Free boat tours to the USS Arizona Memorial depart every day, and some sightseeing tours pass through the memorial for visitors to admire the magnificent site. The boat tours depart every 15 minutes from the NPS Visitor Center and Museum.

When should you visit the USS Arizona Memorial?

It’s best to visit the USS Arizona Memorial at the beginning of your vacation. This way, you’ll have a full Pearl Harbor experience and an in-depth introduction to Oahu early on.

Due to the popularity of this historical site, especially during the peak season, it’s best to begin your tour as early as possible to avoid some of the crowds. Alternatively, come later in the afternoon or on a weekday when the attractions are a bit less busy.

Top travel tips

Bring a light jacket with you, as this will be particularly necessary if you book your tour during the cooler months and bad weather.
Comfortable walking boots are a must, especially when strolling downtown Honolulu.
If you’re planning on visiting the USS Arizona Memorial during the summer season, make sure to come prepared with sunscreen and a sun cap so that you don’t sizzle.

Which other attractions can be explored in Oahu?

USS Arizona Memorial in Oahu