Discovering the USS Iowa: A Must-Visit in Long Beach, California

As soon as you catch a glimpse of the USS Iowa (BB-61) at the Port of Long Beach, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer size and presence of this World War II battleship. 😭 As a fan of massive naval artillery and a player of World of Warships, visiting the Iowa Battleship Museum was high on my list during my trip to Los Angeles. Here’s a detailed guide for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike!

🌟 First Impressions: A Stunning Sight

The moment I laid eyes on the battleship, with its striking gray-blue hull towering over everything else at the port, I was overwhelmed by its immense size. It’s much larger than you can picture!

🚢 Exhibit Highlights: A Detailed Tour

Main Deck: The Mighty Guns

Standing close to the main guns was a goosebumps-inducing experience! Each shell weighs a staggering 1 ton and can reach targets over 20 kilometers away. As I imagined the powerful blasts that rocked the ocean during wartime, it was truly a soul-stirring experience. While the main gun ports are protected, there’s a section of a gun barrel on display that reveals the rifling inside.

Living Quarters: A Snap of Life at Sea

The living quarters are surprisingly spacious (having seen submarines, I can assure you this is much nicer!). It provides a glimpse into what life was like for crew members back in the day.

Bridge & Command Center: A Blast from the Past

These areas are protected by thick armor, likely as robust as the ship’s main armor. The compass and communication devices remain intact, and I even got to sit in the chair where the captain once commanded the ship!

Museum Insight: More than Just a Battleship

The Iowa itself serves as a living museum. Inside, you’ll find exhibits detailing the development of battleships from the late 19th to early 20th century. It’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors to enhance their understanding of naval history.

📝 Practical Tips (Take Note!)

• Tickets: Admission costs about $30 (considered quite reasonable). I opted not to get the guided tour, which is a bit pricier but might be worth it for some.
• Hours: The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but make sure to arrive before 4 PM as no new entries are allowed after that time. It is open 363 days a year, closing only on Thanksgiving and Christmas!
• Time Needed: Plan to spend around 2-3 hours here. There are numerous documentaries that merit your time, and late afternoon is perfect for photography with the ship bathed in warm light.
• Transportation: The museum is conveniently located near the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, making it easy to access by car. The parking facility requires a credit card for entry, and while it shares space with the cruise terminal parking, I recommend veering left for more convenient access. Just be cautious of construction near the area!

💭 Final Thoughts

Many of the staff members here are veterans who once served on this very ship, and they enjoy sharing their stories. It’s fascinating and adds an authentic touch to the experience. The USS Iowa has witnessed war and now rests quietly in the port, sharing tales of its impressive past through its numerous details. If you’re in Los Angeles and want to explore beyond Hollywood, this museum is a true gem! 🌊

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