The Marina District San Diego is a great place to visit if you are planning a vacation to San Diego.
The Marina District includes exciting attractions such as the USS Midway, Maritime Museum, Seaport Village, and Embarcadero Marina Park. It is also close enough to enjoy the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego.
Let’s explore all the adventures near the Marina District San Diego!
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Where Is the Marina District San Diego?
The Marina District San Diego is in the southwest section of San Diego. It spans the area from the international cruise ship terminal to the Embarcadero South Park.
This area includes the USS Midway and Seaport Village. There are lots of fun activities located in this area.
Let’s check out all the things to do in the Marina District San Diego area!
USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway is the top attraction in the Marina District San Diego, so we will spend a good amount of time focusing on this aspect of the district.
Directions to USS Midway Museum
Obviously, you can drive to the USS Midway. But there is another option, a San Diego Trolley Tour if you want to avoid the crowds and having to find a parking space this is a great option. One of the stops is located at the USS Midway. It not only stops at the USS Midway but also stops at many of the Marina District San Diego locations.
If you do book the trolley tour company I suggested above, they will pick you up from your hotel or you can meet the trolley in Old Town San Diego.
The trolley is a great way to see all the amazing things in San Diego.
Parking at the USS Midway Museum
If you do decide to park at the USS Midway, there is a parking lot located directly next to the ship. (to the north) The fee to park is $10-$20 depending on holidays and events.
Finding the Parking Lot
We went on a really busy day just after Christmas and we had no problem getting a spot. The bigger challenge was finding the parking lot and getting to the entrance. We were coming from the south, and many cars ahead of us were turning into Seaport Village, which is just south of the ship.
We didn’t see any signs for parking, and kept going to get past the bottleneck. When we did get to the correct spot to turn in, we needed to turn left, and had to wait for quite some time because of the amount of oncoming traffic from the north.
Be aware that even if the road is this busy for you, there should still be parking. Don’t give up!
Tickets for the USS Midway Museum
Hours and Admission
Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Adults $26
Child $12-$18
Purchase Ahead of Time
There are two lines when you arrive. One for pre-purchased tickets and a ticket window to buy your tickets. If you already have your tickets you can walk right on the ship.
With that said, we purchased our tickets on the day of and it wasn’t crowded.
Season Pass
You can use the cost of your admission towards the purchase a season pass. We were offered that at the ticket office. My son loved this place so much that I really considered this.
What To Expect at The USS Midway Museum
There are three main levels on the USS Midway. The top level is referred to as the Flight Deck, which is where planes landed and took off from. The mid level is referred to as the Hanger Deck, or Main Deck. This is where you enter. The bottom deck is called Below Decks, also referred to as City at Sea.
There are also other areas that are on the exterior or just below the flight deck.
Start Your Adventure
As you start your adventure aboard the USS Midway, it might be a good idea to start with the film in the USS Midway Theater. Upon showing your tickets for entry on shore, you climb up stairs to get to the enclosed hanger deck. The theater is just off to your right as you enter the ship. The film is about 15 minutes and depicts the importance of the USS Midway and the soldiers who fought for our country.
I really enjoyed the film and highly recommend taking the time to see it. My kids did really well throughout the time and enjoyed learning about the ship and the airplanes.
Hanger Deck and Adjacent Areas
After watching the film head over to get your informational headset (free of charge). There is a kid option and adult option for each area though out the USS Midway.
The Hanger Deck is on the same level as the theater. The Hanger Deck has many vintage planes from WWII. The exhibits are great for both old and young. There are placards near each plane providing details about its use. And some areas allow you to jump into the cockpit, take a look around, and pretend to be a pilot.
Our Experience
Our four-year-old son loved the planes he could get in! He wanted to wait in line for each one, and we had to drag him away from these areas.
We knew he loved it and the time, but it hit us again when my husband took our son a couple of months later to Hill Aerospace Museum in Utah, which also has a gallery of planes. Our son had a good time, but said it was missing his favorite part. While there, he told my husband he had been there before (he thought he was at he USS Midway and not in Utah ), but asked why he couldn’t get in the planes!
Gallery Deck
From the Hanger Deck, you can also easily access the crew’s sleeping quarters along the exterior, and from there, climb up to the Gallery Deck. The Gallery Deck is not listed as a separate level, but is located just below the flight deck.
Explore the Corridors
Seeing the sailors’ bunks and adjacent areas was a treat. Mannequins are in some of the areas to give you a bit more flavor of how the areas were used. I enjoyed walking past a window shop that had packaging in the shelves of treats and movies from an earlier time period. A blast from the past!
As you keep moving along the narrow corridors, you soon arrive at the Anchor Chain Room and get a view of how large the chains to the anchor are. From this room, you can access the Command Information Center and Carrier Air Group space, as well as the office and sleeping quarters for officers.
Command Information Center
The Command Information Center has various instruments and machines used in the aircraft carrier. You can sit down at a few of the controls. What is great about this area and other areas is that there are individuals there who are available to answer your questions.
Pilot Ready Rooms
The Pilot Ready Rooms has areas that highlight the different flight squadrons, and their insignia. You can learn about the Freelancers, Vigilantes, the Chargers, and others, and see and learn about their symbols and sit down where they sat to get pre-flight briefings.
You may also want to check out the Helicopter History Exhibit.
Aircraft Gallery and Flight Deck
The Aircraft Gallery is located on the flight deck outside. The Aircraft Galley has 26 restored carrier aircraft from 1942 and more. On the Flight Deck you really get to see firsthand how much space these planes had to be able to land their planes.
From the flight deck, you can go up to the bridge to see where the captain oversaw flight operations. This is a big draw, and we recommend you do this earlier in the day. During busy times, the line to get to the bridge will grow, and guests may be prevented from entering the line.
Below Deck
For me personally, while I enjoyed looking at the planes, and being outside on the flight deck, my favorite part was going below deck.
Before going below deck, the immensity of the ship itself hit me, but once I went below deck, the sheer amount of sailors, food, and supplies needed to make the ship function hit home. It also hit home that while carriers were used in war, there were many days that sailors were not engaged in battle.
Day to Day Living
You will walk through a cafeteria, and medical and dental offices. There are planning rooms and grooming rooms and other areas that are needed to provide for day-to-day living, and to survive on the ocean for an extended period of time.
I really enjoyed walking below deck and seeing how the men and women lived on the ship.
Will your Kids Like the USS Midway Museum?
My kids loved the USS Midway! We went with another family and in total we had 10 kids, ages 1 year to 12 years. Everyone had a great time. If it wasn’t so crowded they would have had even a better time because you can climb in all the airplanes. We had to wait in line at each plane.
I highly recommend taking your family and enjoying the USS Midway in the Marina District San Diego area!
How Long Can I Expect to Spend at the USS Midway Museum?
Plan to spend at least two hours at the museum; although you can easily spend four hours. The ship is massive, and unless you are training for a race, it is going to take time just to get to points throughout the ship.
Are There Food Options on the USS Midway Museum?
Yes. There is a café area on the east side of the Hanger Deck (take a left when you enter and keep walking). There are also eating options in the surrounding areas.
Gift Shop
There is also a gift shop near the eating area that you can explore. My son spotted some toy airplanes and was so excited he had Christmas money so he could buy one. He loves those planes!
Seaport Village
Image Courtesy of Seaport Village
Seaport Village is a waterfront dining and shopping area. There are over 70 shops, galleries, and dining locations in this area. It is a great place to walk around and enjoy the ocean.
Embarcadero Park
On the flight deck of the USS Midway you can look out and see this amazingly gigantic statue! The statue is entitled Unconditional Surrender.
This area is called Embarcadero North Park. It is known for having concerts and festivals. It also is just a great place to fly a kite and hang out.
International Cruise Ship Terminal
Image Courtesy of Sandiego.org
If you want to go on a cruise out of San Diego this is the area where you will want to board the ship.
Can I Park My Car at the Cruise Port in San Diego?
My biggest question when leaving for a cruise is “where do I park my car?” At the international cruise port parking is available for $8 a day. There are also Park N Fly locations nearby.
What Cruise lines go out of San Diego?
- Carnival Cruise Line.
- Celebrity Cruise Line.
- Crystal Cruises.
- Disney Cruise Line.
- Holland America Line.
- Norwegian Cruise Line.
- Princess Cruises
Carnival Cruise line has the most cruises in and out of San Diego. So if you want to plan a few days out to see be sure to check out the itineraries before your trip!
Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum has one of the world’s greatest collections of historical ships. You can walk the decks of historic ships. There are also on the water adventures!
Location
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is located on Harbor Drive near the corner of Ash Street just a few blocks West of interstate 5. As you get off the freeway there will be signs to direct you to the museum.
Hours
9:00 am – 8:00 pm or 9:00 pm in the summer
Admission
Adults $20
Teens $15
Kids $10
There are so many more options. If you want to see a show or go on a boat ride these ticket options are also available. Ticket prices will vary.
How Long Should I Plan to Be at the Maritime Museum
Most people spend about 2-3 hours here. If you are doing a sail experience they can be up to 4 hours long.
Gaslamp Quarter Near the Maria District San Diego
The Gaslamp Quarter is located very close to the Marina District San Diego. It is a area full of shopping and eating. The nightlife in this area invites a younger crowd. There is a theater and comedy clubs located here.
Marina District San Diego Tours
San Diego Harbor Cruise
In the Marina District San Diego you can get a Harbor Cruise tour. It is a relaxing way to spend some time on the water.
San Diego Speed Boat Tour
Another way to speed some time on the water is a Speedboat Tour. This is a fun exciting way to see the Marina District San Diego from the water.
San Diego Guided Tour with Harbor Cruise
If you are interested in seeing it all but really want a local to guide you throughout the city this Guided San Diego Tour will give you both a harbor tour plus a look around the city.
San Diego Go Card
Image Courtesy of Sandiego.com
The San Diego Go Card is a great option if you are planning on visiting lots of sites. It will save you money overall! It does include the USS Midway!
Our Experience In The Marina District San Diego
We had an incredible time in the Marina District San Diego! I wish we had more time to play!
There are lots amazing things to do in San Diego! We focused on Sea World San Diego , the beach, Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and the Mormon Battalion Museum, and of course the Marina District San Diego!
Planning on traveling more in California and want to see some of the Best California Cities to Visit? Awesome, I hope you get to explore more of this amazing state!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trips. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Holls
March 12, 2020 4:14 pmI’ve been thinking about planning at trip to San Diego, so this article is super-helpful. Thank you!
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:17 pmLove San Diego! Let me know if you want more information!
Kendra
March 24, 2020 2:57 pmMy whole family would love visiting these places! Ships and planes are always a hit!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:43 pmI know it is a fun area!
Missy
March 12, 2020 4:58 pmI like visiting museums and taking tours. I get to learn so much about the area.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:17 pmMe too!
Leeanne
March 12, 2020 7:26 pmThe USS Midway Museum looks very much like the Intrepid Museum in New York City. I love museums like this. It really gives you a feel for what it is like for the military personnel. How cramped the quarters are and what they go through to serve and protect our nation. I’m so grateful that so many men and women help protect us.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:16 pmMe too! I loved watching the video to put things into perspective!
Kat Arriaga
March 12, 2020 9:01 pmWow. This is a bery comprehensive guide! I love San Diego!
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:16 pmWe do too! We hit California alot because it is not too far from home!
kmf
March 12, 2020 9:08 pmLove this area of San Diego! Most of my conferences were at the Convention Center and attended a lot of events on the Midway. Such a cool ship! Great review of a really fun and interesting area.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:15 pmOh thanks, Yes the convention center is very close by!
heather J jandrue
March 12, 2020 9:19 pmI think we are going to drive the coast of Cali next summer and end in San Diego. This will be very helpful in planning our trip.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:15 pmThat will be a fun vacation!
Jennifer
March 13, 2020 1:36 amThe USS Midway museum looks interesting, as I recently went to watch the movie
Cindy
March 13, 2020 4:48 amMy parents went here years ago and loved it. It has been on my bucket list ever since.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:12 pmWe loved it too! It was really cool!
melissa
March 13, 2020 7:02 amWe loved exploring the Midway when we went. I didn’t know about the harbor cruises though; we will definitely try one next time we are in San Diego!
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:12 pmA harbor cruise would be really fun!
Stacey
March 13, 2020 12:33 pmIt looks like there is a lot to do there. We’ve never been to San Diego, but will for sure keep all of these things in mind when we go. I think it would be fun to take a cruise from there and do all of these fun activities the day before.
Lisa
March 13, 2020 2:11 pmYes, that would be awesome.
Courtney
March 13, 2020 2:42 pmWe did not do this when we visited San Diego. I would have loved to see this!
Lisa
March 16, 2020 1:54 pmHopefully, next time! We have been so many times and our first time was a few months ago!
Brianna Creef
March 13, 2020 6:24 pmI love being near the water in whatever city I’m in, so I would be all over this! The museum looks like an awesome way to spend a day too!
Lisa
March 16, 2020 1:53 pmYes! Me too!
Hera
March 13, 2020 9:39 pmAs many times as I’ve been to San Diego, I’ve yet to to go to the museums here. We’ll have to check it out next time. Thanks for the guide!
Lisa
March 16, 2020 1:51 pmThey are really cool!
Amanda
March 15, 2020 8:40 pmThe marina district in San Diego looks like it has something for everyone. My girls would love the museum. I haven’t been to San Diego since I was 15. I would love to take my girls this summer!
Lisa
March 16, 2020 1:49 pmSan Diego is a fun family vacation place!
Taci- Life Beyond Zebra
March 16, 2020 12:53 amI have lived in San Diego most of my Life and only have ever see the outside. Guess I should fix that sooner than later.
Lisa
March 16, 2020 1:46 pmIt is so fun!
Michele
March 18, 2020 1:28 pmThis place looks like lots of fun and perfect for learning. It reminds me of Patriots Point in Charleston, SC. Have you visited that one?
Lisa
March 21, 2020 2:35 pmWe loved it! It is such a fun Museum!
Shirley
March 18, 2020 2:02 pmWow! Your photos are amazing and make me want to visit San Diego as soon as possible!
Lisa
March 21, 2020 2:34 pmI love San Diego! It is a fun city with perfect weather!
Hillari
March 23, 2020 10:47 amThis looks so neat! Thank you for all of this information! My brother lives in San Diego and I have been there to visit only once, but during that time, we definitely didn’t get to the marina district. I will make sure that I add it to my list the next time I am out there – my husband and daughters would love this!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:12 pmIt is a fun place.
Debbie
March 23, 2020 2:47 pmGreat review of your experience here. I would love to check this out someday!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:10 pmThanks!
Cora
March 23, 2020 3:39 pmThanks for the tour! 🙂 I definitely want to go see an ocean someday when our little ones are old enough to travel well.
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:10 pmYes, San Diego is a great family vacation!
Tiffany
March 23, 2020 3:55 pmWould love to see everything about the Battle of the Midway. One day once we can go out again hope to explore this!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:09 pmYes, such a cool place!
Sandi
March 23, 2020 6:02 pmGreat photos. Looks like a fun visit.
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:08 pmIt is a really fun area!
Adrienne Redelings
March 23, 2020 6:38 pmThanks for hi-lighting all the hot spots. Those big ships always amaze me!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:08 pmThey are really cool!
Jill DeMasi
March 23, 2020 7:33 pmI always enjoy reading your reviews! Comprehensive and full of cool ideas to add to any trip itinerary. Thanks!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:08 pmThanks! That make me feel good!
Angela
March 23, 2020 7:54 pmSo many amazing things to do and see in this beautiful city.
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:07 pmI know we almost went back right before the quarantine and to cancel our trip!
Brianna
March 23, 2020 7:56 pmI love San Diego, I didn’t know this was available to explore! Thank you for sharing
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:07 pmWe have gone to San Diego so many times and our last trip was the first time we went to the USS Midway/
Holly
March 23, 2020 10:15 pmI love San Diego and the USS Midway is a must-see! It’s been a few years for me! Thank you for the memories and the itch to go back!
Lisa
March 23, 2020 11:06 pmMe too! It is so fun!
Debbi H
March 24, 2020 9:38 amGreat post! My son would love the museum. We will definitely plan to visit there if we make it to San Diego.
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:45 pmA great place to add to your itinerary.
jen
March 24, 2020 10:38 amI really love this field trip. i didn’t appreciate it as a child but as an adult i am glad we went on it and you’ve reminded me i need to take our daughter. thank you!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:45 pmMy kids really like it, but I can imagine as a field trip you would be allowed to climb in all the planes like you can when it is just mom and dad.
Suzan | It's My Sustainable Life
March 24, 2020 12:22 pmWonderful review of things to do in this area! I haven’t been there for many a moon, but remember it fondly!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:44 pmThanks! Time to go again!
Jason Gowin
March 24, 2020 1:38 pmI lived just north of San Diego for awhile back in the early 2000’s and never experienced any of these. Someday on a return trip I’d love to try a handful of these!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:44 pmYes, there are so many fun things for kids to do in San Diego and in October it is kids are free month at a lot of places.
Jaci
March 24, 2020 8:02 pmLooks like a fun area to visit! I’ve been to San Diego, but never to this spot!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:42 pmIt is! I have been to San Diego so many times and this last trip was the first time we went.
Lina
March 25, 2020 4:37 amThis is the ultimate planning guide you need. I grew up in San Diego and was hoping to get back there in April with the boys. That is on hold for now. Even though I lived there, I have not been to the USS Midway. My boys would absolutely love it.
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:42 pmYou will have fun when you get to go back, there is so much for kids to do!
Erica
March 25, 2020 12:25 pmWhat a cool place! Definitely on my list to visit now after reading your post. My husband would love that! Thank you for all the info! I need to pin this!
Lisa
March 25, 2020 1:41 pmOh good! San Diego is so cool and the USS Midway is awesome!
Sydney
March 26, 2020 8:53 amSo many cool things to see in San Diego!
Lisa
March 26, 2020 10:31 amFor sure! I love San Diego!
Lisa
March 26, 2020 4:16 pmWhat a fun way to spend time in San Diego.
Lisa
March 26, 2020 4:39 pmWe loved it!
Noelle
March 26, 2020 10:09 pmThis looks like a really great place to visit!
Lisa
March 27, 2020 2:30 pmIt is really cool!
Liz
March 27, 2020 9:20 amI went to San Diego several years ago and it was beautiful! We did not see the Marina district though…I will have to be sure to check that out next visit! Thanks for sharing!
Lisa
March 27, 2020 2:29 pmIt is a cool area! Next time for sure!
April Key C. Rode
March 27, 2020 9:55 amGreat article! I never been to San Diego but hoping to visit California soon this is a thoughtful and helpful post!
Lisa
March 27, 2020 2:29 pmOh good! San Diego is a great vacation spot!
Melissa Jones
March 27, 2020 11:43 pmGreat pictures and ideas of places to visit! I can’t wait to got to travel there again!
Lisa
March 30, 2020 7:33 pmMe too! The Midway is a great place too!