Highlights
- Includes a guided tour led by crew and a self-guided exploration of Battleship IOWA, with entry and onboard WIFI covered.Step inside a real 16-inch gun turret—one of the most powerful naval gun systems ever built.Explore five decks packed with interactive exhibits, a scavenger hunt, and rarely seen behind-the-scenes spaces.Hear firsthand stories from a current crew member, bringing the ship’s WWII and Cold War legacy to life.Get up close to the 5-inch gun house, handling room, magazine, and aft battery plot for a true insider’s view.
Your Experience
Start the IOWA Experience + Crew-Led “Big Guns” Tour, an approximately 4.5-hour adventure suitable for ages 10+ and requiring advance purchase. Explore a unique behind-the-scenes journey aboard Battleship IOWA, beginning with a self-guided tour across five decks that highlights the ship’s presidential legacy through interactive exhibits, sailor stories, and a scavenger hunt led by Vicky the Dog.
Please note: It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to complete the self-guided IOWA Experience before your crew-led “Big Guns” Tour at 1:30 PM.
Next, explore a 2.5-hour crew-led tour, exploring rarely seen spaces that powered Battleship IOWA’s dominance during World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Navigate through hatches and passageways to discover:
- The 5-inch gun house, where sailors loaded live rounds into dual-purpose naval guns.
- The 5-inch gun upper handling room, where ammunition was received from below.
- The 5-inch magazine, housing hundreds of rounds carefully stored.
- The aft battery plot, the critical fire control center for aiming and firing both 5-inch and 16-inch guns.
- And a walk inside one of the ship’s massive 16-inch gun turrets, among the most powerful naval gun systems still in existence today.
Hear stories of courage, innovation, and daily life from a current crew member dedicated to preserving this legendary vessel along your journey.
This tour is limited to guests aged 10+ due to its physically demanding nature and access to confined spaces. It's also not recommended for those with mobility limitations. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
The tour is available on Saturdays and Sundays only, with limited space requiring advance reservation.
⚠️ Important Details
- Closed-toe shoes are required.
- This experience is physically demanding, involving ladders, tight spaces, and grated decks.
- Not recommended for guests under 10 or those with mobility limitations.
- Tour offered on select days. Advance reservations are required due to limited space.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Exclusive access inside 16-inch gun turretGuided Gun Tour (2.5 hours)Self-Guided IOWA Experience (2 hours)Entry/admission feeWIFI
- Parking feesFood and drinks
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Must Know
- Please ensure you have your mobile voucher and photo ID ready for entry.
- Arrive in advance to complete the self-guided IOWA Experience before 1:30 PM, as it is a prerequisite for the crew-led “Big Guns” Tour.
- Wear closed-toe shoes since ladders and grated decking are part of the tour experience.
- Note that drones and automated photographic devices are prohibited; commercial photography requires prior consent. Food and drinks are also not allowed inside the ship.
- The tour involves physically demanding activities, including navigating ladders, tight spaces, and standing for extended periods. It is recommended for guests aged 10 or older without mobility limitations.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
These tickets can't be rescheduled or cancelled.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.