Private Top Gun Movie Locations Tour in San Diego County

If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into the world of Maverick, Goose, and Iceman, then a private Top Gun movie locations tour in San Diego might just be your best bet. For $399 per group (up to four people), this five-hour guided adventure takes you through some of the most recognizable and meaningful sites from the blockbuster films, including Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit places that helped shape the film’s iconic scenes, from historic naval sites to seaside cottages and even a real aircraft carrier turned museum.

What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—since it’s private, you get a tailored experience without the crowds. Plus, the stops offer a mix of visual spectacle and authentic local flavor, such as enjoying the famous Kansas City Barbeque—a spot where Maverick and Goose actually played the piano in the movie. On the downside, the tour’s focus on film locations means it’s best suited for fans or those interested in military and maritime history, not necessarily for casual sightseeing.

This experience is perfect for film enthusiasts, military history buffs, or anyone looking to add a unique twist to their San Diego trip. If you’re a fan of the Top Gun franchise, the mix of iconic sites and behind-the-scenes stories will make this tour a memorable highlight.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: This is the only tour that covers many of the Top Gun filming locations in San Diego County.
• Private Experience: Tailored to your group, with personalized attention from your guide.
• Authentic Sites: Includes real military and maritime locations like aircraft carriers, naval bases, and historic cemeteries.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup offered, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and snacks included.
• Ideal for Fans: Perfect for those who want more than just a film reference—they get to see where the magic (and the Navy) actually happens.
• Value for Money: At $399, the personalized and exclusive nature of this tour offers great value for a memorable, film-themed experience.

A Deep Dive into the San Diego Top Gun Locations Tour

Starting Point: Liberty Station in Point Loma

Your journey begins at Liberty Station, a historic site once part of San Diego’s Naval Training Center. Here, you’ll get a sense of the military background that makes the film’s setting so convincing. The guide will probably point out the buildings seen around the 52:33 mark in the film, giving you a tangible connection to the movie. We appreciated how this site sets the tone for the tour—combining history with pop culture.

Oceanside and Charlie’s House

Next, the tour takes you to Oceanside to see the famous Graves House—also known as Charlie’s House. This charming seaside cottage offers sweeping views of the Pacific and features prominently in the film at 42:48. The small, delightful fruit pies available near the house (as described by a reviewer) are a tempting treat, especially since the spot is right across from Oceanside Pier and on the grounds of the Mission Pacific Beach Resort. This stop gets high marks for blending the film’s iconic imagery with authentic local charm.

Kansas City Barbeque

No Top Gun tour would be complete without a visit to the Kansas City Barbeque at 600 W. Harbor Drive. This classic sports bar is where Maverick and Goose hop on the piano to play Great Balls of Fire—a scene that’s become part of pop culture. Here, you can soak in the atmosphere, perhaps imagining Maverick’s confident swagger. The bar’s history as a long-standing local favorite adds another layer of authenticity to your visit.

The Aircraft Carrier Museum

A highlight for many is the Aircraft Carrier Museum on San Diego’s Embarcadero. This historic vessel hosted the world premiere of Top Gun: Maverick earlier in 2025, with Tom Cruise himself making an appearance. Walking onto this massive ship allows you to appreciate the scale of naval aviation, and it’s a tangible reminder of the real-life military community that inspired the movies.

The Point Loma Lighthouse and Fort Rosecrans

Your guide will point out the Point Loma Lighthouse, which served as the home of Viper, played by Val Kilmer in the film. The scenic views from here are spectacular and provide a great photo opportunity. Also, the nearby Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery is a real, active military cemetery featured in Top Gun: Maverick as the site of Iceman’s funeral. Visiting these sites offers a respectful glimpse into the lives of service members, blending film nostalgia with genuine history.

End of the Tour: Conveniently Back at Meeting Point

The tour wraps up back at the initial meeting point at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in downtown San Diego, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your next destination.

Authentic Experiences That Make It Special

One of the highest praised aspects of this tour, according to the sole review, is how small and personal it feels. The reviewer noted, “The real Top Gun house from the Top Gun movie. Cute bungalow that is a pie shop, with small fruit pies and a few other treats and coffee and other drinks.” This kind of detail shows how the tour doesn’t just focus on Hollywood but also on local charm, making it more authentic and engaging.

Another positive is the value for money—considering the private, personalized experience, and the multiple iconic sites visited, many travelers find it well worth the price. The guide’s insights into the filming locations and military background add depth that casual sightseeing tours often lack.

What Could Be Improved?

Given the tour’s narrow focus on film locations and military sites, it might not appeal to travelers looking for general San Diego sightseeing or nature outings. Also, since bookings are typically made 152 days in advance, planning ahead is essential if you want to secure your preferred date.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

The tour lasts approximately five hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The private transportation means comfort and flexibility—no crowded buses here—and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable, especially during warm San Diego days.

At $399, the cost covers not only the guide’s expertise but also the personalized attention and exclusive access to sites like the aircraft carrier. For fans of the movies or military history, this offers great value, especially compared to larger, less intimate tours.

The tour includes bottled water and snacks, which is thoughtful, especially on a sunny day or if you’re eager to keep your energy up between stops.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for Top Gun fans, military history enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a unique, film-oriented tour that offers behind-the-scenes insights. If you enjoy authentic sites and appreciate a private, relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find this tour both engaging and memorable.

It’s less ideal for those looking for a broad overview of San Diego’s attractions, as the focus is tightly on film locations and naval sites. Still, for a niche and deeply themed experience, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

In the end, this private Top Gun movie locations tour offers a rare chance to combine your love of film with authentic military history in San Diego. Its personalized approach and inclusion of iconic sites like the aircraft carrier and historic naval bases make it a worthwhile outing for fans and curious travelers alike. The focus on real locations and insider stories helps you connect with the movies in a tangible way.

If you’re looking for a well-priced, engaging experience that blends pop culture with local history, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a customized, intimate tour that makes the most of San Diego’s ties to the Top Gun franchise.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, giving enough time to visit multiple locations comfortably.

How many people can join the tour?
It’s a private experience for up to four people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Are transportation and snacks included?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with bottled water and snacks provided for your comfort.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and concludes at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego in downtown San Diego.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, booking about 152 days in advance is typical, so plan early to secure your preferred date.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Generally, most travelers can participate, but consider the physical accessibility of some sites like the aircraft carrier.

In sum, if you want to see the real places that made Top Gun legendary and learn some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, this tour offers a personable and memorable way to do so. For fans of the movie, military history, or those craving a uniquely tailored San Diego experience, it’s definitely worth considering.