San Diego: USS Midway with Waterfront Walking Tour

If you’re visiting San Diego and looking to soak up its maritime legacy without feeling rushed, the USS Midway with Waterfront Walking Tour offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and engaging storytelling. For $39 per person, you get about 1.5 to 3.5 hours of exploring some of the most iconic waterfront sights, guided by a friendly local who knows the ins and outs of the city’s naval roots.

Starting just outside Malibu Farm, this tour quickly immerses you in San Diego’s military story—covering everything from its early days on the Presidio Military Fort in Old Town to the modern naval presence on Coronado Island. The highlights include stunning views of the Coronado Bridge, the Victory Kiss sculpture, the USS San Diego Memorial, and a visit to the USS Midway Museum itself. What we love: the way the guide personalizes each stop with stories that bring these locations to life, and how the tour combines walking with a visit to a genuine aircraft carrier, making it both educational and immersive.

One possible drawback is the walking distance—almost 2 miles at a relaxed pace—which might be a consideration if you have mobility issues or prefer less physical activity. Still, the tour is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it open to many. This experience is ideal for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a meaningful look at San Diego’s waterfront in a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

• Authentic Naval Experience: Visit the historic USS Midway aircraft carrier with an included audio guide.
• Scenic Waterfront Views: See iconic sites like Tuna Harbor, Seaport Village, and the Coronado Bridge.
• Engaging Storytelling: Guides share personal stories that make maritime history come alive.
• Convenient & Accessible: The tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with a flexible duration.
• Cost & Value: For $39, you get a comprehensive waterfront tour plus museum entry.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect for those new to San Diego or seeking a well-rounded overview.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Atmosphere

The tour begins just outside Malibu Farm—a popular waterfront restaurant with a relaxed vibe. Your guide, easily spotted in a blue ExperienceFirst shirt or holding a sign, greets you warmly. From this central spot, the walk begins along the scenic San Diego waterfront, a lively area filled with boats, eateries, and maritime activity. Your guide will set the tone, blending historical insights with local anecdotes, making the experience approachable and engaging.

Exploring San Diego’s Naval Origins

The first part of the tour focuses on San Diego’s early military foundations, starting from 1759 with the Presidio Military Fort in Old Town. We loved how the guide explained how this small fort laid the groundwork for the city’s naval prominence. It’s a great way to understand how military strategies shaped the city’s development.

As we moved along the waterfront, we learned about the Great White Fleet’s arrival in 1908, a pivotal moment that marked San Diego’s emergence as a major naval hub. The guide shared stories of sailors, ships, and strategic decisions that built the city’s maritime reputation.

Highlights Along the Waterfront

Tuna Harbor and Seaport Village offer charming stops for photos and a break to take in bustling harbor activity. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to see historic ships and modern cruise boats navigating the bay.

Next, we reached Coronado Bridge — an architectural marvel that connects San Diego to Coronado Island. From its vantage points, you’ll get sweeping views of the skyline and bay. The USS San Diego Memorial is nearby, honoring the ship and sailors lost at sea, adding a poignant touch to the walk.

The tour also includes a visit to the Victory Kiss sculpture, a beloved symbol of celebration and peace, and the National Salute to Bob Hope, paying homage to the comedian’s support for the troops. These sites highlight the city’s cultural and military ties, making the tour more than just a history lesson.

More Great Tours Nearby

USS Midway Museum Experience

The tour culminates aboard the USS Midway, a historic aircraft carrier that served from WWII through the Cold War. This part of the experience is where many say the tour truly shines. You’ll explore the vast decks, hangar bays, and control towers, all with an audio guide that provides stories of life aboard the ship, aircraft operations, and wartime missions.

The USS Midway Museum is a genuine piece of history—an aircraft carrier that once carried hundreds of planes and thousands of sailors. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this vessel, making the visit more than just walking through a ship; it’s a step back in time.

Practical Considerations

The entire tour covers nearly 2 miles at a leisurely pace, suitable for most visitors but worth noting if mobility is a concern. The walkway outside Malibu Farm is the meeting point, and the tour runs mostly in the morning, providing a comfortable way to start your day. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with about 60% of the USS Midway accessible to visitors with mobility needs.

Authenticity & Value

The guided aspect is a real plus. Guides are knowledgeable and personable, often sharing stories that aren’t in the usual guidebooks. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide made the history come alive, and we loved the personal stories about the ships and sailors.” The included admission to the USS Midway Museum** adds substantial value, allowing you to explore the ship at your own pace afterward.

What Travelers Say

Many praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentioned, “The stories about the Victory Kiss and the Cold War aircraft on the Midway really stuck with me.” Others appreciate the scenic stops—Seaport Village and Tuna Harbor—and the opportunity to combine walking with a museum visit for a comprehensive waterfront experience.

A few noted the walking distance might be tiring for some, but overall, the balance of outdoor sights and museum time makes it worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you want a balanced introduction to San Diego’s naval and maritime history without feeling overwhelmed. It suits history buffs, families (stroller-friendly), and couples looking for a scenic, educational outing. It’s also perfect for early risers, as most tours run in the morning, helping you beat the midday crowds.

If you’re interested in aviation, military history, or simply want a scenic walk with meaningful stops, this experience ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

The USS Midway with Waterfront Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into San Diego’s naval past, combined with beautiful waterfront scenery and engaging storytelling. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to understand the city’s strategic importance, explore iconic sites, and see a historic aircraft carrier without spending a whole day.

The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning what could be a simple walk into a memorable journey through history. With its accessibility, reasonable price, and a blend of outdoor and museum experiences, this tour provides excellent value for a diverse range of travelers.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, traveling with family, or just curious about San Diego’s maritime roots, this tour is a smart, rewarding choice that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of this vibrant coastal city.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and about 60% of the USS Midway Museum itself is accessible. The walk is at a leisurely pace, but consider your comfort with walking nearly 2 miles.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to enjoy the walk and take plenty of photos of the harbor, ships, and scenic views.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is on the walkway just outside Malibu Farm restaurant. Your guide will be wearing a blue ExperienceFirst shirt or holding a sign with the company name.

How long does the tour last?
Expect the walk and sights to take between 1.5 and 3.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since it’s stroller-friendly and offers engaging historical stories. Kids with interest in ships and airplanes will particularly enjoy exploring the USS Midway.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers an experienced local guide, the scenic waterfront walk, and the entrance ticket to the USS Midway Museum.

Can I purchase lunch during or after the tour?
Lunch isn’t included, but you might find options at Seaport Village or onboard the USS Midway itself.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is offered in English only.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later allows flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a wonderful way to connect with San Diego’s maritime soul—combining history, scenery, and hands-on exploration into one accessible package. It’s a thoughtful choice for travelers who value a personal touch and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: