The Pearl Harbor, home to one of the most devastating losses of American life, offers guided tours that are both educational and interesting. There’s simply so much information on Pearl Harbor that to absorb it all and get the best experience when you tour Pearl Harbor, you should make a whole day out of it.
Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial are the most popular visitor attractions in Hawaii, averaging over 1.6 million annual visitors. In recent years, new additions have allowed visitors to get more information on Pearl Harbor, allowing them to further understand the tragedy. In 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial was added. Then in 2006, they opened the Pacific Aviation Museum. Lastly, in 2010, the site was further enhanced with the addition of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Such new information on Pearl Harbor has only made the attraction more popular.
In order to get the best experience and most information on Pearl Harbor, here’s a couple tips to help plan your visit.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The early morning, before the tour buses arrive, is the best time to visit the Memorial and the remains. The Visitor Center opens daily at 7:00 AM. Interpretive programs begin at 8:00 AM, which include a 23 minute documentary about the attack and the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial. The last programs offering excellent information on Pearl Harbor start at 3:00 PM.
What to Pack.
Pearl Harbor is still an active military base, which means that for security reasons they won’t permit any bags. For three dollars, visitors can store their backpacks, purses, diaper bags, shopping bags, and like baggage at a storage area at USS Bowfin Park. It’s best only to bring absolute necessities, and if possible, nothing at all other than your wallet.
Keep this in mind when you plan your visit to get the best experience possible. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Continue.