All the Historic Sites You Can See at Pearl Harbor

By: Kimberly Porter | Historic Sites at Pearl Harbor| Image: tobago77

Discover Pearl Harbor’s historic sites, honoring bravery and sacrifice. Plan your visit to explore powerful stories that shaped history and inspire others.

Pearl Harbor holds a timeless place in history as the site where World War II forever altered the course of global events for the United States. Visiting Pearl Harbor offers a powerful opportunity to connect with this pivotal historical moment. From memorials to museums, the historic sites here serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices and resilience of generations past. Keep reading to discover all the historic sites you can see at Pearl Harbor. 

USS Arizona Memorial 

The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most iconic and moving locations at Pearl Harbor. Built directly above the sunken remains of the battleship, the memorial honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the December 7, 1941, attack. Visitors arrive by boat and have time to reflect at the wall of names etched into the memorial’s marble.

From above the wreckage, you can see parts of the battleship still visible beneath the water, offering a haunting reminder of the day’s devastation. This site gives visitors a glimpse into the gravity of events that pulled the United States into World War II. It’s a space for remembrance and reflection, making it a necessary stop for anyone visiting Pearl Harbor. 

Battleship Row 

Battleship Row was the primary target during the Pearl Harbor attack, and walking along this historic area gives a raw sense of what occurred. Many key ships, including the USS Oklahoma and the USS California, sat stationed here during the attack. While most of the ships received the necessary repairs to rejoin the fight, others, like the USS Arizona and the USS Utah, perished in the fight.

The artifacts, photos, and stories you’ll encounter help put the chaos and courage that erupted during that infamous morning into perspective. Retracing the footsteps here connects you to the stories of sailors and service members whose heroism defined that day. 

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum 

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum transports visitors back to the skies of World War II. Located in historic hangars on Ford Island, the museum showcases aircraft that played crucial roles in WWII. Among the highlights is the collection of fighter planes and bombers, some even bearing battle scars.

Beyond static displays, the museum also features immersive exhibits recounting the timeline of events, complete with gripping narratives and interactive experiences. Taking in these exhibits helps visitors understand the naval attack and the broader role of air power in the conflict’s outcome. 

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park 

The USS Bowfin embodies the resilience of the U.S. Navy during World War II. Launched one year after the attack, the Bowfin played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, sinking 44 enemy vessels during her service.

You can step inside this remarkable vessel at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, exploring its torpedo rooms, crew quarters, and control center. The guided narration provides fascinating facts about the USS Bowfin Submarine, from its remarkable missions to its contributions in shifting the tide of naval warfare. Visitors can also explore outdoor exhibits on submarine technology and history, rounding out the experience. 

Pearl Harbor’s historic sites are more than just places to visit; they are powerful reminders of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Each location tells a distinct piece of the story that shaped history, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for those who came before us. Make your trip to Pearl Harbor a truly meaningful experience by exploring these incredible sites and paying tribute to this significant chapter in history.