Stars and Stripes Tour: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri

Explore Honolulu’s Historic Landmarks with the Stars and Stripes Tour

The Stars and Stripes Tour offers a comprehensive 7-hour exploration of some of Honolulu’s most significant historic sites. Priced at $149 per person, this guided trip includes visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and a variety of memorials honoring U.S. veterans. With entrance fees included and hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, this tour provides a convenient way to experience key moments of American history in Honolulu.

While the tour is well-regarded and generally offers a rich experience, it’s important to note that limited capacity on the navy boat shuttle to the USS Arizona Memorial can lead to ticket shortages or weather-related cancellations. This tour suits visitors eager to learn about military history, naval vessels, and national memorials in a compact, guided format.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, covering three main sites and downtown Honolulu
• Price: $149 per person, with all taxes and fees included
• Includes: Guided tours of the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri
• Transportation: Air-conditioned coach or minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Highlights: Visits to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, memorials honoring veterans, and historic buildings
• Limitations: No lunch included; shuttle boat tickets may sell out due to limited capacity

Pickup and Starting Point at the Hyatt Regency

This tour departs from selected hotels in Honolulu, with pickup included at the Hyatt Regency. The pickup point can sometimes cause confusion due to the hotel’s size, so it’s advised to confirm the exact location in advance. The tour starts early enough to maximize your day of sightseeing, and the air-conditioned transportation ensures comfort throughout.

The guide provides a narrated experience that helps visitors understand the significance of each stop. Be prepared for some walking and standing at each site, and note that bags and purses are not allowed at the USS Arizona Memorial due to security restrictions.

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and the World War II Museum

The first stop is the USS Arizona Memorial, which includes a short movie about the December 7, 1941 attack, and an audio tour available in multiple languages, including Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, German, French, and Spanish. The shuttle boat ride to the memorial is a key highlight, but keep in mind that capacity limits mean tickets could be unavailable on busy days or if weather causes cancellations.

The tour also explores the World War II museums and exhibit galleries around the memorial, offering a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded on that historic day.

Guided Tour of the Battleship Missouri

Following the Arizona, the tour continues with a guided walk aboard the Battleship Missouri, famous for hosting the formal surrender that ended World War II. The 2.5-hour guided tour allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of General MacArthur and witness the ship’s most notable missions. Entrance to the Missouri is included, and the guide shares stories about its role in U.S. military history.

This stop is particularly engaging for history buffs who appreciate detailed narration and the chance to explore the ship’s decks and interiors.

Memorials Honoring U.S. Veterans in Honolulu

The tour also encompasses a visit to a broad memorial complex lined with tributes to American veterans. Notable sites include the Eternal Flame, the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials, and the Liberty Bell. These memorials are set on grounds that evoke a sense of reverence and national pride, with the opportunity to reflect on U.S. military service.

Another highlight is Honolulu Hale, the county government building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building houses the chambers of the Mayor of Honolulu and the City Council.

Visiting the Last Reigning Hawaiian Monarch’s Residence and Historical Landmarks

The tour also features stops at Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, which was home to Hawaii’s last monarch. Its historic architecture and exhibits make it a compelling visit for those interested in Hawaiian royal history.

Plus, travelers see King Kamehameha I, the chief who unified the Hawaiian Islands, and explore Honolulu’s historic city hall, known as Honolulu Hale. These sites underline Honolulu’s local history intertwined with U.S. national stories.

Practical Details: Transport, Accessibility, and Policies

All transportation is in air-conditioned coaches or minivans, designed for comfort and convenience. The tour guarantees skip-the-line access for major sites, saving time. Most travelers can participate, although bags and purses are prohibited at the USS Arizona Memorial for security reasons. Cameras are permitted, but camera bags are not allowed.

Light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket are recommended, especially in case of rain. The tour is ADA accessible with prior reservation, and the group size is capped at 50 travelers to ensure a manageable experience.

Limitations and Considerations for Tour Enthusiasts

One notable limitation involves the shuttle boat tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, which are limited in capacity and subject to availability. Bad weather can also cause cancellations or delays, so flexibility is advised. Reviewers also mention that some participants experienced waiting times, which can cut into time at certain sites, and the no bag policy should be acknowledged in advance.

Lastly, the tour does not include lunch, so visitors should plan accordingly or bring snacks for the day.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Tour with Important Caveats

The Stars and Stripes Tour provides a comprehensive look at Honolulu’s key military and memorial sites in a manageable 7-hour format. Its inclusion of guided tours, admission fees, and hotel pickup makes it a convenient choice for those interested in U.S. history and naval heritage.

While the experience is generally positive, potential limitations such as capacity restrictions and the no bag policy should be considered. This tour is ideal for history buffs, veterans’ families, or anyone wanting an organized, educational day exploring Pearl Harbor, the Battleship Missouri, and Honolulu’s memorials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned coach or minivan is included, with pickup and drop-off at selected hotels.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including visits to all major sites and downtown Honolulu.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission fees for the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and memorials are covered.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket are recommended. Remember that bags and purses are not allowed at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Can I bring a camera?
Yes, cameras are permitted, but camera bags are not allowed at the memorial.

What if the shuttle boat to the USS Arizona is unavailable?
Limited capacity and weather can prevent shuttle operation, which may affect access to the USS Arizona Memorial.

Is the tour accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, with prior reservation, ADA accommodations can be made.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour is priced at $149 per person.

What is the group’s maximum size?
The group size is limited to 50 travelers to ensure a comfortable experience.