USS Hornet (USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum)
Ways to visit USS Hornet (USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum)
USS Hornet Museum admission offers visitors access to the decommissioned ship's Hangar Deck, Flight Deck, and Second Deck. If you prefer to explore on your own, grab a map and take the self-guided tour, complete with an audio guide packed with details about the ship. Military history fans shouldn't miss a complimentary, docent-led tour. Tours last about an hour and offer access to ship sections not shown to independent visitors.
Things to know before you go to USS Hornet (USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum)
- History fans appreciate the USS Hornet, a National Historic Landmark.
- Aviation enthusiasts find assault helicopters, supersonic aircraft, and strike fighters.
- You should spend at least two hours aboard to see everything.
- Members of the military, seniors, and kids receive discounted admission; children aged six and under are admitted free of charge.
- The Hangar Deck is accessible for guests in wheelchairs, though the ship isn't fully wheelchair accessible; virtual tours are available.
How to get to USS Hornet (USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum)
Located in Alameda—across the bay from San Francisco—the most convenient way to reach the USS Hornet Museum is to drive. Take I-880 to the Broadway/Alameda exit, and head to Alameda via Webster Street. You can also take public transit. Hop on the BART train from San Francisco or the East Bay, and get out at the 12th Street station. From there, you should take a taxi to Alameda—it's about 10 minutes by car.
When to visit USS Hornet (USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum)
The USS Hornet Museum is open daily, and closed on major holidays. Though there's really no bad time to visit, plan to arrive when the sun's shining, since you'll want to spend time on the Flight Deck. Check the calendar before you arrive for special events and public programs. After-hours tours, paranormal tours, and even chapel services are hosted frequently.
How to Explore the Bay Area on a Budget
Since several top Bay Area attractions are located in Oakland, San Francisco, and even the North Bay (across the Golden Gate Bridge), your best bet for maximizing your time—and your budget—is to buy a sightseeing pass. Passes often include complimentary admission to the USS Hornet Museum, and typically offer popular activities like hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike rentals, and neighborhood walking tours—all for one low price.