The giant aircraft carrier USS Midway was one of the navy’s flagships from 1945 to 1991, last playing a combat role in the first Gulf War. On the flight deck of the hulking vessel, walk right up to some 25 restored aircraft including an F-14 Tomcat and F-4 Phantom jet fighter. Admission includes an audio tour, along the narrow confines of the upper decks to the bridge, admiral’s war room, brig and ‘pri-fly’ (primary flight control; the carrier’s equivalent of a control tower).
If lines are long, docents are there to illuminate and enliven. There are also three flight simulators (phone for rates and reservations). Some inside areas get stuffy on warm summer days: come early to avoid midday heat and crowds. Allow at least two to four hours on board. Parking costs $10.
