Battleship IOWA Guided Gun Tour and Self-Guided Experience

The IOWA Experience + Crew-Led “Big Guns” Tour
Approx. 4.5-hour experience • Ages 10+ • Advance purchase required

Step into the boots of a battleship sailor in this exclusive behind-the-scenes journey aboard Battleship IOWA. Start with the IOWA Experience, a self-guided tour across five decks that showcases the ship’s presidential legacy, interactive exhibits, sailor stories, and a fun scavenger hunt led by Vicky the Dog.

NOTE: Please arrive earlier in the day to complete the self-guided IOWA Experience before your crew-led “Big Guns” Tour at 1:30 PM.

Then, go deeper with a 2.5-hour crew-led tour into rarely seen spaces—areas of the ship that powered her dominance during World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Descend through hatches and climb through passageways as you explore:

• The 5-inch gun house, where sailors loaded live rounds into dual-purpose naval guns
• The 5-inch gun upper handling room, where ammunition was received from below
• The 5-inch magazine, where hundreds of rounds were carefully stored
• The aft battery plot, the critical fire control center used to aim and fire both the 5-inch and 16-inch guns
• And the highlight: a walk inside one of the ship’s massive 16-inch gun turrets—among the most powerful naval gun systems still in existence today

Along the way, hear stories of courage, innovation, and daily life aboard from a member of our current crew who helps preserve this legendary ship.

Due to the physically demanding nature of this tour and access to confined spaces, it is limited to guests aged 10+ and not recommended for those with mobility limitations. Closed-toe shoes required.

Tour offered on Saturdays and Sundays only. Spaces are limited and advance reservation is required.

⚠️ Important Details

• Closed-toe shoes required.
• This experience is physically demanding and involves ladders, tight spaces, and grated decks.
• Not recommended for guests under 10 or those with mobility limitations.
• Offered on select days. Advance reservations are required due to limited space.