The USS Hornet was in action during WWII and the Vietnam era. Although she was never hit herself, her aircraft did considerable damage against enemy ships and airplanes.
There's much to love in visiting this historical landmark in Alameda. Tours through the USS Hornet aircraft carrier can be self-guided, but I highly recommend a docent-led excursion. The tour is a fascinating exploration of the aircraft carrier -- taking you through restricted areas of the ship with the benefit of background and context from an experienced guide.
What You'll See on the Tour
The USS Hornet Museum tour begins with an orientation on the Hangar Deck which is also the main floor of the museum and museum store. The docent then takes the tour group to the second deck, where you navigate several ladders and some low clearance to see the the engine room and steam turbines, as well as the living areas of the carrier.
Our docent was a retired Chief Petty Officer in the Navy, which added layers of discussion to an already thorough narrative about these areas of the ship.
Through a series of climbs and descents on interior ladders, you'll make your way through compartments of the ship, including the catapult area which housed the hydraulic catapults for aircraft launches. You'll also get details on aircraft operation and landings, as well as insight into the daily lives of officers and enlisted men who served on the USS Hornet -- often in unbelievably challenging circumstances and tight quarters.
After the tour, you're free to roam the museum or make your way to other areas of the decks.
USS Hornet Tour Logistics
Tours last between two and three hours which means a considerable amount of time on your feet. The time passes quickly, however, as each move on the itinerary offers an alternative realm of discovery.
There is quite a bit of ladder climbing and descending throughout the walk in order to access upper and lower decks. The ladders all have handrails or chains for support, but keep these physical parameters in mind when deciding whether or not to embark on the tour.
If you've toured other such vessels, you'll know that some of the spaces are small and you spend a significant amount of time on lower, enclosed decks which might make some uncomfortable. At the same time, it's impossible to get an authentic feel for the USS Hornet's full history without experiencing those facets.
Docent-led tours are included with the price of admission. The USS Hornet Museum recommends arriving before 1p to sign up for one of the guided walks.
USS Hornet Facts
- The USS Hornet was built in 16 months (with women making up one quarter of the crew) and was launched in 1943
- The Hornet saw action in the Pacific during WWII, and was involved in the Vietnam conflict
- The USS Hornet recovered the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 space capsules
- The vessel was decommissioned in 1970
- She was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1991
- The USS Hornet became a public museum in 1998
Source: USS Hornet Museum
About the Museum
Hangar Deck
The Hangar Deck, where you first enter the USS Hornet, has a beautiful display of fighter planes, and an extensive exhibit of the Apollo-related activities of the aircraft carrier. You can also see some of the museum's restoration projects in Hangar Bay 3 near the fantail.
There's a flight simulator for a small added charge of $5.
Special Events
The museum hosts various activities throughout the year, including a Halloween event (the USS Hornet is said to be haunted), a Flashlight Tour of areas not yet opened to the public, overnight programs, and special events, including birthday parties and meetings.
USS Hornet Museum - Visitor Information
Hours:
- Everyday: 10a to 5p (gates close at 4p)
- Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day
Admission:
- Adults: $14
- Seniors: $12
- Youth (5-17): $6
- Children under 4 - free with paying adult
** Prices and hours are subject to change. Check the website for current information.
USS Hornet Museum Location
707 W Hornet Avenue
Pier 3, Alameda Point
Alameda, CA 94501
Telephone: (510) 521-8448
USS Hornet Museum Website