The ship was nicknamed the 'Battleship of Presidents' because it transported Franklin D. Roosevelt across the Atlantic in 1943.
It is the only U.S. Navy ship to feature a bathtub, which was custom-installed specifically for President Roosevelt.
The ship's nine 16-inch guns could fire 2,700-pound projectiles over 20 miles.
During the Korean War, the USS Iowa fired more than 16,000 rounds of ammunition.
The vessel weighs approximately 45,000 tons and reaches speeds over 30 knots.
It was featured in the 2012 film Battleship, which utilized the vessel as a primary filming location.
The ship's crew size during its peak service reached over 2,700 personnel.
The interior contains a fully functional post office used by the crew during active duty.
The Battleship IOWA Museum is an Iowa-class battleship permanently docked in the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro. Commissioned in 1943, the vessel served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Visitors can access multiple decks, including the bridge, mess decks, and gun turrets. The ship functions as a self-guided maritime museum highlighting naval technology and sailor life. Interactive exhibits are designed for children, including a scavenger hunt experience. It serves as a National Museum of the Surface Navy. The ship is a decommissioned asset of the United States Navy now maintained for educational purposes. It is currently open and fully operational as of June 2026.
From the pier directly in front of the bow to capture the sheer scale of the ship's front hull.
Wear comfortable, flat, closed-toe shoes as you will be navigating steep ladders and narrow hatchways.
Download the official museum app before arriving to access audio tours throughout the ship.
Visit the lower decks first to avoid the afternoon crowds that typically congregate on the top deck.
Do not attempt to explore the ship in flip-flops or high heels, as the stairways are steep and potentially slippery.
No smoking, climbing on restricted equipment, or touching delicate navigational instruments.
