Spanning two historic WWII-era hangars filled with aircraft, exhibits, and artifacts of the men and women who gave their lives for freedom, and the newly restored Ford Island Control Tower, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offers a can’t-miss stop on your pilgrimage to Pearl Harbor.
Housed in an authentic World War II-era hangar, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum’s Hangar 37 is home to the artifacts of our collection that tell the story of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor and beyond. Upon entering the 25,000 square foot exhibit area, guests are drawn into the moment of the attack with the authentic examples of the aircraft that appeared in the skies that fateful day, as well as maps and other artifacts from our collection that add depth to this captivating story. Hangar 37 sheds new light on the “date that will live in infamy” and marks the beginning of the story that launched America into World War II, a global conflict that shaped our world today.
Hangar 79 picks up where the story in Hangar 37 leaves off, documenting the rise of American air superiority that was established in World War II and continued to climb in subsequent decades in the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Gulf Wars. This 80,000-square-foot maintenance and engine repair facility also withstood the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, as evidenced by the blue glass windows riddled with bullet holes left by the battle.
Hangar Guided Tour - An hour-long Guided Tour of Hangars 37 & 79. An intimate tour with our expert Docents, creates an unforgettable and deeply-moving experience you’re sure to remember forever.
Top of the Tower Tour - Experience a first-class guided tour, which includes a ride in the originally restored elevator to the upper cab, where guests are met with a 360 degree view of the battlefield from the observation deck. Docents will lead guests on a journey through the morning of December 7, 1941 and share compelling stories of sacrifice and bravery.
In addition to our stunning exhibits, Hangar 37 is home to our Fighter Ace 360 Flight Simulators, two new simulators with 360-degree motion across two axes for a heart thumping dogfight across Pacific waters. Guests also enjoy browsing in our Museum Store or enjoying a meal at Hangar Cafe, the only dine-in restaurant at Pearl Harbor, and the only place to enjoy beer or wine during your visit to the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.
