Operating Hours

Planning a visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial requires an understanding of operating hours, program schedules, and seasonal patterns. Below you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your trip, from when the visitor center is open to practical tips for securing your spot on the USS Arizona Memorial program.

Operating Hours of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., giving visitors plenty of time to explore its two museums, exhibits, and memorial grounds. Entrance to the visitor center and the USS Arizona Memorial program is free of charge.

Open Days: Seven days a week, 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Closed Days: Thanksgiving Day, December 25 (Christmas), and January 1 (New Year’s Day).
Holiday Hours: Normal operating hours on all other holidays.

Weather Impacts

Hawaii’s tropical weather can change quickly. In rare cases of heavy rain, high winds, or storms, the visitor center or boat rides to the USS Arizona Memorial may close early or be suspended. Updates are posted on the official website and social media channels.

USS Arizona Memorial Program Schedule

The USS Arizona Memorial program is the highlight of most visits. This moving experience lasts about 45 minutes and includes:

Navy Shuttle Boat Ride: A short journey from the visitor center across Pearl Harbor.
Time at the Memorial: 15 minutes to reflect at the site above the sunken battleship.
Return Ride: Transport back to the visitor center.

Program Start Times: Every 15 minutes beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Last Program: Departs at 3:30 p.m.

Tip: Boat rides may be canceled on short notice if high winds make conditions unsafe. Always confirm on the day of your visit.

Reservations and Check-In

Reservations: Walk-up tickets are no longer available. Book online in advance to secure your spot.
Arrival: Plan to arrive one hour before your scheduled program time.
Check-In: Confirm at the Memorial Theater validation desk 10 minutes prior to departure. Unused seats may be reassigned to standby visitors.
Film Viewing: A 23-minute documentary film about the attack on Pearl Harbor plays in Theater 2 before departure.

Access to Other Memorials

Beyond the Arizona Memorial, two other important World War II memorials are located on Ford Island:

USS Oklahoma Memorial
USS Utah Memorial

These sites are accessible only to those with military base clearance. If you are visiting as part of an organized tour, check whether base access is included.

Best Seasons and Crowds

Pearl Harbor is among the top three most visited attractions in Hawai‘i, welcoming more than a million visitors annually. Expect the largest crowds during:

Summer (June–August)
Winter holidays (late December)
Spring break (March–April)

To avoid disappointment, reserve tickets well ahead of time during these peak seasons. Early morning programs (8:00–9:00 a.m.) are generally less crowded and cooler.

Practical Visitor Tips

What to Bring: Light clothing, sunscreen, and water. Bags are not allowed inside the visitor center (paid storage lockers available).
Parking: On-site parking is available for a daily fee. Arrive early as spaces fill quickly.
Accessibility: The visitor center and USS Arizona Memorial are wheelchair accessible.
Safety: Follow all Navy crew instructions on shuttle boats and plan for sudden weather shifts.

Plan Your Visit Today

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is more than a tourist attraction – it is a place of remembrance and reflection. Whether you are drawn by history, patriotism, or curiosity, preparing with the right information will ensure a meaningful experience.