How to get USS Arizona Memorial Tickets
Pearl Harbor, located in Hawaii, is home to the USS Arizona Memorial, a tribute to those lost in the December 7, 1941 attack. Visiting the memorial provides a moving insight into American history and the sacrifices for freedom. To enhance your visit, secure tickets in advance for the popular boat ride to the memorial.
Our friendly Reservation Service can help to secure your spot to the Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona. Call or Text: +1 (808) 400 – 4481
How to Visit the Arizona Memorial Without a Reservation (The Easy Way)
Did you wake up this morning realizing you didn’t snag those elusive tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial? Don’t panic—and more importantly—don’t get ready to stand in the hot sun for hours.
As we showed in our latest video update from Pearl Harbor, the National Park Service has completely revamped the standby process, and it is a game-changer for visitors.
The Old Way vs. The New Way
In the past, if you didn’t have a reservation, your only option was the dreaded “Standby Line.” This meant physically standing in line, sometimes for hours, hoping for a no-show so you could take a seat on the shuttle boat. You couldn’t leave to get water, use the restroom, or see the museums without losing your spot.
The good news? That physical line is effectively gone.
How the New “Virtual” Standby System Works
Pearl Harbor has introduced a smart check-in system that frees up your time. Here is the step-by-step process we covered in the video:
Locate the Sign: When you arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, look for the sign that says “Arizona Memorial Standby Check-In.”
Digital Check-In: Instead of standing behind a rope, you will enter your information into a kiosk or iPad. You’ll need to provide:
Your Name
Your Phone Number
Your Party Size
Get Confirmation: You will receive an immediate text message confirming you are on the list (e.g., “Thank you for joining the USS Arizona Memorial standby line”).
Explore While You Wait: This is the best part. Once you are on the list, you are free to roam! You can visit the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, check out the exhibit galleries, grab a snack, or just enjoy the view of the harbor.
Watch Your Phone: When seats become available, you will receive a second text message telling you it’s time to return.
The 10-Minute Rule: Important! Once you get that second text, you have approximately 10 minutes to make your way back to the callback line. Don’t wander too far!
Why We Love This Change
This new system turns “waiting” into “exploring.” You get to experience more of Pearl Harbor’s history instead of staring at the back of someone’s head in a queue. It makes the day much less stressful and allows you to maximize your time at this historic site.
Want to Make Your Visit Even Easier?
While the standby system is great for last-minute travelers, the best way to experience Pearl Harbor is with a knowledgeable guide who handles the logistics for you.
At Daniels Hawaii, we offer private and semi-private Pearl Harbor tours that take the stress out of transportation and timing. We can help you navigate the park, suggest the best times to arrive, and ensure you get the most out of your Hawaiian vacation.