Explore two WWII-era hangars on Ford Island with veteran docents guiding a 60-minute behind-the-scenes tour at the Pacific Aviation Museum. See restoration work, bullet-scarred timbers from December 7, and gain general admission to the museum’s exhibits.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step through the yawning door of Hangar 37 and the air changes — a mix of oil, metal, and history. Sunlight slices across riveted fuselages while a docent, voice low and sure, traces the trajectory of aircraft and people across seven decades of Pacific aviation. For a focused 60 minutes, the Aviator’s Hangar Guided Tour stitches together the wreck-marked timbers of Hangar 79, the restoration benches of the Lt. Ted Shealy Shop, and the silent wings of aircraft waiting to fly again.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires short, easy walks and standing during presentations
Wildlife
History
Ford Island and its hangars were central to Pacific aviation operations; Hangar 79 still bears bullet and shrapnel marks from the December 7, 1941 attack.
Conservation
The museum maintains active aircraft restoration programs and encourages low-impact visitation—please don’t touch artifacts and stay on designated paths to protect fragile historic fabric.
Reserve your spot on the Hangar Guided Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 15–30 minutes early
Allow extra time for check-in at Hangar 37 and security screening so the tour can start promptly.
Wear sun protection
Much of the walking between exhibits is outdoors; bring sunscreen and a hat for the harbor-side exposure.
Comfortable, flat shoes
Surfaces are mostly concrete and hangar floors—sturdy, closed-toe shoes make close-up viewing of restorations easier.
Respect exhibit rules
Docents may restrict flash photography near sensitive artifacts and restoration work—ask before photographing.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Provides stable footing on hangar floors and outdoor walkways.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong Hawaiian sun during outdoor portions of the tour.
summer
Compact camera or smartphone
Useful for capturing restoration details and aircraft exteriors—observe any photography restrictions.
Light wind layer
Trade winds and occasional showers can make mornings breezy; a packable layer is practical.
winter