Every sailor remembers their ship.
The Great Ships experience celebrates the U.S. Navy ships and sailors that helped shape our nation and protect the freedom of the seas. From historic naval vessels and famous battleships to aircraft carriers, destroyers, cruisers, and modern warships, these ships carried generations of Americans into service. They were homes, workplaces, and communities where careers began and friendships were made.
A first of its kind, Great Ships features a 68-foot high-definition LED wall showcasing more than 300 ships through immersive digital storytelling and dynamic content. Visitors can explore the vessels, missions, and sailor stories that define the history of the U.S. Surface Navy. It creates a powerful connection between past, present, and future generations.
Great Ships is located aboard Battleship IOWA in Los Angeles is presented by the Edward & Marie Matthews Foundation with support from Daughters of the American Revolution and people throughout the Nation.
What You'll Experience
- 300+ Navy ships.
- Ships brought alive by a massive LED display.
- Stories of sailors and shipmates.
- Interactive and ever-changing content.
- Included with admission.
Plan Your Visit
Location
Aft 3rd deck
Date Opened
May 31, 2026
Open
7 days per week.
Included with all admissions.
Sponsor a Great Ship
Great Ships was a vision that was driven by sailors and families that were passionate about memorializing there ships in the new museum experience. You too can support your favorite Great Ship by nominating or donating below.
Featured Ships: Icons of Naval History
Legendary ships played pivotal roles in naval warfare, innovation, and history protrude from the wall with dynamic content.
Choose the ship below you want to support!
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Identifier Ships: Vessels That Shaped the Fleet
Ships representing key advancements and milestones in naval history highlighted with name and class of ship.
Choose the ship below you want to support!
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USS Demologus aka Fulton (1814) |
USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG-58) USS Samuel L Gravely (DDG-107) |
Fleet Ships: The Backbone of the U.S. Navy
Ships showcasing the vast strength, reach, and capability of the Navy’s fleet searchable by kiosk.
Choose the class or ship you want to nominate or sponsor.
Age of Sail
Sloop of War (10)
Frigate (4)