Navy Pier

For anyone with an interest in modern warfare, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination. The United States naval ship Midway has recently been decommissioned and it has been opened here as the Aircraft Carrier Museum. This enormous, historic boat gave almost half a century of active service from 1945 until the first Iraq war.It hosts over 20 different airplanes, from a lovingly restored World War II veteran to a fighter jet from Operation Desert Storm in 1991. The fascinating tour takes most of an afternoon, but even if you can't spare the time for that, it's still worth coming up the gangplank and enjoying the panoramic views from the deck. Current American navy ships also tie-up at Navy Pier, and guided tours are often available on them, free of charge.San Diego is the largest naval base on the west coast of the United States of America, and many of the craft dock at Naval Air Station North Island. Head north to Broadway Pier for views out towards some of the best military hardware that money can buy.As well as its importance to the armed forces, Navy Pier is gloriously placed on the waterfront. Take a stroll southwards to find pleasant green spaces and the celebrated Fish Market Restaurant. Enjoy some fresh, local seafood as you look out at what was once the port of one of the largest tuna-fishing fleets in the world. A little further on is Seaport Village, which has a range of shops and restaurants to choose from, or continue your stroll for scenic views across the sea to Coronado Island.