At Berth 84 in San Pedro, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum traces the harbor’s naval and commercial past through ship models, historical photographs and exhibits on the Navy, fishing and canning industries. Set in the former Municipal Ferry Terminal, the museum also has video presentations and an upstairs children’s area with toys and costumes. Step out onto the deck for views of the harbor and shipping channels. Admission is donation-based, with $5 suggested for adults; check ahead because renovations may close some sections.
A former ferry terminal
The museum occupies San Pedro’s Municipal Ferry Terminal, built in 1941. From 1941 to 1963, ferries carried passengers to industries and military bases on Terminal Island. The terminal now houses exhibits on the Port of Los Angeles and the people and work connected with it.
The displays cover naval history alongside the fishing and canning industries. Historical photographs show old San Pedro, while ship equipment and other objects give context to the models and written information. Video presentations cover maritime subjects, including the history of the US Navy.
Ships, sailors and the harbor
Model vessels span different eras and countries. The Navy Hall includes large ship models, among them a model of the SS Poseidon from the 1972 film The Poseidon Adventure. Other exhibits cover commercial diving in Los Angeles Harbor and the local fishing industry. Models of merchant ships include the Silverpalm and square-riggers.
The museum also displays artwork made by sailors and has a functioning radio station. Upstairs, children can explore a play area with toys and costumes. An outside deck looks toward the harbor and its shipping channels, linking the displays to the working waterfront beyond the building.
FAQ
Where is the Los Angeles Maritime Museum?
It is at Berth 84 in San Pedro, Los Angeles, at Sixth Street and Harbor Boulevard.
What is the suggested admission donation?
Admission is donation-based, with $5 suggested for adults.
When is the museum open?
It is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 12 to 5 pm.
Is there anything for children?
Yes. An upstairs children’s area has toys and costumes.
