On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked the U.S. military bases at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, thus instigating America's entry into World War II. The USS Arizona was sunk with 1177 lives lost, and the battleship has remained in Pearl Harbor's waters ever since. In 1962, a memorial commemorating the tragedy was opened to the public, and it's since become one of Honolulu's top visitor attractions. What's now called the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center was last remodeled and modernized in 2010, but the heart of the experience remains the boat ride that takes you to the memorial; a long white structure that's moored above the sunken ship, and features an entry room, assembly room, and shrine, with the names of everyone who lost their lives on the ship. The grounds of the Visitor Center also have other exhibits and plenty of places from which to survey "Battleship Row."
How to get to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Numerous tour companies and shuttles offer trips to Pearl Harbor. For public transportation via TheBus, take route 20 or 42. From Waikiki by car, go west on H1 to exit 15A, the Arizona Memorial/Stadium exit, and follow the signs.
Best and worst times to go to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Crowds are lighter earlier in the day. Much of the Center is outdoors, so this isn't a good "rainy day" option. If it's a special occasion — the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7 for example — it will be a lot more crowded.
Admission to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
The main attraction is the boat launch to the sunken Arizona, and tickets are free. Walk up tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets can also be reserved up to two months in advance, either online or by calling (877) 444-6777. The Visitor Center is open from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Must see/do at Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Don't miss the two exhibit galleries, which feature a lot of interesting information. Be sure to take at a look at the Arizona's bell and anchor, which are mounted on the grounds. Audio tours are also available, and you can find one of a kind souvenirs at the book store.
Other places to visit near Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
You can delve even deeper into World War II's history at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, which is part of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. You can also buy tickets for the USS Missouri Memorial tour and the Pacific Aviation Museum at the Visitor Center; shuttle buses then take you to each attraction.
Insider tip for visitors to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Bags of any size are not allowed on site. So make sure you're wearing something with pockets, where you can keep your wallet and camera. Bag storage is available, for a fee.
Author's bio: Gillian G. Gaar is a Seattle-based freelancer who writes about music, entertainment, and travel. Hawaii is one of her favorite destinations.
One of Columbus, Ohio's several theatres, Ohio Theatre stands out from the others because of its Spanish-Baroque architecture and design. With a seating capacity of nearly 3,000, Ohio Theatre hosts over 100 concerts and performances throughout the year. Also known as "the Ohio," Ohio Theatre is officially the busiest performing arts facility in the state.
Parking and Public Transportation to Ohio Theatre
Visitors to Ohio Theatre can park in the Columbus Commons parking garages off of Third or Rich Streets or in the Statehouse parking garage off of Third Street.
The nearest bus stop to Ohio Theatre is at East State Street and South High Street, which is just a minute's walk from the theatre. For those who will be at the theatre for a while, the cost of public transportation will likely be cheaper than the cost of parking in the parking garages.
Getting Tickets at Ohio Theatre
Those who are Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) members can purchase tickets online through the CAPA concierge, while non-CAPA members can purchase tickets through the Ticketmaster website.
Another way to order tickets is by calling the CAPA Ticket Center at 614-469-0939 or Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.
Tickets can also be ordered in person at the CAPA Ticket Center at the Ohio Theatre or any Ticketmaster outlet.
Type of Concerts at Ohio Theatre
Ohio Theatre features a variety of music/performances, including everything from classical music to modern dance.
The theatre often features many local artists and groups, including the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and BalletMet.
Some notable artists that have performed at Ohio Theatre in the past include Julie Andrews, Yo-Yo Ma, the Boston Pops, and Carole King,
Other Places to Visit Near Ohio Theatre
For those who would like to visit another major Ohio landmark, the Ohio Statehouse is located across the street. Visitors can go on free guided tours of the Capitol Square complex Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and on Saturday-Sunday from noon-3 p.m.
The Supreme Court of Ohio is also within walking distance of Ohio Theatre. Visitors need to schedule a tour of the courthouse in advance and can call the Visitor Education Center at 614-387-9223 for more information. If court is in session, visitors are encouraged to come watch the proceedings.
One of the best restaurants near Ohio Theatre is called Schmidt's. Located in the popular German Village neighborhood, Schmidt's is only a six minute drive from Ohio Theatre. Schmidt's is known for its authentic German cuisine, including the Bahama Mama sausage and half pound cream puffs.
Where to Stay near Ohio Theatre
Since Ohio Theatre is located in downtown Columbus, there is no shortage of hotel options to choose from.
The CAPA website lists several downtown hotels near Ohio Theatre, including the Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square, which has been CAPA's featured partner. The Sheraton Hotel is ideal for Ohio Theatre visitors, since it is only a minute's walk from the theatre. The Sheraton Hotel also overlooks the Ohio Statehouse, providing guests with a beautiful view of one of Ohio's historic landmarks.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Ohio Theatre
Ticket prices for performances at Ohio Theatre vary depending on the type of performance and the popularity of the artist(s). For some performances, tickets in the balcony section may cost just as much as tickets in the front orchestra section. As a general rule, seats in the mezzanine section are the best in terms of view and value.
Author's bio: Miranda Roehler grew up in Northwest Ohio. She studied Creative Writing and History at The University of Findlay and has been published in multiple international journals.
