Top Gun Movie Locations Tour in San Diego (Private)
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is the only tour to my knowledge where you can visit many of the Top Gun filming locations in San Diego County. You will get to see why movie producers selected this part of the world when choosing a great movie location.
Available options
Top Gun Movie Locations Tour in San Diego (Private)
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Liberty Station | 2820 Roosevelt Rd. (at Historic Decatur Road), Point Loma
This historic location used to serve as the Naval Training Center San Diego and is seen around the 52:33 mark, as Charlie tries to catch up with Maverick. We’d recognize those arches + windows anywhere.
2
The Graves House (aka “Charlie’s House ”) | 250 N. Pacific St. (at Mission Pacific Hotel), Oceanside
The seaside cottage and its sweeping views in San Diego’s North County is unforgettable at the film’s 42:48 mark, as Maverick rides his motorcycle to the front door — and again at 1:24:51.
The small, folk-style Victorian bungalow was built in 1887 by Dr. Henry Graves, and is the one of the oldest homes still standing in Oceanside. In May 2020, the home was moved down the street from its original location to the new Mission Pacific Hotel .
Restored and looking gorgeous , “Charlie’s House” reopened in May 2022 as a sweets shop called High-Pie . It’s open daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
3
Kansas City Barbeque | 600 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero
This longtime sports bar + BBQ restaurant is where Goose (Anthony Edwards) and Maverick (Tom Cruise) hop on the piano and play “Great Balls of Fire” as Carole (Meg Ryan) and Charlie (Kelly McGillis) sing along. If you’re streaming the movie, catch the location at around the 1:01:37 mark and again at 1:43.
Kansas City Barbeque
There’s “Top Gun” memorabilia in every nook + cranny of Kansas City Barbeque.
Today, Kansas City Barbeque is filled to the brim with memorabilia from the movie — and that very same piano, which is the bar owner’s personal childhood instrument. You can even sit at the keys and have yourself a little fan moment. Pro tip: This famous spot can get crowded on weekends, so consider a weekday visit.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
This historic aircraft carrier, now a massive museum on San Diego’s Embarcadero, hosted the splashy world premiere of “Top Gun: Maverick” earlier in May — complete with an appearance by Tom Cruise, who arrived at the ship by helicopter. (Other premiere events took place on Coronado and at Downtown’s Civic Theatre.) The USS Midway Museum, a floating city at sea, is a place that real-life counterparts to Maverick, Goose and Iceman called home. Now you can explore the ship’s galleys, sleeping quarters, the 4-acre flight deck and more.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
New Point Loma Lighthouse
This sprawling property at the tip of Point Loma served as the home of “Viper,” the commanding officer of Top Gun in the movie. These nice digs are best seen from Cabrillo National Monument or by boat sailing around the tip of Point Loma.
6
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery was featured in Top Gun: Maverick as the location for Iceman's funeral. The cemetery is a real, active U.S. Navy national cemetery located in San Diego, California, offering visitors and family members a chance to pay their respects among white headstones with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Outside the main entrance of the hotel lobby.
About San Diego
San Diego is known for its mild year-round climate, extensive beaches, and beautiful parks. It's a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers of all kinds.
Top Attractions
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, known for its extensive collection of animals and beautiful landscaping. It's a must-visit for animal lovers and families.
Zoo
4-6 hours
Expensive (around $60 for adults, $48 for children)
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park that houses museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. It's a great place to spend a day exploring art, history, and nature.
Park
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions require admission fees)
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a beautiful coastal area known for its sea caves, tide pools, and marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and whale watching.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (some activities require fees)
USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum is a historic aircraft carrier that has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, hangars, and exhibits, and even take a simulated flight in a fighter jet.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $26 for adults, $12 for children)
Gaslamp Quarter
The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian-era buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's a great place to explore the city's history and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
Historical
2-4 hours
Free (some attractions require fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
A San Diego specialty, fish tacos are made with fresh, locally caught fish, usually served with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free options available
Burrata
A creamy, rich Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Birria Tacos
A Mexican dish made with slow-cooked, spiced meat, usually served with corn tortillas and consommé for dipping.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast and brunch dish made with toasted bread, mashed avocado, and various toppings.
Breakfast/Brunch
Vegetarian, Vegan options available
Popular Activities
Surfing
Kayaking
Hiking
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Spas
Museums
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
March to May and September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-24°C
59-75°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST) or GMT-7 (Pacific Daylight Time, PDT) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Diego is generally a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the United States. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and avoid unmarked taxis.
- • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially in your car or when using public transportation.
Getting there
By air
- San Diego International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from downtown
By train
San Diego Santa Fe Depot
By bus
Greyhound Station, San Diego Metro Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
The MTS bus system covers the entire city and is affordable and reliable. Buses are a good option for getting around, especially during off-peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gaslamp Quarter
La Jolla
Little Italy
Pacific Beach
Hillcrest
Day trips
Coronado Island
6 miles (10 km) from downtown • Half day to full day
Coronado Island is a beautiful beach town known for its historic Hotel del Coronado, sandy beaches, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the sun, and explore the island's history.
Tijuana
20 miles (32 km) from downtown • Full day
Tijuana is a vibrant border city known for its Mexican cuisine, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to experience authentic Mexican culture and enjoy its culinary scene.
Temecula Valley Wine Country
60 miles (97 km) from downtown • Full day
Temecula Valley Wine Country is a picturesque region known for its wineries, vineyards, and scenic views. It's a great place to spend a day tasting wine, enjoying the countryside, and relaxing.
Festivals
Comic-Con International • July
San Diego International Film Festival • October
San Diego Street Food Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit Balboa Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Explore the city's beaches and coastal areas, such as La Jolla Cove and Coronado Island, for stunning views and unique experiences.
- Try San Diego's famous fish tacos and craft beer at local restaurants and breweries.
- Take a guided tour of the USS Midway Museum for a behind-the-scenes look at this historic aircraft carrier.
- Visit during the off-peak season (December to February) for fewer crowds and lower prices.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
