View of the simulator and virtual reality rides on the USS Yorktown.
Monday
October6

Open today from 10AM to 5PM

40 Patriots Point Rd.
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
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Flying Circus Simulator & Virtual Reality Ride

Additional ticket purchase required. Choose your adventure—or bundle both for the best value—and get ready to feel history like never before.

 

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Experience history in motion at Patriots Point!

Step into the action with two thrilling new rides that combine the power of storytelling with the excitement of modern technology. Inspired by real WWII aerial combat and the legendary “Flying Circus” squadron of the USS Yorktown, these experiences bring history to life through immersive motion and virtual reality.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, you'll find it here. Located in Hangar Bay 3 aboard the USS Yorktown, these rides are a powerful extension of Patriots Point’s mission—to not just share history, but to make you feel the courage and legacy of those who lived it.

Choose Your Adventure

View of steps leading up to a flight simulator pod.
Simulator Ride ($10/person)

Riders must be at least 38 inches tall to participate. Purchase tickets in advance online or during your visit.
Man and two children get strapped in with a VR headset.
Virtual Reality Ride ($11/person)

Ages 13 and up. Purchase tickets in advance online or during your visit.
Picture collage of the Simulator and VR bundled rides
Flying Circus Bundle ($19/person)

Bundle and Save! To enjoy both rides, riders must be at least 13 years old and 38 inches tall. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or on-site during your visit.
Vintage photo of four mean posing in front of an airplane.

Discover the Legend Behind the Thrills

These rides honor Lt. Eugene Valencia and his "Flying Circus" squadron, who flew off the USS Yorktown in 1945. Valencia’s innovative “fluid four” fighter tactics led to 50 confirmed air victories and established VF‑9 as one of the Navy’s most effective units.

Read more about the history of Valencia's Flying Circus.

In Search Of More Adventure?

image of a woman giving a tour in an aviation museum
Tour

Captain's Tour

Learn what life was like for sailors during World War II, Vietnam, and the recovery of the Apollo 8 space capsule while touring areas of the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown that are off-limits to the...
Additional $18 ticket purchase required.
image of a river boat used in the Vietnam War sitting in water
From The Collections

MK1 River Patrol Boat

A Hero’s Welcome Home This patrol boat is on loan from Naval History and Heritage Command. MK1 River Patrol Boat (PBR) dedicated to Medal of Honor recipient James Elliot Williams (see Medal of Honor...
Included with admission.
Mother and son in the Combat Information Center
Experience

Combat Information Center

Experience radio transmissions that recreate one of the many tense moments aboard a ship, and understand how the USS Laffey served the US Navy during the Cold War.
Included with admission.