The Kiss Statue (Unconditional Surrender) Is Back to Stay

This monumental statue was on temporary loan to San Diego in the past few years, but due to the generosity of local residents, a permanent version is now installed opposite the USS Midway Museum on Harbor Drive. The original statue, “Unconditional Surrender,” harkens back to an iconic VJ-Day photograph from Life magazine by Alfred Eisenstadt (but is supposedly really based on another photo by Victor Jorgensen of the same kissing couple), captured in Times Square on August 14, 1945. The original statue was sculpted by J. Seward Johnson. This more durable copy is also known as “The Kiss Statue.” Not everyone is in love with this new addition to the waterfront, but you have to see it to believe it, and it does make an amazing photo opportunity. The statue is located in what is known as Tuna Harbor, right beside The Fish Market restaurant and on the north end of Seaport Village. There is also a number of other military statues and tributes in that area, including one to Bob Hope and his visits to bases over his career.

Downtown San Diego is constantly changing. Be sure to visit the Gaslamp, Seaport Village, and the East Village and explore these vibrant areas filled with dining and shopping opportunities. Look for our 2014 Restaurant Guide, coming soon here on the website and as part of our SDCC Quick Guide publication.

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