The picturesque seaside community of San Pedro is nestled at the end of the Harbor Freeway, about 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, but for how infrequently it is visited by tourists, or even residents of the city, it might as well be in another state.

The USS Iowa, expected to have its grand opening in July, is already drawing strong tourist interest and sparking discussions of how San Pedro can prepare for what could be an onslaught of tourists.

The ship’s 1,500-member veterans’ association is busy making hotel inquiries this month, anticipating a summer reunion in which families will be joining them.