Explore the Best Battleship Museums in the United States
Battleships are some of the most powerful ships ever built. Known for their massive size and heavy firepower, they played important roles in major wars and symbolized military strength.
Today, a few of the most noteworthy battleships have been turned into museums across the United States. These floating museums let visitors explore their incredible history and learn about the sailors who served aboard them.
You can walk the decks, see the giant guns, and visit the crew’s living spaces. Some museums even have interactive exhibits and guided tours to make the experience even more exciting. If you are lucky, you might even find a battleship parked next to a Submarine!
From World War I ships like the USS Texas to the Cold War-era USS Iowa, these museums are perfect for all ages. They bring history to life and inspire curiosity about the past.
If you love history or want to see these massive warships up close, battleship museums are a must-see!
What to Expect When Touring a Battleship
Touring a battleship is a one-of-a-kind experience, but it’s important to know what to expect. These massive warships were built for combat, not comfort, so exploring one can feel like an adventure!
Be prepared to navigate narrow passageways, climb steep ladders, and step over high thresholds between rooms. Watch out for overhead obstacles, like pipes and low ceilings, especially in the crew areas. Comfortable shoes are a must since there’s a lot of walking and sometimes climbing involved.
Battleship tours are great for all ages, but younger children and those with mobility challenges may need extra help navigating certain areas. Most museums also offer special accommodations, so be sure to check with staff if needed.
Taking a tour of a battleship gives you a real sense of what life was like for sailors. It’s an unforgettable, hands-on way to connect with history—just be ready for the adventure!
- USS Alabama - Mobile, AL
- USS Arizona (BB-39) Memorial - Honolulu, HI
- USS Iowa (BB-61) - Los Angeles, CA
- USS Massachusetts (BB-59) - Fall River, MA
- USS Missouri (BB-63) - Honolulu, HI
- USS New Jersey - Camden, NJ
- USS North Carolina (BB-55) - Wilmington, NC
- USS Texas (BB-35) - La Porte, TX
- USS Utah (BB-31) Memorial - Honolulu, HI
- USS Wisconsin (BB-64) - Norfolk, VA
United States Explore Top Battleship Museums in the United States | Tour one today
The USS Iowa is a floating piece of history you don’t want to miss. Known as the "Battleship of Presidents," it served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. This massive ship even carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt during wartime, earning its place in the history books.
Visitors can walk its decks, see its huge 16-inch guns, and explore crew areas to learn what life was like aboard this powerful battleship. With interactive exhibits and incredible views, the USS Iowa offers a hands-on experience for history lovers of all ages.
Come experience the thrilling history of the USS Massachusetts at Battleship Cove. This majestic vessel, commissioned in 1942 during World War II, is now a premier tourist attraction for all ages.
As you step onto the deck of this iconic battleship, you'll be transported back in time to the brave men who served on board. With over 100 years of service and 11 battle stars under its belt, the USS Massachusetts is a true symbol of American strength and determination.
Take a guided tour through the ship's impressive 16-inch gun turrets, engine room, and living quarters to get a glimpse of life at sea during wartime. Don't forget to explore the museum exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the ship's impressive past.
For an even more immersive experience, book an overnight stay on board and sleep in one of the original bunks used by sailors during World War II. Wake up to stunning views of Fall River Harbor and imagine what it must have been like for those who served on this historic vessel.
Don't miss your chance to visit the USS Massachusetts at Battleship Cove – an unforgettable journey through time that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for our country's naval history. Book your trip now and embark on an adventure unlike any other!
The USS Missouri is an Iowa class battleship launched in January of 1944. After serving through World War 2, the Korean War, and Persian Gulf, the Missouri was turned to a museum ship in 1999. The USS Missouri is one of the top destinations in Hawaii. Anchored right next to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship tour is something visitors won’t forget. Visitors can spend a day viewing pieces of history linked to both the beginning and the end of World War 2.
The USS Missouri's most notorious claim to fame is its part in World War 2. Visitors can see the exact location where the formal surrender of Japanese forces took place, effectively ending the World War 2 conflict. Guests are encouraged to take a guided tour with a volunteer, tours last approximately 30 to 40 minutes and will pass right through the location of the surrender. If you can’t make it to the actual Missouri, we highly recommend checking out their virtual tour. The virtual tour gives a great idea of the massive size and complexity of this great and famous warship.
Image - Richard Brown, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Travelers, explore history like never before with a trip to the USS New Jersey - one of the most iconic battleships of all time! Commissioned in 1943, this massive and powerful vessel has seen action in three wars and is now permanently docked at the Camden Waterfront as one of the finest battleship museums in the country. At 887 feet long, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as soon as you step foot on her massive decks. As one of longest-serving battleship in U.S. Navy, she is a living monument to American bravery and sacrifice.
During your visit, explore her state-of-the-art weapons systems or take an audio tour through her many compartments - from the crew's quarters to the main bridge. Get up close and personal with an impressive collection of artifacts from her service that are on display throughout the ship - including personal items belonging to sailors who served on board! Climb up to the open air top deck for incredible views of Philadelphia skyline across the Delaware River.
You'll gain invaluable insight into what it was like for Navy personnel serving during wartime as you hear stories about their heroic actions - both large and small - that helped keep our country safe through decades of conflict. So don't miss out on this remarkable opportunity to learn more about America's military heritage while taking part in an unforgettable experience aboard the USS New Jersey!
Welcome aboard the USS Wisconsin, an incredible, one-of-a-kind battleship that has a long and fascinating history. Launched December 7th, 1943 at Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, this mighty vessel sailed for over 40 years and was involved in several major conflicts during its impressive service. Here onboard the Wisconsin you can experience first-hand what it was like to live and fight on a real naval ship.
The USS Wisconsin is a one-of-a-kind experience that you should not miss! Located at the Nauticus National Maritime Center in Norfolk, Virginia, this historic battleship offers guests a unique glimpse into our nation's past. On board the Wisconsin, visitors can explore the ship's decks and see firsthand the many artifacts from her storied 45-year career. Whether it's marveling at the massive 16" guns or admiring the impressive collection military artifacts on display, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
But what really sets the USS Wisconsin apart from other attractions is its interactive exhibits. Through these hands-on experiences, guests can learn about life aboard a battleship during WWII and how it evolved over time. There are also educational programs available for individuals, school groups, and families to take part in special demonstrations like waving signal flags and climbing around! Plus, you can't forget about all of the amazing stories told by veteran crew members as they guide you around this historic vessel.
So if you're looking for an unforgettable trip filled with history and fun activities that will keep you engaged, then make sure to add The USS Wisconsin battleship museum to your itinerary! After all, where else can you tour an authentic military vessel while learning about its past?
