Discover Submarine Museums

If you're looking for an out-of-this-world adventure, head to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and explore the U-505 submarine! On board this WWII German submarine, you can experience what life was like for those who served on these vessels during World War II. Take a self-guided tour through the cramped quarters of the sub and explore interactive displays such as the sound room, which allows you to listen to submarine sounds from the past. You can also learn about its history and mission as one of the most successful submarines of all time. So come down to Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry for your chance to dive into WWII history with a visit to U-505!

Visit the Friends of the Hunley Museum in Charleston and take a fascinating look at this historical artifact of the Civil War era. The Hunley was the first successful combat submarine, built by a Confederate crew and utilized in battle against Union forces in 1864.

The museum features interactive displays and multimedia exhibits that allow visitors to get an up close and personal view of this extraordinary invention. Guests will learn about the incredible story of its construction, its innovative technology, and the bravery of its crew as they fought for their cause. You can also explore artifacts recovered from the wreck site.

Make your visit even more memorable by attending one of our guided tours or educational programs led by trained docents who will share stories about the Hunley’s voyage and mission. We also have specialized activities for kids and families that help to bring this amazing piece of history to life.

Don’t miss out on discovering one of the most unique weapons ever used in warfare, the worlds first successful combat submarine!

The USS Albacore (AGSS-569) was launched in August of 1953 and served with the U.S. Navy until December of 1972. During its tenure with the Navy, the Albacore served as a research submarine with a state of art teardrop hull design. With submarine warfare reaching its peak during World War 2, and clearly being very effective, the United States was on an endeavor to upgrade their aging submarine fleet. The Albacore helped the Navy with such tests as streamlining control surfaces, a new hull shape, engine improvements, sonar systems, and sound dampening among many others. 

After the Albacore served her country, she was turned into a museum ship where visitors can tour her daily. Visitors can take a self guided tour of the Albacore which starts at the visitor center which also has a very nice gift shop. The tour takes visitors through the 205 foot long hull where they can see how sailors cruised beneath the seas. The control room, engineering spaces, and bunk rooms are all available for exploration. 

The USS Albacore is a seasonal museum and open on the weekends only. Be sure to check out their website before for any updates and follow them on social media!

*Image Citation - Dmoore5556, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The USS Batfish rests at the Muskogee War Memorial Park in Muskogee Oklahoma. The Batfish is Oklahoma’s only submarine! Visitors coming to see the USS Batfish will quickly learn there is much more to this park than just the submarine. Visitors are treated to over 8 acres of land dedicated to military history. Aside from just a great day learning about the USS Batfish, visitors also have the opportunity to take part in overnight experiences or even host events on location. Be sure to check out the Muskogee War Memorial Park website and Facebook for more information. As usual, we recommend calling locations in advance if traveling from afar. 
 
USS Batfish (SS/AGSS-310), is a Balao-class submarine, known primarily for the remarkable feat of sinking three Imperial Japanese Navy submarines in a 76-hour period, in February 1945. USS Batfish is the first vessel of the United States Navy to be named for the batfish, a fish found off the coast of Peru, at depths ranging from 3 to 76 metres.
Originally to be named Acoupa, hull SS-310 was renamed Batfish on 24 September 1942 prior to its keel laying on 27 December 1942. The Batfish was constructed at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Kittery, Maine and launched 5 May 1943 sponsored by Mrs. Nellie W. Fortier; and commissioned 21 August 1943, with Lieutenant Commander Wayne R. Merrill in command.
(Source: Wikipedia)

Come and explore the USS Becuna, a Balao-class submarine located in Philadelphia! This vessel was commissioned during World War II and now educates the masses. Step aboard to travel back in time and experience what life was like for submariners during wartime. Learn about all of the USS Becuna’s fascinating history as you marvel at the intricacies of the submarine. With plenty to see and do, it’s an exciting adventure that is not to be missed!

The USS Bowfin in Hawaii is an incredible submarine museum with fascinating history. Explore the deck and see how this WWII submarine fought for the United States in the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can get a look at the torpedo room and bridge and learn about life on board during wartime. Get a sneak peak at some of the artifacts collected from battles around the world, including original uniforms and weapons from WWII. Be inspired by the stories of bravery, courage, and sacrifice that are commemorated on board the USS Bowfin. Come to Hawaii and experience a remarkable monument to those who served our country so bravely.

Come aboard the USS Cavalla at Galveston Naval Museum and embark on a journey through history! Immerse yourself in the rich stories of this legendary submarine and experience life at sea like never before. Get up close and personal with the impressive technology of this World War II vessel and feel the thrill of walking in the footsteps of brave sailors. So pack your bags, gather your crew, and set sail to Galveston for an unforgettable adventure on the USS Cavalla. Don't miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity – book your trip now!

Embark on a journey with the USS Croaker, a historic submarine located in Buffalo, New York. This naval vessel served during World War II and is now open for public tours.

Step aboard and experience the life of a submariner as you navigate through its narrow hallways and peep through its periscope. The USS Croaker was launched in 1943 and completed six war patrols, earning four battle stars for its service. As you explore the ship, you will learn about its impressive combat history and the brave men who served on board.

The USS Croaker also played an important role in experimental diving during the Cold War, making it a significant piece of American military history. It was decommissioned in 1968 and then opened as a museum in 1988.

Not only does the USS Croaker offer an educational experience, but it also provides stunning views of Lake Erie from its deck. So come aboard and immerse yourself in this living piece of history while enjoying the scenic beauty that surrounds it.

Visit the USS Pampanito (SS-383), one of the most famous submarines from World War II! Come aboard to experience a piece of history and learn more about this vessel's remarkable journey. This submarine served in the Pacific theater during World War II, sinking six Japanese ships and rescuing over 70 Allied prisoners. It was also part of two Convoys across the Pacific, making it an important part of America's victory against Japan. 

Explore artifacts left behind by those who served on board. Take a tour of the museum and view exhibits featuring memorabilia such as uniforms, photographs, instruments, tools, and more. Come experience all that the USS Pampanito has to offer!

Explore the USS Razorback submarine, a historic World War II submarine located in the stunning North Little Rock of Arkansas! The submarine was launched in 1944 and is one of the very few Balao-class submarines still existent in the world today. Step aboard this heritage vessel and experience her fascinating history through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to explore a piece of wartime history - book your trip to the USS Razorback now!

Visit the USS Requin to explore one of the most advanced historic submarines in the world! Step back in time and marvel at this Cold War-era piece of technology, complete with simulated dive missions and interactive exhibits. Learn more about maritime history while seeing first-hand the impact of modern engineering.

The USS Silversides, a World War 2 Gato class submarine, was launched in August of 1941 and successfully completed 14 war patrols. Through the duration of the war, the Silversides would serve across the Pacific attacking Japanese shipping, saving downed airmen, laying minefields, and other supporting roles. Following the war, the Silversides would go on to become a Naval Reserve training ship in Chicago. In 1962, the Silversides was reclassified as an auxiliary submarine and eventually stricken from the U.S. Naval register in 1969. 

Since the Silversides became a museum, she has been lovingly care for by her volunteers. The ship is in immaculate condition. Amazingly, the museum is available 7 days a week 365 days a year. While visiting the museum, visitors should be sure to save some extra time to view the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter McLane The McLane has an amazing history with the Coast Guard which lasted through the Prohibition era. Dont miss out on touring this one. 

The USS Torsk is a Tench Class submarine built launched in September of 1944. Despite being launched so late in World War 2, the Torsk was still able to have a formidable impact on the war. The Torsk would go on to serve throughout the Pacific, attacking Japanese shipping and aiding downed Allied aviators. It was during this time the Torsk was credited with scoring the last strike on an Japanese warship during World War 2. 

Following the war, the USS Torks would continue her service all along the American east coast. The USS Torsk would primarily serve as a training vessel during her time after the war and would end her service as a Navy Reserve training submarine. In 1971, the Torsk was stricken from the U.S. Naval register, in 1972 she was officially turned over to the State of Maryland to be converted to a museum ship. 

As a museum vessel at the Historic Ships in Baltimore museum, visitors can walk across her decks and view all of her spaces. According to the museum, "Traversing the boat from stern to bow, visitors have the opportunity to view the torpedo rooms, the navigation station, the operation station, the engine room, the crews mess and crew berthing areas. If you arrive at the right time, you may have the chance to meet a former crew member." Visitors to the museum will want to give themselves plenty of extra time to see other nearby exhibits such as the National Aquarium or USS Constellation. 

Image Citation - Davidwells75, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons