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Exploring the USS Razorback Submarine

May 27, 2014

Sometimes a road trip leads to learning about and seeing things you never imagined you’d get to see, especially so close to home. Offering tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the museum welcomes visitors to go on an underwater adventure with them into the belly of the USS Razorback .

History of the USS Razorback

The USS Razorback was sold to the Turkish Navy in 1970, the reason you’ll see a Turkish flag with the United States flag on the sub. In 2004, the city of Little Rock bought the USS Razorback . You can read more about her history , but here is just a little bit of her story.

You would think that being in Arkansas, the name Razorback is somehow affiliated with the Arkansas razorback, but not so. The USS Razorback was actually named after the Razorback Whale after being built in Kittery, Maine at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. She served in both World War II and Vietnam, and was active during the Cold War.

During World War II, the sub would patrol, sank Japanese ships, captured Japanese POW’s, and rescued American pilots who had been shot down. An interesting fact our guide gave us was that 1 in 6 submarines were destroyed during World War II with no survivors, a fact that immediately made those of us on the tour cringe. However, according to our guide, the USS Razorback did not lose a single sailor.

Inside the USS Razorback

Visitors can tour the submarine, exploring the outside and climbing down into the submarine to walk from one end to the other. As we met our tour guide, he told us a bit of the history of the USS Razorback , and then he took us up on the ship itself. We started at the end of the submarine, climbing down in, via a ladder and a fairly skinny hole.

Space was tight, and as we got down into the bowels of this huge ship, I couldn’t imagine having to live like that for months at a time or longer. Amazing men, these sailors who volunteered to serve in submarines, because they weren’t forced into this; and only men served in submarines. Yes, the Navy paid them double the wages, but they raised their hand to serve in a sub.

Because of the heat from the engines, the temperature on the sub stayed in the upper 90′s on into the 100′s. So, you can imagine how hot, sweaty, and stinky these guys must have been. Water was also limited, so they took very few showers and only 30 seconds at a time. Our tour guide told us that they generally worked in their underwear and flip-flops because of the extreme heat.

As we walked through, we saw the tiny bathrooms, the mess hall, the kitchen, and more. Food was stored wherever possible. The question was asked what would happen if someone were to die while out to sea. The answer: the body would be stored in the freezer (located in the floor under the mess hall), right along with the food.

The officers’ quarters were a bit roomier. The Officers ate the same food but did have a separate kitchen and dishes; they actually used fine china.

Then there was the control room, where all the main action took place. You wouldn’t believe all the buttons and levers….

Of course, our boys were mesmerized by the torpedo room, asking questions and staring in awe.

USS Razorback Hours, Tickets and Info

The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays, 10am-5pm and Sundays from 1pm-5pm. Full admission for adults is $7.50; children under 12, seniors, and military are $5. Museum with no submarine tour is $2. If you are visiting, I recommend ladies wear pants (skirts and ladders just don’t mix in such tight quarters), and closed-toe shoes like sneakers, no flip-flops. Between ladders and making your way through different compartments, it’s just better to be completely comfortable and able to freely move from place to place.

The museum is also available for group events like birthday parties, group tours, school field trips, and something our boys got pretty hyped up about…. a group sleepover in the actual submarine with a real submarine veteran. Sleepover guests get to explore even more parts of the submarine than the general public.

Many people have voiced their fear of claustrophobia while down in the sub. This was something I was afraid of too; but in fact, it really was not as bad as I thought it would be. The tour was so interesting, and the guide kept us moving, stopping to tell us stories. We really were just so curious and exploring everything we could, that we had no time to even worry about feeling closed in.

Question for you: Have you ever explored a submarine? What did you think?

Meet the author..

Learn more about Mel Lockcuff .

A little about Mel Lockcuff .

Arkansas Women Bloggers member Mel Lockcuff is a wife and homeschool mom to 3 boys, a family lifestyle blogger, freelance writer, and lover of the outdoors. She’s the owner and writer behind Adventures of Mel , where you'll find adventures in family, food, crafts, DIY, outdoor living, travel, and more. Mel’s work has also been featured in 66TheMotherRoad Magazine , as well as with Only in Arkansas , Visit Rogers Arkansas , Rhea Lana's , and Great Day Farms . Mel and her family live on a small 1-acre homestead in Northwest Arkansas.

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Visit the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

A submarine? In landlocked Arkansas? Yes! The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is located in North Little Rock on the Arkansas River.

This museum is a fascinating piece of American History in Central Arkansas and is one of many great Arkansas Museums.

Table of Contents

Visit the Arkansas Inland Museum

You will actually get to visit two ships here, the submarine USS  Razorback  (SS-394) and the tugboat USS  Hoga  (YT-146).

There are also exhibits that explain the role of the battleship USS  Arkansas  (BB-33), and the missile cruiser USS  Arkansas  (CGN-41).

When to Visit the Inland Museum

As of the writing of this post in 2023 the opening days and hours are as listed below. But please ALWAYS check the website before you go as this could possibly change.

Summer Hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day)

Wednesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 pm

Sunday: 1 pm – 6 pm

The last tour of the day will begins at 5:30 pm

Winter Hours (Labor Day to Memorial Day)  

Friday and Saturday: 10am – 5pm

Sunday: 1 pm – 5 pm

The last tour of the day will begin at 4:30 pm.

The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

You might also be interested in learning about more things to do in Little Rock . We also have a post about the entire area of Central Arkansas .

Cost of the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

• Adults: $10.00
• *Children (5-12): $5.00
• Seniors (62 and older): $7.50
• Military: $7.50
• Museum Only (With no submarine tour): $2

*Children under 5 years of age are not permitted on the submarine for safety reasons.  They may visit the museum at no charge.

Again these prices are current as of 2023. Please check the museum website to make sure that nothing has changed before you visit.

General Information About the Tour

It appears from the website that you can schedule group tours of the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum in advance. However, there were just two of us so we simply walked in without reservations.

In fact, we showed up on a beautiful Friday afternoon at about 1:00 and were told that the next tour would begin at 1:20.

This was perfect as it allowed us some time to peruse the small museum and the tugboat both of which are self-guided and not part of the submarine tour.

Right on time at 1:20 our tour guide called our small group together to begin the tour. There were approximately 8 people in our group.

Our tour guide was really great, very funny and informative. He answered questions thoroughly. The submarine was fascinating and we loved learning about the history and the inner workings of the ship.

Everyone on the tour seemed to especially enjoy seeing how the sailers lived and worked in such close quarters.

It was hard to imagine eating and sleeping in such a small space for months at a time. You will see on the tour that some of the bunks were literally right beside the torpedos.

We also heard several stories about some of the pranks that the men would pull on the new guys which were both appalling and amusing.

The tour was about 45 minutes long but it seemed much shorter because it was so interesting.

Important Things to Know Before You Take a Tour!

IMPORTANT : This is not a tour for anyone with mobility issues. To enter and exit the submarine you will be climbing down and up long ladders that go through a hatch on the deck of the submarine. Once inside the sub you will be moving from room to room through small bulkhead doors that will require you to step up and over. The floors in some areas are uneven.

IMPORTANT: Children under the age of 5 are not allowed to take the tour for safety reasons. Even if your child is 5 and over they will need to be able to navigate the ladder through a hatch to the rooms below and back up. Just be realistic the abilities of your child. We do have a list of other things to do in Little Rock with kids that might be helpful.

IMPORTANT: I would also not recommend this tour for anyone with claustrophobia. Although I will say that I actually found it to be less confining than I had anticipated.

I know that sounds like a lot of caveats! However, I think that most people will very much enjoy seeing the interior of the USS Razorback submarine!

Interesting Facts About the USS Razorback Submarine

• She was built at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine beginning in September 1943.
• She launched in 1944 along with two other submarines. This is the largest single day launch of submarines in US history.
• USS Razorback  conducted five combat patrols during World War II, sinking Japanese vessels, capturing Japanese POWs, and rescuing American pilots who had been shot down.

• At the end of WWII, she was one of only 12 submarines selected to be present in Tokyo Bay for the Japanese surrender. Be sure and see the photo in the museum of this historic event.
• Razorback continued to be active throughout both the cold war and the Vietnam War.
• On November 30, 1970, USS  Razorback  was decommissioned and transferred to the Turkish Navy. You will see that the ship flies both the US and the Turkish flags. On the interior several of the signs are in Turkish.
• The Turkish Navy transferred the Razorback to the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum Foundation on March 25, 2004, .
• The USS Razorback is still floating on her own in about 55 feet of water on the Arkansas River.
• According to our guide the Razorback never lost a single sailor.
• This ship only had enough oxygen to stay underwater for 24 hours. Typically she would submerge during the day and then surface in the dark of night.
• The temperatures on the sub would often rise well above 100 degrees.
• There were more sailors than there were bunks. The men worked, slept, and ate in shifts. They shared the beds one after another in a practice called hot racking.

• Most of the water made on the ship was used to cool the engines, which meant that the men often would not shower for weeks at a time. In fact, showering was so uncommon that the bath area was typically used for canned food storage.
• Because of the difficulty of life on the submarine the submariners were paid 1.5 to 2.5 times more than those in the other branches of the armed forces. They also only had to serve 6 or 7 years to receive full benefits.
• The officers had more space and nicer quarters than the rest of the men. However, as you will see on your tour, they were definitely not plush.
• The food was said to be pretty good on board. In fact, before they left shore the four chefs on the submarine would often ask the men what type of meals they would like to have in order to prepare for them. They could even ask for items such as steak and shrimp!

I highly recommend this tour. It was such a fascinating learning experience. I think older children and teens would really enjoy it as well.

Here is a list of some of the other interesting museums in Arkansas .

And a post about even more things to do in Little Rock!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hey y'all! Thanks for stopping by.

We are Karen and Emily, a mother and daughter duo who write this blog together. We are based in Central Arkansas but love to travel all around our beautiful home state and share our discoveries with you!

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Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

Review Highlights

“ They also have a small museum that focuses on Pearl Harbor and the life of the Razorback . ” in 4 reviews

“ We learned so much and it was so cheap and just a short walk across the bridge . ” in 3 reviews

“ In fact, you even enter and exit the sub by climbing down and up the hatch, as if you were a sailor! ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

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120 Riverfront Park Dr

North Little Rock, AR 72114

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Visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of submarine service when they step aboard the historic submarine USS Razorback (SS-394). Visitors can now step aboard the historic tugboat USS Hoga (YT-146). These two amazing historical vessels represent bookends to World War II; USS Hoga and USS Razorback literally represent the beginning and the end of WWII. North Little Rock, Arkansas is the only place in the continental United State where you can experience these events in such a personal way. The museum also features exhibits on the following Naval vessels: the submarine USS Razorback (SS-394), the tugboat USS Hoga (YT-146), the battleship USS Arkansas (BB-33), the missile cruiser USS Arkansas (CGN-41), and a collection featuring the history of the Arkansas River. Birthday Parties: Make your child's birthday unforgettable with a day aboard USS Razorback! Registration and deposit information available on our website. Cost: $75 base price; depends of the number of guests and level of package. Visit our website for details. Overnight Stays: Spend a night aboard USS Razorback in the Crew's Quarters and enjoy a guided tour of the submarine and a continental breakfast. Registration and deposit information available on our website. Cost: $35/per person, minimum group of 10 and maximum of 35. Reservations can be made for Friday or Saturday nights and groups will have exclusive access to the facility for the night. …

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Stopped in at 1050a and was told their tours occur every half hour... and that the 1100a and 1130a tours were full. We were told to come back for the 1200p or 1230p tour. After arriving back here at 1215p we were told there was not a 1230p tour, "Which I guess I forgot to tell you about."

You get to go in a real submarine for only $10!! Very cool especially if you are into WW2 history.

We stopped by on a recent trip. What a pleasant surprise. The tour was amazing! Our Tour Guide John knows this vessel inside and out. The tour really gave us a feel of what it was like serving on the Razorback during WWII. I would highly recommend stopping by for a visit to this wonderful museum. The staff was very helpful and friendly.

See all photos from Kathy B. for Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

Google and Yelp both say the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is closed on Thursday, but I'm a slow learner, and I showed up on Thursday anyway! Luckily for me, they were indeed open on Thursday. Since I am a submariner, I was allowed to give my wife and myself our own tour of the USS Razorback. Since I have never qualified on the USS Razorback, I wasn't allowed to operate anything. The Razorback is a WWII boat, and it is in excellent condition. We really enjoyed checking out everything onboard. I was amazed at all the torpedoes they had onboard. And unlike the USS Pampanito in San Francisco, which has had stairs and doors installed for tourists to use, entry and exit from Razorback is through the hatches, using ladders. It sure brought back memories for me.

USS Razorback

Museums such as these are things I look for when I travel. I've toured ships and boats, there is a difference, through out the country. It's walking through history, the shadows of brave men and women. The USS Razorback is the real deal, google it before you go so you have a true appreciation. I headed out and made a quick call, weather can be an issue. The reviews that complain about it being closed due to weather, that's on the visitor not the staff. There's reasons, oh don't wear flip flops either. The tour starts at the stern, yeah you gotta go down the ladder, it's the real deal. Wait til you see the exit ladder. The boat is in excellent shape, ship shape...haha. This is an escorted tour, go ahead ask THAT question, point to that thing and ask....the guides are well versed on the boat. From what I gather they are trained and tested on the sub. John and Natalie were my guides, excellent. You walk in the footsteps of brave men, think about it. The sights, sounds and smells can all be imagined.

I am so glad we decided to take the tour of the Razorback! It was fun and interesting. For about $9 a person, you get an hour guided tour. Our tour guide was a retired Navy veteran who had lots of knowledge about submarines. You get some great views of the bridge from the submarine as well! They also have a small museum that focuses on Pearl Harbor and the life of the Razorback. One warning: if you struggle in small spaces, you might reconsider this tour. There are a lot of tiny areas. Parking was super easy. They have a large lot right out front.

Wow! We did the submarine tour and really enjoyed ourselves. All around this was such a great experience! The staff in the gift shop where your purchase admission was very friendly. The tour guide, John, was friendly and truly an expert. After the tour we walked across the bridge and explored the area. Such a fun city and a really fantastic, family friendly area.

The website does not do this experience justice! In fact, I told our guide that they would be well served to improve their site. A 95% intact and 95% operational sub tour is not something you'll soon forget. In fact, you even enter and exit the sub by climbing down and up the hatch, as if you were a sailor! My husband toured the German sub that is on display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago this summer, and said the USS Razorback tour was better and more authentic in many ways. A lot cheaper, too! If you are traveling to Little Rock, this should absolutely be on your Must list! Even my 2 daughters (4 and 6.5) enjoyed it.

This is a cool museum the USS Razorback submarine, and the brave men who served on her. The Razorback had a very storied career. They have tours and displays. It is a very kid friendly place.

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum allows you to explore the USS Razorback (SS-394) submarine, used in World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War. Admission is $6/person, which includes a guided tour. The tour is about 20-30 minutes in length, and allows you to explore about 85% of the ship. I imagine the better the guide, the better experience you will have. Don't stick to their every word to be a fact, however; while we were touring, the guide in front of us was contradicting what our guide was saying in regards to dates and such. It's worth pointing out that you do have to climb through somewhat small places - not a good option if you are claustrophobic. Also, do check their hours - they are only open Wednesday-Sunday. Lastly, you can apparently rent out some of the rooms of the submarine for birthday parties, sleepovers, etc. It didn't look very comfy to me, but I bet kids would love it!

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Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum (AIMM) in North Little Rock (Pulaski County) is home to Arkansas’s only historic naval vessel open to the public for tours, the USS Razorback (SS 394) . It also includes a U.S. Navy tugboat, the USS  Hoga . The museum also offers a small research library and a number of permanent and rotating exhibits on submarines and naval history.

Hearing of the Razorback ’s approaching decommission, a group of submarine veterans initiated an effort to return the submarine to the United States. They approached Mayor Patrick Henry Hays of North Little Rock in 2002 about the possibility of docking the Razorback in Arkansas. At that time, the city was already working to acquire the Hoga , a tugboat present at Pearl Harbor, because it believed that the two vessels would make a perfect combination for a museum on the Arkansas River . Two years later, Mayor Hays traveled to Turkey, where the Razorback had been transferred in 1970, to sign papers for acquiring the submarine. The vessel arrived in Arkansas in August 2004.

After conservation work, the Razorback opened for tours as part of the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum on May 15, 2005. A museum opened in July 2005 in a building a short distance away from the submarine.

In 2002, as part of the work to prepare for the new museum, the City of North Little Rock acquired two barges from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After extensive renovation work, the two barges were moved into place in January 2006 for additional interior work. The first barge, Mary Munns , serves as the ticket booth, waiting area, and gift shop for the museum. The second, Savannah Lou , holds the museum’s interpretative exhibits, a small theater, workshops, and a library.

In December 2005, a memorial to USS Snook (SS 279), originally installed on the grounds of MacArthur Park in Little Rock (Pulaski County) , was reassembled outside the main entrance to the museum. The Snook is one of fifty-two submarines lost during World War II and the one that Arkansas adopted for commemorative and memorial purposes.

Exhibits in the museum consist of permanent exhibits on general submarine history, submarine training, and submarine operations such as firefighting and underwater escape, as well as the Razorback ’s operational history, the submarine Snook , and the battleship USS Arkansas (BB-33) . Rotating exhibits interpret a variety of topics, such as Pearl Harbor and the many ships and submarines with names related to Arkansas.

The library—a joint effort between AIMM and the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. (USSVI)—includes more than 2,500 books, periodicals, videos, CDs, and DVDs on many topics, not just submarines. There are significant holdings on U.S. naval history, general military history, the Vietnam War, and maritime piracy and pirate history. The library also has a large selection of fiction titles.

In November 2013, a memorial to USS Scorpion (SSN 589) was also added. The historic tugboat USS Hoga , a survivor of the Pearl Harbor attacks, arrived in North Little Rock from California in November 2015 to become part of the museum.

For additional information: Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. http:/ /aimmuseum.org/ (accessed September 7, 2023).

Greg Stitz Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

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Great submarine tour! - Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

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• Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

We got to the museum early and we’re able to visit the tug boat prior to the submarine tour. The... read more

This was a very interesting and informative visit to a real submarine that was used during wartime... read more

Great submarine tour!

It was great to tour an old submarine which has a great deal of history. Tours are guided and you can even arrange to stay the night. We visited during the hot days of July and was pleasantly surprised to see that it was air-conditioned. It was really neat to see old technology and instruments of an era long gone. You have to tour a submarine like this to really understand how it was like, tv and movies do not do it justice. This sub is still 80% operational... Note you must be able to climb down a latter into the submarine and back up and be able to fit through the entry and exit holes as well as through the compartment doors.

My family visited this museum on a day trip to Little Rock. It was such a rare experience to visit an actual submarine. The museum had interesting artifacts and well-maintained displays. If you have a fear of tight spaces or mobility concerns, beware that it could be uncomfortable on the submarine. Otherwise, it's a great opportunity. Our guide, Bryce, was very knowledgeable and did a great job answering our many questions.

Something interesting to do if in the downtown little rock area. Well worth a trip. They give military discount to active and retired military.

THis was a really good tour, the guide knew lots of interesting facts. He was very helpful and it was great you could walk the entire sub.

If your into historical museums, this is one from WW2. The tour operator describes in detail what the sailors had to endure during deployments.

one of the educational tourist attractions in Little Rock for friends and family. Affordable and entertaining for young and old. No stroller or with walking difficulties. They actually take you to tour inside the submarine. I heard that they also programs to spend a night in the submarine.

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Travel Post Monthly

A Turkish Submarine Floats on the Little Rock Arkansas Riverfront

March 10, 2020 By tpmadmin

By Chuck Warren

ITWPA Member

In 2004, the city of Little Rock captured a fully operational Turkish submarine and docked it on the Arkansas River waterfront. However, it was a bloodless encounter.

Built in 1943 and originally named the USS Razorback, the sub sailed the Pacific during World War II and the Vietnam War. Decommissioned by the United States in 1970, the battleship-grey Razorback was then given to the Turkish Navy, recommissioned as the TCG Muratreis, and stationed in Istanbul – complete with a crimson and white flag waving above her decks.

In 2001, the Razorback’s American veterans discovered the sub was to be scrapped and presented Little Rock’s mayor with a plan. Recover the USS Razorback and create a maritime museum on the inland city’s riverfront.

The submarine was purchased by the City of Little Rock, Arkansas, for $750,000. However, a new law had to be passed before the submarine could be repatriated since it was the first time any United States entity had ever purchased an operational warship from a foreign country.

Three years later, the 311-foot battleship-grey Razorback was towed to its new home on the ruddy brown waters of the Arkansas River and opened to the public for guided tours. Visitors can hear and see the storied history from its 5 successful war patrols.

The submarine is still nearly operational. In fact, so many of the ship’s switches and levers still function that signs hang throughout the warning visitors not to touch anything. Thankfully, it does not house any functioning weaponry.

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the entire submarine, including crew quarters, radio rooms, dive stations, and electrical control spaces. Guests can see a clear picture of submarine life in the forward torpedo room, where enlisted men slept inches away from the sub’s 18-foot steam-powered weapons.

The submarine and Maritime Museum next door is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM Wednesday through Sunday. Because of its international history, the USS Razorback still flies both American and Turkish flags. ~TPM

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Things to Do in North Little Rock, Arkansas

WWII-era naval vessels reopen for tours

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum at 120 Riverfront Park Drive in North Little Rock has reopened their beloved World War II vessels, USS Razorback and Hoga tugboat for private and public tours. 

• Fridays & Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sundays: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., last tour leaving at 5:30 p.m.

From June 1, 2021 to Labor Day, the museum will be open Wednesday – Sunday. 

The City Of North Little Rock will continue their mask policy in all city owned buildings, therefore masks will be required inside the facility and on each vessel during tours. 

About USS Razorback Submarine (SS-394)

Now docked at the  Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum  in North Little Rock, barely rocked by the passing barges and dutifully cared for by a dedicated group of staff, volunteers and veterans, USS  Razorback  seems to be enjoying retired life. The longest-serving submarine in the world, USS  Razorback  participated in World War II, the Cold War and Vietnam War.

About Hoga (YT-146)

USS  Hoga  (YT-146) is best known for her actions during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. Getting underway within 10 minutes after the first Japanese bombs fell, she went to work rescuing sailors in the water, fighting fires, and pulling ships out of harm’s way.  Hoga  pulled the repair ship USS  Vestal  away from USS  Arizona ‘s burning hull, assisted the damaged minesweeper USS  Oglala  and the battleship USS  Nevada . She fought fires on the  Nevada  as well as the battleships USS  Maryland , USS  Tennessee,  and USS  Arizona . In all,  Hoga  spent 72 continuous hours fighting fires.  Hoga  is most recognized for pushing the sinking USS Nevada to safety and preventing her from blocking the narrow channel.

For her work,  Hoga , her commanding officer, and his crew received a commendation from ADM Chester A. Nimitz, Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet.

Birthday Parties & Special Events

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is currently taking reservations for birthday parties and special events. Its popular sleepovers on the USS Razorback submarine will return in June 2021. To make reservations, call (501) 371-8320.

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USS Razorback Submarine

USS Razorback, a Balao-class submarine of the Sandlance variant, was built at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. Her keel was laid on 09 September, 1943. Razorback was constructed in Drydock #1 at the shipyard, and she was launched, along with two sister ships (USS Redfish (SS 395) and USS Ronquil (SS 396)) on 27 January, 1944. USS Scabbardfish (SS 397) was also launched at the shipyard that day. This was the largest single-day launch of US submarines ever. Razorback conducted five combat patrols during World War II, sinking Japanese vessels, capturing Japanese POWs and rescuing American pilots who had been shot down. At the end of WWII, she was one of only 12 submarines selected to be present in Tokyo Bay when the Japanese surrender was signed.

USS Razorback Submarine 120 Riverfront Park Dr North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114

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Discover Submarine Museums

Most Americans won’t have to travel far to find a submarine museum near them. The various submarines around the United States range in age from USS Drum built in 1941 to the USS Dolphin built in 1968. The museums have something for everybody and many have programs tailored specifically to youth and scout programs.

Next time you visit one of these submarines be sure to  consider a guided tour  where offered. Guided tours offer an experience above and beyond a simple walk through. Many tour guides served aboard submarines themselves and lend a first hand account to daily life aboard a submarine. Where guided tours are unavailable there will often be audio tours.

Some other services typically offered are overnight stays, events, and field trip opportunities or even remote learning experiences. Dont miss out on a great opportunity.  Tour a submarine today !

It is important to note, submarines are inherently tight spaces which may be difficult for some to navigate through. Come prepared to step over and through bulkheads and watch your head!

Visiting a submarine museum is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the U.S. Navy's submarine force. Many museums offer interactive displays and exhibits, allowing visitors to explore various aspects of submarine technology and equipment, as well as learn more about the daily lives of those who served onboard. There are also opportunities to experience a variety of activities and tours that provide a hands-on approach to learning about submarines and the brave men and women who have served on them throughout history. With these immersive experiences, visitors can gain a better understanding of the important role submarines play in our nation's defense.

Cant make it to a sub museum near you? Check out this short walk through of the USS Torsk by Attractions 360. 

• German submarine U-505 - Chicago, IL
• HMCS Ojibwa - Port Burwell, ON
• HMCS Onondaga - Rimouski, QC
• Hunley Submarine - Charleston, SC
• USS Albacore (AGSS-569) - Portsmouth, NH
• USS Batfish (SS-310) - Muskogee, OK
• USS Becuna (SS-319) - Philadelphia, PA
• USS Blueback (SS-581) - Portland, OR
• USS Bowfin (SS-287) - Honolulu, HI
• USS Cavalla (SS-244) - Galveston, TX
• USS Cobia - Manitowoc, WI
• USS Cod - Cleveland, OH
• USS Croaker (SSK-246) - Buffalo, NY
• USS Dolphin (AGSS-555) - San Diego, CA
• USS Drum (SS-228) - Mobile, AL
• USS Growler (SSG-577) - New York, NY
• USS Lionfish (SS-298) - Fall River, MA
• USS Marlin (SST-2) - Omaha, NE
• USS Nautilus (SSN-571) - Groton, CT
• USS Pampanito (SS-383) - San Francisco, CA
• USS Razorback (SS-394) - North Little Rock, AR
• USS Requin (SS-481) - Pittsburgh, PA
• USS Silversides (SS-236) - Muskegon, MI
• USS Torsk (SS-423) - Baltimore, MD

Submarine Museums Directory

Canada submarine museums, united states 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

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Come aboard and have an adventure on the Buffalo Waterfront! Step back in time as you walk the decks of WWII-era naval vessels and explore the stories they hold. History awaits you at the Buffalo Naval & Military Park!

The Buffalo Naval Park is home to four decommissioned naval vessels: USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, USS Croaker and USS PTF-17. Visitors will experience exhibits and artifacts highlighting the U.S. military and a Monuments Garden honoring veterans and supporters from various conflicts and backgrounds.

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1 Naval Park Cove, Buffalo, NY, 14202

Open Wednesday-Sunday 10:00AM – 5:00PM Last admission at 4:00PM

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