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Historic Ship Nautilus
About Historic Ship Nautilus
Ahoy maties - are you keen for an adventure that will take you into a "shark of steel"? That's right - you can venture into a real life submarine at the Historic Ship Nautilus!
Located on the Thames River in Groton, the USS Nautilus is the only submarine museums that is operated by the actual US Navy, which also means that all the artifacts, documents and photographs are fascinating and genuine!
With over 33,000 artifacts, 20,000 documents and 30,000 photos for kids to get lost in, they really will come away with an amazing insight into what life would have been like for the men who lived and worked on these structures.
Because there are so many pieces, they can't display them all at once, which means there will always be something new for you to come back to for your next visit!
Kids - as you walk the decks, think about all the stories that could be told from living in such a place. And there is so much history to learn from it! The Historic Ship Nautilus was the first nuclear powered vessel in the world. It was the first ship to go to the North Pole, and it was the first submarine to journey to that classic "20,000 leagues under the sea".
You can really feel the history as you walk the spaces where the dedicated crew ate, slept, worked, and entertained themselves (after all, they would need to on those super long voyages under the water!)
You can check out the Torpedo Room, the Control Room, the Crew's Mess and event the Attack Center - all amazing experience on the Historic Ship Nautilus!
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Suggest editHow much does it cost?
Suggest editAdults Free!
Children Free!
Last Update 2022
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Historic Ship Nautilus FAQ’s
Do they have baby facilities?
Strollers aren't allowed on the submarine itself, but the experience is suitable for smaller children if you are okay to carry them or if they can walk for short periods of time.
I’m Hungry! Can I get food at Historic Ship Nautilus?
No food or drink allowed in the museum from the outside, and there is a cafe at the north end of the parking lots. It's open Memorial Day to Labor Day. There are limited vendors onsite.
Any top tips when visiting?
There are scavenger hunts which the kids can complete as they wander round the submarine!
Does Historic Ship Nautilus have a gift shop?
Save those pennies, there's a gift shop! All items are related to submarine history, so get ready to keep learning!
Teachers corner
If you have groups of 25 or more, then book ahead. It's an amazing place for kids to learn about this important part of US history . There is a classroom on the 2nd floor of the museum.
Do they have baby facilities?
Strollers aren't allowed on the submarine itself, but the experience is suitable for smaller children if you are okay to carry them or if they can walk for short periods of time.
Does Historic Ship Nautilus have healthy eating or Vegan options?
You can bring your own lunch, to keep it healthy and easy, as there is a lovely picnic area with a view of the river.
Is Historic Ship Nautilus fully accessible?
There are handicapped restrooms as well as an elevator, on the 2nd floor. There might be certain limitations during the tour of the ship itself, so call ahead.
Any additonal information?
No need to make a reservation! Just head on over. All tours are self-guided with an audio wand.
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