USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park in Honolulu, HI

11 Arizona Memorial DrHonolulu, HI 96818
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Starting at
$21.99
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Discover what life was like as a WWII submariner during an unforgettable self-guided tour of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. Learn the history of the USS Bowfin as you explore the museum's galleries and exhibits that document the history of the U.S. Navy's Submarine Force during WWII, the Cold War, today, and into the future. Includes a free audio guide.

up to 7 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

  • Get a glimpse into life aboard a real submarine during the war.
  • Interactive displays engage visitors, especially children, with hands-on learning experiences.
  • Plan to spend 1.5–2 hours on the submarine and grounds.
  • For a fuller historical experience, select the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket option and visit all of Pearl Harbor's historic sites in one day.
  • Last admission is 30 minutes prior to closing.
  • Tours are self-guided and include free audio guides, available in seven languages.
  • Children under 4 are not permitted on the submarine for safety reasons.
  • Food and drinks available from Jake's Food Truck at the USS Bowfin.
  • Bags of any kind, including backpacks and purses, are not allowed on the submarine or at any of the memorials. Lockers are available to rent near the entrance to the visitor center.

Description

from USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
Tour the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, USS Bowfin, a World War II submarine, and outdoor exhibits and learn what it was like for her crew of 80 men to serve onboard. Learn and be inspired by the proud past and bright future of the U.S. Navy’s “Silent Service”—from WWII, the Cold War, today, and into the future.

The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum campus recently underwent an extensive renovation to better honor the history of the United States Navy’s Submarine Force. The campus is also home to the USS Bowfin (SS-287), a fleet submarine that was launched on December 7, 1942, and nicknamed “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” The USS Bowfin submarine made nine war patrols in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. She opened to the public at Pearl Harbor in 1981 and proudly represented the 288 U.S. submarines that served in the Pacific during WWII.

This historic warship experience includes many interactive exhibits to understand better what it was like to serve on submarines. The campus also includes several outdoor artifacts, a gift shop, a comfort station, a shaded lanai (patio), a food truck, and several other concessions. All tours include free audio guides available in seven languages and two options: adult and family oriented, which tells the history in a more child friendly way.
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USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is located at 11 Arizona Memorial DrHonolulu, HI 96818
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Frequently Asked Questions about USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

What are the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park hours of operation?

The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is open daily from 7 AM - 5 PM. Closed on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Where is USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park located?

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is located at 11 Arizona Memorial Drive, Honolulu, HI 96818. Enter through the USS Arizona entrance.

Is USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park appropriate for children?

Yes, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is generally appropriate for children and offers educational insights into naval history and life aboard a submarine. However, sensitivity to historical and warfare topics, as well as the child's age and interests, should be considered before visiting. Also, please note that children under age 4 are not permitted on the submarine for safety reasons.

How long is the tour?

Plan approximately 1.5–2 hours to tour the submarine and grounds. If you select the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket option, plan to spend about 7 hours visiting all of the historic sites.

What’s included?

The Submarine and Museum Tour includes admission to the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, USS Bowfin, a World War II submarine, and outdoor exhibits. All tours are self-guided and include free audio guides. Passport to Pearl Harbor includes admission to all of Pearl Harbor's historic sites including the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Arizona Virtual Reality Center, Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Please note that the Passport to Pearl Harbor does NOT include the boat ride tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial.

Can I bring my own food/beverages?

No, but Jake's Food Truck is available onsite. There are also several cold beverage vending machines and plenty of seating on a covered lanai, which looks out at the USS Bowfin Submarine.

Is the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park wheelchair accessible?

The museum, park, and on-site restrooms are all accessible for visitors who require wheelchairs. However, the submarine itself is not wheelchair accessible and may difficult to maneuver for people with limited mobility.

What items are not allowed at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park?

For security reasons bags are not permitted inside any of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, including backpacks, purses, camera bags, fanny packs, luggage, diaper bags, etc. Storage for bags is offered onsite for a fee near the entrance to the visitor center.