While visiting family in Lumberton, we went to Galveston for a day on our way to Houston. We visited the Galveston Naval Museum. Upon arrival, we had to pay-to-park, which I thought was weird, especially since you've got to pay an entrance fee, as well! On the flip side, it wasn't very busy that day, so wasn't difficult to find parking! It was very interesting to explore the WWII USS Cavalla Submarine & the Destroyer escort USS Stewart. With few visitors on site while we were, we made it through both vessels quickly, even taking numerous photos! A couple of notable issues include the fact that the museum was undergoing renovation and the only restrooms were 'FRU-FRY' port-o-lets at the absolute end of the tour, adjacent to the gift store. The gift store was a small one-room (10x10) air-conditioned building, (picture a portable storage unit) that had very few mediocre Knick-knacks to choose from (stickers, toys, post cards (who collects post cards anymore???) The choices in the gift store insinuate that children would enjoy the museum. The current generation of individuals is most definitely NOT interested in military armamentarium. read more

This is a small naval museum on a quiet little island with a fishing pier and park. Touring the submarine and battleship was very cool, historic, and in need of restoration. I'm guessing that's why admission runs on the higher side. Still, we had a good, educational hour exploring everything. Just note there's an extra charge for parking. read more

Galveston Naval Museum - Submarine - Historical Tours Near Me - Galveston, Texas

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We were visiting from out of state and were looking for something to fill the time before dinner. So happy we found this naval museum! It was small but was great! Friendly staff at the ticket office. My daughter loved the scavenger hunt for facts and got a prize at the end. Tons of knowledge about the history of the submarine and ship. My husband who is a Marine veteran also enjoyed it. Highly recommend if you're missing Galveston! Heads up: You will have to pay for parking to get into the overall lot even if you're just visiting the museum, but they also had a neat park in the area that my daughter loved! read more

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Was worth the 14 dollars currently to see the Cavalla and Stewart. The Cavalla is a famous Ww2 sub that sunk an aircraft carrier on its first mission I believe the shokaku. The Stewart is a destroyer escort. One of only 2 destroyer escorts left. If you have mobility issues please don't go inside the sub. The doors are small there and bending is required. That being said the sub was very interesting as well as the destroyer escort. One must pay for parking as well. It is on pelican island. There is a fishing pier there and I believe during the summer you can fish 24 hours a day. There is a regular park. There was some other parts of a sub and supposed to be a concrete ship you can see from the pier. I had a great time. It was very interesting but also a solemn occasion. I honor the veterans who defended us and gave their life to defend our country. Highly recommended. read more

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This place was great. I took my parents for Father's Day. Along with my three children. Aged 5,6, and 11. They all loved it. With that being said, it was July, and HOT!!! Obviously no air conditioning, gift shop is small and only a certain amount of ppl can enter at one time. This place was amazing though. I loved reading the stories, and touring the submarine. So amazing to imagine what life would be like. read more

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Got some tickets on Groupon before our trip and headed in. Luckily I still have my Galveston address on my state ID and it was free parking otherwise it's $10 so take note of that. The $10 will cover you for all of Seawolf Park which is the breeziest place ever and lots of shade and fishing (with a permit of course). The museum itself was legit. The submarine was so much fun and crawling through the doorways and small spaces. If you are in anyway physically challenged or may have a larger than normal abdominal girth then I would sit this one out. The stairs are narrow and the hallways and walkways are narrow. We thought it was really a cool experience. The ship was also a great spot because you could go up four levels, sit in all of the battalion items, and go into the ship. The first set of stairs is okay if you are physically challenged but after that it's a no go because the stairs are extremely steep for the other levels. Overall a great deal and even greater because of the Groupon and children are basically free if they are under five. I say basically because I can't remember if it's four years or five years and under that are free BUT that's better than most places. read more

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This place was amazing. Even my 5 year-old loves it. We got discounted tickets on Gr---n and it made it even more worth it. It was extremely clean. Family friendly. Very informative. Pretty drive to get there. Would absolutely tour it a second time! read more

A self-guided experience, touring through a destroyer escort and submarine. If you go in the summer, it's gonna be HOT. There's no relief from the outdoors and inside the boats is stifling. Not a complaint so much as something to be aware of if you are visiting. There's no indoor building or anything in which to enjoy some A/C and sit and relax, so you'll wanna do both back to back and get 'em done. That said, the two craft were fascinating to explore at our own pace and look around/take photos. There's a few placards with historical information on them, but not tons. Mostly just good for appreciating being on some old vessels that played an important part in history and thinking about the brave people who served on them. For our $13 admission per person, I would've expected more. But it is what it is. I know they are still in the works actively restoring some areas of each vessel and they rely on the funds they get from admission. We stopped into the "gift shop" (it's just a tiny trailer) and got a couple trinkets too; they had things like t-shirts, hats, pens, magnets, pins, patches, stickers, toys for kids, etc. Felt good to support their efforts to preserve history and make it available for future generations to learn. Definitely not a "must-see" Galveston attraction, but worth a look if you have extra time. Note, you'll also have to pay $6 to utilize the parking lot. You can also wander around Seawolf Park while you're there. There's a nice big play structure for children, if you have any to get their wiggles out. read more

Kind of on the small side, but that's ok. The price is reasonable and there is a lot of information within the two vessels. Physically, there will be some effort getting around and through the ships, but that's to be expected. Tiny gift shop onsite, which I didn't mind. Better than the giant ones you get funneled through in some museums. It doesn't take a whole lot of time to complete, but it's located in Sea Wolf park, so you can wander there if you want. read more

Pretty cool. I wish there was more to it; i was craving more. Essentially you get to walk through two ships from WW2. Very interesting but then that's it. If there was maybe one more ship that would be great. Overall spent $40 for parking and 3 people. Tiny gift-shop. Inside the submarine I thought was especially cool: cramped, full of dials and gears, the smell of steel and oil. I cannot imagine being stuck down there with a bunch of smelly dudes. They've added some AC units to make the air a bit more tolerable. Super cool torpedos and engines and information blurbs. The whole shebang is on the tip of Pelican Island opposite the bridge so its kind of a short pleasant drive. You can fish out there too and there is a little playground and picnic area. You can watch the ships pass into the harbor or see the ferries make their runs. Bring your sun protection! read more

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We came here for a visit, 1st time to see a destroyer, but had been on a submarine before. But this submarine is much bigger than the one we visited in Charleston NC. And destroyer visit is pleasant, as my husband knew a lot of these stuff, and he explained to me on how things work on a destroyer. Interesting and fascinating! read more

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We went today and it was cold and windy. I saved $3 off admission getting a Groupon. There is a submarine and USS Destroyer Escort here from the 1940's. Walking down the ladders is difficult, but walking up is easier. You need to step over all the entrances. You really appreciate what the naval troops did for your freedom. A volunteer answered some questions. Enjoy the pictures. (27) read more

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Lost of fun and learning was done on this Labor Day. Here you are able to freely walk thru a submarine and battleship. It's a real experience to imagine how our troops where able to work underwater with this Technology. Enough moving back and fourth throughout the submarine seems like a challenge. Great place to send a day. read more

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Had a amazing time there with my son. Very cool stuff to check out and the history behind it. read more

Galveston Naval Museum - A destroyer - Historical Tours Near Me - Galveston, Texas

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I visited this museum a couple of weeks ago during a visit to Galveston and Pelican Island. It was my second visit with the first being over 10 years ago. Coming here you have to pay to park plus there is another admission fee to tour the sub and destroyer. Together it was almost $20. I started with the Cavalla first which is the sub. The self guided tour starts at the stern torpedo space and ends near the bow torpedo space all of which is below deck on the same level. Walking through you see the officers quarters, galleys, wardroom, enlisted berthing, ships offices, engineering, control room, electrical, etc. There are numerous signs throughout explaining what you are looking at. The interior was in decent shape however I did find rust and some sharp impediments so watch your head and where you put your hands. Outside next to the sub is a nice memorial of the 52 subs lost during the war along with a brief description of their fate. Next was the Stewart which was a destroyer escort during the war. Unfortunately for me, below decks were closed for renovation so the only part available to walk around were the weather decks mainly topside along with a short climb up to the enclosed battle bridge. Frankly, there was little to see on the Stewart that day and that disappointed me as there is so much more to a ship than just the main deck level. Both of these warships are on land which will help preserve them for the future. I give a 3 for this museum which is ok but there are many others that are better. I realize that funding for improvements and volunteers to do them are probably scarce. I would budget about an hour for the entire experience. They have soft drink machines along with restrooms. read more

What's not to like? Family fun, cool history! Did not know the submarine was in Pearl Harbor. So cool! Highly recommend you visit at least once! read more

Galveston Naval Museum - Historical Tours Near Me - Galveston, Texas

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We were so impressed at the history here. It's very nicely set up with tons of information. You can imagine living and working in the areas set up for you yo view in both the submarine and ship. One review said to tour the sub first then compare the size of the quarters to the ship. Wow! The overall experience was awe-inspiring! Even my teenager was completely interested. Note for planning ahead: steep climbing of stairs involved and not all spaces have air-conditioning. read more

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Fascinating! Love the smell of old ships. You can truly feel the history in these boats. Lots of stairs and tight spaces. Wear comfy shoes! And watch your noggin. Would have liked a bit more signage to explain things. Definitely do the sub first. Great experience! read more

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Extremely unique pieces of history on site! Nearly everything inside and out were accessible and it was all free roam. Visitors were allowed to climb onto the exhibits, enter through countless doors, take photographs, and view at their own pace. I would definitely recommend making the trip to this museum for new experiences! read more

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We visited on the inaugural of Galveston Museum Day. We come down to the island often and had no idea this museum was here. I thought the historical society did a great job bringing awareness to these gems. We were able to climb aboard the Historic WWII Submarine USS Cavalla and WWII Destroyer Escort USS Stewart. The Cavalla is the only submarine to sink an aircraft carrier whose planes bombed of Pearl Harbor and brought the US into the war. While the Stewart escorted merchant convoys in the raging North Atlantic to enable Britain to survive the war. The volunteers who were there to tell stories and share facts were so kind and welcoming. We really enjoyed learning the history and exploring these amazing vessels. Both volunteers we had the pleasure to meet were Veterans. You could hear the passion they have for keeping history alive. To them - thank you kindly for spending your time passing down the stories. We are incredibly grateful for your service to our country! read more

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Go to the sub (boat) first, before you go on the ship. I was onboard a submarine that (on its first mission) took out an aircraft carrier that attacked Pearl Harbor how do you "rate" that? This was very cool, sobering, and eventually informative. We were there on December 3rd too. At first it was just my wife and I, we were the 1st people there on that day. About 1/4 of the way through our self guided tour a volunteer showed up and filled in lots of gaps which really helped. as always happens, there are areas where you can't go, boo... The main one was the bridge/periscope area. The ladder is VERY steep and challenging, particularly coming down, and apparently after x number of people were injured attempting what MEN in their 20's did everyday in the 40's they locked the hatch and put up a sign, bummer. The other areas were below and blocked because of asbestos, yeah, that is probably best anyway, very dirty, cramped, and oh yeah, causes cancer too. Once you get a feel for the conditions, and size, THEN go to the "luxuriously appointed" ship... Hopefully you will get a guide to fill in the gaps, if not be sure to read EVERYTHING, be thankful for it, recall that the average age of he MEN that served (including officers and enlisted) was 26, and then consider how "brave" millennials are in meeting their "obstacles", and that they need "safe spaces" and emotional support animals on airplanes... read more

Such a fun and interesting place to visit even if your not a history or navy enthusiast! I loved seeing how a ship this size is set up and how it operates. read more

Went here with the family and had a great time. We were lucky to run into one of the workers Josh. He took us on a tour and gave us tons of good, fun information. Thanks Josh.. read more

It's a self guided tour. You get to see a WWII ship and a submarine that sunk about 15 tons of enemy suns/war ships. This ship is not as big as The USS Lexington and although well preserved, the whole tour can be done inn30 minutes. Please note that in addition to the ticket, you will be charged parking. read more

This was certainly a surprising hidden gem in Galveston. So cool seeing the USS Cavalla and Stewart. Both were fascinating to tour. Definitely worth seeing. A little off the beaten path but well worth the trip. So much history to learn about from both vessels. Word is the Cavalla is haunted... read more

Galveston Naval Museum - Historical Tours Near Me - Galveston, Texas

Wow this was better than I imagined. Really enjoyed the submarine. Very much worth the $10 fee.

Lovely place. A little off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip. Friendly staff. Clean grounds. So much fun climbing through the submarine and ship. Affordable. Military discount. read more

What a surprise this place was! We were expecting to look at the ships up close - never dreamed we would have the access to the interiors that we did. We walked through the entire sub as well as all over the other ship. We spent a couple hours there. Great history and really good photo ops. Excellent tribute to those who fought and lost their lives for us. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! read more

very nice museum it was outdoor but you can go inside the submarine and ship, and if you bring kids they have a play ground outside. but great experience. definitely recommend read more

This may be a small museum, but it is very interesting to see. There is a lot of history displayed here, and I would highly recommend it for a day trip out of the Houston area. Seeing what the generation that used the ship and submarine in WW II gave me more respect for that generation. The staff is also super friendly. read more

Loved this historical park! It was incredible to tour the sub and destroyer. I felt as if I stepped back in time. It was a unique experience, so worth it! Would go again!!! It's definitely a must see if you are in Galveston! read more

We loved it!! My 9 year old thought it was one of the coolest things he has seen!! Totally recommend taking the extra time to go see this treasure!! read more

History you cannot get in a textbook! Touring the submarine and ship gives you a perspective and appreciation for the history WWII that the Galveston Naval Museum is able to share! The staff is very friendly and the park itself is VERY clean and well kept! There is fishing at the same park as well! So you can easily make it a day trip! Definitely a great place to visit if you are in the area of Galveston. read more

This place was an optional destination on our list; turn out it was an awesome location to visit! We stopped by on our way back to Houston from Galveston. We met quite a few veterans there. Each told us their stories as we toured the ship & the submarine! They are so sweet and kind! They gave us 2 audio tour recorders & brownies!!! It was like living through the old days as we walked around the ships!!! An eye-opening experience! read more