Wow! There is *so* much information here!
With free entry, you can't go wrong.
There is plenty of parking here for cars, RV's and busses. Several out door displays are in this area and in front of the building. The gentleman at the visitor information desk just inside the door recommended seeing the sub first, then return to visit the museum. Walk down the hallway, and out to the water, cross a gang plank and into a small structure on the top of the sub where a set of stairs leads down. A Navy guard is on duty here if you have questions.
Be aware the stairs throughout are steep, and some quite narrow. Sub doorways are 'ports' you have to bend down and step over at the same time to get though. Or, grab the handle above the doorway and swing yourself through feet first. Some of the walkways through the sub are very narrow as well, and a tall person may have to 'duck' their head during their visit.
This is a self guided tour. Both plastic and paper signage gives information along the way. I can not imagine living on a sub. Tiny bathrooms, tiny bunks, sleeping quarters right by work areas. It's quite an experience to see how comparatively palacial the officer quarters look once you see how the others live.
The tour follows a loop through the sub and you exit where you enter. Return to the museum and there is plenty of information on the Nautilus as well as submarines in general. The museum has a 2nd floor in the room closest to the sub, with plenty of information and a viewing window. A movie plays in this room as well, with seats, in case you need a rest, or want to view the film.
The gift shop, located by the museum entrance/exit has lots of nice items for purchase. Plush toys, puzzles, post cards, glassware, home decor, shirts, ornaments, jewelry, wind chimes and more. Prices are reasonable. I picked up a soy candle, compact mirror and post card.
You can breeze right thru, or spend hours in here. Check out their website for more information, and plan a visit! read more