USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
accessibility
USS Alabama (BB-60) is a retired battleship. She was the fourth and final member of the South Dakota class of fast battleships built for the United States Navy in the 1940s.
attractions: Aircraft Pavilion, USS Drum, restaurants:
Ratings
Description
USS Alabama (BB-60) is a retired battleship. She was the fourth and final member of the South Dakota class of fast battleships built for the United States Navy in the 1940s.
Posts
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LouLou
90
Great experience! The USS Alabama offers an immersive journey through naval history. Its well-preserved exhibits showcase the ship's role in World War II, providing visitors with a glimpse into the challenges faced by sailors. The meticulously restored interiors and extensive collection of artifacts contribute to a fascinating experience. The on-site aircraft and submarine add an extra layer of exploration. However, the sheer size of the ship may be overwhelming for some, and accessibility could be a concern for those with mobility issues. Overall, a visit to the USS Alabama is a captivating exploration of a bygone era at sea. The USS Alabama's aircraft museum adds an exciting dimension to the overall experience. The collection of historic planes showcases the evolution of aviation and its crucial role in naval operations. From iconic World War II aircraft to more modern displays, aviation enthusiasts will find the variety impressive. The detailed information accompanying each exhibit enhances the educational value. However, the aircraft museum space is relatively compact, and during peak times, it can become crowded, affecting the ability to fully appreciate each display. Despite this, the aircraft museum is a noteworthy extension of the USS Alabama visit, offering a comprehensive look at both naval and aerial history. The submarine at the USS Alabama provides a captivating glimpse into underwater warfare during World War II. Visitors can explore the cramped quarters, gaining an appreciation for the challenges submariners faced. The well-preserved interior, complete with authentic equipment, offers a hands-on experience. However, the confined space may be claustrophobic for some, and navigating through the submarine can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Overall, the submarine adds a compelling and immersive element to the USS Alabama visit, allowing guests to step into the shoes of those who served beneath the ocean's surface.
WillWill
00
Tons to see, not only the Battleship USS Alabama and Submarine USS Drum but also airplanes, fighters and tanks. Self guided Tour of the Battleship is quite interesting but tough sometimes to know where to go (or not to go) and need to climb many steep stairs but all worth it. Hard to believe this ship has been sitting there for close to 60 years as it has been super well preserved. Could spend hours just on the Battleship. Self touring is a lot quicker on the Submarine and must stop to look at the binder of the two individuals (forgot names) who did all the work not only to bring the submarine but to restore it, very impressive. The sub had been rotting for years and everything was falling apart when it was restored. Cool to see a B52 Stratofortress but some planes don’t have any identification or signs helping to know names and details. Got there with motorhome and parking fee was $5 for up to two axles. Glad it was not a busy and crowded day and weather was perfect and there is a lot of walking outside to see planes, tanks and fighters. Stop at 911 Memorial to pay respect to the Alabamians victims. There is a nice giftshop before exiting to bring back nice souvenirs. We paid $60 for 3 adults (12 years old and up) and a kid. It is a decent price for what you get to see and experience. Got a bracelet and could leave and comeback as we wanted throughout the day. No food avail as they are renovating the cafe so need to plan ahead.
Patrick TanguyPatrick Tanguy
00
$5US to park at the site and $18 for entry ticket. Plenty of parking was available. Although we didn't have to line up for entry at 9:30 am on a Monday during summer break, they have infrastructure there for handling lines, so I guess it gets busy at times. Entry ticket gives access to the battleshio, submarine, display hall and the surrounding field that has various aircraft and tanks. The battship entry includes the opportunity to climb over a large part of the battleship 3 floors below deck and 3 floors above deck, including inside the turrets, which was pretty cool. On a hot day, the intermittent aircon was greatly appreciated. Entry to the submarine was (understandably) far more confined and there is almost no possibility to pass other visitors who are going through, so the line goes at the speed of the slowest walker. Although there is some access for wheelchairs onto the battleship, it only covers the deck (including access to restrooms on the deck) no access for wheelchairs on the submarine. The giftshop and cafe had a good range of products available, but I visited at a moderately quiet time, and they were at capacity. On busy days, I imagine the giftshop and cafe would be insufferably crowded. Overall, for a person who isn't at all interested in military stuff, I thought it was an OK visit, and I did it in 3 hours. It gave me a pretty good idea of what life would be like on a battleship and submarine of that era, so it was worth doing just once in my life. I wish there had been some chairs on the battleship so I could take weight off my feet and rest my lower back.
A MillsA Mills
00
I have to say this is one of the best overnight trips my family has taken in a while. We had 3 adults, 2 teens, and a 3 yr old with us. All of us had an absolutely wonderful time!! The walk through of both the USS Drum and the USS Alabama was amazing, and quite honestly, I’m shocked admission does not cost more than it does. (Glad it’s not!). The staff, from the moment we walked in, was amazing. The self guided tour was so refreshing, as you can go at your own pace. We went when the temperature was about 36 degrees, and the ship was nice and warm inside. I’m not sure if it was the temperature that kept some visitors away, but I expected it to be busier than what it was. I can see where, if really busy, that the USS Drum (submarine) would be really difficult to view inside. Also be aware that entry ways, ladder spaces are pretty small, as expected, for a submarine. There were plenty of bathrooms on board the ship. There are vending machines in the aircraft hangar for waters/sodas, and there is a small restaurant outside of the hangar (we did not go to the restaurant) The website could definitely be revamped, as it is choppy and does not provide a lot of answers to questions. Getting someone on the phone was absolutely impossible the 4 different times we tried calling before going there. The number goes to a voicemail. We will definitely be back, as I want to experience this again!!!
Trisha HammondTrisha Hammond
00
Amazing experience! We visited USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM with family (two adults and three small children) and had a great time. Nevertheless there are some downsides about this place. It’s a self-guided tour so if you’re familiar with military history/service then lot of the things are pretty much self explanatory. However, for those who’re not familiar with military equipment and history this experience may not be so much fun. Also, be prepared to go through very tight entrance/exit and steep stairs. If you have knee problems you may not be able to fully enjoy this visit unfortunately. Moreover, admission rates are rather high in my opinion ($18 per person regular admission for adults and $15 w/Veteran discount + $5 parking fee no exceptions) for it being a public memorial park. It would’ve been nice if the rates were somewhat lower. Even with a veteran discount the rates are still high. Fees really add up especially if you’re visiting with a larger group. Lastly if you have a wheelchair or a baby stroller/wagon you’re going to have a problem accessing 85% of the park site. All in all there’s plenty of interesting and fun things to explore. You can take lots of interesting and unique pictures in and around the battleships. Our family had a fun and enjoyable visit. If any of the above mentioned “issues” don’t bother you then this a great place to visit for sure.
SOBI's HobbiesSOBI's Hobbies
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