Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna at Independence Seaport Museum — Attraction in Philadelphia

Step Into Naval History – A Must-See Experience at Independence Seaport Museum!

We visited the Independence Seaport Museum on July 13, 2025, and one of the highlights of our trip was touring the historic Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna. This was a truly memorable and educational experience for the whole family.

The Cruiser Olympia, once an active warship, is now beautifully preserved as a floating museum. Walking through its decks felt like stepping back in time — from the elegant officer quarters to the gritty engine room, every part of the ship tells a story. It’s incredible to see how this mighty vessel has been transformed into a living piece of history.

The Submarine Becuna offered a very different but equally fascinating glimpse into life under the sea. Tight quarters, detailed control panels, and torpedo rooms really gave us a feel for what it was like for the crew who served aboard during World War II. It’s interactive and engaging, especially for kids who love exploring and discovering new things.

Both vessels are well maintained and accompanied by informative displays and signage. The museum staff were helpful and knowledgeable, adding even more value to the experience.

If you’re in Philadelphia, make sure to add this to your bucket list. It’s a unique and hands-on way to learn about American naval history and perfect for visitors...

Fantastic living history portion of the Seaport Museum embodied in two historic museum ships moored at Spruce St Harbor a short walk from the main museum building. Both ships are open for visitors to explore. Being old vessels, many areas are of course only accessible via somewhat perilous ladders and gangways, so a certain level of agility is required.

Olympia has a main deck that is mostly explorable on a single level, with only some stepping between bulkhead doors necessary. As for the submarine, be prepared to cast your claustrophobia aside if planning a visit. Although once down below (using an aforementioned ladder), the Becuna is a fascinating look at how truly remarkable submarine warfare was for its time.

Plan at least an hour to tour both ships; allow more time if you’d like a guided tour or more time to explore (and get photos!) Fantastic experience for curious children, or really any history buff.

ALSO: Remember that as historic vessels, there are no modern HVAC systems, so plan accordingly with...

One has to visit a lot of museum ships in the United States and know a bit about American naval history to realize just how special Cruiser Olympia is. She's the only vessel of her class preserved from her period in history, which represents an interesting transition, from some traditional components found on ships before her, like her auxiliary sail rig to more modern features like her rapid-fire guns. Looking at some of her staterooms and the abundance of wood still aboard, things you will see far little of aboard Word War 2 ships or the modernized World War 1 ships still left like USS Texas. And you see a lot more brass and bronze here too. Even her paint job is that of the Great White Fleet pre-World War 1. It is astounding to have her to tour. These photos date to a...