USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial — Attraction in San Francisco

Admittedly, it’s been several years since I last visited this piece of US naval history but even so I feel bad I should post this.

Firstly, if you are a fan of submarines, World War II history, naval history, or you have a connection with the submarine itself or the Navy in general or if you’re just a curious person I highly recommend going to this sub. Now, obviously it is a World War II era diesel powered submarine. So it is going to be a very narrow and very tight fit for a lot of people. So if you are claustrophobic, you probably won’t do very well with this.

Also, if you are wheelchair bound or anything like that, obviously unfortunately you won’t be able to go around inside.

The majority of the submarine is open for people to walk through and look around. There are even some areas where you can actually touch some of the controls.

One fun little piece of knowledge about this submarine is externally. The sub was used as an essentially character in the 90s movie down periscope.

Obviously, the external shots were of the submarine. The internal shots were likely, just well-made movie sets designed to resemble the sub. And of course, any shots of the sub underwater were most likely a miniature simply due to the fact that in many ways, the submarine has been deactivated.

All in all, definitely a thing to look at if you are in the San Francisco Bay area. You also have the added benefit of the World War II liberty ship the USS Jeremiah O’Brien mored behind...

I had a few misgivings about this museum ship for a couple reasons. The primary concern was the size of the vessel, and whether the tour would even be an educational experience rather than just frustration.

Happily, I was surprised that even over Memorial Day weekend I had a great experience. There was no line, and there is a QR code that links to an audio guide on your phone. That guide is timed PERFECTLY. Can't say enough good things about it. Only occasionally did I feel the need to pause to explore around.

Being able to be on my own to observe everything rather than have to fight read signs or see important features or listen to a guide was a huge plus. Even though the ship is small, and I got a little nervous at one point where I could feel it bobbing in the water, being able to tour at my own pace meant I was never really left feeling confined or constrained.

The ship is also in excellent condition. You can smell the oil and diesel. It is seeped into the metal of the ship. I bet old Navy cats get a nostalgic feeling when they walk in, kind of how old Marines might get when they smell gunpowder at a range or a reenactment or something.

Very well worth the time and money. I recommend a visit to anyone interested in...

Title: An Unforgettable Trip to History

Review: My visit to the USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial was an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime. The museum is immaculately maintained and doing an incredible job in preserving and presenting a crucial part of our naval history.

You are immediately transported back to World War II as you board the authentic submarine. Walking through the narrow corridors, observing the artifacts, reading the plaques full of details everywhere, you can't help but admire the courage and skills of the servicemen who operated under these conditions. The audio tour was truly immersive and provided an in-depth understanding of life aboard the submarine.

The staff is exceptional, knowledgeable, and passionate about their work. They were endlessly helpful and patient in answering questions, adding depth to the history with anecdotes from the time that you can't find in any book.

Finally, the memorial part of the site is a poignant reminder of our submariners' sacrifices, and the silent strength of the place is truly moving.

Overall, the USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial is well worth a visit. It's a trip back in time that educates, intrigues, and humbles...