Maritime & Prison Museum Museo Marítimo y del Presidio
Explore Ushuaia's past in a former prison, featuring maritime history, Antarctic exploration, and chilling jail exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, better photos
Maritime & Prison Museum Museo Marítimo y del Presidio
Best Time
Less crowded, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Ushuaia's past in a former prison, featuring maritime history, Antarctic exploration, and chilling jail exhibits.
"The preserved prison wings give a real sense of the harsh isolation that defined Ushuaia’s early years."
⏳ Allow ample time
Give yourself 1.5 to 2 hours to truly soak in the history and atmosphere of this unique site.
📸 Photogenic textures
The textures and atmosphere are incredibly photogenic, perfect for capturing unique shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preserved Prison Wings
Former Prison Building
Walk through chilling, untouched corridors and cells, feeling the isolation of Ushuaia's past.
Maritime & Antarctic Exhibits
Maritime Museum Section
Explore fascinating displays on naval history, Antarctic exploration, and local marine life.
Prisoner Stories & Escape Attempts
Prison History Section
Discover intriguing tales of prisoners, their lives, and daring escape attempts from this remote outpost.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Ticket Value & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tips on Ushuaia?
⏳ Allow ample time
Give yourself 1.5 to 2 hours to truly soak in the history and atmosphere of this unique site.
📸 Photogenic textures
The textures and atmosphere are incredibly photogenic, perfect for capturing unique shots.
Recommendations
Only 1 day in Ushuaia, what to do?
🎧 Use website audio guide
Enhance your visit by using the audio guide from their website on your phone.
🎟️ Ticket covers both buildings
Your entrance ticket grants access to both the maritime and prison museum buildings.
Ushuaia in the rain
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Give yourself 1.5 to 2 hours to truly soak in the history and atmosphere of this unique site.
📸 Photogenic textures
The textures and atmosphere are incredibly photogenic, perfect for capturing unique shots.
🎧 Use website audio guide
Enhance your visit by using the audio guide from their website on your phone.
🎟️ Ticket covers both buildings
Your entrance ticket grants access to both the maritime and prison museum buildings.
💰 Student discounts available
Students under 24 can get a discounted ticket price, making it more accessible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Maritime & Prison Museum for its unique historical setting within a former prison, offering a powerful glimpse into Ushuaia's past. The maritime and Antarctic exhibits are also well-regarded for their informative content. While some find the ticket price a bit high, most agree the immersive atmosphere and historical insights make it a worthwhile visit, especially for photography and history enthusiasts.
"Interesting building, but the museums feel like they Googled themselves. This former prison now hosts a Maritime Museum, a prison history section, and an art gallery. The setting is unique, but most of the exhibits felt like oversized Wikipedia pages. The naval art and the temporary gallery were the highlights.
The café is more like a drinks counter, the gift shop thinks it’s selling gold, and overall, it didn’t quite justify the time. If you’re short on time in Ushuaia, take a quick wander through the prison — the atmosphere is the real exhibit here."
Öner Buçukcu
"Interesting museum. You pay the entrance and get to go to a gallery and others museums inside. We didn’t get a guide but we used to audio from their website to listen to the stories on our phone. It was 28,000 pesos for students (till 24 y/o), and 35,000 for adults in general."
Vanessa Morais
"A powerful and immersive visit. The preserved prison wings give a real sense of the harsh isolation that defined Ushuaia’s early years. Walking through the narrow, cold corridors was haunting—especially in Wing 4, left untouched since its closure.
The museum does a great job connecting history, maritime heritage, and local life. The exhibitions on Antarctica, explorers, and prison escape attempts were very well curated.
If you’re interested in history, human endurance, or photography, this is a must-see in Ushuaia.
🕰️ Give yourself 1.5 to 2 hours
📸 The textures and atmosphere are incredibly photogenic
🎟️ Worth every peso"
Sidney Braga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within Ushuaia city, making it easily accessible. You can walk from the city center or take a short taxi ride. Many visitors find it a convenient stop for an afternoon activity.
Parking can be challenging in Ushuaia's city center, especially during peak tourist season. It's often easier to walk or take a taxi if you're staying nearby.
Yes, the museum is a great option for a half-day activity in Ushuaia, especially if you have an afternoon free after arriving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, with general admission around 35,000 pesos and student tickets (under 24) around 28,000 pesos. Some reviews mention a $6 general admission and $2 student price, so confirm current rates.
Yes, you can buy tickets directly at the museum without any issues. There's usually no need to book in advance.
Your ticket is valid for both buildings, granting you access to the maritime section, the prison history, and any temporary galleries.
While official guided tours might not always be prominent, many visitors use the museum's website for audio guides on their phones to learn about the exhibits.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or inquire locally upon arrival, but generally, it's open during typical daytime museum hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on maritime history, Antarctic exploration, and the history of the prison itself, including prisoner stories and escape attempts.
The historical and sometimes somber nature of the prison exhibits might be more suited for older children and adults. However, the maritime and Antarctic sections can be engaging for younger visitors.
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring both sections of the museum to fully appreciate the exhibits and atmosphere.
While the historical nature of the prison building might present some challenges, the maritime section is generally more accessible. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features beforehand.
Many visitors recommend walking through the narrow, cold corridors and experiencing the 'haunting' atmosphere. Wing 4 is often noted as being left untouched since closure.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, and many visitors find the textures and atmosphere incredibly photogenic. However, always check for any specific 'no photo' signs in certain exhibits.
The preserved prison wings, with their stark textures and atmospheric lighting, are prime spots. The maritime exhibits also offer visually interesting elements.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to avoid flash photography in sensitive areas or where it might disturb other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the somber nature of the prison wings; it might be best to gauge your children's sensitivity to historical accounts of hardship. The museum is a good option for a half-day activity, offering a unique glimpse into the 'end of the world's' past without requiring extensive travel.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the prison, the maritime exhibits also provide interesting subjects, from historical artifacts to displays on marine life. The overall ambiance of the museum lends itself to capturing evocative and memorable photographs. Remember to check for any specific photography restrictions, but generally, the textures and atmosphere are highly photogenic.
🏛️ History Buffs
This museum provides a comprehensive look at Ushuaia's unique origins, from its role as a remote outpost to its significance in Antarctic exploration. The depth of information, combined with the atmospheric setting, makes for a truly compelling historical experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haunting History of the Prison
The museum effectively connects the prison's history with the broader narrative of Ushuaia's development. Exhibits detail prisoner lives, their daily routines, and even daring escape attempts, painting a vivid picture of life at the 'end of the world.' This historical context is crucial for understanding why Ushuaia became a penal colony and its subsequent growth. Many find this aspect particularly intriguing and a highlight of their visit.
For those interested in human endurance and the stark realities of history, this part of the museum is a must-see. The atmosphere is palpable, and the stories shared are deeply affecting. It’s a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the challenging environment of this remote Patagonian outpost.
Maritime Heritage and Antarctic Adventures
Visitors can learn about famous explorers, the challenges of navigating these waters, and the scientific endeavors undertaken in Antarctica. The exhibitions are often described as well-curated, providing engaging insights into a world far removed from everyday life. This section appeals to those with an interest in exploration, natural history, and the adventurous spirit that defines this part of the world.
The maritime and Antarctic sections provide a broader context for Ushuaia's identity, showcasing its importance as a strategic port and a base for scientific research. The visual elements and informative displays make this part of the museum both educational and visually appealing, offering a different perspective on the region's unique history and geography.
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