
Historic Ships Baltimore
Explore a fleet of historic vessels in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, from a Civil War-era sloop to a WWII submarine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Historic Ships Baltimore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a fleet of historic vessels in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, from a Civil War-era sloop to a WWII submarine.
"The most unique and best-value-for-money attraction in Baltimore."

🎟️ Multi-Ship Ticket Value
A pass for 4 ships is a great value! You can visit them over multiple days if needed.
👟 Dress for the Decks
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Heels are a no-go, and some ships require going down ladders backward. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS Constellation
Inner Harbor
America's oldest naval ship still afloat, offering a glimpse into 19th-century naval life.
USS Torsk Submarine
Inner Harbor
Explore the cramped quarters of this WWII-era submarine, a unique and immersive experience.

Lightship Chesapeake
Inner Harbor
Step aboard a preserved lightship, one of the few remaining, and learn about maritime navigation.

USCGC Taney
Inner Harbor
Discover the history of this Coast Guard cutter, a veteran of Pearl Harbor and WWII.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Ships Wisely
Dress for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Multi-Ship Ticket Value
A pass for 4 ships is a great value! You can visit them over multiple days if needed.
👟 Dress for the Decks
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Heels are a no-go, and some ships require going down ladders backward. :athletic_shoe:
📏 Mind Your Head!
Be aware of low doorways and steep steps, especially on the USS Torsk and USS Constellation. :warning:
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy great photo ops from the decks of each ship, offering unique perspectives of the harbor. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Multi-Ship Ticket Value
A pass for 4 ships is a great value! You can visit them over multiple days if needed.
👟 Dress for the Decks
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Heels are a no-go, and some ships require going down ladders backward. :athletic_shoe:
📏 Mind Your Head!
Be aware of low doorways and steep steps, especially on the USS Torsk and USS Constellation. :warning:
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy great photo ops from the decks of each ship, offering unique perspectives of the harbor. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Take Your Time
Self-guided tours allow you to read all the info and explore at your own pace without feeling rushed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Historic Ships in Baltimore for their excellent value and immersive historical experience. The variety of vessels, from submarines to sailing ships, offers something for everyone. Some guests note that certain ships can be challenging to navigate due to narrow spaces and steep steps, particularly for taller individuals or those with mobility issues.
"Our grandson loves ships and planes so we took him to Baltimore's Inner Harbour on Sat July 26, 2025. . We hit the science center and then toured the ships at the Harbour. Each ticket consisted of 4 ships to tour. Adult price was $22 each. Children 5 and under are free... I told the the guy at the counter we need two adult tickets and our grandson is 5. Before the guy could even push a button.... our grandson was like " no, I'm 6 pop". OK lol I guess he's 6 now. Lmfao. So, since I didn't save $10 lol our total was about $53. The tickets are for your own self guided tour of 4 ships. Unfortunately, we only did 3 of them. The Constellation, the Chesapeake Lightship and the U.S.S Tursk Submarine. The ships were really cool to see. Our grandson loved it! The Constellation has very narrow floors. Im 6'3 and literally had to walk through it with more than my head down. It's nice to see what things looked like on the boat. The beds , the cabins, the kitchen area and so forth. Some tiny rooms had 5 beds in it!! Im not sure that 5 normal people could even stand in the room at once. Im tall and slim and in no way, could I could have survived. I guess most guys back then were small lol.
The Submarine was really interesting. Please be aware, if your over 6'5 , over 200 lbs or over 60 years old this may not be for you. It is small to maneuver through and requires some good hand - eye coordination and some good bones lol. The Chesapeake Lightship was the only one that seemed to have room to walk through. However, all of them had some small steep steps. Please be careful not to hit your head. From the top of the ships you are presented with some nice views.
We didnt encounter many other people there. Maybe a few but not many. It was over 95 degrees the day we went so there wasnt a ton of people outside like us lol. The tickets last all day I believe. You can take pictures, read all the information boards, move slow and take your time if you can.
Im rating the historic ships of Baltimore tours a 5 out of 5 stars. It was worth the money... especially if your able to tour all 4 ships."
Larry H
"Ships were neat to see and walk around inside. The USS Constellation was my favorite you can walk all through it. They have a cutter that was in the battle for Pearl Harbor which was awesome to see. The submarine was neat to walk through but watch your head! Would be neat to see more people in and around the ships to point out some neat things you might not usually see."
Paul “Your Fellow Traveler”
"No wait and had most of the ship to myself. Was able to spend time reading all the stories. Ship was in excellent shape, restrooms were clean and a good giftshop.
They have a pass for 25 bucks to see 4 ships in the bay, I highly reccomend doing that it was a great value."
K W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Historic Ships are located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. You can reach them by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options include the Charm City Circulator bus and water taxis. Many visitors find walking around the Inner Harbor is the best way to access the ships.
Yes, there are several parking garages and lots around the Inner Harbor. Rates can vary, so it's worth checking prices in advance. Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Absolutely! The Historic Ships are a central part of the Inner Harbor experience. They are easily accessible on foot from attractions like the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.
Yes, the Inner Harbor is well-served by public transport. The Charm City Circulator's Harbor Connector route stops near the ships, and water taxis offer a scenic way to arrive.
The ships are clearly marked and visible from the waterfront. A good map of the Inner Harbor will show their exact locations. Walking along the promenade is the most enjoyable way to find them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A popular option is the 'Four Ship Ticket' which offers great value at around $22 for adults. Children under 5 often get in free. Prices can vary, so check the official Historic Ships in Baltimore website for the most current information.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This saves time and guarantees your entry. You can usually buy them directly from the Historic Ships in Baltimore website.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and children. It's always a good idea to check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter about any available promotions or group rates.
Tickets are typically valid for a full day, allowing you to explore the ships at your own pace. Some visitors mention they can be used over multiple days, so confirm this when purchasing.
The standard ticket usually grants access to four historic vessels: the USS Constellation, USS Torsk submarine, Lightship Chesapeake, and USCGC Taney.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors rave about the USS Constellation for its historical significance and the ability to explore its entirety. The USS Torsk submarine offers a unique, albeit cramped, experience. The Lightship Chesapeake and USCGC Taney also provide fascinating insights.
Some ships, like the USS Constellation and USS Torsk, have narrow passages and steep ladders that can be challenging, especially for taller individuals or those with mobility issues. The Lightship Chesapeake is generally more spacious.
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the Historic Ships. It's a great opportunity to capture unique historical details and harbor views.
Restrooms are available on most of the ships, though they may be small. It's advisable to use facilities before boarding if you have specific needs.
To fully enjoy and explore all four ships, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you want to take your time and read all the exhibits, you might need longer or spread it over two days.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly on the ships, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls in the surrounding Inner Harbor area. You can easily find options for every taste and budget.
Generally, bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages is permitted, but it's best to consume them in designated areas or outside the ships. Check the specific rules at the ticket counter.
The Inner Harbor offers a wide array of dining choices, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. Popular spots include those with harbor views, offering a pleasant dining experience after your ship tour.
Yes, each ship typically has a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and maritime-themed items.
Absolutely! The Inner Harbor is very family-friendly, with many restaurants offering children's menus and casual dining experiences perfect for families.
📸 📸 Photography
The decks of the ships offer fantastic panoramic views of the Baltimore skyline and harbor. Don't miss capturing the unique architectural details of each vessel, from the cannons on the Constellation to the periscope of the Torsk.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the ships, allowing you to document the historical interiors, crew quarters, and machinery. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in very confined spaces.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the ships and the harbor. Morning light can also be lovely for capturing details.
While generally allowed, always be respectful of the historical artifacts and other visitors. Tripods might be restricted in certain areas, so check with staff if you plan to use one.
Focus on the scale of the ships, the intricate details of the rigging and weaponry, and the contrast between the historic vessels and the modern city skyline. Interior shots of the living quarters and engine rooms are also compelling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options directly on the ships are limited, though the Inner Harbor has plenty of family-friendly eateries nearby. The self-guided tours allow you to move at your children's pace, making it a less stressful outing. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about maritime history in a hands-on, engaging way.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds and have more space to explore. Pack your own snacks and water to save on incidental costs. The self-guided nature of the tours means you can spend as much or as little time as you like on each ship, maximizing your experience without additional fees.
couples
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Inner Harbor before or after your ship tours, and find a charming waterfront restaurant for a romantic dinner. The self-guided tours allow for intimate exploration and conversation as you discover the stories behind these magnificent vessels together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the USS Constellation
Walking through the Constellation offers a tangible connection to America's naval past. The sheer scale of the ship and the detailed restoration work make it a standout attraction. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about naval technology and the lives of the sailors who served on her. The ship's crew often conducts demonstrations, adding an extra layer of engagement for visitors.
The Unique Experience of the USS Torsk
Important considerations for the USS Torsk include its size. If you are over 6'5", over 200 lbs, or have significant mobility issues, maneuvering through the submarine might be challenging. The tight spaces and steep ladders require good coordination. However, for those who can manage, it's an incredibly rewarding glimpse into submarine warfare and the lives of its dedicated crews.
Navigating the Historic Ships: Practicalities
Accessibility is a significant factor to consider. While the Lightship Chesapeake tends to be more spacious, the USS Constellation and especially the USS Torsk have very narrow passages and low ceilings. Visitors who are tall or have mobility concerns should be aware of these limitations. Taking your time, reading the informative displays, and being mindful of your surroundings will enhance your visit.
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