USS Constellation
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Historic Ships Baltimore

4.7
·1k reviews·Baltimore, United States

Explore a fleet of historic vessels in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, from a Civil War-era sloop to a WWII submarine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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USS Constellation

Historic Ships Baltimore

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"The most unique and best-value-for-money attraction in Baltimore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ 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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

USS Constellation

USS Constellation

Inner Harbor

America's oldest naval ship still afloat, offering a glimpse into 19th-century naval life.

USS Torsk Submarine

USS Torsk Submarine

Inner Harbor

Explore the cramped quarters of this WWII-era submarine, a unique and immersive experience.

Lightship Chesapeake

Lightship Chesapeake

Inner Harbor

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

USCGC Taney

USCGC Taney

Inner Harbor

Discover the history of this Coast Guard cutter, a veteran of Pearl Harbor and WWII.

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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Ships Wisely

With a multi-ship ticket, you can explore up to four historic vessels. Prioritize based on your interests – from submarines to sailing ships. Consider accessibility, as some ships have narrow passages and steep steps, especially the USS Torsk and USS Constellation.

Dress for Adventure

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating steep ladders and narrow decks. Avoid heels or open-toed sandals. Many visitors recommend dressing in layers as temperatures can vary inside the ships and on deck.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views from deck
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Awesome things to do in Baltimore, MD🚢⚓️ #baltimore #maryland #travel #thingstodo #fyp
@shelbyinthesky
12.4K likes • 681.7K views

🎟️ Multi-Ship Ticket Value

A pass for 4 ships is a great value! You can visit them over multiple days if needed. Reddit

👟 Dress for the Decks

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Heels are a no-go, and some ships require going down ladders backward. :athletic_shoe:

America’s largest shipwreck graveyard, full of historic ships! #history #shipwrecks #ww1 #ww2 #maryland #USHistory #TikTokLearningCampaign
@jakes.history.exp
10.4K likes • 83.6K views
Come tour the USS Torsk! This submarine is part of the Historic Ships in Baltimore City. Make sure to check out historicships.org to buy your tickets and for more info. #historicships #submarine #usstorsk @historicshipsinbaltimore #exploringbaltimore #marylandfamily #marylandmoms #homeschoolmama #homeschoolfamily #homeschooladventures #discoverunder7k #influencerinthewild
ashleytravelsandbeyond
138 likes • 2K views

📏 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:

“United States lightship Chesapeake (LS-116/WAL-538/WLV-538) is a museum ship owned by the National Park Service and on a 25-year loan to Baltimore City, and is operated by Historic Ships in Baltimore Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. A National Historic Landmark, she is one of a small number of preserved lightships” —Wikipedia (Launched in 1930) #lightship #baltimoreinnerharbor #innerharbor #histori...
temple_plaza
7 likes • 260 views

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. Reddit

👟 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. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

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

Great value for money
Immersive historical experience
Variety of ships to explore

What People Dislike

Cramped spaces on some ships
Steep ladders and low ceilings

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The standard ticket usually grants access to four historic vessels: the USS Constellation, USS Torsk submarine, Lightship Chesapeake, and USCGC Taney. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed on the Historic Ships. It's a great opportunity to capture unique historical details and harbor views. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, each ship typically has a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and maritime-themed items. Reddit

Absolutely! The Inner Harbor is very family-friendly, with many restaurants offering children's menus and casual dining experiences perfect for families. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Historic Ships in Baltimore offers an exciting adventure for families! The multi-ship ticket is a great way to keep kids engaged, as they can explore different types of vessels. The USS Torsk submarine is often a huge hit with children, offering a unique and thrilling experience (just be mindful of the tight spaces!). The USS Constellation provides a grander scale with its cannons and historical exhibits. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of climbing and exploring to do. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The 'Four Ship Ticket' is an excellent value for budget-conscious travelers, offering access to multiple historical vessels for a single, reasonable price. This makes it one of the most cost-effective attractions in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Reddit

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. Reddit

couples

For a unique and engaging date, explore the Historic Ships in Baltimore. The USS Constellation offers a romantic glimpse into naval history, while the USS Torsk submarine provides a quirky and memorable shared adventure. The panoramic views from the decks of the ships, especially during sunset, create a picturesque backdrop for couples. Instagram

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the USS Constellation

The USS Constellation is a true gem of Baltimore's maritime history. Launched in 1854, it's not the original Federal Era ship but a later, more powerful vessel that served in various capacities, including blockading Confederate ports during the Civil War. Visitors can explore its decks, admire its impressive array of cannons, and imagine life aboard a 19th-century warship. The ship's museum exhibits detail its long and varied service history. Be prepared for some narrow passages and low ceilings as you move through the ship's interior. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

The Unique Experience of the USS Torsk

For a truly immersive experience, step aboard the USS Torsk (SS-423), a Gato-class submarine that served in World War II and the Cold War. This vessel is known as 'The Wily Tuna' and holds the record for the most enemy vessels sunk by a U.S. submarine. Exploring the Torsk is a fascinating, albeit tight, adventure. Visitors can navigate through its narrow passageways, see the cramped crew quarters, and imagine the claustrophobic conditions submariners endured. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Navigating the Historic Ships: Practicalities

When planning your visit to the Historic Ships in Baltimore, practical considerations are key to a smooth experience. The multi-ship ticket is a fantastic value, allowing access to up to four vessels. However, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the steep ladders and uneven decks found on most of the ships. Avoid heels or open-toed sandals, as they can be hazardous. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

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