Buffalo Naval & Military Park
Explore historic warships and a submarine, plus tanks and aircraft, on Buffalo's waterfront. A journey through naval history!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Buffalo Naval & Military Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic warships and a submarine, plus tanks and aircraft, on Buffalo's waterfront. A journey through naval history!
"Super cool opportunity to tour on board a naval ship and submarine. Like a walk back in time."
🎯 Buy Tickets Before 4 PM
Entry to ships & submarine closes at 4 PM. See them from dock anytime!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep stairs & narrow passages! Shorts & comfy shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS The Sullivans (DD-537)
Naval Park
Tour a Fletcher-class destroyer, the most important US destroyer class of WWII. Explore its decks and imagine life at sea.
+1
USS Little Rock (CL-92)
Naval Park
Step aboard a unique Cleveland-class cruiser, a Cold War-era vessel offering a different perspective on naval history.
USS Croaker (SS-246)
Naval Park
Descend into a Gato-class submarine and experience the confined, yet vital, world of underwater warfare.
Tanks & Aircraft Displays
Naval Park
Beyond the ships, discover a collection of tanks, aircraft, and other military artifacts that tell a broader story of service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boarding the Ships: Ticketing & Access
Comfort is Key: What to Wear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Tickets Before 4 PM
Entry to ships & submarine closes at 4 PM. See them from dock anytime!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep stairs & narrow passages! Shorts & comfy shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Can get hot! Re-entry allowed, so take breaks for refreshments.
⏳ Allow 3+ Hours
So much to see! You might skip exhibits if rushed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Tickets Before 4 PM
Entry to ships & submarine closes at 4 PM. See them from dock anytime!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep stairs & narrow passages! Shorts & comfy shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Can get hot! Re-entry allowed, so take breaks for refreshments.
⏳ Allow 3+ Hours
So much to see! You might skip exhibits if rushed.
🗺️ Guided Tours Available
Enhance your visit with expert insights. Check Explore Buffalo!
🚁 Drone Views are Epic
See the ships from a unique perspective!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Buffalo Naval & Military Park for its immersive historical experience, allowing them to step back in time aboard impressive naval vessels. The knowledgeable volunteers and the sheer scale of the ships are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some find the submarine tour to be a bit cramped, and on very hot days, the experience can be physically demanding, but overall, it's considered an educational and worthwhile visit for all ages.
"Super cool opportunity to tour on board a naval ship and submarine. Like a walk back in time. Fantastic historical viewing. The volunteers working have impressive knowledge. The submarine is def tight and small in some sections while walking through. Educational and interesting!"
K E O Flynn
"I had a genuinely enjoyable walk through the area, made even better by the perfect weather — pleasantly mild, with just the right amount of sunlight. The scenery was captivating, especially the sight of battleships and a submarine docked nearby. I even spotted a helicopter overhead, which added a dynamic touch to the experience. The combination of military history and peaceful surroundings made for a memorable outing that felt both relaxing and visually engaging."
Mohammed Majumder
"Awesome spot to check out the US Navy ships! It's a permanent exhibit, but if you wanna go inside the ship and submarine, you gotta grab your ticket by 4 pm. You can see them from the dock anytime, though. Pretty cool !"
Andrea Popovic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Buffalo Naval & Military Park is located on Buffalo's waterfront. It's easily accessible by car, with paid lot parking available, and free street parking nearby. Many visitors also arrive via public transport or as part of exploring the Buffalo waterfront area.
Yes, there is paid lot parking available at the Buffalo Naval Park, and free street parking can often be found in the surrounding areas.
Yes, the Buffalo Naval Park is located in downtown Buffalo, making it a walkable destination for many visitors exploring the city's waterfront.
The best way to travel depends on your starting point. Driving and parking is convenient, but public transport and walking are also great options if you're already in the downtown area.
While specific routes may vary, the Buffalo Naval Park is generally accessible via public transportation options serving the downtown Buffalo waterfront area. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need tickets to tour the ships (USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, and USS Croaker) and the submarine. You can view the vessels from the dock without a ticket, but to go aboard, purchase your tickets.
The park is typically open seasonally, usually from late spring through late fall. The ticket office for boarding the ships closes at 4 PM daily. Always check the official website for current operating hours and seasonal closures.
Ticket prices vary by age and status (adult, senior, child, veteran, military). It's best to check the official Buffalo Naval & Military Park website for the most current pricing information.
While you can view the ships from the dock anytime, purchasing tickets for ship and submarine tours is recommended to be done before 4 PM on the day of your visit. Some guided tours, like those offered by Explore Buffalo, may require advance booking.
You can see the ships from the dock and walk around the park grounds without a ticket. However, to board and explore the USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, and USS Croaker, a ticket is required.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can tour three decommissioned naval vessels: the Fletcher-class destroyer USS The Sullivans (DD-537), the Cleveland-class cruiser USS Little Rock (CL-92), and the Gato-class submarine USS Croaker (SS-246).
The submarine tour can be challenging due to tight spaces and steep ladders. It's an immersive experience, but visitors should be prepared for confined areas.
Beyond the naval vessels, the park features tanks, aircraft, and various historical exhibits and monuments, including memorial gardens, offering a comprehensive military history experience. +1
Yes, guided tours are available. Explore Buffalo offers a 'Monuments & Ships' tour in partnership with the park, which can provide deeper historical context.
Many visitors recommend a self-guided tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Comfortable shoes and allowing ample time (3+ hours) are key for a thorough experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself may not have extensive dining options, there are often food vendors present, especially during warmer months. Bryce's Ice Cream has been noted as a vendor on-site.
Information on bringing outside food and drinks can vary. It's advisable to check the park's specific policies or enjoy the nearby dining options along the Buffalo waterfront.
The Buffalo Naval Park is situated on the waterfront, offering access to numerous restaurants and eateries in the Canalside and downtown Buffalo areas.
The Buffalo Naval & Military Park is described as a unique family destination that also has a restaurant, museum, and gift shop.
Vendors like Bryce's Ice Cream offer treats. The park's restaurant may offer casual fare suitable for families.
📸 📸 Photography
The massive naval vessels themselves are iconic photo subjects. Don't miss capturing the scale of the ships against the Buffalo skyline or the water. Drone shots offer a unique perspective.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the ships, but be mindful of the confined spaces and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions.
While drone footage has been shared, it's crucial to check the park's official drone policy before flying. Unauthorized drone use can lead to penalties.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for photographing the ships. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities to capture the scale.
The dockside offers excellent ground-level views. For a different perspective, consider elevated viewpoints or drone photography if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as little legs will be doing a lot of climbing and exploring. Bring snacks and water, or plan to visit the on-site restaurant or nearby eateries. Consider a guided tour for younger children, as guides can often tailor information to keep them engaged.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own lunch and snacks to save on dining costs, as the park is located on the waterfront with many scenic spots for a picnic.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles – ground-level shots emphasizing the ships' immensity, or elevated perspectives from the waterfront. Drone photography, if permitted and done responsibly, can offer truly unique aerial views of the park and its historic fleet.
The golden hours of sunrise and sunset can bathe the ships in warm light, creating dramatic and memorable images. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Vessels: USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, and USS Croaker
+1The USS Little Rock (CL-92) represents a different era, a Cleveland-class cruiser that served during the Cold War. Its larger size and different design offer a contrast to the destroyer, showcasing the evolution of naval technology and strategy.
Perhaps the most adventurous experience is descending into the USS Croaker (SS-246), a Gato-class submarine. This Gato-class submarine offers a stark look at the confined and demanding life of submariners. Visitors often describe it as a 'tight and small' experience, highlighting the unique challenges faced by those who served beneath the waves.
Beyond the Ships: Tanks, Aircraft, and Memorials
The park also serves as a significant memorial space. It features monuments and memorial gardens dedicated to honoring veterans and those who have served the country. These areas provide a solemn and reflective atmosphere, allowing visitors to pay their respects and learn about the sacrifices made.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips from Visitors
Given Buffalo's weather, visiting on a hot day (over 90 degrees Fahrenheit) can be exhausting. Fortunately, the park often allows visitors to leave and return at their leisure, so taking breaks for refreshments is a smart strategy.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit