Galveston Naval Museum — USS Cavalla & USS Stewart
Step aboard the USS Cavalla submarine and USS Stewart destroyer for an immersive WWII history experience in Galveston.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Galveston Naval Museum — USS Cavalla & USS Stewart
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard the USS Cavalla submarine and USS Stewart destroyer for an immersive WWII history experience in Galveston.
"Really cool submarine. Got to go in many different areas! Its not accessible for those who have issues walking."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steep stairs and tight spaces inside the ships. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and exhibits on both vessels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS Cavalla (SS-244)
Galveston Naval Museum
Walk through a WWII submarine that sank a Japanese flagship. Experience cramped quarters and powerful history.
USS Stewart (DE-238)
Galveston Naval Museum
Explore a WWII destroyer escort, sister ship to those that served in the Battle of the Atlantic.
Life Aboard the Ships
Throughout both vessels
Gain insight into the daily lives of sailors in tight, functional spaces. A truly immersive historical experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Submarine Adventure
Book Ahead for Special Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steep stairs and tight spaces inside the ships. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and exhibits on both vessels.
👻 Book Haunted Tours
For a unique experience, check out the 'Haunted Tales & Ghost Tour' for spooky stories.
♿ Accessibility Note
The ships are not fully accessible due to steep stairs and narrow passages.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steep stairs and tight spaces inside the ships. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and exhibits on both vessels.
👻 Book Haunted Tours
For a unique experience, check out the 'Haunted Tales & Ghost Tour' for spooky stories.
♿ Accessibility Note
The ships are not fully accessible due to steep stairs and narrow passages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Galveston Naval Museum for its well-preserved historic ships, offering an immersive glimpse into WWII naval life. The ability to explore both the USS Cavalla submarine and USS Stewart destroyer is a major highlight, providing a tangible connection to history. While the tight spaces and steep stairs can be challenging, they also contribute to the authentic experience.
"Great museum ship experience without being overwhelming. The exhibits are well kept for as small as the operation is. Cavalla has some wonderful history highlighted aboard on posters, noting her service history and what life was like on WW2 "tin can" subs like her."
Josh Jones
"This ships is a part of World History. It's kept up nice and is a work of art for it's time. It's nice to see how it's kept up for future generations to see and understand history."
Scotty Trosclair
"This was an excellent sub museum to visit, and I would highly recommend if you are ever in the Galveston area. Being a former submariner myself, it was great to see an old diesel boat that was upkept well and played a very important role in WWII. BZ!"
Joe Conte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Galveston Naval Museum is located at Seawolf Park on Pelican Island in Galveston, Texas. You can drive directly to the park. Parking is available on-site. +1
Seawolf Park is situated on Pelican Island, accessible via a bridge. Follow signs for the park once you're on the island.
From Galveston Island, take the ferry to Bolivar Peninsula, then turn right onto Ferry Road. Continue to Pelican Island Causeway and follow signs to Seawolf Park. Alternatively, from Texas City, take Highway 146 South to the Pelican Island Causeway.
Public transportation options directly to Seawolf Park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the museum.
Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft may be available in Galveston, but availability on Pelican Island could be less consistent. It's best to confirm with your service provider.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, and it's recommended to check the official Galveston Naval Museum website or their social media for the most current pricing.
While not always explicitly stated, purchasing tickets online in advance is often a good strategy for popular attractions to save time. Check their website for booking options.
Operating hours can change, especially after renovations or for special events. It's best to consult the Galveston Naval Museum's official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children is typically available on the museum's official website. Inquire directly if you don't see it listed.
For self-guided tours, time slots may not be required, but it's wise to confirm this when purchasing tickets. Special tours, like the ghost tour, will likely have set times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore two historic WWII vessels: the USS Cavalla submarine and the USS Stewart destroyer escort. Both offer a glimpse into naval history and life aboard.
Yes, you can walk through most parts of both ships, experiencing the living quarters, control rooms, and engine spaces.
Children often find the submarines fascinating, but be aware of the tight spaces and steep stairs. It's a hands-on adventure!
While self-guided tours are the norm, special events like the 'Haunted Tales & Ghost Tour' offer a guided experience with historical and spooky elements.
The USS Cavalla (SS-244) is a Gato-class submarine famous for sinking the Japanese aircraft carrier Shōkaku during WWII.
The USS Stewart (DE-238) was a destroyer escort that served during World War II, playing a role in convoy escort and anti-submarine warfare.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions inside the vessels. +1
Capture the unique angles of the submarine's interior, the impressive torpedoes, and the exterior of both ships against the Galveston skyline. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and parks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Video recording for personal use is usually permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and any posted rules. +1
Interior lighting can be dim in some areas, so a camera with good low-light performance or a flash might be helpful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for steep stairs and narrow passages, which might require extra supervision for very young children. However, the sheer novelty of being inside a real WWII submarine or destroyer makes it a memorable experience for all ages. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited.
👻 Ghost Enthusiasts
+1The museum even offers a special 'Haunted Tales & Ghost Tour' that delves into the spooky history and legends associated with the ships and Galveston itself. This tour combines historical facts with chilling ghost stories for a truly unique evening experience.
⚓ History Buffs
Gain a deep appreciation for the daily lives of submariners and sailors by exploring the authentic living quarters, control rooms, and operational spaces. The well-maintained exhibits provide rich context for understanding these vessels' significance in world history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the USS Cavalla
+1Visitors can explore the cramped living quarters, the control room, and the torpedo room, gaining a visceral understanding of the challenges faced by submariners. The museum highlights her service history through posters and exhibits, offering a detailed look at life aboard a 'tin can' submarine.
This historical vessel is a testament to the bravery and ingenuity of the submariners who served. Its preservation allows future generations to connect with this critical chapter of world history.
Exploring the USS Stewart
Walking the decks of the USS Stewart offers a different perspective on naval life compared to the submarine. Visitors can see the ship's armaments, bridge, and crew accommodations, understanding the role of escorts in protecting convoys and hunting enemy submarines.
+1The Galveston Naval Museum provides an opportunity to experience this piece of maritime history firsthand. The ship's preservation allows for an educational and engaging visit, highlighting the contributions of these essential vessels.
+1A Look at Seawolf Park
Beyond the USS Cavalla and USS Stewart, the park is also known as a great spot for fishing, offering a more relaxed atmosphere alongside its historical significance. It serves as a community hub, connecting visitors with the maritime heritage of Galveston.
Volunteer opportunities are often available at Seawolf Park, allowing individuals to contribute to the preservation of these important vessels and the park's legacy.
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