Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin
Explore the mighty USS Wisconsin, a WWII-era battleship, and the Nauticus maritime museum. Discover naval history and stunning harbor views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the mighty USS Wisconsin, a WWII-era battleship, and the Nauticus maritime museum. Discover naval history and stunning harbor views.
"An incredible tour, this battleship is very worth spending a few hours exploring."
Book Engine Room Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at the ship's mechanics. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS Wisconsin's Main Deck
Main Deck
Explore the vast deck of this legendary Iowa-class battleship, a veteran of WWII, Korea, and Desert Storm.
16-inch Gun Turrets
Forward Deck
Marvel at the sheer scale of the 16-inch guns, capable of firing shells over 20 miles.
Nauticus Maritime Museum
Adjacent to the Battleship
Discover interactive exhibits on maritime history, naval power, and marine science.
Command Deck & Engine Room Tours
Various levels of the ship
Gain exclusive access to the ship's nerve center and engineering heart for a deeper understanding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Engine Room Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at the ship's mechanics. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
It can get hot and stuffy below deck. Bring water! :droplet:
Explore Nauticus Museum
Don't skip the adjacent museum; it complements the battleship experience. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Engine Room Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at the ship's mechanics. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
It can get hot and stuffy below deck. Bring water! :droplet:
Explore Nauticus Museum
Don't skip the adjacent museum; it complements the battleship experience. :world_map:
Consider a Harbor Tour
The Victory Rover tour offers great views of the Wisconsin and Naval Station Norfolk. :ship:
Capture the Views
The harbor views from the deck are spectacular, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Listen to the Guides
Many guides are veterans with amazing stories to share. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS Wisconsin and Nauticus for their historical significance and engaging exhibits. The battleship is described as an incredible piece of American history, offering a fascinating self-guided tour with spectacular harbor views. Many recommend the specialized engine room and command deck tours for a deeper understanding, highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides. While generally positive, some visitors note that certain areas below deck can get hot and stuffy.
"The battleship USS Wisconsin is from the Second World War era. It’s docked in Norfolk as part of the Nauticus maritime museum. Wonderful experience to take a self guided tour of the masterpiece. Views of the harbor from the deck of the battleship are spectacular. Great opportunity for adults and kids alike to learn about our great history and how this battleship served with honor and protected our country"
Gautham Viswanathan
"My husband and I paid for general admittance where we explored on our own vs doing a guided tour, and we loved it! The staff were friendly and answered any questions, if we had any. I would definitely recommend to others. Probably one of our favorite visits in Norfolk."
Amber Howard
"Came here while in town as my sons have an interest in aircraft carriers, battleships, and other similar things. There ship is connected to a museum which does an amazing job with their displays. All of the displays were clean, worked well, and had something for all ages.
The ship was amazing. There was so much to see and do! I think I spent a few hours with my kids exploring the ship and learning. My kids wished they could go higher up into the ship and also explore lower too. Great for kids and adults alike."
Daniel Grünberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nauticus is located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including buses and light rail, also serve the downtown area. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship, with Nauticus being a popular port of call.
Yes, there are several parking garages and lots within walking distance of Nauticus. Rates vary, so it's advisable to check current pricing. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services for convenience.
Absolutely! The Victory Rover harbor tour, which docks near the USS Wisconsin, offers fantastic views of the battleship and Naval Station Norfolk. The guides have extensive knowledge of the ships.
Nauticus is generally accessible, but the historic nature of the USS Wisconsin means some areas may have limited accessibility. It's recommended to contact Nauticus directly for specific accessibility information.
Norfolk is served by Norfolk International Airport (ORF). Visitors can also drive, as Norfolk is accessible via major highways. Amtrak also provides train service to the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Nauticus, which includes access to the USS Wisconsin, is typically around $18 for adults. Special tours like the engine room or command deck have an additional fee, often around $20 each.
While you can purchase tickets at the door, booking in advance is recommended, especially for special tours like the engine room or command deck, as they can sell out.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Nauticus website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any special closures.
Yes, besides general admission, Nauticus offers specialized tours that delve deeper into the battleship's history and engineering. These often come at an additional cost.
General admission to Nauticus includes access to the USS Wisconsin. The museum provides valuable context and exhibits that enhance the battleship experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the battleship and the Nauticus museum. If you opt for the specialized tours, you might need an additional hour or two.
You can explore the main deck, gun turrets, bridge, crew quarters, and various other compartments. The Nauticus museum offers further exhibits on maritime history.
While self-guided tours are standard, Nauticus sometimes offers guided tours or has knowledgeable staff (often veterans) available to share stories and answer questions.
Some visitors and content creators suggest the USS Wisconsin has a haunted history, with tales of past crew members. +1
The main deck with the gun turrets, the ship's silhouette against the harbor, and the views from the upper decks offer excellent photographic moments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nauticus typically has a cafe or dining area where you can purchase snacks and light meals. There are also many restaurants in the surrounding downtown Norfolk area.
Outside food and beverages policies can vary. It's best to check with Nauticus directly, but generally, bringing water is allowed, especially given the potential heat.
Expect typical cafe fare like sandwiches, salads, and snacks. For a more extensive dining experience, explore the restaurants in downtown Norfolk.
Several waterfront restaurants in downtown Norfolk offer views of the Elizabeth River and potentially the USS Wisconsin, especially from outdoor seating areas.
Nauticus sometimes hosts 'Nauticus After Dark' events which include drinks and music. 
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons, especially during golden hour, offer stunning light for photographing the battleship. Stormy skies can also create dramatic backdrops.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check Nauticus's policies.
The massive 16-inch gun turrets, the ship's profile against the harbor, the bridge, and the stern offer iconic photo opportunities. +1
Yes, photography is permitted inside many areas of the ship, including crew quarters and some of the machinery spaces.
Look for 'hidden gems' or less obvious spots, like unique angles of the weaponry or the ship's intricate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to explore the different decks of the USS Wisconsin and imagine life as a sailor. While some areas might be off-limits for safety, there's plenty to see and do. Consider the specialized tours if your children have a keen interest in engineering or naval strategy, but be mindful of their attention spans. The Victory Rover harbor tour is also a hit with kids, offering a different perspective of the naval activity in Norfolk.
⚓ History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
The engine room and command deck tours are particularly valuable for history buffs, offering detailed insights into the ship's operational capabilities and strategic importance. Listening to the stories shared by veteran guides can provide a profound connection to the past. The Nauticus museum also offers context on the broader maritime history of the region and the U.S. Navy.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Aim for late afternoon light for the most dramatic shots, or capture the ship under moody skies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mighty USS Wisconsin (BB-64)
Visitors can explore various decks of the Wisconsin, from the main deck with its massive gun turrets to the interior compartments that once housed thousands of sailors. The self-guided tour allows you to wander at your own pace, imagining life aboard this historic vessel. Many visitors are struck by the sheer scale of the ship and its weaponry, noting that pictures don't do it justice.
Beyond the general tour, Nauticus offers specialized engine room tours and command deck tours for an even deeper dive into the battleship's operations. These tours provide access to areas not typically seen by the public, revealing the complex engineering and strategic planning that went into operating such a massive war machine. The guides for these tours are often former naval personnel, bringing invaluable firsthand knowledge and stories to the experience.
Nauticus: A Maritime Discovery Center
The exhibits at Nauticus cover a wide range of topics, from the power of naval fleets to the intricacies of marine ecosystems. Visitors can learn about the U.S. Navy's presence in Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world,
Nauticus also serves as a venue for various events, including educational programs, corporate functions, and even parties.
They are actively involved in showcasing the future of maritime technology, as seen with their demonstrations of advanced robotics like DriX. This forward-looking approach, combined with its historical focus, makes Nauticus a dynamic destination for anyone interested in the sea and naval power.Experiencing the USS Wisconsin: Tips from Visitors
For those seeking a more in-depth understanding, the engine room tour is a recurring recommendation. Visitors describe it as an incredible opportunity to see the ship's massive boilers, condensers, and propeller systems up close, with guides providing fascinating insights.
Practical advice from visitors includes wearing comfortable shoes due to the extensive walking and climbing involved,
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit