H.L. Hunley Submarine
Explore the H.L. Hunley, the first submarine to sink an enemy ship, and its preserved artifacts. A must-see for history lovers!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours.
H.L. Hunley Submarine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the H.L. Hunley, the first submarine to sink an enemy ship, and its preserved artifacts. A must-see for history lovers!
"Wow!! This museum is about a 10 minute drive from downtown Charleston but worth it."
🎯 Weekend Walk-ins Welcome
No appointment needed for weekend visits, just show up!
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Tours are highly informative and engaging for all ages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The H.L. Hunley Submarine
The world's first combat submarine to sink an enemy vessel, now preserved and on display.
Artifacts and Exhibits
Discover personal items and historical displays detailing the submarine's fateful mission.
Interactive Displays
Engaging exhibits, including hand-crank replicas, perfect for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Visits & Booking
Preservation in Progress
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekend Walk-ins Welcome
No appointment needed for weekend visits, just show up!
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Tours are highly informative and engaging for all ages.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Hands-on displays, like hand cranks, delight younger visitors.
⏳ Preservation in Action
See preservationists at work on this historic vessel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekend Walk-ins Welcome
No appointment needed for weekend visits, just show up!
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Tours are highly informative and engaging for all ages.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Hands-on displays, like hand cranks, delight younger visitors.
⏳ Preservation in Action
See preservationists at work on this historic vessel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the H.L. Hunley Museum for its fascinating historical displays and the remarkably preserved submarine. The knowledgeable staff and engaging, hands-on exhibits make it a hit with families and history buffs alike. Some note the museum's size, but emphasize that its content is rich and impactful.
"My husband is a Navy veteran and was really excited to see this exhibit. It was very educational and informative. There was a lot of cool exhibits that shed some light on a critical part of our nation's history. I knocked a point off because the Hunley is suspended in a glass tank (for good reason) but you can only view it from the top down through highly reflective glass. It would have been better if we could have seen it from the ground level so you could actually see more of the boat. Otherwise it was a great exhibit. The staff was friendly and helpful and ready to answer any questions. Restrooms were clean and just shop was well-stocked, albeit a little on the pricey side. Plenty of free parking, easy on, easy out."
Kimber Fae
"This museum was absolutely the coolest thing we did while in town. The history of this sub is amazing and the folks there are super knowledgeable and have so much love for the Hunley. I've been watching videos and checking out pictures online for about a decade and seeing it in person is so much better. Definitely check this out!
Additionally, keep an eye out for some hidden plastic army men. I've kind of left them all over Charleston! If finding a plastic army man brightens up your day, my mission is complete!"
Shawn
"The museum is rather small, however it is packed with interesting and informative displays and artifacts. Especially the personal items found with the Captain on its fatal mission. The submarine itself is very well preserved and can be seen clearly in its display tank."
emil stoessel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located about a 10-minute drive from downtown Charleston, South Carolina. While public transport options might be limited, driving or using a rideshare service is convenient. Parking is generally available.
Information on accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges is best confirmed directly with the museum. However, many historical sites are working to improve accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For weekend visits, walk-ins are usually accepted. However, if you're planning a weekday visit or a group tour, booking in advance is highly recommended. +1
The museum is primarily open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current hours of operation.
Admission fees can vary. It's best to check the official H.L. Hunley Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing information for general admission and any special tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see the remarkably preserved H.L. Hunley submarine in its display tank, along with numerous artifacts recovered from the wreck and detailed exhibits about its history and the Civil War.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. Guides are very knowledgeable and make the history come alive. +1
Absolutely! The museum features hands-on, interactive displays, including hand cranks on replicas, that are designed to engage children and make history fun.
A typical visit can last anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you take a guided tour.
The submarine is displayed in a special tank, allowing visitors to view it clearly and appreciate its condition and historical significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for posted signs or ask museum staff upon arrival. Often, personal photography without flash is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the story of the submarine's sinking is somber, the focus on the science and history behind its operation, combined with the interactive elements, makes it an educational and exciting outing. It's a great way to introduce children to a unique piece of American history in a way that is both accessible and fun.
📚 History Buffs & Educators
Educators will find the museum to be an invaluable resource. The informative tours and interactive elements make it an ideal destination for field trips, offering a unique opportunity to teach about Civil War history, naval technology, and the complexities of preservation. The staff's enthusiasm and knowledge further enhance the educational value of the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Significance of the H.L. Hunley
+1The story of the Hunley is a compelling blend of innovation, bravery, and mystery. Its design and operation were rudimentary by modern standards, requiring the crew to manually propel the vessel and operate its weapons system. This perilous undertaking highlights the immense courage of the Confederate sailors who volunteered for such dangerous missions.
Today, the preserved Hunley serves as a powerful reminder of this pivotal moment in military history. The museum dedicated to its story offers a deep dive into the technology, the lives of the crew, and the ongoing efforts to understand and conserve this remarkable artifact.
Visiting the Hunley Museum: What to Expect
Many visitors highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are passionate about sharing the Hunley's history. The museum also excels in providing hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages, particularly children. These include replicas that allow guests to experience aspects of operating the submarine, such as using hand cranks.
It's important to note that the Hunley is a significant historical artifact undergoing continuous preservation. This means that while the museum is dedicated to showcasing its history, the long-term future of the submarine at its current location is subject to ongoing discussions and plans. Visiting provides a unique opportunity to witness this preservation in action and learn about a crucial piece of maritime history.
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