USS Requin
Step aboard the USS Requin (SS 481), a historic U.S. Navy submarine offering an immersive journey into Cold War naval life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
USS Requin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard the USS Requin (SS 481), a historic U.S. Navy submarine offering an immersive journey into Cold War naval life.
"This is probably one of the top three best attractions at the Carnegie Science Center."
🎯 Duck and Cover!
Remember to duck when entering and moving through the submarine; it's designed for efficiency, not height!
📸 Capture the Details
Take your time on the self-guided tour to get great photos of the unique interior spaces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Explore a Real Submarine
Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh
Step aboard the USS Requin (SS 481) for an immersive journey into naval history. Experience life aboard a Cold War-era submarine.
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Cold War Naval History
USS Requin
Discover the unique challenges and daily life of submariners during a pivotal era in military history.
Unique Photo Opportunities
USS Requin
Capture striking images of the submarine's interior and exterior, offering a glimpse into its engineering and past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for Tight Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Duck and Cover!
Remember to duck when entering and moving through the submarine; it's designed for efficiency, not height!
📸 Capture the Details
Take your time on the self-guided tour to get great photos of the unique interior spaces.
🚶♀️ Not Stroller Friendly
Leave strollers behind; the narrow passages and steps make it difficult for them.
⏳ Self-Guided Pace
Enjoy the flexibility of a self-guided tour to explore at your own speed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Duck and Cover!
Remember to duck when entering and moving through the submarine; it's designed for efficiency, not height!
📸 Capture the Details
Take your time on the self-guided tour to get great photos of the unique interior spaces.
🚶♀️ Not Stroller Friendly
Leave strollers behind; the narrow passages and steps make it difficult for them.
⏳ Self-Guided Pace
Enjoy the flexibility of a self-guided tour to explore at your own speed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS Requin as a unique and highly recommended attraction at the Carnegie Science Center, offering an immersive historical experience. While some find the tour guide's attitude lacking and express concerns about the submarine's long-term preservation, the overall consensus is that it's a captivating glimpse into naval life.
"This is probably one of the top three best attractions at the Carnegie Science Center. However, the tour guide was anything but...she told us to simply walk through. It would have been much better to take a pause, learn about each room on the submarine. Her attitude was abysmal, disengaged, downright flippant. It just didn't add up with how awesome it is to see an American Submarine and in person nonetheless. If the museum understood how unusual what they have in their collection is, perhaps they would invest in a more enthusiastic and educational experience for their patrons. Also, the submarine is in water, that's going to corrode in no time...hopefully the Center does some preservation actions soon if they want to keep this valuable piece of history available to the public.
That said, definitely recommend to all planning to attend the museum to see this exhibit. Note, small children will need to be carried, the ship is not handicap/stroller accessible."
Lindsay Aiello
"This is a really unique experience to see what it was like on a submarine during wartime.The staff is great and helpful and knowledgeable.My family and I had a great time.And it was a great experience, but remember to duck, and it is tight corners."
Russell
"The best thing to see in this museum. It was a unique experience."
Mitesh Bagwe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The USS Requin is docked at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. You can reach the Science Center via various public transportation options or by car. Parking is available at the Science Center.
Yes, the Carnegie Science Center is accessible by several Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes. Check their schedule for the most convenient options to reach the museum and the submarine exhibit.
The USS Requin is prominently displayed on the Ohio River adjacent to the Carnegie Science Center. Access to the submarine is typically through the main museum entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a tour of the USS Requin is included with your general admission ticket to the Carnegie Science Center.
The USS Requin tour is free with your Carnegie Science Center admission. It's considered one of the top attractions within the museum.
You cannot buy tickets specifically for the USS Requin. Admission is bundled with the Carnegie Science Center entry. It's recommended to purchase your Science Center tickets in advance online.
The USS Requin tour operates during the regular hours of the Carnegie Science Center. It's best to check the Science Center's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, the USS Requin tour is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace and spend more time in areas that interest you.
The self-guided tour of the USS Requin typically takes about 20 minutes, but you can spend longer if you wish to take photos and absorb the atmosphere.
Unfortunately, the USS Requin is not handicap or stroller accessible due to its narrow passages and the nature of a submarine. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging.
Yes, children can tour the USS Requin, but they may need to be carried by adults in certain areas due to the tight spaces.
The USS Requin (SS-481) was a GUPPY III-type diesel-electric attack submarine of the United States Navy, serving from 1945 to 1971. It's now a museum ship at the Carnegie Science Center.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the USS Requin, and it's a great opportunity to capture unique shots of the submarine's interior.
While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in very confined spaces if it might be disruptive.
The control room, crew quarters, and torpedo room offer particularly interesting photographic opportunities. The exterior shots from the riverbank are also impressive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since the tour is self-guided, families can move at their own pace, allowing children to linger in areas that capture their imagination. It's a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning about naval history and the daily lives of submariners. Just remember to leave strollers behind, as they are not accommodated on board.
⚓ History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
As a self-guided tour, you have the freedom to examine the details and imagine the experiences of the crew. The submarine's presence at the Carnegie Science Center is a significant contribution to preserving this piece of naval heritage, offering a unique educational experience that goes beyond textbooks and documentaries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Submarine Life
+1Navigating the USS Requin requires a bit of agility. The self-guided tour, which takes about 20 minutes, involves ducking through low doorways and maneuvering through tight spaces. This is a key part of the authentic experience, highlighting the compact design necessary for submarine operations. While this can be a fun challenge for many, it's important to note that the submarine is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs, and taller individuals might find it particularly snug.
Beyond the physical exploration, the USS Requin serves as a vital piece of maritime heritage. Its presence at the Carnegie Science Center allows the public to connect with a significant chapter of naval history. The submarine's condition is a point of interest, with some visitors noting the effects of its aquatic environment and hoping for continued preservation efforts to ensure this valuable artifact remains accessible for future generations.
Navigating the USS Requin: Practicalities
The tour is self-guided, which means you can explore at your own pace. This is great for taking photos and really soaking in the atmosphere. However, it also means there isn't a guide to point out specific details, so reading any available signage or doing a little research beforehand can enhance your visit. The entire tour typically lasts around 20 minutes, making it a manageable addition to a day at the Science Center.
Accessibility is a significant consideration. The USS Requin is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to the narrow passageways and steps. Families with very young children might find it easier to carry them. Despite these limitations, the experience is widely regarded as a highlight of the Carnegie Science Center, offering a memorable and educational glimpse into naval history.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit