USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour — Groton, Connecticut

Discover the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour in Connecticut

The USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour in Groton, Connecticut offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine and learn about the history of the United States Submarine Force. This visitor tour combines a self-guided walk-through of USS Nautilus (SSN-571) with museum exhibits covering submarine technology, naval life, and undersea warfare. Located along the Thames River near Naval Submarine Base New London, the experience is both educational and historically significant.

Why it’s special:
USS Nautilus is the first nuclear-powered submarine ever built and the first vessel to travel beneath the North Pole. Visitors can walk inside this groundbreaking submarine and experience firsthand how nuclear propulsion transformed naval operations and global maritime strategy.

History & Story of the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum

Commissioned in 1954, USS Nautilus revolutionized naval engineering by introducing nuclear propulsion, allowing submarines to remain submerged for extended periods. The submarine made history in 1958 by completing the first submerged transit of the North Pole. Decommissioned in 1980, Nautilus was designated a National Historic Landmark and opened to the public as part of the Submarine Force Museum, which preserves and interprets the legacy of U.S. submariners and undersea technology.

What You’ll See & Do on the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour

• Walk through the interior of USS Nautilus, including crew quarters and control spaces

• Learn how nuclear propulsion works and how it changed submarine operations

• Explore museum exhibits on submarine history, technology, and missions

• View artifacts, models, and interactive displays related to undersea warfare

• Learn about daily life aboard submarines and the role of submariners

• Explore outdoor exhibits and memorials honoring the Submarine Force

Hands-On Elements: Interactive museum exhibits and educational displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in museum areas and aboard USS Nautilus; flash restrictions apply in some spaces.
Souvenirs & Extras: Museum gift shop with naval memorabilia, books, apparel, and educational items.

Pricing of the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour

Museum and submarine access
Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Admission is free for all visitors.

Visiting information

Most visits last 60–90 minutes, depending on time spent aboard the submarine and in museum exhibits. The experience is suitable for all ages, though the submarine includes narrow passageways and steep ladders. The museum building is wheelchair accessible, but USS Nautilus is not fully accessible due to its historic design.

Exact Museum & Submarine Hours:
Daily: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day

Nearby

• Naval Submarine Base New London (exterior areas)

• Downtown Groton waterfront

• Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park

FAQs About Visiting the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum Tour

Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?
No. Admission is free, and visitors may arrive during regular operating hours without a reservation.

Is the submarine tour guided or self-guided?
The tour of USS Nautilus is self-guided, with interpretive signage throughout the vessel.

Is the submarine safe and suitable for children?
Yes, but parents should be aware of tight spaces, ladders, and low ceilings inside the submarine.

Can I bring bags or backpacks aboard the submarine?
Large bags are discouraged due to narrow passageways; small backpacks may be permitted.

Is this an active military site?
No. While located near an active naval base, the museum and submarine are public, civilian-accessible attractions.