Savannah River Site Nuclear Tour — Aiken Area, South Carolina

Discover the Savannah River Site Public Tour in South Carolina

Located near Aiken, South Carolina, the Savannah River Site (SRS) Public Tour offers visitors a guided, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most significant nuclear and environmental management sites in the United States. This official public tour provides insight into nuclear materials processing, environmental cleanup, and national security operations conducted at this vast federal reservation.

Why it’s special:
This is not a factory tour—it’s a rare opportunity to visit a highly secured federal nuclear site. Visitors learn directly from experts how nuclear materials were produced during the Cold War and how the site now focuses on environmental cleanup, waste management, and nuclear stewardship.

History/Story of the Savannah River Site

The Savannah River Site was established in the early 1950s as part of the U.S. Cold War nuclear program. Operated for decades to produce nuclear materials for national defense, SRS later transitioned to missions centered on environmental remediation, nuclear waste processing, and research. Today, the site is managed by the U.S. Department of Energy and remains one of the nation’s most important nuclear cleanup and research facilities.

What You’ll See & Do on the Savannah River Site Public Tour

• Enter a secured federal nuclear reservation via guided bus tour

• Learn how nuclear materials were historically produced and managed

• Visit selected facilities and viewpoints (no classified areas)

• Understand current environmental cleanup and waste processing efforts

• Hear about radiation safety, security, and long-term stewardship

Hands-On Elements: Educational briefings and expert-led explanations
Photo/Video Policy: Photography strictly limited; prohibited in many areas
Souvenirs & Extras: Educational materials provided during the tour

Pricing of the Savannah River Site Public Tour

Public tours are free of charge.
Advance registration and background screening are required.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours
Format: Guided bus tour with stops and presentations
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered monthly on scheduled dates
Audience: Adults, students, educators, industry and history enthusiasts
Accessibility: Limited; bus-accessible with some walking at stops
Safety & Restrictions: Government-issued photo ID required; U.S. citizens only
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Limited group tours available by request
What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes; valid government ID
Facilities: Restrooms available at select stops
Closures & Downtime: Tours may be canceled due to security or operational needs
Working hours: Tours typically depart in the morning on scheduled days (exact times provided upon confirmation)

Nearby

• Aiken historic district

• Hitchcock Woods

• Savannah River Ecology Laboratory

FAQs About Visiting the Savannah River Site

Is this an active nuclear site?
Yes. SRS remains an active federal site focused on cleanup, waste processing, and research.

Who can take the tour?
Tours are generally limited to U.S. citizens aged 18 and older with valid photo ID.

Do I need to register in advance?
Yes. Advance registration, approval, and security screening are mandatory.

Can I bring cameras or phones?
Restrictions apply. Photography is limited and controlled.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No. Tours are typically restricted to adults due to security and safety requirements.