USS Nautilus - Groton, Connecticut

Ingrid H.

This is a free museum to enter which is part of the national monuments system and managed by naval staff. It is well worth visiting for young and old alike. You can tour inside the USS Nautilis and gain a true appreciation of what it must have been like for a crew of 150 men to live and serve on these subs for months at a time. The museum is very hands on and has great exhibits. Very well done and family friendly!

Greg H.

The U.S. Nautilus is an historic and world renowned U.S submarine, and an absolute “must see” attraction in the state of Connecticut.

The U.S. Nautilus is recognized as the world’s first operational nuclear powered submarine. It is located at the Submarine Force Library & Museum which is positioned near the Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut.

When celebrating my wife’s birthday in September of 2024, I brought her and myself for a visit to the U. S. Nautilus, and we thoroughly enjoyed our exploration of this amazing ship!!!

When touring the submarine, my wife and I were able to visit and view many of the ship’s diverse sections ranging from the sailer’s bed rooms, the captain’s quarters, the kitchen and dining areas, the gallery, the control room, and the attack center. We learned that the Nautilus was fully launched in 1954 and was capable of carrying over a 100 navy sailors. The ship was in operation from 1954-1980.

We also learned that the submarine’s nuclear propulsion system allowed her to stay under the water far longer than previously built submarines, and that it was able to travel to farther remote locations, most notably the North Pole in the 1950’s.

Due to its pioneering technological capabilities and design, and its huge impact on naval history, the USS Nautilus is listed on the U.S.National Register Of Historic Places, and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Visiting the USS Nautilus gave me and my wife a chance to view and understand the layout, interior design and setting of a submarine, and provided a glimpse of what life is life for a Navy sailor.

Both my wife and I highly recommend for everyone to visit and explore this outstanding historic landmark!!!

Stephen D.

The first nuclear submarine, the total game-changer, is a fascinating place to visit. Even if you’ve toured submarines before, this one is special. This submarine was the first to completely cross the sea below the north pole. Parts of the sub are off-limits for viewing because the technology is STILL classified. If you’re interested in history, tales of grand adventure, or just want to know more about this super important aspect of our military, this is totally worth a visit. Also, it’s free!

I can’t guarantee you’ll have the same experience, but when we visited they had just started offering guided tours, presented by officers in the navy who have spent extended time in submarines themselves. We spent at least an hour talking with our guide as he pointed out all kinds of details, told great stories, and helped answer questions we wouldn’t have known to ask. However, you can walk through on your own, and you could easily be in and out in 15-20 minutes if you move at a moderate pace.

The place greatly increased my respect for those who serve on submarines. Talk about a lonely, claustrophobic job.

dusty

It was a little cold outside but the museum was warm,very nice and interactive. the self guided tour of the submarine was a plus because it gives you time to explore and take in the environment that the sailors lived in

Allison W.

Great museum! It's FREE! If you are in the area definitely stop by! Small so it doesn't take much time. The walk through the forward half of the sub they say will take 30-45 mins...it took us more like 15 mins.
The rings out front showing the diameter of the sub hulls is an amazing visual!

Darwin A.

A nice and iconic place, besides being free, offers products related to the area.

Zachary J.

The USS Nautilus Museum is free and open to the public. They provide self-guided audio tours and let you walk around inside the USS Nautilus. It's the first nuclear powered submarine and was the first to sub to make the a trip to the North Pole. Highly recommend taking the time to visit and check it out.

Kim P.

Amazing museum! My husband was a submariner and took us on tour. Great free museum for all to see! Very informative and hands on experiences.