Are you a lover of history and adventure? Are you awed by the sight of grand, majestic vessels sailing across the sea? Then look no further than these amazing tall ship museums located in the United States.
Tall ships are sailing vessels that were mainly used for trade and transportation back in the day, oftentimes associated with pirates and other sea adventures.
Now, these ships have been preserved for future generations to learn about their history and marvel at their grandeur. Let’s take a look at the top tall ship museums in the US that you definitely do not want to miss.
From the East Coast to the West Coast, these museums are guaranteed to take you on a voyage through history and provide an unforgettable experience.
1. Mystic Seaport Museum – Mystic, Connecticut
The Mystic Seaport Museum is one of the most well-known and popular tall ships museums in the USA. Located in the historic town of Mystic, Connecticut, this museum is home to several tall ships.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is home to many historic tall ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last remaining wooden whale-ship in the world!
You can also experience life as a sailor by participating in various activities, such as hoisting sails, rowing aboard small boats, and even signing up for a voyage aboard the Sabino, a steamer built in 1908. The museum offers interactive exhibits and events that are perfect for the whole family.
2. USS Constitution Museum – Boston, Massachusetts
The USS Constitution Museum is a must-visit if you’re in Boston. It is home to the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat, the USS Constitution. Nicknamed “Old Ironsides,” you can step aboard the ship and learn about its fascinating history.
The museum also showcases a variety of exhibits and artifacts, such as cannons and muskets, to give visitors an idea of what life was like for sailors back in the day.
3. San Diego Maritime Museum – San Diego, California
The San Diego Maritime Museum is home to one of the finest and largest collections of historic ships in the world. The museum features a variety of vessels, including the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship.
You can also explore the Berkeley ferry boat, which was used during the famous San Francisco earthquake of 1906. The museum also features the HMS Surprise, which was featured in the movie “Master and Commander.”
4. Independence Seaport Museum – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Independence Seaport Museum is located on the waterfront in Philadelphia and features exhibits that highlight the city’s maritime history. The museum is home to several historic ships, including the Olympia, which is the oldest steel warship afloat in the world.
Visitors can also take a cruise on the Delaware River on one of the museum’s historic ships.
5. South Street Seaport Museum – New York, New York
The South Street Seaport Museum features the Wavertree, one of the last surviving wrought-iron sailing ships in the world. Visitors can climb aboard the ship and learn about its history, as well as enjoy interactive exhibits and activities.
The museum also features the Ambrose Lightship, a floating lighthouse that was used to guide ships into New York Harbor.
6. Columbia River Maritime Museum – Astoria, Oregon
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Columbia River and the Pacific Northwest through various exhibits and artifacts.
The museum also features a variety of boats and vessels that reflect the maritime history of the region, including the Lightship Columbia, the last remaining lightship on the West Coast.
7. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum – St. Michaels, Maryland
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and features exhibits that highlight the maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay.
The museum is home to several historic ships, including the skipjack Rosie Parks, which is a traditional oyster-dredging vessel. Visitors can also take a cruise on the Miles River on one of the museum’s historic ships.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these tall ship museums offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of these grand vessels, as well as experience life as a sailor.
From the Charles W. Morgan to the USS Constitution, these ships are truly awe-inspiring and are sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, set sail and visit these amazing tall ship museums located in the US!
