USS Nautilus: A Voyage into Submarine History

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Discover the groundbreaking history of the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, at Groton's Submarine Force Library and Museum.

Explore the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, at the Submarine Force Library and Museum in Groton, Connecticut. Tour the historic vessel and discover the evolution of submarine technology from the Revolutionary War to modern day.

A brief summary to USS Nautilus

1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, Conning Towers-Nautilus Park, Connecticut, 06340, US
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring USS Nautilus.

Admission to the USS Nautilus and the Submarine Force Museum is free, making it an accessible and educational experience.
The USS Nautilus has steep stairs and narrow passageways, so it is not fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues.
Check the museum's website for current hours of operation, as they may vary.
Allow at least 90 minutes to tour the Nautilus and explore the museum exhibits.

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Getting There

Driving

From I-95, take Exit 86 and follow the USS Nautilus signs to the museum. The museum is about 1.5 miles from the exit. Parking is free. Be aware that rush hour traffic (8 to 9 am and 4 to 6 pm) in the Groton/New London area can be heavy, especially along I-95 and its feeder roads.
Public Transport

Southeastern Area Transit (SEAT) operates bus routes connecting New London, Groton, and the surrounding areas. Check the SEAT website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the bus stop, follow the USS Nautilus signs to the museum.
Water Taxi

A new dock has been installed that will allow Thames River Heritage Park water taxis to stop at the Submarine Force Library and Museum. The dock is expected to be operational for the 2025 water taxi season. Check the Thames River Heritage Park website for schedules and fares.

Discover more about USS Nautilus

The USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, offers a unique glimpse into naval history and technological innovation. Located at the Submarine Force Library and Museum in Groton, Connecticut, visitors can explore the meticulously preserved vessel and learn about its groundbreaking achievements. Launched in 1954, the Nautilus revolutionized underwater travel, breaking speed and distance records and becoming the first vessel to complete a submerged transit of the North Pole in 1958. Onboard, an automated self-guided tour leads you through the forward compartments, including the torpedo room, crew quarters, wardroom, attack center, control room, and galley, providing a sense of life aboard the submarine. Exhibits at the Submarine Force Library and Museum trace the development of submarines from David Bushnell's Turtle to modern submarines, with artifacts, documents and photographs. See working periscopes, mini-subs, and a variety of torpedoes and submarine-launched missiles. Outside, a small park displays four midget submarines. The museum also houses a research library with an extensive collection of submarine-related information. With its historical significance and engaging exhibits, the USS Nautilus and Submarine Force Library and Museum provide an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.