Pearl Harbor: Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum Admission

If you’re planning a visit to Pearl Harbor and want a more in-depth look at the silent service of the United States Navy, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and the USS Bowfin submarine are well worth your time. This spot offers a chance to walk through history, learn about the crucial role submarines played in WWII and beyond, and get up close to a real WWII fleet submarine.

Two things that immediately stand out about this experience are the interactive exhibits that bring history to life and the chance to step aboard a WWII submarine—a rare opportunity that makes history feel tangible. One possible drawback is that the experience might be less engaging for very young children or travelers with claustrophobia, given the tight confines of the submarine.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, families with older children, or anyone interested in maritime defense history. If you’re looking for a quieter, more educational alternative to the larger memorials, this is a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Authentic access to a WWII submarine: Step aboard the USS Bowfin, experiencing what it was like for crew members during wartime.
• Engaging, multimedia exhibits: Use included audio headsets and interactive displays to deepen your understanding of submarine life and history.
• Educational focus: Ideal for those wanting to learn about the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force, from WWII through today.
• Comfort and convenience: Features outdoor artifacts, a gift shop, shaded patios, and concessions for a relaxed visit.
• Family-friendly: Appropriate for visitors over age 4, but less suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
• Flexible booking and multilingual audio guides: Book now, pay later, and enjoy guides in seven languages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Admission and Overall Setup

The ticket includes entry to both the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and the USS Bowfin submarine. It’s a well-rounded package for those wanting both the surface exhibits and the chance to explore a real WWII vessel. The admission fee provides access to interactive exhibits, outdoor artifacts, and amenities like a gift shop, comfort station, and shaded lanai.

One notable feature is the inclusion of audio headsets, which provide commentary in English, Spanish, Korean, German, French, Chinese, and Japanese. These guides are especially helpful in pacing your visit—no need to crowd around a guide or squint at signs. We read a review praising the narration: “I liked having the recorded narration. It provided me to pace my time and truly enjoy the information I was receiving.”

Inside the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

The museum has recently been renovated, which means it’s now better equipped to tell the story of the U.S. Navy’s Silent Service. Exhibits cover the evolution of submarine warfare from WWII through the Cold War, highlighting technological advances, missions, and the heroes behind the periscopes.

You’ll find interactive displays that showcase what it was like to serve aboard a submarine, including simulations and multimedia presentations. These offer a richer, more immersive understanding than just static displays. For example, you might find panels explaining how crew members managed food, communication, and combat while confined inside steel tubes crossing thousands of miles under the ocean.

Boarding the USS Bowfin

The highlight of this experience is undoubtedly the tour of the USS Bowfin, launched on December 7, 1942, and nicknamed the “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” This submarine was part of nine war patrols in the Pacific, and stepping aboard gives an authentic feel for WWII submarine life.

Visitors will notice the tight quarters—a crew of 80 men operated inside this vessel, often under extreme pressure. It’s a fascinating contrast to the open decks of surface ships and offers a glimpse into the intense conditions sailors endured. Expect a guided walkthrough that answers questions like “What was it like to serve here?” and “How did they manage with such limited space?”

One reviewer commented, “We loved the way the audio narrated stories of the crew—really made it come alive.” The ship itself is well preserved, with many original features intact, offering an authentic sense of history.

Outdoor Artifacts and Amenities

Beyond the submarine, the museum campus includes outdoor artifacts—such as other submarine parts, models, and memorials—that help contextualize the vessel’s role in history. These outdoor exhibits are complemented by a gift shop where you can find memorabilia, books, patches, and more. There’s also a food truck and a shaded lanai where you can rest and reflect.

The site’s amenities make the visit comfortable, especially in the Hawaiian sun. Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes—there’s a fair bit of walking and some climbing stairs to access different parts of the exhibit.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Plan for about 1-2 hours: This includes time on the boat, exhibits, and outdoor artifacts.
• Book in advance: The flexible reservation system allows you to reserve and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still shifting.
• Bring essentials: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are a must.
• Not suitable for very young children or those with claustrophobia: The confined spaces of the submarine can be challenging.
• Accessibility: The experience isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or those with respiratory issues, due to the tight, enclosed spaces.

This tour is best suited for history buffs eager to understand the military significance of submarines, veterans or family members of veterans, and curious travelers who want a hands-on experience. It offers a tangible connection to WWII, making it more than just a museum visit.

Families with children over age 4 will find it educational and inspiring, though younger kids or those sensitive to confined spaces may find it less enjoyable. The multilingual guides expand accessibility, making it more inclusive for international visitors.

The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and USS Bowfin experience delivers a unique, immersive glimpse into a critical part of naval warfare. We especially appreciated the authentic vessel tour and the interactive exhibits that explain submarine life in an engaging way.

While it’s not a sprawling memorial, its focus on the submarine’s story makes it a meaningful addition to any Pearl Harbor visit. The amenities, flexible booking, and educational focus add to its value. For anyone interested in military history, or simply looking for a quieter, more contemplative museum experience, this tour offers substance and authenticity.

In essence, it’s a well-organized, respectful, and deeply engaging way to connect with a chapter of history often hidden beneath the waves.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over age 4 can enjoy the tour, but younger kids or sensitive travelers might find the confined spaces of the submarine challenging.

How long does the visit take?
Plan on about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how thoroughly you explore the exhibits and the submarine.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The experience isn’t recommended for wheelchair users due to the tight, enclosed spaces inside the submarine.

Are audio guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, the included audio headsets are available in seven languages, including Spanish, Korean, German, French, Chinese, and Japanese.

What amenities are available at the museum site?
There are outdoor artifacts, a gift shop, a comfort station, shaded lanai, and a food truck, making for a comfortable visit.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In all, this tour provides a hands-on, authentic view of submarine warfare that adds depth to your Pearl Harbor experience. It’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in military history or families ready for an educational adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby