The USS Nautilus was the first vessel to complete a submerged transit across the North Pole in 1958.
The museum grounds feature a memorial dedicated to all submariners lost in the line of duty.
The collection includes the original bridge structure from the USS Jack, a Permit-class submarine.
The museum houses a rare collection of midget submarines used during various 20th-century conflicts.
The site displays a variety of submarine rescue chambers and historical deep-sea diving gear.
The museum maintains an extensive digital archive of submarine cruise reports and logs dating back several decades.
The Submarine Force Library & Museum is the primary repository for the history of the United States Submarine Force and is home to the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine. The site features an extensive collection of artifacts, including periscopes, torpedoes, and specialized naval equipment. Visitors can tour the interior of the USS Nautilus, which is designated as a National Historic Landmark. The museum exhibits document the evolution of submarine technology from the Revolutionary War era to the present day. It is located on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, adjacent to the Naval Submarine Base New London. The library maintains a vast collection of photographs, technical manuals, and archival documentation related to submarine warfare. Displays highlight the contributions and sacrifices of submariners throughout American history. The facility operates as the official museum of the U.S. Navy's submarine force.
The elevated viewing deck providing a full-length profile shot of the USS Nautilus docked at the pier.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as navigating the steep, narrow ladders inside the USS Nautilus requires good balance.
Check the official website for current weather-related closures, as outdoor exhibits are subject to extreme temperatures.
Arrive early in the day to ensure sufficient time to tour both the main museum galleries and the submarine itself.
Do not attempt to tour the USS Nautilus if you have significant mobility challenges, as the ship's internal hatches and vertical ladders are not ADA accessible.
Closed on Tuesdays during the off-season and certain federal holidays.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as the museum serves as a memorial to fallen sailors; climbing or touching restricted exhibits is prohibited.
