During World War II, the USS Wisconsin survived a direct hit by a Japanese shell at the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea with minimal damage.
The ship's armor belt is 12.1 inches thick, designed to withstand direct hits from 16-inch shells.
The vessel required a crew of over 2,700 personnel during its wartime operations.
The ship features a 'city' within itself, including a post office, barber shop, laundry, and a fully equipped dental suite.
It was reactivated twice after World War II, once for the Korean War and again in the late 1980s.
The ship's 16-inch guns could fire projectiles weighing up to 2,700 pounds over distances exceeding 20 miles.
The vessel was nicknamed 'The Big Wisky' by its crew during its service years.
During its 1980s modernization, the ship was fitted with Tomahawk cruise missile launchers.
The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is one of the largest and last battleships built by the United States Navy, serving from World War II through the Gulf War. Permanently docked on the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, it is a centerpiece of the Nauticus maritime discovery center. The ship measures 887 feet in length and retains its iconic four massive twin 16-inch gun turrets. Visitors can explore the main deck and gain insight into the daily lives of thousands of crew members who served aboard. The ship earned five battle stars for its service during the Second World War and one for the Korean War. The vessel has been preserved as a museum ship since its decommissioning and donation to the City of Norfolk. It serves as a static display, offering guided deck tours and internal access to certain command spaces. The site is a registered National Historic Landmark managed by the Nauticus Foundation.
From the pier level at the bow of the ship looking upward to capture the full scale of the 16-inch gun turrets.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled shoes as the deck features non-slip surfaces and numerous metal ladders to climb.
Check the official website for specialized 'Topside' or engine room tour availability, which often require separate reservations.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the deck provides minimal natural shade during summer months.
Attempting to explore the lower decks or engineering spaces without a guided tour or specific authorization.
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day; hours may be limited during the winter season.
Avoid leaning on or touching delicate nautical instruments; climbing is restricted to designated visitor paths.
