America’s Military Might is on Display at Patriot’s Point

Military engagements have shaped the history of Charleston, South Carolina. So, it is only fitting that one of the nation’s best naval attractions is located just across the Cooper River. Patriot’s Point is a Naval and Maritime Museum. Here you can explore some of the nation’s most decorated naval ships, including an aircraft carrier, World War II destroyer, a cold war era submarine, along with a Vietnam Support Base Camp, and the moving Medal of Honor Museum.

USS Yorktown
Patriot’s Point main attraction is the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, “The Fighting Lady.” She saw extensive action in the Pacific and was awarded 11 battle stars during World War II. She also picked up the Apollo 8 astronauts after they splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. You can literally spend hours here exploring. There are 6 terrific walking tours that give you a glimpse of what life is like aboard an aircraft carrier with 3,000 + men! All tours are self-guided, so you can take your time. Our favorites are:

•The Flight Deck and Bridge – Walk through the Pilot’s Ready Room, Air Traffic Control, and Combat Information Center on the way to the Captain’s Bridge. Then, explore the flight deck complete with some of the Navy’s most powerful aircraft. Check out the catapults and see just how little room for error Navy Pilot’s have!

•Hanger Deck – Aircraft had to be brought up from the Hanger Deck to the Flight Deck. Here you can see impressive displays of F6F Hellcats, the F-9 Cougar, the F4F Wildcat, flight simulators, and Apollo and Mercury replicas. The moving Medal of Honor Museum is also located here. A walk through this museum is sure to make any American’s heart beam with pride at the sacrifices these brave men and women made.

•Living and Working Quarters – An aircraft carrier is a city on the sea. Here you can see where the crew ate, slept, and worked. Check out the Bakery to see how to make an order of 10,000 chocolate chip cookies!

USS Clamagore
This is your chance to step aboard a naval submarine. The USS Clamagore is a GUPPY II class submarine that was used extensively during the Cold War. Imagine living aboard this submarine. There is hardly any room to maneuver in! A walking tour takes you through the torpedo firing room, crew’s living quarters, the cramped kitchen, and dining areas.

It’s easy to spend at least half a day exploring Patriot’s Point. Make sure to dress comfortably – there is virtually no air conditioning on these ships. That makes the experience all that more authentic! For more information, visit their official website: www.patriotspoint.org

Note: The World War II destroyer, USS Laffey, is currently undergoing a complete refurbishment. It is not available to tour at this time.