uss intrepid tour

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Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

In WWII, under heavy enemy fire, the USS Intrepid endured a torpedo strike and four kamikaze attacks, but this hulking aircraft carrier survived to tell the tale. Moored today at Pier 86 on the Hudson River in New York , the warship is now the focal point of a multimillion-dollar interactive military museum that explains the Intrepid's wartime history using videos, historical artifacts and frozen-in-time living quarters.

For most visitors, the highlight is the flight deck, with a squadron of fighter planes and military helicopters that may inspire you to shell out a few extra dollars for the museum's high-tech flight simulators. Even if you're not into the subject matter, the ship is an impressive piece of hardware, and a visit is irresistibly absorbing. And yes, the curious, fan-made Star Trek: Intrepid TV series was named after this famous aircraft carrier!

The USS Intrepid experience

Looking almost battle-ready in New York harbor, the USS Intrepid calls out to grown-up kids who love getting close to big machines. As well as touring the crew quarters and the mechanical innards of the aircraft carrier, including the elevator that delivers fighter planes from the bowels of the ship to its floating runway, you can wander around the vast flight deck, dotted with an eclectic collection of flying machines.

For most people, the pick of the planes is Concorde – this particular aircraft flew for British Airways before retiring in 2003. Also worthy of note are the deeply weird Grumman E1B Tracer, and the Lockheed A-12 surveillance plane, almost certainly the sexiest aircraft ever created. Other highlights for aircraft spotters include fighters, bombers and helicopters, including a distinctive Vietnam War-era ‘Huey’.

The ‘space’ part arrives in the form of the Enterprise , NASA's first space shuttle orbiter from the 1970s. It’s housed in the hangar-sized Space Shuttle Pavilion and displays inside recreate the life of an astronaut in space. The museum is also home to the guided-missile submarine Growler , whose cramped spaces offer a taste of the claustrophobic life of a submarine crew.

Hands-on exhibits include flight simulators like the G Force Encounter, allowing you to experience the virtual thrill of flying a supersonic jet plane. The museum is one of New York's top attractions for families with young kids – look under the Education tab on the website for current kid-friendly activities. Fun, hour-long weekend educational activity sessions are themed to current exhibits and are free with admission.

The USS Intrepid currently docked in New York harbour is actually the fourth US Navy vessel to carry the name. The first Intrepid was a Libyan sailing ship, seized by the US during the First Barbary War in 1803, and two more Intrepids sailed under US colours before the current warship was commissioned in 1943 to serve in the Pacific during WWII.

Initially stationed in Pearl Harbour, the Essex -class aircraft carrier saw action in a string of naval battles, most famously the Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944, the largest naval engagement of WWII. As Japan and America struggled for control of the Pacific, the warship was targeted by repeated kamikaze raids, with four direct hits that caused many fatalities but failed to put the ship out of operation.

Post-WWII, the USS Intrepid was primarily engaged in low-key Cold War operations, aside from a brief stint as the support vessel for the 1962 Mercury-Atlas 7 space mission. The carrier returned to battle for the last time during the Vietnam War. After 31 years of active duty, the Intrepid was finally decommissioned in 1974; she narrowly escaped being scrapped before finding a new life as a floating museum on New York’s Hudson River in 1982.

Tickets & Practicalities

General admission tickets include access to the aircraft carrier, the Space Shuttle Pavilion, the Growler submarine and temporary exhibitions. There’s an extra charge for the flight simulators, audio tours, guided tours, and special tours of the first class cabin and flight deck of Concorde. Buying tickets in advance is a smart policy – under normal circumstances, tours run at fixed times daily, with special early morning tours at 9am on weekends.

Access the Intrepid from Pier 86, conveniently close to the myriad attractions of Midtown . There's a family-friendly grill restaurant on site, but eating is only permitted in designated areas, so consider bringing a picnic to munch on shore in the adjacent Hudson River Park or nearby DeWitt Clinton Park in Hell's Kitchen .

Pier 86. Twelfth Ave at W 46th St

Get In Touch

877-957-7447

https://www.intrepidmuseum.org

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Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a non-profit, educational institution featuring the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid , the space shuttle Enterprise , 28 authentically restored aircrafts and a guided missile submarine, the Growler . The Space Shuttle Enterprise and the Concorde are among the Museum’s highlights. Through exhibitions, educational programming and the foremost collection of technologically groundbreaking aircraft and vessels, visitors of all ages and abilities are taken on an interactive journey through history to learn about American innovation and bravery.

The Intrepid Museum was founded in 1982 with the acquisition of the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid , now a National Historic Landmark, which served tours of duty in World War II and the Vietnam War, and was a recovery vessel for the Gemini and Mercury space missions. Launched in 1943, the former aircraft carrier USS Intrepid fought in World War II, surviving five kamikaze attacks and one torpedo strike. It was decommissioned in 1974.

Hours of Operation: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

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See inside the historic World War II-era aircraft carrier that was hit by 4 Japanese kamikazes and a torpedo and served in the Vietnam War

• The USS Intrepid is one of the US Navy's most historic vessels, having participated in tons of important missions over its 30 year history.
• The ship has resided in New York City since the 1980s and is now the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum.
• The ship survived four kamikaze attacks and a torpedo attack during World War II and even served as a lead recovery ship for NASA.

The USS Intrepid is kind of like the US Navy's Forrest Gump — it's been everywhere.

Commissioned in 1943, the Intrepid was one of 24 Essex-class aircraft carriers built during World War II.

Known as "the Fighting I" for its extensive combat history, the ship participated in numerous campaigns in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Its most famous battle was the Battle of Leyte Gulf, considered to be the largest naval battle of the war, and possibly the largest naval battle in history . 

In the 1960s, the Intrepid became the principal ship in the recovery efforts for the Mercury and Gemini space missions, before returning to its fighting mission during the Vietnam War. It was decommissioned for the final time in 1974.

Over the course of its service, the ship was hit by four Japanese kamikaze planes — suicidal planes loaded with fuel and explosives — and even torpedoed once. None were able to stop the ship.

Today, the Intrepid rests in the harbor in New York City after real estate developers Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher campaigned to save the ship. In 1982, it became the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum .

We recently got a chance to tour the behemoth. Climb aboard for a closer look:

Launched in 1943 and decommissioned in 1974, the Intrepid now rests at Pier 86 in New York City. At 872 feet long, it's an imposing ship.

While it was in service, the Intrepid typically had 3,000 personnel on board. That pales in comparison to today's carriers which typically have double that.

The man founder of the muse

You enter the ship through the hangar deck. The Intrepid Museum was established by real estate developers Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher. Zachary had wanted to serve in World War II, but was unable due to an injury. He spent the rest of his life giving back to the military in various ways, Jessica Williams, Intrepid's curator of history, told Business Insider.

The Intrepid first entered combat in early 1944 in the Pacific Theater. It was involved in numerous battles until the end of the war. During World War II, it typically had around 90 planes on board.

The hangar deck has been outfitted as the main exhibition space for the museum. It is filled with history, both of the ship and the Navy. This is the ship's original bell, which was used to mark the crew's "watches" or shifts.

During World War II, the ship was struck on four separate occasions by kamikaze planes and once by a torpedo. Those strikes forced the ship to return to the US for repairs several times, earning it the nicknames "the Decrepit" and "the Dry I."

The Intrepid was built with a wooden flight deck because it allowed the ship to carry more planes and have better maneuverability. But the design decision didn't count on kamikazes. "They weren't expecting airplanes laden with gas crashing through," said Williams.

The Intrepid sustained 270 casualties while in service. All are commemorated on this memorial wall. The most deadly day in Intrepid history came on November 25, 1944, when two kamikaze aircraft struck the ship. 69 crew members were lost.

Source: Intrepid Museum

During World War II, crewmen helped planes land on deck by waving colored paddles. In the post-WWII jet age, they began using this device, nicknamed "the meatball," due to the ball of light on the mirror that would help them determine their landing path.

This is one of the Intrepid's four propellers. The Intrepid was capable of reaching a maximum speed of 32 knots, or about 37 miles per hour, similar to today's Nimitz class of carriers.

During wartime, the ship operated under "blackout" conditions at night. The crew would block all openings so no light leaked out. They used these "light locks" to move in and out of the ship. The door was covered with heavy black cloth.

When planes weren't getting ready to take off, they were housed on the hangar deck, which was like a massive garage. Aircraft were fueled from one of eight stations like this one.

There are still plenty of aircraft hanging out on the hangar deck. The Grumman/Eastern Aircraft TBM-3E Avenger was used extensively during WWII. President George H.W. Bush flew the craft during the war.

The Avenger aircraft was the first to use this Grumman ball turret, which can transverse 360 degrees in either direction and is powered electrically.

After World War II, the US moved to jets like the North American FJ-3 Fury. The Intrepid underwent significant modernizations in the 1950s to add steam catapults that could launch jets like the Fury.

If you had to get out of a U.S. Navy fighter jet in a hurry, this Martin-Baker Mark V ejection seat was what you would be using in the '50s and '60s. To eject, the pilot pulled rings above his or her head.

In the 1960s, the Intrepid became the lead recovery vessel for the Mercury Atlas-7 and Gemini 3 space missions. Intrepid crewmen felt immense pride to rescue the astronauts, according to Williams.

When the ship's helicopter returned with the astronauts, crewmen waited on the deck to watch. "There was this sense of it being a transformative moment," Williams said. This is a replica of the Mercury capsule.

If all the planes have you amped up enough, the Intrepid has the G-Force Encounter simulator so you can try your hand at flying a jet. As a kid, this was my favorite part of the museum (of course).

Crewmen used this massive portside elevator to bring planes from the hangar to the flight deck. Notice the wood flooring, which the entire flight deck was once made of. During their downtime, rewmen often used the elevator for sporting events.

Next, head up into the island, which was the command center for the entire ship. It housed a variety of radar and communication instruments at the top. Below that is the bridge, where the captain controls the ship.

This is what the flight deck and the island looked like during World War II when the Intrepid was an "attack carrier." After the war, the ship was reclassified for anti-submarine warfare, meaning it tracked Soviet submarines.

In the late 1960s, Intrepid became an attack carrier during the Vietnam War. But prior to that, it spent a lot of time trawling the Mediterranean for Soviet subs, according to Williams. "If I had to pick a time to serve on the Intrepid, I'd pick the 1950s and 1960s ... they spent a lot of time visiting ports and having a good time," she said.

In addition to the captain's bridge, the Intrepid also had a flag bridge where the admiral and his command planned movements. The Intrepid rarely traveled alone and was often the flagship of its group.

The flight deck today has an enormous collection of restored aircraft from all different eras and makes. The collection includes a AV-8C Harrier jet, a F-16A Fighting Falcon, and even the A-12 Blackbird spy plane.

Recently, the museum added a pavilion housing the Enterprise space shuttle. The Enterprise was NASA's prototype for the space shuttle program. It performed atmospheric test flights, but had no engines or functional "heat shield."

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Things to Do in NYC: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

This Floating Museum Wows with a Space Shuttle, Submarine & More

Intrepid Museum

This fascinating floating museum largely unfolds on the decks of the USS Intrepid , a retired, 900-foot-long aircraft carrier docked on Manhattan's Hudson River. The family-friendly Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum comes loaded with military, aviation, and space exploration technology, historical insights, and interactive displays to engage the minds and activate imaginations of visitors of all ages. Explore the carrier's many decks, brimming with exhibits; have a firsthand look at the world's first space shuttle (the Enterprise ); wander the belly of a guided missile submarine; and admire the engineering marvel of a supersonic Concorde, the fastest commercial aircraft to ever cross the Atlantic. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for your visit:

What Will I See?

• Aircraft Carrier Intrepid : The museum's namesake and centerpiece, the former WWII-era aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (launched in 1943, it served tours of duty in WWII and the Vietnam War, before being decommissioned in 1974) sets the stage for most of the museum's exhibits. The vessel's top deck, or flight deck, is covered with a collection of military aircraft, representing all five branches of the U.S. armed forces (look out for an Avenger torpedo bomber and an A-12 Blackbird, the world's fastest military jet). (Bonus: The views of Midtown Manhattan from here are also part of the attraction.) Pop up into the carrier's navigation bridge, or see how naval personnel lived and worked in the berthing areas, mess deck, and pilot "ready room." The main hangar deck showcases even more planes and displays, as well as the Exploreum science/learning area, featuring hands-on exhibits (climb in a Bell 47 helicopter, steer the wings of an airplane, etc.) geared toward families.
• Space Shuttle Pavilion: Set within an exhibition hall that's accessible from the Intrepid' s top deck, visitors to the Space Shuttle Pavilion get to view the impressive space shuttle Enterprise firsthand, along with a Soyuz TMA-6 space capsule, related artifacts, and multimedia displays. The shuttle was the prototype NASA orbiter, and while it was never sent into space, it is credited with paving the way for the United States space shuttle program.
• Submarine Growler : The only American guided missile submarine that's open for public tours, the Growler (built in 1958) is docked alongside the Intrepid . Access is included with general admission, and proposes a fascinating peek inside life aboard a submarine and behind the controls of what was once a "top-secret" missile command center. (Note that kids under age 6 are not admitted; also, the claustrophobic need not apply.)
• British Airways Concorde: At the end of the pier that runs adjacent to the Intrepid , catch a glimpse of the record-breaking Concorde Alpha Delta G-BOAD—what was the fastest transatlantic passenger plane (it could complete the transit in under 3 hours), before being taken out of commission in 2003. Note that the supersonic plane can only be viewed from the exterior; access onboard is restricted to participants on one of the daily guided tours ($20/adults).  
• Flight Simulators: The museum also offers a trio of high-tech flight simulators .

Are Guided Tours Available?

Yes. Though you're free to wander the massive museum guided by your own whims, several themed 45- to 100-minute guided tours (carrying a supplemental charge of $20/adults; $15/kids) do afford additional insights for those looking for a more in-depth understanding of topics like Intrepid 's WWII history, military planes, and more. Note that a guided tour is the only way to get onboard the Concorde. Docents are well-informed, and oftentimes have military backgrounds.

What About Exhibitions and Special Events?

The museum hosts a rotating roster of special temporary exhibits . The museum also hosts special sleepover programs, and can additionally coordinate children's birthday parties.

More Info : The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is open daily, year-round; plan on at least two to three hours for your visit. Admission is $33/adults, with discounts for children ($24, ages 5 to 12; free under 4), seniors, students, and military/veterans. The Intrepid Marketplace serves pizzas, sandwiches, and wraps on the mess deck. In the Welcome Center, the restaurant Aviator Grill serves breakfast and lunch. The museum is located at Pier 86 (W. 46th St. & 12th Ave.) at Hudson River Park; tickets can be booked at intrepidmuseum.org .

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Uss intrepid.

Located in Manhattan, New York, the USS  Intrepid , the third Essex class carrier built by the United States, was laid down at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company of Virginia and commissioned on August 16, 1943. As early as 1910, the U.S. Navy recognized the potential value that flight would have in naval operations. Although naval aviation was utilized during World War I, aircraft assigned to warships generally provided only reconnaissance support for the fleet. The possibility of using airplanes as a naval strike weapon did not begin until the 1920s when aircraft capable of performing heavy bombardment against land or sea targets were built. Naval vessels capable of carrying several squadrons of such aircraft were developed concurrently. Thus the first eight carriers constructed by the U.S. Navy varied in size, speed, protection and aircraft complement in order to provide the greatest number of carriers capable of launching the greatest number of air strikes, yet still comply with treaty-imposed tonnage restrictions.  Essex  (CV-9), the ninth U.S. carrier authorized, was a product of these earlier designs. A total of 26 Essex-class carriers were ordered by the U.S. Navy between February 1940 and June 1943 and 24 were completed. This was the largest class of carriers ever built by the United States and over half, including USS  Intrepid  (CV-11), served as part of the Pacific Fleet during World War II.

World War II and the carrier campaigns of the Pacific firmly established the role of aviation within naval operations and the aircraft carrier replaced the battleship as the Navy's primary strike weapon. Serving as mobile air bases, carriers could maneuver aircraft around the open waters and scattered island chains of the Pacific. By employing a combination of scouting, fighter or bomber aircraft to control the enemy's air power, groups of carriers, screened by surface ships, could open the way for island invasions, cover and support amphibious operations, and help to hold the conquered areas. Thus carriers became an integral compound of nearly every campaign throughout the Pacific War. With aircraft that extended the fleet's firepower beyond the range of large caliber battleship guns, the carrier's status was elevated from reconnaissance platform to that of major surface combatant.

In two years of fighting against the Japanese the USS  Intrepid  was hit by enemy action on five occasions and took part in the largest naval battle in history, the Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944. The USS  Intrepid  helped sink both of Japan's super-battleships,  Yamato  and  Musashi . Five battle stars were awarded to the USS  Intrepid  for its World War II service. The USS  Intrepid  was extensively modernized by the Navy in 1954, converting it to a modern attack carrier capable of handling jets. All heavy guns were removed, the centerline elevator was removed and a new heavy-duty starboard side elevator was installed. The USS  Intrepid  is now operated as a memorial and museum ship. Visit the National Park Service  Travel American Aviation   to learn more about  Aviation related Historic Sites.

A project through the Save America's Treasures Grant Program , which helps preserve nationally significant historic properties and collections, funded construction work at the USS Intrepid Museum to build a new entrance center in 2000.   

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Last updated: April 12, 2024

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Everything about tourist attractions

Intrepid Museum – tickets, prices, discounts, timings, exhibits, what to expect, FAQs

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a military and maritime museum located in New York.

It is dedicated to the history of the US Naval Aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, which was active from 1943 to 1974.

The museum is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is a must-visit for anyone interested in military history, aviation, or space exploration.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Intrepid Museum.

Top Intrepid Museum Tickets

# Ticket for Intrepid Museum

# Intrepid Museum + Edge at Hudson Yards Bundle

Table of contents

What to expect, where to book intrepid museum tickets, how do online tickets work, intrepid museum ticket prices, intrepid museum tickets, intrepid museum + edge at hudson yards bundle, hangar deck, flight deck, combat information center, space shuttle pavilion, uss growler submarine, the concorde, how to reach, how long does intrepid museum take, best time to visit, intrepid museum with kids, intrepid museum audio guide, stories of the intrepid 4d experience, gforce encounter, transporter fx (closed during winter), transporter blue angels, faqs about the intrepid museum.

Get on board the USS Intrepid, a former aircraft carrier, and experience the world of military and maritime marvels come to life.

The museum is dedicated to honoring the technological advances that have changed our world and the people behind them.

Explore the exhibits at the awe-inspiring Intrepid and learn about the stories behind some of the most extraordinary triumphs of the 20th century.

See the world’s first space shuttle, a plethora of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, a nuclear weapons-carrying submarine, and the fastest commercial airliner in the world.

Trace the historical journeys made possible through advancements in STEM through immersive and fun spectacles at the famed decks of the USS Intrepid.

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Tickets for the Intrepid Museum are available to be purchased at the museum or online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

Since these tickets are timed, booking online also helps you get your preferred time slots.

Go to the Intrepid Museum ticket booking page , select your preferred date, time slot and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to carry printouts.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

Adult tickets for the Intrepid Museum are available to visitors between 13 and 64 years old at a discounted price of US$32.

Tickets for senior citizens aged 65 and above can be purchased for US$31.

Tickets for children between five to 12 years of age cost US$23.

New York residents can avail huge discounts on tickets for the Intrepid Museum.

For them, the adult tickets cost US$18, senior tickets US$17, and the child tickets are available for just US$13.

Get tickets for the Intrepid Museum and dive into the world of history, science, and technology like never before.

Book this Intrepid Museum ticket and skip the lines to dive straight into the bewildering world at the former US aircraft carrier, the USS Intrepid.

The ticket includes entrance to the Intrepid, along with access to the Growler Submarine, Space Shuttle Pavilion, and all the exhibits from open to close.

This ticket is the cheapest and the most popular way for visitors to explore the museum.

Visitors need to select a time slot to enter the museum when booking the tickets but are free to stay for as long as they wish.

Ticket Price s

Adult Ticket (13 to 64 years): US$32 Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$31 Child Ticket (5 to 12 years): US$23 Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free Veteran Ticket: Free

Adult Ticket NYC resident(13 to 64 years): US$18 Senior Ticket NYC resident (65+ years): US$17 Child Ticket NYC resident (5 to 12 years): US$13

Distance: 1.2 mile approx (2 km) Time Taken: 7 minute drive

After exploring military and maritime history at the Intrepid Museum, check out Edge Hudson Yards, just over a mile away.

Get ready for an unforgettable multimedia experience at Edge NYC, where you can learn all about this iconic skyscraper before ascending 1,100 feet to the top of the city skyline.

Located next to the Hudson River on Manhattan’s West Side, you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the city that never sleeps.

Step outside onto the observation deck, which is suspended 80 feet above the ground and stretches out into thin air.

The deck’s glass walls slope outwards to enhance the thrill of looking down, but for the ultimate adrenaline rush, gaze down through the glass floor and feel your heart race.

See the full breadth of Manhattan, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park and even the towering buildings of the financial district.

You can also get a 10% discount code emailed to you, which can be availed on future purchases.

Get an exclusive 23% discount on booking this combo ticket.

Ticket Cost: US$64

There is so much to see at Intrepid Museum that you will need the whole day to experience it all.

Here are some highlights recommended by tourists who have visited this New York attraction.

Visitors start their tour of Intrepid Museum with the Hangar Deck.

The Hanger Deck has two sides to it – on the left-hand side, you see Intrepid’s technology.

And on the starboard side, you get an idea of how the ship’s sailors lived.

You also see an eight-minute movie on Intrepid’s history at the Hangar deck.

At the Flight Deck, visitors can admire around 25 plus authentically restored aircraft in an impressive display.

These aircraft represent all US Military branches – Army, Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard.

The Combat Information Center is in the Gallery Deck and houses the radar, sonar, and intelligence the Naval men used.

This part of the Intrepid Museum tour contains exhibits from the ship’s service in World War II.

Don’t miss out on the pneumatic tubes used to send messages from one point to another on the ship.

Kids brought up in the digital age will find it fascinating.

At the Space Shuttle Pavilion, you get to see ‘Enterprise.’

Enterprise is the prototype orbiter, which would be the foundation of America’s space shuttle program.

The orbiter is massive, and you see it from below and above.

Even though the Enterprise was retired in 1976, it could only make it to the Intrepid Museum in 2012.

During your visit to the Space Shuttle Pavilion, you will get to know why.

The USS Growler is a guided missile submarine on display for the public – the only tourist attraction in the USA.

This part of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in NYC helps you understand and appreciate how sailors lived underwater for months.

Sometimes, there is a queue to get into the submarine.

The British Airways Concorde, which is on display, is a must-see at Intrepid.

The supersonic jet carried travelers across the Atlantic at record speeds.

Only twenty such aircraft were built, including six prototypes.

Visual Story : 15 must-know tips before visiting Intrepid Museum

The Intrepid Museum is located along the Hudson River at Pier 86 at 46th Street.

Address: Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, USA. Get Directions

You can reach the Intrepid Museum by both public and private transportation.

Get down at the 12 Av/W 46 St stop to reach the Intrepid Museum.

Take the M50 bus.

The nearest subway station to the museum is 50 St , which be reached by subway lines A, C, and E.

If you are driving by car, turn on  Google Maps  and get started!

Choose between a host of parking options around the museum.

The Intrepid Museum is open between 10 am to 5 pm on all days of the week.

However, from April to October, the museum stays open until 6 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays.

Entry to the museum is allowed till 1 hour before closing.

The Intrepid Museum remains closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours on average at the Intrepid Museum.

However, as the tickets are not timed, true enthusiasts are free to stay for as long as they want.

Buy one discount Pass and save up to 40% on ticket costs during your New York holiday. Buy New York Explorer Pass

For a more enjoyable visit, it is best to book your tour on a weekday when the museum is less busy.

If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend arriving at the attraction right when it opens at 10 am.

The Intrepid Museum tends to be more crowded on weekends and public holidays.

The Intrepid Museum is a great place to visit with your kids.

They get excited amongst the submarine, the Concorde, fighter planes, helicopters, aircraft carriers, and spaceships.

Keep time for the ‘Exploreum,’ which features a Bell 47 helicopter for a hands-on experience.

Once they have explored the star helicopter, your child can try the other air and sea crafts in the section.

Only a few tourists get on the famed Concorde Alpha Delta G-BOAD daily. Do check it out early and sign up for the tour.

If your kid is old enough to handle it, don’t miss out on the simulators.

Intrepid Museum offers an audio guide for kids, adults, and the hearing impaired.

The guide recommends places where you must stop and explore in-depth, thus making it a memorable tour.

Visitors can book an audio guide for US$7 per person at the attraction.

Tours are available in English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Italian, and Chinese.

Simulators at Intrepid Museum

The Museum has four simulators, which visitors of all age groups can enjoy.

These simulators are not part of the  regular Intrepid Museum tickets  and cost an extra – US$11 per ride for non-members and US$8 per ride for members.

In this simulator, you become one of the pilots on the aircraft carrier Intrepid.

This 8-minute film uses 4D technology, computer graphics, and historical footage to simulate the environment for you.

All you have to do is put on the 3D glasses issued to you and become the pilot.

Minimum height required: 1 meter (40 inches)

In this Intrepid Museum simulator, you become the pilot of a supersonic jet plane.

Since it is a two-person cockpit, you can find a co-pilot to join the fun.

The 360-degree movement possible with this simulator makes it all the more enjoyable.

Minimum height required: 1.07 meters (42 inches) if with an adult 1.22 meters (48 inches) if without an adult

This simulator gives you the experience of flying a Navy fighter jet.

Once you step into the Transporter FX, you get assigned a six-minute training mission with the Screaming Eagles.

It is just the right virtual motion adventure for youngsters.

Minimum height required: 97 cms (38 inches)

Take a flight in a Navy F/A-18 Hornet.

Feel the adrenaline as you take on vertical and sneak rolls, high-performance bends, and tricks at speeds almost mirroring Mach 1!

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before visiting the Intrepid Museum.

Yes, it is best to buy the tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in queues, get your preferred time slot, and ensure availability.

The entry ticket allows visitors to enter the aircraft carrier Intrepid, the Space Shuttle Pavilion, and the submarine Growler. Entry to British Airways Concorde is available at an extra fee.

Yes, visitors can choose to visit the Intrepid Museum as one of the attractions included in the New York City Pass .

Visitors can grab a bite at the Intrepid Marketplace or Aviator Grill, offering delicious pizzas, wraps, salads, sandwiches, and soups. Visitors can even opt for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. If you are looking for a quick snack, stop by the vending machines on the pier and the flight deck.

Yes, the museum is fully accessible to people requiring a wheelchair.

Personal photography is allowed at the museum. However, Selfie sticks, camera-extension devices, and professional equipment like tripods are not allowed.

Pets, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed inside the museum.

Sources # Intrepidmuseum.org # Muzemerch.com # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy.

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This article was researched & written by

Yashika Bhati

Yashika travels to write. From capturing the endless sea from the coast of Thailand to walking barefoot on the sands of Sahara, the experience is everything to her, and she captures the experience in her words. For her, a good vacation includes the right amount of activity and rest. Favorite Cities: Istanbul, Hanoi, Cape Town, Singapore

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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On Liberty, at War: Intrepid’s Ports of Call during the Vietnam War

By Intrepid Museum

Between 1966 and 1969, the crew of the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid served three tours of duty off the coast of Vietnam. Between combat periods, the crew enjoyed liberty, or time off, in friendly ports. Explore ports of call through the collections of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Intrepid Departs Norfolk, Virginia (1968-06-04) Intrepid Museum

American involvement in the Vietnam War lasted from 1961 to 1975. Between 1966 and 1969, the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid served three tours of duty off the coast of Vietnam.

Three times, the crew of 3,000 men lined the rails of the ship while family members waved and wept on the pier. Their sons, fathers and husbands would be deployed for seven to eight months.

A-4 Skyhawk on the Catapult (1967) Intrepid Museum

Intrepid in Combat

Intrepid was a floating military airfield, and the flight deck was the center of the action. Intrepid participated in Operation Rolling Thunder, a massive bombing campaign against North Vietnam. The fast pace of flight operations, coupled with the stifling heat, made the flight deck a brutal place to work.

A Sailor Serves Food on the Chow Line (1967/1969) Intrepid Museum

Day after day, for weeks at a time, the crew worked grueling 16-hour days, with brief breaks to eat. Each night, exhausted crew members fell into their bunks.

Sailors in a Sampan in Hong Kong (1966-09) Intrepid Museum

Intrepid had about two weeks "off the line" between 30-day combat periods. During this time, the ship was repaired and resupplied, and crew members had liberty in friendly ports. The crew took advantage of the opportunity to relax, explore and let off steam.

Armed Forces Liberty Pass (1967) Intrepid Museum

Sailors carried passes to show that they had been granted liberty. They were supposed to turn in their cards upon returning from liberty, or they risked being charged with unauthorized absence.

Hong Kong Port of Call Booklet Intrepid Museum

Navigating a new port was exhilarating as well as intimidating. The ship's print shop produced booklets about ports of call. This one highlights tourist attractions in Hong Kong.

The booklets also included practical information, like this currency conversion chart.

Sailors Souvenir Shopping in Singapore (1968) Intrepid Museum

Intrepid crew members purchased souvenirs as gifts for loved ones or as personal mementos. They learned how to bargain for electronics, custom suits and other souvenirs.

Souvenir Buddha Ashtray (1966/1967) Intrepid Museum

A crew member purchased this souvenir ashtray in Japan.

Sailor Entering a Bar (1968-05) Intrepid Museum

Letting Loose

Intrepid's crew—enlisted men and officers—saw port calls as much-needed breaks from shipboard life. These visits gave Intrepid sailors access to two diversions that were not available on the ship: alcohol and women. In ports of call, bars and brothels catered to sailors.

Nightclub in the Philippines (1967/1969) Intrepid Museum

Certain destinations had particularly notorious reputations, such as Olongapo, near the now-closed Naval Base Subic Bay in the Philippines.

Shore Patrol Arm Band (1968/1969) Intrepid Museum

Discipline and Consequences

Liberty was not an escape from Navy regulations. Men caught breaking rules faced punishment by the Navy or local law enforcement. The Navy established shore patrol to preserve peace and order. The shore patrol tried to stop trouble before it started.

Results of Captain’s Mast (1966-08-25) Intrepid Museum

For minor incidents, the commanding officer conducted a hearing called a captain's mast. The captain heard the facts and determined punishment. This document lists punishments related to liberty in Japan in August 1966.

Most violations involve drunk and disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and failing to obey orders. Punishments include reduction in rate (demotion), loss of pay and restriction to the ship.

Plan of the Day (1966-09-25) Intrepid Museum

Visiting brothels resulted in a different consequence. Sexually transmitted infections were prevalent in some ports.

Medical personnel tried to educate the crew about sexually transmitted infections, then called venereal diseases. This document warns crew members not to play a "game of chance with venereal disease."

Yashica Lynx 5000 Camera (1966/1967) Intrepid Museum

Documenting Their Adventures

Cameras were a popular purchase for crew members on liberty. Sailors snapped photos or slides, sometimes numbering in the hundreds.

Sailors Strolling (1967/1968) Intrepid Museum

Sam Taylor, owner of the Yashica camera, took hundreds of slides during his time on board Intrepid. Many images feature his buddies exploring ports of call.

View of Intrepid in Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong (1966/1967) Intrepid Museum

Taylor also captured images of tourist attractions, such as this view from Victoria Peak in Hong Kong...

...which includes a view of Intrepid in the harbor, waiting until the crew's next combat period.

Welcome Home USS Intrepid (1969) Intrepid Museum

Welcome Home

Today, Intrepid veterans recall their Vietnam War service in different ways. Some take pride in the work they accomplished, while others question U.S. involvement in the war. For many sailors, their adventures in foreign ports stand out from the demands and complexities of their wartime Navy service.

Remembering Ports of Call (2016) Intrepid Museum

The Intrepid Museum's Oral History Project is generously supported by James L. Nederlander. President, Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Susan Marenoff-Zausner Curator: Jessica Williams Collections and Oral Histories: Rebecca Bacheller, David Dzendzel, Jennifer Milani, Ann Stegina Video Producer: Liam Marshall Editor: Adrienne Johnson The Intrepid Museum wishes to thank the former crew members of Intrepid for sharing their collections and their stories with us.

Photography on an Aircraft Carrier

Intrepid museum, navy cakes: a slice of history, concorde: a supersonic story, aboard the uss intrepid: a navy aircraft carrier.

All aboard! Fleet Week is returning this May; here are the ships set to come in

A’hoy, New Yorkers! Get ready to see sailors and other service members all throughout town when Fleet Week returns to NYC at the end of May.

The Big Apple’s time-honored tradition of welcoming the U.S. armed forces to the city will kick off with the famous Parade of Ships on Wednesday, May 22, in the waters off Staten Island and Manhattan. The celebration continues through Memorial Day weekend before wrapping up on Tuesday, May 28. Activities include ship tours, demonstrations, musical performances and meet-and-greets with service members. 

Coinciding with Memorial Day Weekend, nearly 2,300 service members from the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard and Marines will be in town as honorary New Yorkers, greeting all who want to say hello and thank them for their service. 

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Fleet Week New York…Celebrating Those Who Serve.”

“Fleet Week is about celebrating those who serve and recognizing the unyielding strength of our Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard team,” Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Rear Adm. Wesley McCall wrote on Fleet Week’s website. “As we come together to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during their service, we are reminded of the diverse and inclusive fighting force that is currently serving to protect national security and preserve our way of life.”

What to expect at Fleet Week 2024 in NYC

A major highlight of Fleet Week includes free tours of participating ships. Organizers are still ironing out other details of the celebration, so more information is to come. But festivities traditionally include interactive displays and demonstrations, musical performances and additional family-friendly activities. 

Joining Fleet Week this year are two ships from Germany, a U.S. ally. Ships, tour information and pier locations include:

Manhattan, Pier 88 South :

Public tours available on Saturday, May 25; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5) from Norfo lk, Va.

Manhattan, Pier 90 North:  

Baden-Württemberg-class frigate FGS Baden-Württemberg (F-222) from Germany

Berlin-class replenishment ship FGS Frankfurt am Main (A-1412) from Germany

Manhattan, Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86 :

Public tours daily; 10a.m. to 5 p.m.

Four U.S. Naval Academy YPs, Annapolis, Md.

Homeport Pier, Staten Island : 

Public tours will be available May 23 – 27; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS MARINETTE (LCS 25) from Mayport, Fla. Legend-class cutter USCGC Calhoun (WMSL-759) from Charleston, S.C. Keeper-class coastal buoy tender USCGC Katherine Walker (WLM-552) from Bayonne, N.J.

What you need to know about enjoying Fleet Week 2024 in NYC

Where does fleet week in nyc take place.

Fleet Week activities are located throughout the city. Ships will be docked on Manhattan piers, including Pier 86 by the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, as well as at the Homeport Pier on Staten Island. 

When is Fleet Week in NYC?

Fleet Week will run Wednesday, May 22, to Tuesday, May 28, this year. Hours for ship tours and other activities vary. 

Is it free to tour a ship?

When is the Parade of Ships? 

The Parade of Ships cruises into the harbor on Wednesday, May 22, to kick off Fleet Week. The exact hours have not been announced yet, but usually it is in the early morning and lasts several hours.

Where can New Yorkers see the parade?

The ships usually sail up the Hudson River from Battery Park to south of the George Washington Bridge. It is always free for the public to enjoy. 

For more information about Fleet Week 2024, including details on touring the ships, visit the website, cnrma.cnic.navy.mil/Operations-and-Management/Fleet-Week-New-York .

Our hours are subject to change on a daily basis based on special events and exhibition closures. Please check our Visitor Information page .  Last entry is one hour prior to closing.

Mon-Fri: 10:00am-5:00pm  

Sat, Sun, and Holidays: 10:00am-6:00pm  

The Space Shuttle Pavilion will be closed due to exhibition planning from  Monday, September 2 - Friday, September 27.  

Submarine Growler

As the only American nuclear missile submarine open to the public, Growler offers a firsthand look at life aboard a submarine and the once "top-secret" missile command center with available access as it was used during operations.

A museum admission ticket is required to enter the submarine.  The Cold War exhibition is free to the public. The capacity of both the exhibition and submarine has been reduced. Due to these changes, wait times may be longer.  The line to the submarine Growler and exhibition may close early.

SAFETY GUIDELINES:

• Visitors must be at least 40” tall.
• All visitors, including service and support animals, must be able to pass through a replica of the hatch without assistance.
• Areas inside are narrow and may not be suitable for visitors with claustrophobia.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Strollers, large bags, and backpacks are not permitted.
• Food and beverages are not permitted.

Enlisted men ate in the crew's mess (or dining room) while crew members played games and watched movies in this space to relax. Next to the crew's mess was the galley, a tiny kitchen where Growler 's cooks prepared all of the crew's meals.

Growler crew members steered the submarine from the three seats in this space, while two periscopes located in the center of the room allowed crew members to scan the water’s surface.

Growler had two torpedo rooms located at the bow (front) and stern (back) of the submarine. The torpedoes were intended for self-defense, and the room contained nine bunks for enlisted crew members.

Browse records from all four categories of our collections: objects, media, archives and oral histories. Explore thematic and item-specific groupings or uncover personal artifacts like uniforms, souvenirs and images.

We offer a number of compelling programs and events that celebrate history, science, technology and engineering in exciting ways.

Take a virtual Google Arts & Culture Tour to discover the fascinating collections and artifacts on display at the Museum from wherever you are.

Explore an array of unforgettable experiences.  

Enjoy exclusive benefits, including free admission. Learn more and join today.