Ahoy Mateys! Setting Sail for the Ships of Philly
Ever find yourself strolling down the Delaware River and wondering, "Hey, what's that giant metal beast chilling over there?" Well, fret no more, landlubber, because this here be your guide to the magnificent ships gracing the Philadelphia waterfront!
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| What Ship Is In Philadelphia |
The Grande Dame: The SS United States
This beauty, once the world's fastest passenger liner, has been docked in Philadelphia since 1996. Sadly, she's a bit like your great aunt Mildred after too much eggnog at Christmas - stuck and unable to get back on the open seas. But hold on! There's a whole movement dedicated to restoring her to her former glory. Maybe one day we'll all be sipping champagne and waltzing across the Atlantic in style - or at least taking a selfie with this grand dame of the sea.
Battleship New Jersey: A Floating Piece of History
This titan of World War II and Vietnam fame packs a punch. Nicknamed "Big J," she earned more battle stars than any other battleship in her class. Now peacefully docked at the Camden Waterfront, you can climb aboard and explore her decks, pretend to steer the ship (shhh, don't tell the captain!), and imagine the firepower she once unleashed.
Beyond the Big Guys: A Harbor Full of Surprises
Philadelphia's not a one-trick pony (or, should we say, one-battleship town). The Independence Seaport Museum boasts the cruiser Olympia (once commanded by the legendary Dewey!), the submarine Becuna (perfect for those who fancy a claustrophobic thrill!), and a collection of other vessels that would make any history buff do a happy dance.
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Craving a different kind of nautical experience? No problem! Hop on a scenic cruise and get a whole new perspective of the city skyline, or take a tour focused on the haunted ships of Philadelphia (it's a thing, apparently!).
So, You Wanna See Some Ships?
Here's the quick and dirty on how to get your maritime fix in Philly:
- The SS United States: Currently not open to the public, but you can admire her from afar at Pier 82.
- Battleship New Jersey: Open for tours! Check their website [Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial] for hours and ticketing info.
- Independence Seaport Museum: Explore a collection of ships and maritime history exhibits. They also have seasonal events and tours - perfect for a fun day out!
Frequently Asked Skipper Questions:
How to get to the Battleship New Jersey?
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The Battleship New Jersey is located across the river in Camden, New Jersey. There are ferries and shuttles that can take you there, or you can drive and park nearby.
How much does it cost to tour the ships?
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Ticket prices vary depending on the ship and any special exhibits. Check the websites of the Battleship New Jersey and Independence Seaport Museum for current pricing.
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Are there any free things to do related to ships in Philadelphia?
Sure! You can take a walk or bike ride along the Delaware River waterfront and enjoy the view of the ships. There are also some free events and festivals throughout the year that feature ships.
How can I learn more about the history of the ships in Philadelphia?
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The Independence Seaport Museum has a wealth of information on their website and in their exhibits. You can also find books and articles online about the history of Philadelphia's waterfront.
Is it safe to take a young child on a tour of a ship?
Most ships offer tours that are appropriate for children. However, there can be a lot of stairs and uneven surfaces, so keep an eye on your little mateys!
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