Tucked away on the lower West Side of Manhattan is one of the county’s most esteemed National Historic Landmarks, the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid. This historic vessel is the focal point of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum located on Manhattan’s Pier 86. The Intrepid isn’t the museums only attraction. Visitors can also tour a space shuttle, a rare submarine and a world-record breaking airplane on their visit. The Intrepid is a top tourist attraction for families, history buffs or just about anyone interested in touring one of New York’s most fascinating museums.
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to spreading awareness of the history surrounding these displays. Through its exhibits, collections, and programs, the museum honors some of the country’s bravest heroes as it shares their remarkable stories. The museum was founded in 1982 and has been welcoming over one million visitors each year to this historic museum on the Hudson River.
As the main attraction at the museum, visitors can tour the USS Intrepid and hear the harrowing tales of the attacks made upon this carrier as it fought in World War II, Cold War, and Vietnam War. The USS Intrepid also served on a NASA recovery vessel in the 1960’s. This landmark vessel was launched in 1942 and was decommissioned in 1974.
Space Shuttle Pavilion
The Space Shuttle Pavilion is home to the space shuttle Enterprise which was a key player in the success of the space shuttle program. The Pavilion features seventeen interactive exhibit zones for visitors to explore. These zones feature photographs, memorabilia, and original artifacts that help educate visitors on the space shuttle program.
Submarine Growler
Visitors to the Intrepid Museum have the honor of touring the Growler, the only American guided missile submarine that is open to the public. Visitors can learn about the inner workings of the submarine and what life was like for those aboard. Visitors can now tour the once top-secret Missile Command Center that is now available to visitors.
British Airways Concorde
Can you imagine crossing the Atlantic in 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 59 seconds? Well, this actually happened on February 7, 1996, aboard the Concorde Alpha Delta G-BOAD. This record-breaking plane is one of the Intrepid’s top attractions, providing a memorable experience for visitors.
Get the Most out of Your Visit:
Guided Tour
Book a guided tour either online or at the box office where a well-trained guide will educate visitors on the history of the museum’s attractions.
Simulator
Try out a virtual flight zone by taking part in one of the museum’s simulator experiences. Fly a navy jet, take an adventure to the moon or fly a supersonic jet plane on your Intrepid Museum visit.
Audio Tour
Self-guided audio tours are available for rent with the purchase of an admission ticket. Visitors will hear stories of the museum’s attractions told by pilots, crew members, US Presidents, and political leaders.
Location:
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is located on the West side of Manhattan on Pier 86 at 12th Ave & 46th Street. The museum is easily accessible from all points on the NYC Metro area and walkable from many top New York City attractions.
For more unmissable things to do and see, check out our guide to the best New York tours.
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