Intro
Discover 7 historic warships to explore in Florida, featuring iconic vessels from World War I and II, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War. From battleships to submarines, learn about their significant roles in shaping American history and get ready to set sail on a journey through the Sunshine States rich naval heritage.
Florida, known for its rich maritime history, is home to a plethora of historic warships that have played a significant role in shaping the country's naval heritage. These vessels, now retired from active duty, have been transformed into museums, memorials, and tourist attractions, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about their fascinating past. Here, we'll delve into seven historic warships to explore in Florida, each with its own distinct story to tell.
USS Missouri (BB-63) - Battleship of the Mighty Mo
Commissioned in 1944, the USS Missouri (BB-63) is one of the most iconic battleships in American history. Nicknamed the "Mighty Mo," this Iowa-class battleship served in three major wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. The USS Missouri is perhaps most famous for being the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, marking the end of World War II. Today, the battleship is moored in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, but a section of the ship's deck and a turret are on display at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, Florida.
Experience the Mighty Mo's Legacy
Visitors to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum can explore the USS Missouri's deck and turret, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors who served on board. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and personal stories, providing a unique perspective on the ship's storied past.
USS Orleck (DD-886) - Gearing-Class Destroyer
Launched in 1945, the USS Orleck (DD-886) is a Gearing-class destroyer that served in the United States Navy for over 25 years. The ship played a crucial role in the Cold War, participating in several key operations, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. After being decommissioned in 1982, the USS Orleck was transferred to the Turkish Navy, where it served for another 10 years. Today, the ship is on display at the Jacksonville Naval Museum in Florida, offering visitors a chance to explore its decks and learn about its remarkable history.
Explore the USS Orleck's Operations
The USS Orleck is one of the few remaining Gearing-class destroyers, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore its operations. The ship's exhibit features a collection of artifacts, including its original radar and sonar equipment, as well as a recreated ship's galley and crew quarters.
USS Dallas (SSN-700) - Los Angeles-Class Submarine
Commissioned in 1981, the USS Dallas (SSN-700) is a Los Angeles-class submarine that served in the United States Navy for over 30 years. The ship played a key role in several operations, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan. After being decommissioned in 2014, the USS Dallas was donated to the Jacksonville Naval Museum, where it is currently on display.
Dive into the USS Dallas's History
Visitors to the Jacksonville Naval Museum can explore the USS Dallas's deck and interior, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors who served on board. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and personal stories, providing a unique perspective on the ship's storied past.
USS Skipjack (SSN-585) - Skipjack-Class Submarine
Commissioned in 1959, the USS Skipjack (SSN-585) is a Skipjack-class submarine that served in the United States Navy for over 20 years. The ship was the first of its class to be designed from the outset as a nuclear-powered attack submarine. After being decommissioned in 1990, the USS Skipjack was donated to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where it is currently on display.
Explore the USS Skipjack's Innovations
The USS Skipjack is a significant example of innovation in submarine design, featuring a unique hull shape and propulsion system. Visitors to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum can explore the ship's deck and interior, learning about its remarkable history and technological advancements.
USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (DD-850) - Gearing-Class Destroyer
Launched in 1945, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (DD-850) is a Gearing-class destroyer that served in the United States Navy for over 25 years. The ship played a crucial role in the Cold War, participating in several key operations, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. After being decommissioned in 1973, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. was transferred to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where it is currently on display.
Learn about the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr.'s Service
Visitors to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy can explore the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr.'s deck and interior, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors who served on board. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and personal stories, providing a unique perspective on the ship's storied past.
USS Requin (SS-481) - Tench-Class Submarine
Commissioned in 1945, the USS Requin (SS-481) is a Tench-class submarine that served in the United States Navy for over 25 years. The ship played a key role in the Cold War, participating in several key operations, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. After being decommissioned in 1971, the USS Requin was donated to the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where it is currently on display.
Explore the USS Requin's Missions
Visitors to the Carnegie Science Center can explore the USS Requin's deck and interior, learning about its remarkable history and technological advancements. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and personal stories, providing a unique perspective on the ship's storied past.
USS North Carolina (BB-55) - North Carolina-Class Battleship
Commissioned in 1941, the USS North Carolina (BB-55) is a North Carolina-class battleship that served in the United States Navy for over 20 years. The ship played a key role in World War II, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Midway and the Battle of Iwo Jima. After being decommissioned in 1947, the USS North Carolina was donated to the USS North Carolina Battleship Commission, where it is currently on display in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Visit the USS North Carolina's Historic Site
The USS North Carolina is a significant example of naval history, featuring a unique combination of World War II-era technology and architecture. Visitors to the USS North Carolina Battleship Commission can explore the ship's deck and interior, learning about its remarkable history and technological advancements.
Historic Warships Image Gallery
What is the most famous warship in Florida?
+The USS Missouri (BB-63) is one of the most iconic battleships in American history, and a section of the ship's deck and a turret are on display at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, Florida.
What is the oldest warship in Florida?
+The USS North Carolina (BB-55) is the oldest warship in Florida, commissioned in 1941 and decommissioned in 1947.
Can I explore the warships in Florida?
+Yes, many of the warships in Florida are open to the public for exploration, including the USS Missouri (BB-63), USS Orleck (DD-886), USS Dallas (SSN-700), and USS North Carolina (BB-55).