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USS Cobia

4.9
·294 reviews·Manitowoc, United States

Explore a WWII submarine and maritime history at the USS Cobia and Wisconsin Maritime Museum. An immersive dive into naval life.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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USS Cobia - Image 1

USS Cobia

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a WWII submarine and maritime history at the USS Cobia and Wisconsin Maritime Museum. An immersive dive into naval life.

4.9
(294 reviews)

"A very well done historical visit, highly recommend for anyone interested in history and getting a new perspective."

Vertical photo
TIP

Self-Guided Tour Option

Opt for the self-guided tour for a flexible and informative exploration at your own pace. :informationdeskperson:

Be Mindful of Space

Submarine interiors can be tight; some visitors may feel claustrophobic. :person_walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Explore the USS Cobia

Explore the USS Cobia

Wisconsin Maritime Museum

Step aboard a WWII-era submarine and experience life beneath the waves. Almost entirely walkable for an immersive tour.

Wisconsin Maritime Museum Exhibits

Wisconsin Maritime Museum Exhibits

Adjacent to USS Cobia

Discover fascinating exhibits on shipbuilding, Lake Michigan shipwrecks, and interactive displays.

Interactive Water Table

Interactive Water Table

Museum's bottom floor

Engage kids with a well-designed interactive water table, complete with smocks and booties.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Submarine Adventure

The USS Cobia offers a unique glimpse into submarine life. Consider booking an overnight stay for an immersive experience, but be aware that space is tight and can feel claustrophobic for some. Reddit

Respect the History

While exploring the USS Cobia, remember it's a historical artifact. Avoid touching anything, especially unlocked valves, to preserve its integrity. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Museum activities are in full swing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

USS Cobia being towed out of Manitowoc this morning.

Self-Guided Tour Option

Opt for the self-guided tour for a flexible and informative exploration at your own pace. :informationdeskperson:

Be Mindful of Space

Submarine interiors can be tight; some visitors may feel claustrophobic. Reddit :person_walking:

reddit.com

People can pay $685+ a night to sleep on a sub.

reddit.com

Where is better to spend a day- Manitowoc or Sheboygan? Recommended activities or things to do?

Don't Touch!

Respect the historical integrity. Avoid touching valves or equipment. Reddit :noentrysign:

Family Fun Zone

Kids will love the interactive water boat racing downstairs! :child::droplet:

Tips

from all over the internet

Self-Guided Tour Option

Opt for the self-guided tour for a flexible and informative exploration at your own pace. :informationdeskperson:

Be Mindful of Space

Submarine interiors can be tight; some visitors may feel claustrophobic. Reddit :person_walking:

Don't Touch!

Respect the historical integrity. Avoid touching valves or equipment. Reddit :noentrysign:

Family Fun Zone

Kids will love the interactive water boat racing downstairs! :child::droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(294 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors highly recommend the USS Cobia for its immersive historical experience and the engaging exhibits at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum. Many appreciate the self-guided tour's flexibility and the hands-on activities for children. Some note that the submarine's confined spaces can feel claustrophobic.

"Highly recommend.
Self guided tour free with admission

This sub is almost all walkable
Do NOT touch anything. Some valves which port water in and out are unlocked and could cause issues if toyed with

The muesum inside is also very nicely setup.
Tons of boats inside to view

Kids water boat racing on bottom floor woth smocks and booties

For the price. Location.
And how much is avaliable to learn see and hands on its worth going

A+"

Jacob Wayne

"This was a very well done historical visit. We chose the self guided tour which was informative but effective for the pace so we could look at our own pace. Highly recommend for anyone interested in history and getting a new perspective."

Katrina Gleason

"It was a great tour it is part of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and I did a review on the Cobia over at Wiscosin Maritime Museum site."

R H

What People Like

Immersive historical experience
Engaging museum exhibits
Interactive family activities

What People Dislike

Claustrophobic spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The USS Cobia is located at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. TikTok

While direct public transport to the museum might be limited, local bus routes may serve the Manitowoc area. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

The USS Cobia is occasionally towed for maintenance, as seen recently heading to Sturgeon Bay. Keep an eye on local news or museum announcements for such events. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the USS Cobia is typically included with your Wisconsin Maritime Museum ticket. Prices can vary, so check the museum's official website for current rates. Reddit

Yes, it's often recommended to book your museum tickets, which include USS Cobia access, online in advance, especially during peak season. Instagram

The USS Cobia's hours generally align with the Wisconsin Maritime Museum's operating hours. It's best to check the museum's website for the most current information. TikTok

No, access to the USS Cobia is usually part of the general admission to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum. Reddit

The museum may offer discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel. Check the Wisconsin Maritime Museum's admission page for details. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The USS Cobia offers a self-guided tour that allows you to explore the submarine at your own pace, learning about its history and the lives of its crew. Reddit

The submarine is almost entirely walkable, but due to its nature, some areas may be tight. Visitors with mobility issues should be aware of potential challenges. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed on the USS Cobia for personal use. However, always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. TikTok

The USS Cobia (SS-245) is a Gato-class submarine that served in the United States Navy during World War II, known for its successful combat missions. TikTok

The museum features extensive exhibits on shipbuilding, Great Lakes shipwrecks, and a variety of other vessels, offering a comprehensive maritime experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The USS Cobia itself does not have food services. However, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum may have a small cafe or gift shop, and there are numerous dining options in Manitowoc. Instagram

Manitowoc offers a variety of restaurants, from casual diners to seafood spots, many within walking distance of the museum. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture striking images of the submarine's exterior from various angles along the waterfront. Inside, focus on the unique interior spaces and historical details. TikTok

Yes, interior photography is permitted for personal use, allowing you to document the cramped but fascinating living and working spaces of a submarine crew. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for interior shots. Wide-angle lenses can help capture the confined spaces effectively. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The USS Cobia and the Wisconsin Maritime Museum are fantastic for families. The interactive water table downstairs is a huge hit with kids, offering hands-on fun. Reddit While exploring the submarine, encourage children to imagine life aboard and the importance of teamwork. Remind them to be respectful and not touch any of the equipment. Reddit The museum's broader exhibits on shipbuilding and shipwrecks also offer engaging content for various ages. Reddit

⚓ History Buffs

For those passionate about military history, the USS Cobia is a must-see. As a Gato-class submarine that served in WWII, it offers a direct connection to a pivotal era. TikTok Take your time with the self-guided tour to appreciate the engineering, the operational details, and the stories of the crew. Reddit The adjacent museum exhibits further contextualize the submarine's role within the larger narrative of naval warfare and maritime innovation. Reddit

🌌 Adventurous Sleepers

If you're looking for a truly unique overnight experience, consider booking a USS Cobia overnight stay. Reddit This is your chance to sleep where submariners slept, offering an unparalleled level of immersion. Be prepared for the compact living spaces and embrace the adventure! Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The USS Cobia Experience: More Than Just a Tour

The USS Cobia (SS-245) offers a remarkably immersive journey into the past. Unlike many static museum exhibits, the Cobia is designed to be walked through, allowing visitors to truly feel what life was like for submariners during World War II. The self-guided tour is highly recommended, enabling you to absorb the history at your own pace without feeling rushed. Reddit Many visitors note that while the submarine is almost entirely walkable, the confined spaces can evoke a sense of claustrophobia for some, a testament to the challenging environment these sailors endured. Reddit

Beyond the submarine itself, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum provides crucial context. Its exhibits delve into the intricacies of shipbuilding, the dramatic history of shipwrecks in Lake Michigan, and the broader story of maritime life. This comprehensive approach enriches the understanding of the USS Cobia's significance and the bravery of those who served on her. Reddit

For families, the museum offers a delightful surprise: an interactive water table on the bottom floor. This engaging activity, complete with smocks and booties, provides a fun and educational break for younger visitors, ensuring that the entire family can enjoy their visit. Reddit

Overnight Stays on the USS Cobia

For an unparalleled adventure, consider the USS Cobia overnight experience. This unique opportunity allows you to sleep aboard the historic submarine, offering a truly immersive dive into naval history. Reddit It's an experience that goes beyond a typical museum visit, providing a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

While the allure of sleeping on a WWII submarine is strong, potential visitors should be prepared for the realities of the environment. The tight quarters and enclosed nature of a submarine are part of the authentic experience, but they can be challenging for those sensitive to confined spaces. Reddit This is an adventure best suited for those seeking a deep dive into history and a memorable, albeit potentially cozy, night's sleep. Reddit

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