Freedom Park Navy Museum - A large battleship sitting in the middle of a park
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Freedom Park Navy Museum

4.5
·172 reviews·Omaha, United States

Explore two historic naval vessels, the USS Hazard minesweeper and USS Marlin submarine, brought to life by passionate volunteers. A free, immersive d...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturdays

Only day it's open

CrowdMedium
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Freedom Park Navy Museum - A large battleship sitting in the middle of a park

Freedom Park Navy Museum

Best Time

Saturdays

Only day it's open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore two historic naval vessels, the USS Hazard minesweeper and USS Marlin submarine, brought to life by passionate volunteers. A free, immersive dive into maritime history.

4.5
(172 reviews)

"The volunteers have done an incredible job making history come to life!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Operating Hours

Hours are very limited, usually Saturdays only. Confirm before you go!

💰 Donation Appreciated

Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this historic site.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

USS Hazard Minesweeper

USS Hazard Minesweeper

Freedom Park

Step aboard this historic minesweeper and immerse yourself in naval history. Volunteers share incredible details, making the past come alive.

USS Marlin Submarine

USS Marlin Submarine

Freedom Park

Experience life aboard a submarine. Explore the tight quarters and learn about the crucial role these vessels played in naval operations.

Volunteer Storytelling

Volunteer Storytelling

Throughout the museum ships

Engage with passionate volunteers who share firsthand accounts and historical anecdotes, adding immense depth to your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Limited Hours, Big Rewards

The Freedom Park Navy Museum has very limited operating hours, typically only open on Saturdays. Plan your visit carefully to avoid disappointment, as many visitors find it challenging to make it during the short window. Donations are appreciated to help maintain this historic site. Reddit

A Glimpse into Naval History

Explore two fascinating museum ships, the USS Marlin submarine and the USS Hazard minesweeper. Volunteers bring history to life with engaging stories, offering a deeply personal connection to naval heritage. Allow at least two hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturdays
Why
Only day it's open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Honoring the past, embracing the present, and carrying it into the future🫶🏻😊#freedompark #heritage #excursion
@layla_maal
82 likes • 968 views

🎯 Check Operating Hours

Hours are very limited, usually Saturdays only. Confirm before you go! Reddit

💰 Donation Appreciated

Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this historic site. Reddit

#christmasinamerica #veterans #freedompark #omahanebraska #fyp #HappyHolidays
@dsavageaverage
21 likes • 124 views
UPDATE TO FREEDOM PARK: Plans to convert Navy Pier into a public park along San Diego Bay’s North Embarcadero have taken a major step forward. The California Coastal Commission voted unanimously to issue a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) to the Port of San Diego and USS Midway Museum (Midway) for the project. The CDP allows for demolition of the headhouse structure at the entrance to the pier, s...
titleinsuranceguy
27 likes • 474 views

🗣️ Chat with Volunteers

The volunteers are a wealth of knowledge and stories. Don't miss the chance to talk to them! Reddit

📸 Capture the History

While it's easy to forget, take photos to remember the incredible details onboard. Reddit

Demolition of Building 11 is underway, making room for Freedom Park at Navy Pier, the largest veterans park on the West Coast! 🇺🇸⚓️ The #ussmidwaymuseum will remain safely open to visitors, and parking is still available in front of the museum on Navy Pier. #ussmidway #aircraftcarrier #freedompark #navypiersandiego #navypier #portofsandiego #sandiegomuseum #ussmidwayfoundation #navyveteran Creat...
ussmidwaymuseum
89 likes • 3.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Operating Hours

Hours are very limited, usually Saturdays only. Confirm before you go! Reddit

💰 Donation Appreciated

Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this historic site. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Volunteers

The volunteers are a wealth of knowledge and stories. Don't miss the chance to talk to them! Reddit

📸 Capture the History

While it's easy to forget, take photos to remember the incredible details onboard. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(172 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Freedom Park Navy Museum for its rich history and the passionate volunteers who bring the USS Hazard minesweeper and USS Marlin submarine to life. The free admission and engaging stories make it a highly recommended experience. However, the extremely limited operating hours on Saturdays are a significant drawback for many potential visitors.

"What an amazing place, so much history here. It was nice to listen to the volunteers talk about the ship or the submarine. It's free as well. You can leave donations as well. I spent around 2 hrs here. Most of it was on the ship you can tour and the submarine. It's is well worth the trip here."

Jerry Dunlap

"Free will donation, highly recommend visiting and talking with some of the old sailors"

Jeff Wortman

"We always have a great time visiting here and look forward to our next visit."

Michele

What People Like

Rich naval history
Passionate volunteers
Free admission

What People Dislike

Limited Saturday hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at Freedom Park. Specific public transportation details can vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules. Parking availability should also be confirmed closer to your visit date. Reddit

Parking information can be limited. It's advisable to check with the museum directly or local parking resources for the most up-to-date details regarding parking availability and any associated fees. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Freedom Park Navy Museum is free. However, they gratefully accept donations to help maintain the historic ships and exhibits. Reddit

The museum has very limited hours, typically only open on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It's crucial to verify these hours before your visit as they can change. Reddit

Unfortunately, the museum is generally not open on weekdays. Their operating schedule is primarily limited to Saturdays, making weekday visits impossible. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that spending around two hours allows for a thorough exploration of both the USS Hazard minesweeper and the USS Marlin submarine, including time to chat with volunteers. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be scheduled, the museum relies heavily on knowledgeable volunteers who are eager to share information and stories about the ships. Engaging with them is a highlight of the visit. Reddit

You can explore two historic naval vessels: the USS Hazard minesweeper and the USS Marlin submarine. The exhibits focus on naval history and the lives of sailors. Reddit

Yes, children can find the ships fascinating. Exploring the submarine and minesweeper can be an exciting adventure, though supervision is recommended. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of the exhibits and other visitors. Some areas might have specific restrictions, so keep an eye out for signage. Reddit

The decks and interiors of the USS Hazard and USS Marlin offer unique photographic opportunities. Capturing the historical details and the scale of the vessels can make for great shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Freedom Park Navy Museum offers a unique adventure for families. Exploring a real submarine and minesweeper can be incredibly exciting for children, sparking their imagination about naval history. The hands-on nature of touring the ships, combined with the engaging stories from volunteers, makes for an educational and fun outing. Reddit

While the limited Saturday hours require careful planning, it's a worthwhile trip for a memorable family experience. Encourage kids to ask questions and listen to the volunteers; their enthusiasm is contagious and can make history come alive for younger visitors. Reddit

⚓ History Buffs & Veterans

For those with a deep appreciation for naval history or a connection to military service, the Freedom Park Navy Museum is a must-visit. The opportunity to walk the decks of the USS Hazard and descend into the USS Marlin offers a profound connection to the past. The volunteers' firsthand accounts and detailed knowledge provide an unparalleled depth of understanding. Reddit

This museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a living tribute. The dedication of the volunteers and the preservation of these vessels serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and achievements of naval personnel. It's a place to honor heritage and connect with stories that shaped history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Vessels

The heart of the Freedom Park Navy Museum lies in its two meticulously preserved naval vessels: the USS Hazard (MHC-176) minesweeper and the USS Marlin (SST-2) submarine. Visitors can step aboard both ships, gaining a tangible sense of naval life and history. The USS Hazard, a fully restored minesweeper, offers a look into the operations and living conditions of its crew. Reddit

On the USS Marlin, you can experience the confined yet vital spaces of a submarine. Volunteers often share detailed accounts of missions and daily routines, making the historical context come alive. It's a unique opportunity to understand the challenges and bravery associated with naval service. Reddit

Many visitors are particularly impressed by the attention to detail onboard, with volunteers going the extra mile to explain the function of various equipment and the significance of different areas. This immersive experience is what makes the museum a memorable visit for history enthusiasts. Reddit

The Role of Volunteers

The Freedom Park Navy Museum thrives thanks to its dedicated team of volunteers. These individuals, often former sailors or maritime enthusiasts, are the lifeblood of the museum, bringing the exhibits to life with their personal stories and extensive knowledge. Their passion is evident as they share insights into naval history, ship operations, and the daily lives of those who served. Reddit

Engaging with the volunteers is frequently cited as a highlight by visitors. They are not just guides but storytellers, offering a human connection to the past that goes beyond static displays. Their willingness to answer questions and share anecdotes significantly enhances the educational and emotional impact of the visit. Reddit

This community-driven approach ensures that the museum remains a vibrant and authentic representation of naval heritage. The volunteers' commitment is a testament to the importance of preserving these historical artifacts and the stories they hold. Reddit

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