USS Blueback OMSI Submarine
Explore a decommissioned 1959 U.S. Navy submarine at OMSI, offering a unique, guided journey into submariner life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
USS Blueback OMSI Submarine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a decommissioned 1959 U.S. Navy submarine at OMSI, offering a unique, guided journey into submariner life.
"The USS Blueback tour was the absolute BEST PART of OMSI! Tickets were only 8 bucks and well worth it."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the USS Blueback tour in advance, especially during busy periods.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating tight spaces and metal decks, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Life Aboard the USS Blueback
Inside the submarine
Experience the tight quarters and operational areas of a decommissioned U.S. Navy diesel-electric submarine.
Expert Guided Tours
Throughout the submarine
Knowledgeable guides, often with naval experience, share insights into submarine life and history.
A Piece of Naval History
Docked at OMSI
Explore the last non-nuclear powered submarine to join the U.S. Navy's fleet, serving from 1959 to 1990.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Submarine Tour in Advance
Prepare for Tight Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the USS Blueback tour in advance, especially during busy periods.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating tight spaces and metal decks, so comfy footwear is a must.
❓ Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable; don't hesitate to ask about life on the sub!
⚠️ Be Mindful of Claustrophobia
The submarine is a confined space; consider this if you're prone to feeling uneasy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the USS Blueback tour in advance, especially during busy periods.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating tight spaces and metal decks, so comfy footwear is a must.
❓ Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable; don't hesitate to ask about life on the sub!
⚠️ Be Mindful of Claustrophobia
The submarine is a confined space; consider this if you're prone to feeling uneasy.
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to document this unique historical vessel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS Blueback tour as a highlight of their OMSI visit, citing the incredibly knowledgeable and engaging guides, often veterans, who bring the submarine's history and life aboard to life. The experience is described as unique, well-priced, and a must-see for history buffs, though potential visitors should be aware of the confined spaces.
"The was the absolute BEST PART of OMSI! Tickets were only 8 bucks and well worth it. It’s a 45+ tour of the submarine. You can see every part of the ship from top to bottom and front to back. Every room will having you thinking of questions to ask and what this sub has seen. It’s incredible piece of equipment everyone should see and specially those that are veterans or military history buffs!"
Casey Sharp
"This is such an incredibly cool and unique experience! Touring a decommissioned submarine is one of the coolest things I've ever gotten to do. The very energetic, knowledge, and engaging hosts will give you an inside look of how this class of submarine worked, life inside an underwater submarine, and so much more. Worth every penny many times over!"
Collin Semb
"Earl our guide was wonderful at giving us a tour at this retired submarine that is donated to OMSI. He was great at explaining everything since he served in these submarines during his career and was able to get the kids engaged in the tour making it a more memorable experience. One of my top suggestions if you have a few days in the city and it was reasonably priced unlike other museums we’ve visited recently."
Mike
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The USS Blueback is located at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland, Oregon. You can reach OMSI by car, public transportation (bus lines serve the area), or even by streetcar. Parking is available at the museum.
Yes, OMSI offers parking for visitors. There may be a fee associated with parking, so it's advisable to check the OMSI website for current rates and availability.
While it's a bit of a walk, you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the Willamette River from downtown Portland to OMSI. Alternatively, consider using public transport or a rideshare service for a quicker journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the USS Blueback tour are generally very reasonably priced, often around $8 per person, making it a great value for the experience. It's recommended to check the official OMSI website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Yes, you typically need to have general admission to OMSI to access the USS Blueback submarine tour. The submarine tour is an add-on experience within the museum.
While same-day tickets may be available, it's highly recommended to purchase your USS Blueback tickets in advance online through the OMSI website to guarantee your spot, as tours have limited capacity.
The operating hours for the USS Blueback tour generally align with OMSI's museum hours, but it's best to check the official OMSI schedule for specific tour times and availability on your planned visit date.
OMSI often offers group rates for museum admission and potentially for special exhibits like the USS Blueback. Contact OMSI's group sales department for details if you're planning a visit with a larger party.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour of the USS Blueback typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, providing an in-depth look at the submarine's history and operations.
Children can enjoy the USS Blueback tour, especially if they have an interest in history or military vessels. However, adults often find it more engaging, and the confined spaces might be a consideration for very young or anxious children.
The best way to experience the USS Blueback is by taking the guided tour. The knowledgeable guides, many with naval backgrounds, bring the history and daily life aboard the submarine to life.
The USS Blueback is primarily experienced through guided tours. This allows visitors to access all areas and learn from the expertise of the guides.
Expect to see cramped living quarters, control rooms, engine spaces, and torpedo rooms. You'll need to duck and navigate narrow passageways, so be prepared for a close-up look at submarine life.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the USS Blueback for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with your guide on the day of your visit, as policies can sometimes change.
Key photo spots include the control room, the sonar station, the cramped bunks, and the torpedo room. Capturing the narrow corridors and unique equipment will make for memorable shots.
While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect sensitive equipment or for safety reasons. Be mindful of your surroundings and any posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the confined spaces and the need to duck and crawl in some areas. If your children are prone to feeling overwhelmed in tight spots, this might be a challenging experience. However, for curious and adventurous kids, it's a memorable opportunity to learn about naval history in a hands-on way. The engaging guides can also help keep younger visitors interested with stories and interactive elements.
🎖️ Military History Buffs & Veterans
Pay close attention to the operational details, the engineering marvels, and the stories of the crew. The USS Blueback represents a specific class of submarine with unique challenges and capabilities. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the dedication and skill of submariners and to honor their service. This tour is likely to resonate deeply with veterans and anyone passionate about naval heritage.
💡 Budget Travelers
When planning your visit, remember that the submarine tour is an add-on to general OMSI admission. However, even with museum entry, the combined cost is often less than many other attractions, offering a full day of exploration and learning. The educational and historical significance of the tour makes it a worthwhile investment for any traveler seeking memorable experiences without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Submarine Life
+1Guided tours are essential for a full understanding of the submarine's function and the daily routines of its crew. Guides, often veterans themselves, share fascinating anecdotes and technical details, bringing the vessel to life. They explain how the crew managed limited space, conserved resources, and operated under intense pressure. The experience is often described as eye-opening, providing a tangible connection to naval history and the sacrifices made by those who served.
For those interested in military history or simply seeking a unique museum experience, the USS Blueback is a must-see. It’s a chance to connect with a significant piece of maritime technology and the human stories behind its operation. The tour is more than just looking at a ship; it's an immersion into a distinct and demanding world.
Navigating the USS Blueback: Practicalities
Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak OMSI hours or for group visits, as tours have limited capacity. The guided nature of the tour is key to understanding the vessel; guides are typically very knowledgeable and eager to share insights. Don't hesitate to ask questions, as this is where much of the value of the experience lies.
While the USS Blueback is an incredible historical artifact, it's important to manage expectations. Adults often find the historical and technical aspects more engaging than children, though kids can still enjoy the novelty of being inside a submarine. The reasonable ticket price makes it an accessible and worthwhile addition to an OMSI visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit