American Victory Ship & Museum in Tampa

Published on 01/21/22: After the personal post yesterday, we’re back to suggesting great spots to visit around our area! Side note, most of you likely won’t see yesterday’s post in your feed. Colt and I opted against paying our normal ‘boost’ for a post about avocados and our family. However, if you’re curious…check it out. Now onto the American Victory Ship and Museum!

One of only four operational WWII ships in the country

Alright, so while the American Victory Ship & Museum is a 30 min drive from St Pete, it’s a unique experience that our family thoroughly enjoyed! Great for kids and I’d highly recommend, especially if you have military family in town. It’s an American icon, one of only four operational WWII ships in the country. Plus, it’s next door to the The Florida Aquarium & Sparkman Wharf (ie lunch/drinks). Simply park once and knock out three great spots!

My dad was a Navy pilot, spent time on both the USS Kearsarge & Yorktown, and is also quite the historian. So when he visited recently, we went straight from Tampa International Airport to the American Victory.

Self-Guided vs Guided Tour on the American Victory Ship

We chose the self-guided tour, however you can also request guided for $25. After crossing paths with a family on a guided tour, I wish we had booked one. The veteran guide had every answer, was excellent with kids and knew the ‘tricks’ of the boat. For instance Colt simply sat on the seat of the huge 50 caliber gun, where-as the guide demonstrated how we could rotate the weapon (turret) ourselves! Colt did the same once we saw how. Good stuff.

If you opt for self guided, scan the QR codes with your phone to display the relevant info. We missed this aspect, but heard it works well. https://americanvictory.oncell.com/en/stops-288052.html

Hours and Cost

Mon: 12pm-5pm
Tues-Sun: 10am-5pm

**Cost**
Members: Free
Adults: $10
Seniors: $8
Veterans: $5
Children(4-12): $5
Tickets avail online & aboard ship

From their website:

“The American Victory Ship and Museum is a non-profit 501(c)3 […] a true American icon recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Come aboard and witness virtually the entire ship including cavernous three-level cargo holds, radio & gyro rooms, hospital, weaponry, steering stations, flying bridge, mess halls, crew cabins, lifeboats, the Captain’s quarters, cargo equipment and the engine. Enjoy rare artifacts, exciting exhibits, uniforms, medals, documents and photographs.“

Google Reviews: 1228 with a 4.7/5 Average

Address: 705 Channelside Drive, Tampa FL (we parked in the aquarium parking lot)

Phone: 813-228-8766

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