Independence Seaport Museum
211 South Columbus Boulevard at Walnut Street
(215)925-5439
Tickets: 
$5—museum; 
$7.50—museum, USS Olympia &  USS Becuna
Hours: Every day from 10:00am-5:00pm

The Independence Seaport Museum, which is located on the Delaware River adjoining Philadelphia’s historic district, provides a wonderful opportunity to learn more about one of the city’s most lucrative early industries.  Despite the less-than-pulse-pounding subject matter, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the amount of artifacts and interactivity that have been packed into the building.

The focus of your learning experience will be the area’s long, watery history, which dates all the way back to the 1890s.  All major aspects of the shipping industry are covered, from unloading cargo to mending an entire hull.  Besides industry, you’ll also get the opportunity to “stow away” like an immigrant, learn about how this country used to defend her waterways, and much more.

For a few extra bucks, you’ll also get access to two venerable crafts, the USS Olympia and USS Becuna, as long as they’re docked when you show up.  The Olympia was launched back in 1892 and was one of the country’s first steel ships.  These days, feel free to look around the quarters, galley, and even barbershop.  Perhaps the most interesting tidbit about the Olympia dates back to the Battle of Manila Bay, at which time Commodore Dewey gave his famous command to “fire when ready.”  Feel free to do your best impression from the main deck.

The USS Becuna is a submarine which was commanded by Douglas MacArthur in the mid-1940s.  Since it is one of very few on display in the entire country, make every effort to check it out.  After taking a peek at the cramped quarters and claustrophobia-inducing interior, you’ll have a whole new respect for the “Silent Service.”

Between the building itself and the chance to see two legendary crafts, you can’t afford to miss the Independence Seaport Museum.  There is also a magnificent gift ship on site, as well as a few great fishin’ holes.  A must for any lover of the deep blue sea.