Step aboard the USS Silverside Submarine Museum in Muskegon and experience history beneath the water's surface. This general admission offers a fascinating self-guided tour along the beautiful lakeside.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for visitors with average mobility who can manage walking and climbing ladders.
Wildlife
History
USS Silverside served in the Pacific theater during WWII, completing 12 war patrols and earning 8 battle stars.
Conservation
The museum promotes preservation of naval history and supports local efforts to maintain the health of Muskegon Lake's ecosystem.
USS Silverside Submarine Museum
Step aboard the USS Silverside Submarine Museum in Muskegon and experience history beneath the water's surface. This general admission offers a fascinating self-guided tour along the beautiful lakeside.
USS Silverside (SS-236) is a preserved World War II submarine on display as the USS Silverside Submarine Museum in Muskegon, Michigan. As a Gato-class submarine, USS Silverside served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and now functions as a museum ship open to the public for education and historical interpretation.
The museum offers General Admission access that allows visitors to walk aboard and experience the vessel’s historic spaces. Interpretive signage and exhibits present the submarine’s history, the role of submarines during World War II, and the lived experience of the crew. The ship is presented as a tangible artifact of naval history and is preserved for public viewing and learning.
Located in Muskegon, Michigan, the USS Silverside provides a hands-on maritime history experience on the waterfront. The museum’s mission focuses on preservation, interpretation, and public access to an authentic naval vessel from the World War II era. Visitors planning a visit can expect an on-board museum ship experience centered on historical context, engineering heritage, and the story of the crew who served aboard the USS Silverside.
All information presented by the museum is intended to inform visitors about the submarine’s service and significance. The USS Silverside Submarine Museum provides a direct connection to naval history for local residents, school groups, and visitors to Muskegon seeking a historical, educational outing.
Location
Muskegon, MI
Waterfront museum ship location
Tours Offered
General Admission
Public access to the museum ship
Historic Vessel
WWII Submarine
Gato-class USS Silverside (SS-236)
Museum Experience
On-board Visit
Walk aboard an authentic submarine
Arrange General Admission to walk aboard this historic WWII submarine in Muskegon — check museum hours and visitor information before arriving.
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds by visiting early in the day, especially on weekends and holidays.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The submarine tour involves climbing ladders and walking through narrow passages.
Check Weather Conditions
The museum is partly outdoors; dress appropriately for the weather near the lakefront.
Bring a Camera
Photography is allowed, so bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unique interiors.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the submarine's narrow hallways and exterior paths.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Layered clothing suits variable spring temperatures and occasional rain.
spring
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during sunny outdoor portions near the lake.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Great for capturing unique angles inside the submarine and waterfront views.