Step aboard some of America’s most iconic naval vessels at the United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum. Kilroy Pass offers access to Battleship Cove and USS Salem, where maritime history unfolds with every step.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels but expect moderate walking and stairs
Wildlife
History
Battleship Cove was established in 1965 and preserves some of the most significant naval vessels from World War II through the Cold War.
Conservation
The museums actively engage in preserving historic ships using sustainable materials and educational programs promoting maritime heritage.
United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum
Step aboard some of America’s most iconic naval vessels at the United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum. Kilroy Pass offers access to Battleship Cove and USS Salem, where maritime history unfolds with every step.
United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum preserves and presents the U.S.S. Salem, a decommissioned heavy cruiser docked in Quincy, Massachusetts. The museum offers self-guided tours aboard the only preserved heavy cruiser in the world, giving visitors direct access to decks, compartments, and displays that document mid-20th-century naval engineering and shipboard life. Online tickets are flexible and never expire, allowing visitors to plan visits with confidence.
The museum hosts specialty experiences including Birthday Party "Officer for the Day" packages, which provide exclusive access to the Chief Petty Officers Mess for a celebratory lunch and a guided tour. The Kilroy Pass combined ticket grants access to both the USS Salem and Battleship Cove, with a gift shop discount, and is valid for up to a year. For guests seeking unusual experiences, the Greater Boston Paranormal Associates leads scheduled paranormal investigations aboard the USS Salem using EMF detectors and infrared cameras.
Educational programming, group visits, and private events are available to schools, families, and organizations interested in naval history and maritime heritage. The museum emphasizes preservation, interpretation, and safe public access to the vessel while maintaining historical artifacts and ship systems for learning and exploration.
Located in Quincy, Massachusetts, the museum is positioned among regional naval heritage sites and works cooperatively with nearby maritime museums to enhance visitor options. The United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum provides a tangible connection to naval history through authentic shipboard environments and curated visitor experiences. Tours welcome groups, schools, families, historians, students, and maritime enthusiasts seeking authentic shipboard experiences.
Location
Quincy, MA
Historic waterfront location
Ship Type
Heavy Cruiser (U.S.S. Salem)
Only preserved heavy cruiser worldwide
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Self-guided and specialty events available
Flexible Tickets
Never expire
Flexible online tickets for planning
Book flexible online tickets, reserve specialty experiences, or join a scheduled paranormal investigation — step aboard a piece of naval history.
Plan for Walking
Wear comfortable shoes; expect extensive walking aboard large ships with ladders and uneven surfaces.
Check Weather
These waterfront museums are exposed to winds and sun—dress accordingly and bring sun protection.
Year-Long Validity
Your Kilroy Pass ticket is valid for a full year, allowing flexible trip planning.
Gift Shop Discounts
Use your 10% discount at both museum gift shops to pick up unique naval memorabilia.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating ship decks, stairs, and uneven surfaces comfortably.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and hat protect against sun exposure on open decks.
spring|summer|fall
Light Rain Jacket
Keeps you dry during unexpected showers along the waterfront.
spring|fall
Camera
Capture intricate ship details and scenic views of Quincy’s harbor.