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H.L. Hunley Submarine, North Charleston

Must see · History Museum · Hidden Gem · Landmark
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Built for the Confederate Army during the Civil War, H.L. Hunley Submarine was the first undersea vehicle to sink a ship. During its career, the submarine sank three times. The last time left the Hunley at the bottom of Charleston's outer harbor until its recovery in 2000. At the museum, see a replica of the submarine along with artifacts found inside of it. Consider joining a guided tour through the exhibits to learn more about the sub's history and conservation. Head to the conservation laboratory near the museum to see the recovered wreckage inside a tank of water. You can book your tickets online in advance. Walk-up tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Add H.L. Hunley Submarine and other attractions to your North Charleston trip itinerary using our North Charleston driving holiday planning app.
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H.L. Hunley Submarine reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
871 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • We have been checking on the Hunley's progress since 2013. It's nice that they let you go at your own pace now, and take your time. The museum is very nice and lots of hands on exhibits. 
    We have been checking on the Hunley's progress since 2013. It's nice that they let you go at your own pace now, and take your time. The museum is very nice and lots of hands on exhibits.  more »
  • Only open weekends and closed on Easter, we were afraid we were going to miss it on our trip, but our Saturday plans changed and we were able to go. All indoor activities so it’s good if it’s... 
    Only open weekends and closed on Easter, we were afraid we were going to miss it on our trip, but our Saturday plans changed and we were able to go. All indoor activities so it’s good if it’s...  more »
  • This has been on my list of things to see for a while and glad we waited until 2023. Reviews from 10 years ago state that you couldn't even see the sub in the murky water during the early... 
    This has been on my list of things to see for a while and glad we waited until 2023. Reviews from 10 years ago state that you couldn't even see the sub in the murky water during the early...  more »
Google
  • Definitely an interesting visit. About 2 hours seems like a good amount of time. When we were there a volunteer shared the story and I think that helped. You definitely want to make sure you hear the story live or from the video booth before you see the submarine. I think I would have lost interest the other way around.
  • Nice museum. Out of the way and not too busy. You'll get a great experience here. The Hunley is submerged, but you still get a decent view. Lots of photos and artifacts. Get in before the woke crowd erases this vital piece of history.
  • Lots of interactive displays, making it interesting for kids to learn. Several authentic artifacts to see along the way too. I went with my family when the Hunley was first put on display and it's amazing to see the progress they have made in its restoration!
  • This was our second visit 5 years+. The difference between then and now is how much more you can see of the submarine in the preservation tank. Information is geared towards all ages. It is a dedicated slow process for the scientists to uncover and preserve.
  • It's good for a quick visit. There are docents who are available to answer questions. There is a video briefing some history. The actual Hunley is there behind glass in a chemical bath. You can view it from the top only. It has many interactive displays throughout the small museum. The entry fee is $18 .

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