1 / 2Intrepid Museum
π Manhattan, NY
USS Intrepid at Pier 86 houses military aircraft, the space shuttle Enterprise, submarine Growler tours, and flight simulators. Outdoor flight deck, 4D theater, and VR experiences cover WWII through the Space Age.
Visiting the USS Intrepid is like stepping into history. This aircraft carrier turned museum offers an immersive experience with real military aircraft, space exhibits, and naval history. The ship itself is massive and fascinating β you can explore the flight deck, hangar deck, and even the submarine USS Growler. Highlights include the Concorde jet, the Space Shuttle Enterprise, and interactive exhibits that make it great for both adults and kids. The museum staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and there are docent-led tours if you want deeper insights into life aboard the carrier. Seasonal events, simulators, and temporary exhibits keep the experience fresh. On the downside, the museum can feel a bit crowded on weekends or during school holidays, and some areas are steep or narrow, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Tickets are a bit pricey, but you get a lot of value for the experience. Food options are limited, so plan to eat beforehand. A must-visit for history buffs, aviation fans, and families. Itβs one of NYCβs most unique museums, offering a hands-on glimpse into naval and aerospace history.
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with school-age kids fascinated by aviation, naval history, or the Space Age. Children who can manage stairs and sustained walking get the most from the full ship. Join the submarine queue early β it's the single most popular stop and lines lengthen fast as the day progresses.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β45,865 Google reviews
Luke Ratcliffe
2 months ago
βVisiting the USS Intrepid is like stepping into history. This aircraft carrier turned museum offers an immersive experience with real military aircraft, space exhibits, and naval history. The ship itself is massive and fascinating β you can explore the flight deck, hangar deck, and even the submarine USS Growler. Highlights include the Concorde jet, the Space Shuttle Enterprise, and interactive exhibits that make it great for both adults and kids. The museum staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and there are docent-led tours if you want deeper insights into life aboard the carrier. Seasonal events, simulators, and temporary exhibits keep the experience fresh. On the downside, the museum can feel a bit crowded on weekends or during school holidays, and some areas are steep or narrow, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Tickets are a bit pricey, but you get a lot of value for the experience. Food options are limited, so plan to eat beforehand. A must-visit for history buffs, aviation fans, and families. Itβs one of NYCβs most unique museums, offering a hands-on glimpse into naval and aerospace history.β
Marcos Valen
2 months ago
βGreat aircraft display!!! Everyone was kind and willing to help with answers to our questions. Explanations were detailed, easy to understand and well preserved, with lots of examples, history. Clean toilets. We loved the gift shop, original and high quality stuff. We went on winter and being on flight deck was a bit harsh, we suggest you to prepare for the severe cold and strong wind. Totally recommend!β
Christopher Thomson
a month ago
βLiked the location, the cleanliness, the staff, and the exhibits. Lots to do and see. Went during a kids week and there were lots of tables and activities. Recommend going warly and doing the sub first due to queue lengthening as day went on. Ship was accessible with stairs or elevators. Food at the welcome center was good and quick/clean. Also had a food option in the ship's galley.β
Daniel Chamberlain (Daniel)
2 months ago
βThis museum is always a great visit. I come from the generation X era, so the "Top Gun" theme still resonates with me all these years later. But I enjoy all the planes and the ships. I would like to see them expand their roster of planes. I would like to see the Super Hornet and Raptor, and if possible, the A10 Warthog. Still, it's always worth the visitβ
Reviews from Google
Overview
Moored on the Hudson at Pier 86, this decommissioned aircraft carrier holds dozens of real military aircraft, the space shuttle Enterprise, and the submarine Growler β all explorable. Flight simulators, a 4D theater, and VR experiences round out the indoor program. The flight deck is open-air, so dress for wind and cold on winter visits. Educational workshops and Astronomy Night events add programming depth for curious school-age visitors.







