What is the USS Pampanito known for?

The USS Pampanito is a National Historic Landmark and a World War II Balao class fleet submarine built in 1943. During World War II, it made six patrols in the Pacific, sinking six Imperial Japanese ships and damaging four others.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is $25 for adults (14-61), $20 for seniors (62+), and $15 for juniors (5-13). Active military with ID pay $10, while children 4 and under and SF Maritime NPA Members are free.

Summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 10am to 6pm, and Friday through Sunday from 10am to 8pm.

Yes, the museum offers junior pricing for children ages 5-13, and children 4 and under can enter for free.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

USS Pampanito in San Francisco

USS Pampanito

Step aboard the USS Pampanito, a National Historic Landmark and World War II Balao class fleet submarine that served six patrols in the Pacific, now preserved as a captivating maritime museum.

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What to know

The USS Pampanito is a World War II Balao class fleet submarine that was built in 1943 at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Now designated as a National Historic Landmark, this vessel serves as a powerful testament to naval engineering and wartime bravery. It is operated by the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, which acquired the submarine 50 years ago in 1976. During its active service, the vessel conducted six patrols in the Pacific during World War II. These missions were highly impactful, as the crew succeeded in sinking six Imperial Japanese ships and damaging four others. Today, the submarine remains one of the most popular historic vessels in the United States, welcoming nearly 200,000 visitors annually. Maintaining such a massive historic vessel requires constant care. To ensure its longevity, the USS Pampanito must be dry-docked every seven years. This essential process allows technicians to inspect the structure, apply fresh paint, and complete vital repairs to the hull to protect it from the elements. Visitors can explore the cramped quarters and complex machinery of the submarine. Admission is tiered by age, with adults aged 14 to 61 paying $25, while seniors aged 62 and older pay $20. The museum provides a visceral look at the claustrophobic conditions endured by sailors during the 1940s.

Visitor tips

Plan your visit during summer hours: Monday-Thursday 10am–6pm or Friday–Sunday 10am–8pm.
Bring a military ID to qualify for a reduced admission price of $10.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as you will be navigating steep ladders and narrow corridors inside the hull.

Nearby context

The USS Pampanito is located along the waterfront near other eclectic attractions. Visitors can easily pair a submarine tour with a trip to the Musee Mecanique or a visit to the Boudin Bakery Flagship and Bakery Museum.

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