USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in the city of Mobile, Alabama is a remarkable testament to our nation's rich naval history. The Alabama was active in World War II in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. It boasted an impressive service record, including nine Battlestars awarded for the ship's commendable participation in battle. In 1962, the Federal Government announced that the ship would be scrapped. However, Alabama community members disagreed and hatched a plan to make the battleship the centerpiece of a memorial honoring people who have worn the uniform in all branches of the United States Armed Forces. Since its opening in 1965, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park has had 15 million people visit the site to experience its numerous artifacts, exhibits, and displays.
How to Get There
The Mobile Regional Airport is the closest airfield to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. If you are looking for a larger one, Florida's Pensacola International Airport is within driving distance. Mobile is also a hub for Greyhound buses and Amtrak trains, offering various ways to reach this historic attraction. If you are driving to the park in an RV, the memorial has ample parking for larger rigs.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Visit USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Nestled on the scenic Mobile Bay, the 175-acre park has tranquil walking paths, perfect for a stroll or a picnic while soaking up the panoramic views of the bay. It houses the magnificent USS Alabama and the USS Drum, the oldest American submarine on public display. There's also an impressive display of military planes at the park's Plane Pavilion, including a B-52 bomber, a Tuskegee Airmen P-51D Mustang, and a Blackbird spy plane.
As for the best time to visit, spring and fall offer mild weather and few crowds, making it the perfect time for exploring the battleship and the park's trails. The park hosts events yearly, including a Living History event every August, where reenactors bring the ship's history to life, and a Veteran's Day celebration in November.
Ticket Information
Tickets are free of charge for children up to 5 years old, $5 for children ages six to 11, and $13 for everyone else.
Family-Friendly Options
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is delightful for families. It offers many interactive exhibits and activities to entertain children of all ages and large groups of people, allowing everyone to get an up-close look at the details of the battleship and submarine. You can even book a birthday party for your child to be held on the deck of the USS Alabama or in the Wardroom, the officer's dining hall.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Start your day early at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park to beat the crowds. Begin with a tour of the impressive USS Alabama, exploring the ship's many decks and rooms. Next, walk down to the USS Drum submarine and marvel at its compact design and the ingenuity of naval engineering.
During the afternoon, you can enjoy the park's natural beauty. The tranquil walking paths and the panoramic views make for a relaxing respite. Watch for wildlife as you stroll in the park. You might spot ospreys, pelicans, and other local species, giving you ample photo opportunities.
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Meaher State Park is another one of the lovely RV parks in the Bay Minette, Alabama, area that is ideal for nature lovers. The park is conveniently located off Interstate 10 but is still quite peaceful and serene. It is also near great dining establishments, like BLUEGILL Restaurant, where you can dine on seafood and listen to live music.
Shady Acres Campground is a great place to park and enjoy RV camping in Fairhope. It is in the perfect location for you and your family to enjoy fishing, boating, casinos, and much more. You can find just about everything that you need on site, which makes staying here both fun and convenient.
If you’re looking for campgrounds in the Bay Minette, Alabama, area that are secluded and full of natural beauty, then you’ll be delighted to discover the Apalachee Campground within Blakeley State Park. The overnight fee includes park admission with the convenience of underground utilities such as water, power, and sewer. Even the biggest rigs are accommodated with pull-through access surrounded by wilderness.
Activities Near USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Things to Do
Fishing
The pier in front of the memorial offers excellent fishing opportunities. The bay is an angler's paradise with many fish species, including speckled trout, flounder, and redfish.
Boating
Rent a boat for the day to explore the bay's quiet corners, or join a boat tour to learn about the bay's rich marine life and history. It's an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and get a different perspective of the park.
Swimming
For a swim, you can head to the nearby Belrose Park. It has a sandy beach, and the bay's calm waters are excellent for a dip on a hot day.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
During the summer, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park experiences hot and humid conditions. You should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and abundant sunscreen to be comfortable.
The fall and spring seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the park. Pack comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for the wind, and an umbrella, as the area is known for occasional rain showers. If you are visiting in winter, you do not need a heavy jacket, but it is a good idea to bring along layers because temperatures drop to around 40 degrees in the evenings and mornings.
Safety & Accessibility
Please be sure to respect all posted signs and barriers to ensure the integrity of the exhibits. In addition, restricted areas are clearly marked to ensure no one gets hurt. The park asks that children be under adult supervision at all times.
The park's grounds, the Aircraft Pavilion, and the lower deck of the USS Alabama are wheelchair-accessible. Due to the historical nature of the USS Drum, it may not be suitable for those with mobility difficulties. Accessible restrooms are available in the Plane Pavilion and the park office.
Conclusion
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a prominent historic site in Alabama that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. From exploring the naval might of the USS Alabama and the USS Drum, walking through the Aircraft Pavilion, to engaging in various activities like fishing, boating, and swimming in the splendid Mobile Bay, the park promises a memorable experience. While planning your trip, remember that the memorial is only one of the exciting destinations you can explore in Alabama and the United States.
FAQ
Yes. Several campsites and RV parks are near the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. These sites offer a blend of comfort and nature, making them an ideal choice for those who want to stay overnight close to the memorial.
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park has ample parking for RVs. The fee to park an oversized vehicle is $30 and includes one adult admission ticket.
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a memorial to the service of United States Armed Forces personnel. You are expected to keep this in mind when choosing what to wear when visiting.
The park offers a variety of activities suitable for everyone, making it ideal for a family outing. But please remember that children must always be under supervision, especially when exploring the USS Alabama and the USS Drum.
The park allows service animals. However, family pets are not permitted on the memorial grounds.