Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a historic museum featuring the WWII aircraft carrier USS Yorktown and the destroyer USS Laffey. It also includes a land-based Vietnam Exhibit, a Cold War Memorial, and a Medal of Honor Museum. All exhibits are included in the single cost of admission. The museum is a must-see in Charleston, offering an amazing experience for those interested in history.
The self-guided tours are clearly marked with signs and arrows. Visitors can explore the ships, which involve a lot of stairs, at their own pace. The views from the flight deck are outstanding. While the experience is great, some feel the admission price is a bit expensive. To see everything properly, most people need about three hours; arriving close to closing time can make the tour feel rushed. The museum is a recommended visit for a detailed look at naval history.
Go see Fort Sumter and the tour the air craft carrier.
October 2026
The Yorktown was the last museum carrier we had left to see. It was also the least impressive. Maybe the Lexington and Midway set the bar too high, maybe the Yorktown being the oldest had an impact. It was still a good day, and plenty to see.
October 2026
Absolutely amazing. The work done to preserve and present the living piece of history is unbelievable.
