From O'Hare to Manitowoc: Discover Wisconsin's Submarine History

 


Two visitors admire the historic USS Cobia World War II submarine moored beside the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc. The Manitowoc River and museum waterfront provide a scenic background. Image text reads “Discover Wisconsin's Submarine History” and “From Chicago O'Hare to Manitowoc.”
Explore Wisconsin's remarkable submarine-building history at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc.

Wisconsin has a fascinating maritime history that many visitors never expect to discover. Beyond the state's beautiful lakefront destinations lies a remarkable story of shipbuilders, wartime innovation, and the people who served aboard American submarines.

At the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, visitors can explore that history through exhibits, historic artifacts, and an extraordinary World War II submarine: USS Cobia.

For travelers arriving through Chicago O'Hare Airport and planning to explore Wisconsin beyond Milwaukee, Manitowoc offers a memorable historical destination.

Step Inside a World War II Submarine

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum is located at 75 Maritime Drive in downtown Manitowoc, along the Manitowoc River.

Its most recognizable attraction is USS Cobia, a preserved World War II submarine that visitors can explore during museum operating hours.

Walking through its compartments offers an unusual perspective on life at sea. Visitors can discover the narrow sleeping quarters, equipment, and working spaces that shaped everyday life for submarine crews.

One particularly interesting detail is that USS Cobia wasn't built in Manitowoc. It was constructed in Connecticut, but now serves as a memorial to the sailors and shipbuilders associated with Wisconsin's submarine history.

During World War II, Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company built 28 submarines for the United States Navy. The museum preserves and shares this remarkable chapter of local history.

More Than a Submarine Tour

The museum also features exhibits exploring Great Lakes shipping, Wisconsin boatbuilding, and the region's maritime traditions.

Visitors interested in engineering can discover how shipbuilding evolved, while history enthusiasts can learn about the communities and workers who supported the industry.

USS Cobia offers self-guided visits during regular museum hours. Guided experiences are also available on selected schedules, with advance reservations recommended because spaces can be limited.

Before visiting, check the museum's current hours and tour availability. Winter and summer schedules differ.

The submarine has narrow passages, watertight doors, and steep stairs, so visitors with mobility concerns should review the museum's accessibility information before planning an onboard tour.

Arrange Your Wisconsin Transportation

For visitors arriving through Chicago O'Hare, reaching Manitowoc requires an additional journey north into Wisconsin.

Milwaukee to O'Hare, a sister company of Pharaoh's Transportation, provides private long-distance chauffeur service across Wisconsin and the Chicago area.

Travelers interested in visiting Manitowoc can contact the reservation team to confirm destination coverage, available vehicles, pickup arrangements, and return transportation.

For a museum visit, it's especially important to coordinate your transportation schedule with your tour reservation rather than assuming the museum will be open whenever you arrive.

If you're spending additional time in the area, consider exploring Manitowoc's waterfront, local restaurants, and downtown streets.

Make History Part of Your Wisconsin Journey

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum offers something different from a typical sightseeing attraction. It connects visitors with the people, technology, and determination behind an important chapter of American naval history.

Whether you're interested in historic submarines, Great Lakes heritage, or discovering unusual Wisconsin destinations, Manitowoc deserves a place on your travel itinerary.

Plan your museum visit, confirm your transportation, and give yourself time to explore the remarkable history waiting along Wisconsin's lakeshore.

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