- Attraction: USS Cod Submarine Memorial
- Location: 1201 North Marginal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44114
- Industry: Museum
- Website: https://usscod.org/
Climb aboard the USS Cod and experience what life was like for 90 sailors crammed into a metal tube beneath the ocean’s surface during World War II.
This remarkable Gato-class submarine represents the only fully intact WWII Fleet submarine remaining in her original wartime configuration, making it a truly unique piece of living naval history.
The USS Cod is the only submarine that hasn’t had stairs and doors cut into its pressure hull for public access, meaning visitors use the same vertical ladders and hatches that were used by her crew.
Moored permanently at Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor, the USS Cod served with distinction during the war, completing seven combat patrols and sinking 12 enemy ships.
On the outside, there are dents from depth-charging and bullet holes from a strafing run, authentic battle scars that remind visitors of the submarine’s dangerous wartime service.
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Keep Exploring →Today, this National Historic Landmark offers an uncompromising glimpse into submarine warfare that you simply cannot experience anywhere else.
Authentic WWII Submarine Experience
Unmodified Interior: Unlike other museum submarines, the USS Cod maintains its original wartime layout without modern conveniences like added stairways or enlarged doorways. You’ll navigate through the same tight spaces and use the same ladders that crew members used during combat operations.
Forward Torpedo Room: You start in the Forward Torpedo Room where canned food is stored all around the USS Cod since they needed every available space to ensure they had enough food for their 90 sailors for up to 75 days at sea. This cramped compartment immediately conveys the challenges of submarine life.
Original Equipment: The ship’s 5-inch deck gun, Mark IV Torpedo Data Computer, SJ-5 radar and other wartime equipment remain functional and in place, providing authentic context for understanding submarine operations.
Audio Tours: Each major area has a short audio tour done by original crew members, providing fantastic firsthand accounts of what life was like aboard this vessel during its active service.
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Discover MoreHistorical Significance & Battle Honors
Combat Veteran: The USS Cod earned her stripes during seven war patrols in the Pacific Theater, successfully sinking 12 enemy vessels and contributing significantly to the Allied victory in the Pacific.
Rescue Mission: Beyond her combat achievements, the submarine performed a daring rescue of Dutch submariners, demonstrating the international cooperation that characterized Allied naval operations.
National Historic Landmark: The submarine’s designation as a National Historic Landmark recognizes its importance not just as a military vessel, but as a preserved piece of American heritage that tells the story of submarine warfare.
Wartime Configuration: The boat is clean and orderly with each compartment set up as it would have looked 80 years ago, providing visitors with an authentic sense of how the crew lived and worked during wartime.
Visitor Experience & What to Expect
Self-Guided Exploration: Visitors can explore the submarine at their own pace, spending as much time as they want in each compartment to fully absorb the experience of submarine life.
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Keep Exploring →Family-Friendly Adventure: Visitors say the USS Cod is a hidden gem and perfect for the family as the kids will love the deck gun, making it an engaging educational experience for all ages.
Knowledgeable Volunteers: Many said the best part of their visit was being able to walk around a genuine, historic unrefurbished WWII submarine and talking to the informational volunteers who provide context and answer questions.
Physical Challenge: Be prepared for tight spaces, low ceilings, and steep ladders—the authentic submarine experience requires some physical agility and isn’t suitable for visitors with mobility limitations.
Location & Surroundings
North Coast Harbor: The USS Cod’s location in Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor puts it near other major attractions like the Great Lakes Science Center and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, making it easy to combine with other Cleveland sightseeing.
Lakefront Setting: The submarine’s position on Lake Erie provides beautiful waterfront views and a scenic backdrop for this historic vessel.
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Discover MoreUnique Naval Presence: As Cleveland’s only museum submarine, the USS Cod represents a rare opportunity to experience naval history in Ohio’s largest city.
Seasonal Operations & Practical Information
Seasonal Schedule: The sub is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May 1 to September 30, with winter operations weather and staff permitting.
Reasonable Admission: Tickets cost $10 for adults; $9 for veterans and seniors; and $6 for kids ages 6 to 18, providing excellent value for such a unique historical experience.
Address Updates: Please do not use any other address including the 1089 E 9th St., or North Marginal Rd. addresses as they no longer exist and are not recognized by the USPS—use the current North Marginal Road address for accurate navigation.
Expanding Collection: The USS Cod is always acquiring new military weapons, so be sure to check out its website before visiting to see what new exhibits might be available.
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Keep Exploring →Weather Considerations: Ice on deck is cause for closing access to the submarine, so winter visits should be confirmed in advance by calling ahead.
USS Cod Submarine Memorial
📍 1201 North Marginal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44114
