USS Slater Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
The last WWII destroyer escort afloat in America — a full guided walk-through of a real warship moored on the Hudson.
USS Slater destroyer escort moored on the Hudson River in Albany
What to expect at USS Slater Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
The USS Slater is the only WWII destroyer escort still afloat in the United States, and every visit is a guided tour led by volunteers — many of them veterans — who walk you through the engine room, crew quarters, gun mounts, and bridge over about an hour. The ship is moored on the Hudson at the foot of Quay Street, a five-minute walk from downtown Albany hotels. Tours run continuously as groups form, so there's no strict schedule, but you’ll want to arrive at least ninety minutes before closing.
Wear closed-toe shoes: you’ll climb steep ladders and duck through low hatches, which is exactly what makes the visit memorable. Kids over about eight love it; toddlers and anyone with mobility limits will struggle with the ladders below deck (an accessible top-deck tour is available on request). The Slater closes entirely from December through March for winter maintenance, so plan your Albany trip accordingly if this is a priority.
Questions about USS Slater Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
$10 adults, $8 seniors and active military, $7 children 6-14, free for kids under 6.
No free admission days, but active-duty military in uniform tour free year-round.
The guided tour runs about 75-90 minutes; total visit including the topside walk is around 90 minutes.
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays during the season, and closed entirely from early December through early April.
Individual tickets are walk-up only. Groups of 10+ must reserve at ussslater.org at least two weeks ahead.
Free parking is available on Broadway at Quay Street, right beside the ship. CDTA route 905 stops at Broadway and Quackenbush, two blocks north.
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