Discover Patriots Point and ‘Walk in the Steps of Heroes’

If you’re heading there from Charleston, just cross the Ravenel Bridge on I-26, merge onto Coleman Avenue, and take a right at the first light onto Patriots Point Boulevard. It’s just a short distance to the parking lot.

There’s ample parking, but it’s worth arriving early to get close to the entrance and spend the day. There’s a ticket office at the entrance, but you can also purchase tickets in advance online. There’s also a fun photo opportunity as you enter and the pictures may be purchased as you exit at the end of your stay.

The USS Yorktown is definitely the star of the show at Patriots Point. This tremendous ship which played a pivotal role in World War II offers so much to see, do and experience it’s possible to spend an entire day here and still not see it all.

Meander through the Yorktown at your own pace and see as much or as little of this incredible mini-city that once sailed the oceans. The Yorktown has multiple exhibits on board, including the Medal of Honor Museum and a stirring film in a large theater that in my opinion is a must-see.

Though it’s possible to spend the entire day exploring the Yorktown, there’s much more to see and do at Patriots Point.  In addition to the aircraft carrier and museums, there’s the USS Laffey Destroyer, The USS Clamagore Submarine, a variety of aircraft, The Vietnam Experience, and a perennial favorite, the gift shop.

Plan ahead, arrive early so you’re sure to have time to take it all in.

Patriots Point is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm. Know your travel buddies and base your decision on how much time to allot accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes and keep in mind there are snug spots, narrow corridors, as well as steep stairways on these ships.

A visit to Patriots Point does involve a good deal of walking but there is ample consideration given to those with mobility issues and accommodations have been made so they may also enjoy the experience. There is an elevator on board the USS Yorktown, however, the other vessels are more difficult for visitors with physical limitations.

Winter weather alert – the ship sits in the harbor and though it may be mild, bring a jacket. The wind can really get whipping in the harbor during the winter months.

Beyond the self-guided and audio self-guided tours, Patriots Point offers a multitude of ways to explore and enjoy your visit. Guests may choose from VIP Guided Tours, Overnight Tours, Ghost Tours, Helicopter Tours, and School Group Tours. Visit their website and customize the perfect tour for your group. There’s a variety of ticket packages and prices with free admission for children under six and active military in uniform.

And I must mention the friendly and helpful staff at Patriots Point. My husband’s wallet slipped out of his pocket while touring and they were most gracious in helping us look for it and phoned four days later when it turned up in the theater! A sigh of relief and shout-out of gratitude for staff going above and beyond the call of duty!

Whether you’ve only got a couple hours or you’re able to spend the day; time spent at Patriots Point is a family-friendly, educational, memorable, and poignant, ‘Walk in the Steps of Heroes.’

40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Open Daily from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
(843) 884-2727