Tour a historic ship that served in both World Wars at the Battleship Texas State Historic Site.
Located just 30 minutes from Downtown in La Porte, the 573-foot ship and historical site transports visitors to more tumultuous times through a variety of tours/programs and student programs that showcase the Texas’ awards for service in the Tampico Incident, World War I, and five battle stars earned in World War II.
Constructed in New York starting on April 17, 1911, and launched May 18, 1912, the USS Texas Battleship Texas (BB-35) took part in some of the most significant naval battles of the 20th century during both world wars and is the first (and oldest) of eight US battleships to become permanent floating museums.
Today, though docked along the Houston Ship Channel, the ship serves as a memorial to those turbulent times, offering visitors a chance to imagine life as a sailor while strolling the historic decks on a self or guided tour.
While you’re there, check out the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, where, in addition to the battleground complex, you’ll find a gift shop, snack bar (on weekends), picnic tables, grills, and water faucets, and a picnic pavilion overlooking Buffalo Bayou.
Click here for a full list of visitor tours and programs.
Battleship Texas State Historic Site in La Porte
- Location: 3523 Independence Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571
- Hours: Daily 10am to 5pm
- Parking: Free parking is available onsite in the surrounding area.
- Admission: No cover to enter the grounds; tour fee required to enter the Battleship. Tickets for a tour are $12 general admission; $6 for seniors 65 and older; $3 for children aged 5 to 11; free for children 4 and under as well as active and retired military. The ship is accessible by wheelchair on the Main Deck only. Click here for a complete list of information on tours and admission.
