SS USA

Historical landmark · Riverfront

SS USA

Historical landmark · Riverfront

1

Pier 82, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Photos

SS USA by null
SS USA by MattJCasey (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
SS USA by Wikimedia (Public Domain)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by lostmountain (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Schweg (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
SS USA by Radio Free Rlyeh (Atlas Obscura User)
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null
SS USA by null

Highlights

Fastest ocean liner; record holder; now waiting to be a reef  

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Pier 82, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

ssusc.org

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Pier 82, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

+1 888 488 7787
ssusc.org
SSUSC

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Last updated

Aug 8, 2025

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Off-Centered Ale Trail: Philadelphia

"With the highest-ever sustained top speed of 35 knots, the SS United States is the world’s fastest ocean liner. While the United States lost the eastbound transatlantic speed record in 1990 to Hoverspeed Great Britain, it still holds the Blue Riband for the westbound transatlantic speed record. Launched in 1952, this ship’s maiden voyage set the record for the fastest transatlantic trip by an ocean liner. This honor, known as the Blue Riband, was previously held by the Queen Mary. The ship uses an extremely powerful steam turbine engine and it is hailed as a fireproof ship. The only wood on board is the butcher’s block and a specially designed, flame-resistant grand piano. The luxurious vessel was retired from active service in 1969 and has had several owners since that time. The huge propellers were removed and one is at the US Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, and another at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New York City. A third propeller is at the SUNY Maritime College at Fort Schuyler, New York. Much of the interior dining room furnishings are in the Windmill Point Restaurant in Nags Head, North Carolina. SS United States Conservancy purchased the ship in February 2011 and is working on plans to restore it." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/philadelphia-off-centered-ale-trail-dogfish-head
View Postcard for SS United States

Donald Hower

Google
It's truly a site to see, & a remarkable story of American ingenuity at its finest hour! Based off her current condition... it could be in the people's best interest to see her sunk in order for her to continue serving a purpose as a LARGE artificial reef & a museum in another life! Who knows... maybe someday we'll see a new American Flagship take her place & sail people away on magnificent excursions worthy of historic attention!

Louis and Elaine

Google
We absolutely loved watching the SS United States being towed into Mobile Bay, Alabama. Currently (July 2025) it is moored in the bay, waiting it’s final fate. Efforts are being raised to save this once magnificent ship and even restore it to operable condition. If not, it will be sunk off the coast of Florida, to form an artificial reef. So sad 😞

Ray Reynolds

Google
The SS United States, once a majestic and record-breaking ocean liner, has arrived in Mobile, Alabama, in March 2025. This marks a significant step in its journey to becoming an artificial reef off the coast of Florida. We took some friends and went to see this amazing ship. It’s a “must see” for history lovers and ship enthusiasts. A Bittersweet Arrival: For maritime enthusiasts and those who remember the ship's glory days, its presence in Mobile is a poignant sight. The ship, longer than the Titanic and still holding the Blue Riband for the fastest transatlantic crossing, is a powerful symbol of American engineering and maritime history. While its final destination is the seabed, its time in Mobile offers a unique opportunity to witness this iconic vessel. Awaiting its Underwater Fate: Docked at the Port of Mobile, the SS United States is undergoing preparations for its new role as an artificial reef. This includes cleaning and the creation of spaces to accommodate marine life. While these modifications are necessary for its future purpose, they also signify the end of its life as a ship. Viewing Opportunities: Currently, the best way to view the SS United States in Mobile is from the water. Local cruise operators, such as Perdido Queen Cruises, are offering special tours that provide an up-close look at the vessel and share its history. For land-based views, the ship's large smokestacks are visible from various points along the Mobile Riverfront. The Skyview Lounge atop the Holiday Inn Downtown Mobile also offers a unique vantage point. A New Chapter: While the sinking of such a historic ship might evoke sadness, its repurposing as an artificial reef is seen by many as a positive final chapter. It will create a new habitat for marine life and potentially become a diving attraction, ensuring its legacy continues in a different form. The SS United States' time in Mobile is a temporary but significant moment to reflect on its past and anticipate its future beneath the waves.

Philly SkyGuy

Google
Fantastic historical ship. Though it's being ripped a part at the moment, I'm still hoping this ship will be saved

Bill Cox

Google
You can see it pretty good. We had to Google maps the best route to get to it. I would recommend a boat tour (charter) if you want to get a good close-up view of it.

paul nowotny

Google
Had to go see the US UNITED States before she becomes a reef. Got some great pictures with my drone :)

Lance Brinker

Google
Historic Ocean liner still Holds speed record. Going to be largest man made reef. Will be sunk off Destin Florida

Paul Ginnane

Google
The sun is setting on this long time Philadelphia landmark! We had the chance to bike along the Delaware River trail recently and take in the views of the long rusting marker of Columbus Blvd and South Philly. It has been a part of the waterfront and skyline since I first moved here in 2000. I’ve always enjoyed flying over the ship on final approach to PHL airport. She will be missed once she finally departs for her next location! Would be nice if they had a stand for people to photograph the ship above the chain link fence! The Ikea dining area offers a nice elevated view so try to visit before it’s too late!