As World War II came to America, the nation continued to focus its efforts on the war front. A part of this was the creation of the USS Alabama (BB-60), the final South Dakota class fast battleship. To say it did its part would be an understatement. The USS Alabama helped bolster British forces, protected the Soviet Union, supported the Battle of Okinawa, was involved in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign, engaged in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, and frankly, we’re skipping a lot more. Today, you can find her in all her glory resting in Mobile, Alabama, a fitting place for a ship with such a name. But there are additional interesting attractions further highlighting this trip-worthy piece of history in the southern portion of the Yellowhammer State. Suggested read: Apollo 13: Remembering the Mission and the Film

Did the USS Alabama Sink Any Ships?

It’s difficult to say with certainty that the USS Alabama sunk ships while in combat. While the battleship capable of displacing over 44,500 tons of water may not have, the USS Drum took out 15 ships during its service. However, just because the Alabama didn’t directly sink any ships, doesn’t mean the crew wasn’t involved in combat directly. There were planes that would succumb to its firepower, and it gave plenty of support in attacking targets on and off the water. It also served during the post-WWII occupation of Japan.

Where Is the USS Alabama?

At 2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36602, you’ll find the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. There, you’ll find the ship that gives it its namesake, the USS Drum, park memorials, tanks, artillery, the Aircraft Pavillion, and a gift shop. Related read: New Nukes Draw Inspiration From the Gravity Bomb

Planning Your Trip to the Gulf Coast

Hotels and plenty of beach rentals are nearby in Mobile. Furthermore, Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island are popular choices. The USS Alabama Museum is open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. each day, except for Christmas Day. The last tickets are sold at 4:00 p.m. You can enjoy a variety of events and attractions, with the history of the USS Alabama all around you. Furthermore, examine the various features, and learn about things up close and personal with a USS Alabama tour. Admission for USS Alabama tickets is as follows: General Admission

• Children 5 years and younger are free
• Ages 6-11 are $6.00
• Ages 12-55 are $18.00
• Anyone 55 and older is $15.00

Military Pricing for Active Duty

• Active Duty attendees are free as are their children up to the age of 5
• Children between the ages 6 and 11 are $5.00
• Ages 12 and 55 who are dependents are $13.00

Discounted Admission

• Veterans are $15.00
• AAA Members are $16.00

Parking is $5 per vehicle and $30 per larger vehicle with three or more axles. Be sure to present the appropriate ID when receiving specialty pricing.

The Lasting Legacy of the USS Alabama

Post-World War II, the battleship USS Alabama would experience decommissioning in 1947. Then, she went to Washington to be part of the Pacific Reserve Fleet. But by June 1962, her name was taken off of the Naval Vessel Register, and she was designated for disposal. This came after efforts to modernize it into a guided missile battleship fell through. However, the state of Alabama wanted to save it, and Governor George Wallace helped make it happen by signing a law. Fundraising was difficult, as was towing the ship such a distance, but many decades later, you can still see her there. Today, the USS Alabama is a National Historic Landmark. She has been used in a variety of movies, stands as a reminder of freedom, and is a testament to those who keep America safe. Read next: Submarine Accidents and Implosions Throughout the Years