Experience the Unconventional: Overnight Stays at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum

Imagine stepping onto a vessel that once traversed the depths of the ocean, bearing witness to the trials and tribulations of maritime conflict. Unlike typical museums, this one offers a unique chance to not just visit, but to sleep where history was made. Welcome to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, where the past meets the present in a surprisingly intimate way.

Through the innovative “Sub Bnb” experience, guests have the rare opportunity to book an overnight stay aboard the USS Cobia, a historic submarine that played a vital role during World War II. This isn’t just a whimsical experience; it’s a chance to step into the shoes of submariners, resting in the very bunks where they once laid their heads after grueling days of service. If you’re curious to explore, you can learn more and book your adventure through Airbnb.

Initially, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum catered to large groups such as Boy Scout troops, offering educational programs that fostered a greater understanding of maritime history. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic surged, large gatherings came to an abrupt halt. Faced with unexpected challenges, the museum adapted swiftly, pivoting to host individual families in search of unique experiences. Who would have thought that a global crisis could lead to such inventive solutions?

As museum director Kevin Cullen told Business Insider, “The Sub Bnb was a business move in many ways for the sustainability of the museum.” It was nothing short of a creative lifeline, ensuring that the rich maritime heritage of the region continued to be preserved and appreciated.

The pricing for this unique stay begins at $500 per night, not including a $100 cleaning fee and an $85 Airbnb service charge, bringing the total close to $685. While this may seem steep at first glance, consider the immersive experience and the support it provides for the museum’s ongoing operations. For the curious, Business Insider had the privilege of enjoying a discounted media rate of $200. It’s interesting to think about how the cost of an experience can reflect its value in preserving history.

At its core, the funds generated from Sub Bnb stays play a pivotal role in supporting the museum’s mission. “Just by staying there, you get that authentic experience, but you’re also supporting preservation for generations to come,” Cullen emphasized. Isn’t it remarkable how a simple overnight stay can have such a profound impact?

My own journey to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum began one chilly December evening. Accompanied by my father—a maritime enthusiast with a genuine love for naval history—I found ourselves immersed in the atmosphere of the USS Cobia. Entering the submarine was like stepping into a time machine. Scattered about were relics of the past, stories waiting to be unearthed, and spaces that felt both cramped and cozy. We were struck by how small the bunks were, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by submariners.

Settling into our quarters was a surreal experience. With every creak of the vessel, you could almost hear the echoes of laughter and camaraderie—the whispers of shared stories playing out in the various compartments. As we laid down in our bunks, my dad recounted tales of naval operations, the esteem submariners held, and the vulnerabilities they faced while navigating unpredictable waters. What would it have been like to maneuver through hostile territories, concealed beneath the waves?

The additional perk of this experience is the community that surrounds it. Overnight stays at the museum attract families looking to reconnect, not just with history, but with each other. As we exchanged stories with fellow guests over breakfast, I realized that the experiences we shared during our stay would linger long after we left. Moreover, it was reassuring to witness a community rallying together to support the preservation of such an important piece of history.

Ultimately, a night at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum isn’t merely about sleeping in unique surroundings; it’s an engagement with history that impacts both the present and future. It’s an opportunity to imbue a love for maritime heritage in younger generations, urging them to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who came before them. Could there be a more meaningful way to connect with the past than to literally sleep within it?

As I reflect on my experience, I encourage anyone with a curious spirit to embark on this journey. Staying aboard the USS Cobia is not just an adventure; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the maritime men and women whose courage helped shape our world. So, if you’re adventurous enough to explore the depths of history, why not take the plunge?