PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – October 13th marks the official birthday of the United States Navy, founded in 1775.  Jay Lloyd is on board for weekend getaways around many of the historic Naval attractions in our area.

by Jay Lloyd
KYW Newsradio 1060

Financially burdened by the Revolutionary War, America’s young Congress wasn’t quick to spend money on a navy for our country — until the Barbary pirates made a convincing argument by capturing American merchant ships.

The rest, as they say, is history — history that plays out as close as the Camden, NJ waterfront and other nearby weekend getaway destinations.

Two of the original six US Naval frigates are still afloat and open to visitors.  Stand at the helm of “Old Ironsides” — the USS Constitution — in Boston, where she was built. It’s a weekend destination in a city that’s rich in nautical history.

Or head for Baltimore to walk the decks of the battle-tested Constellation, at the inner harbor.

Nearby New York City is home to the carrier USS Enterprise, which serves as the centerpiece of a magnificent air and sea museum.

Or head further up to New England for a weekend around New London, Conn., and step aboard the Nautilus, America’s first nuclear submarine.

Closest to home, visit the Navy’s most decorated ship, the Battleship New Jersey.  Built right here at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, it now welcomes visitors in Camden.

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