The United States has a rich history of piracy, from the infamous pirates of the Caribbean to legendary buccaneers who prowled the Atlantic coast. Today, visitors can explore historic pirate strongholds, maritime museums, and pirate festivals that bring this swashbuckling past to life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun pirate-themed adventure, here’s the ultimate guide to the best pirate-related attractions in the U.S.
1. St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum – Florida
St. Augustine, America’s oldest city, was once attacked by pirates, including Sir Francis Drake. This interactive museum showcases authentic pirate artifacts, including one of only three surviving Jolly Roger flags, pirate weapons, and shipwreck treasures.
Must-See: The world’s oldest pirate chest, Blackbeard’s blunderbuss
2. Key West and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum – Florida
Key West was a hotspot for pirates and privateers in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum houses treasures recovered from Spanish galleons sunk by pirates and hurricanes. Visitors can also explore the Wreckers’ Museum, which tells the story of Key West’s shipwreck salvaging industry.
Must-See: Atocha shipwreck treasures, Key West Shipwreck Museum
3. The Pirates’ House – Savannah, Georgia
This historic tavern, dating back to 1753, was a notorious pirate hangout where sailors were often shanghaied (kidnapped and forced into pirate crews). Today, it operates as a restaurant filled with pirate lore and secret underground tunnels.
Must-See: Pirate-themed dining experience, hidden tunnels
4. Beaufort and the Graveyard of the Atlantic – North Carolina
North Carolina’s Outer Banks were a favorite hideout for Blackbeard and his crew. The North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort houses artifacts from Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, which sank nearby in 1718.
Must-See: Blackbeard’s ship artifacts, Beaufort waterfront
5. Charleston Pirate Tours – South Carolina
Charleston was frequently raided by pirates like Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard. The city offers pirate walking tours, where visitors can learn about its swashbuckling past while exploring historic sites tied to pirate lore.
Must-See: Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, pirate walking tours
6. Galveston and Jean Lafitte’s Legacy – Texas
The French pirate Jean Lafitte used Galveston as his base in the early 1800s. Today, visitors can explore Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the Galveston Pirate Museum, and annual pirate festivals celebrating the city’s pirate past.
Must-See: Galveston Pirate Museum, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
7. New Orleans and the French Quarter Pirates
New Orleans was a hub for smugglers and pirates, particularly Jean Lafitte, who helped defend the city during the Battle of New Orleans. The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park tells his story, and visitors can tour pirate-themed bars in the French Quarter.
Must-See: Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar, The Cabildo Museum
8. Salem and the New England Pirates – Massachusetts
While known for its witch trials, Salem also has a pirate history. The New England Pirate Museum in Salem features artifacts, pirate ships, and legends of New England’s most feared seafarers.
Must-See: Pirate cave replicas, guided tours
9. Baltimore and the Privateer Legacy – Maryland
Baltimore was home to privateers (legal pirates) who fought the British during the War of 1812. The Historic Ships in Baltimore exhibit includes the USS Constellation, an anti-pirate warship, and the Fells Point Maritime Museum, which explores Baltimore’s pirate connections.
Must-See: USS Constellation, Fells Point Historic District
10. The Gasparilla Pirate Festival – Tampa, Florida
One of the biggest pirate festivals in the world, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival celebrates José Gaspar, a legendary Spanish pirate who supposedly raided Florida’s coast. The festival includes a massive pirate parade, reenactments, and pirate ship invasions.
Must-See: Pirate flotilla, festival parades