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Have you been to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition in Orlando? I don’t think many locals are aware of its existence, as I haven’t heard much about it from others. But this museum, which showcases hundreds of artifacts from the doomed ship, is a captivating experience.
I initially felt wary about the museum’s location on touristy International Drive. But I was pleasantly surprised by Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. I learned a lot about the ship and the people on its ill-fated voyage.
If you’re visiting Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition for the first time, here’s what to expect.
Where is Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition located?
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is located at 7324 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819.
The museum looks very different from other Titanic museums. It’s not a replica of the ship like the Titanic museums in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee or Branson, Missouri. And it’s not a shining silver behemoth like the Titanic museum in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Nope, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is located in a humble storefront with a nautical theme. I appreciated the more muted design choice.
What is there to see at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition?
The museum showcases over 300 artifacts from the Titanic, including pieces of the ship. You can also view items used by passengers, such as dishes and personal objects.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition takes you from the ship’s construction to its wreckage. You can move through the exhibits at your own pace.
Here are some of the things you’ll see at the museum.
Introduction
The exhibit begins with a short film that takes you through the ship. The film plays on a large screen that takes up much of the room.
Construction and Launch
As you continue through the museum, you’ll learn about the construction and launch of the Titanic. Surprisingly, a few companies that contributed to building the Titanic are still around today.
When the Titanic set sail, it was so massive that it unintentionally pulled a smaller ship along with it, almost causing a collision. Luckily, the quick actions of the Titanic’s captain saved the day.
Accommodations
As you walk through the museum, you’ll learn about the first-class accommodations. First-class passengers were treated to fancy dining halls, gymnasiums, and smoking rooms. The museum’s replica of the Verandah Café is lovely.
Then, you’ll learn about the second- and third-class accommodations. The difference in accommodations between the classes is stark. That said, the Titanic was a world-class ship, so even the third-class amenities were nicer than the norm.
There’s also a replica of the Grand Staircase, made famous by the 1997 movie. Note: Photography of the Grand Staircase is not allowed.
Passengers and Crew
One of my favorite parts of the museum was learning about the passengers on the Titanic. There were around 1,300 people on board, and each person had a unique story. Among the heartbreaking tales:
- A mixed-race couple with two cute little girls and a baby on the way
- An English college student upset that his voyage would mean missing a childhood friend’s visit
- A baby boy who was the only survivor in his family
At the museum ticket counter, they give you a replica boarding pass with the name of a real Titanic passenger on it. Mine was Annie Margaret Hold, who was traveling in second class with her husband, Stephen.
Later on, you can check the passenger lists to see if they survived. It helped make the experience feel more personal. Annie survived; Stephen did not.
Some of the victims’ personal belongings were on display. There were also exhibits on the crew members, such as the boiler room workers, and the orchestra who kept playing until the very end.
Sinking and Recovery
Of course, the museum showcases the tragic sinking of the Titanic. One fascinating aspect of this part of the museum is the chance to touch an iceberg.
Many of the Titanic victims froze to death. This display drives home just how terrifying the ordeal must have been for those stranded in the icy water.
TIP: The museum is kept cold because of the iceberg, so bring a sweater.
The museum also touches on the ship’s recovery. A large fragment of the ship’s hull is on display.
Next to it, there’s a smaller piece of the hull that you can touch.
As the ship continues to disintegrate on the ocean floor, it’s vital to keep its memory alive through its artifacts and stories.
What are the operating hours for Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition?
The museum is open different hours depending on the day of the week and the time of year.
On Sunday-Thursday, the museum opens at 10am. Check the museum website for closing hours.
On Fridays and Saturdays year-round, the museum is open 10am-5pm.
For all dates, the last entry is one hour before the museum closes.
How much does it cost to visit Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition?
Admission prices are as follows (subject to change):
- Florida residents, senior citizens, and military – $30
- Non-Florida residents ages 12 and up – $34
- Ages 11 and under – $28
If your group consists of 2 adults and 2 children, you can book a family pack for $99.
You can purchase tickets here.
Can you take photos/video at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition?
You can take photographs without flash. Flash photography and video are not permitted.
Does Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition offer tours?
Yes, the museum offers a variety of guided tours for an extra $5 each. Current options include:
- A tour that delves deeper into the ship and the recovery of its artifacts
- A tour about the heroes of the Titanic
- A kids tour that includes a scavenger hunt
The museum also offers seasonal tours. In October, they have a tour about the spooky history of the ship. The February tour covers stories of love on the Titanic (no, not Jack and Rose).
What other experiences does Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition offer?
If you want to dive deeper into the world of the Titanic, the museum has two meal experiences for an additional fee. Both options also include admission to the museum.
The first is the Titanic Teatime Experience, where you can dress up and enjoy tea, sandwiches, and desserts. The second is the Titanic Dinner Gala, which features costumed actors reenacting the events of April 14, 1912. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself into the events of that fateful night.
Is Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition appropriate for kids?
I saw several little kids in the museum while I was visiting. But I’m not sure the museum is the ideal spot for very small children.
The artifacts are the main draw here. There aren’t many hands-on activities, and there are a lot of placards to read. The subject matter is also pretty heavy.
However, I think older kids would enjoy the museum, especially if they’re into history or the Titanic. My friend said her 9-year-old daughter, who’s fascinated with the Titanic, really enjoyed seeing the artifacts. There’s also the kids tour that I mentioned above.
Is the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition accessible for guests in wheelchairs?
Yes. The museum is all on one floor, and the exhibits are easily accessible.
Is Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition worth visiting?
If you’re interested in history and especially the Titanic, the museum is worth checking out.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to see many artifacts from the ship all in one place. From the recreated rooms to the thoughtful exhibits, the museum pays attention to the little details.
What really got me, though, was how the museum humanized the tragedy. It’s easy to think of the Titanic as a big disaster that happened over a century ago. But the museum brings it down to a personal level. It’s a moving experience.
What’s near Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition?
Because the museum is on I-Drive, there are plenty of tourist attractions nearby:
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! (8201 International Drive) – This family museum is a showcase for weird artifacts.
- ICON Park (8375 International Drive) – This park has several attractions in one place. Ride the giant Ferris wheel, browse the shops, or visit the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium or Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.
- WonderWorks Orlando (9067 International Drive) – This attraction is known for its upside-down building facade. WonderWorks Orlando has science exhibits, a ropes course, and laser tag for families to enjoy.
- FunSpot America (5700 Fun Spot Way) – This mini amusement park has roller coasters, go-karts, and more.
Conclusion – Ultimate Guide to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
After exploring Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, it’s clear that the story of the Titanic still fascinates people.
Visiting this exhibition was a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring legacy of this tragic event. I would recommend it if you’re interested in delving deeper into the story of the Titanic.