USS Bullhead Memorial Park

Located in the picturesque city of Albuquerque, USS Bullhead Memorial Park is a landmark destination that combines historical remembrance with modern recreational opportunities. Set on 44 acres in the United States, this park is dedicated to the crew of the USS Bullhead—the last American warship lost during World War II.

Today, this space serves as a quiet memorial to the 84 officers and sailors who did not return from their final mission. The submarine, and subsequently the park, was named after the bullhead catfish. The site's memorial status gives strolls here a special significance, allowing visitors to reflect on important chapters of world history.

Beyond its deep symbolic meaning, the park is a popular recreational facility. It provides all the necessary conditions for residents and visitors to enjoy nature and socializing, turning the grounds into a living monument to courage and peace.

For more information on events or visiting rules, you can use the official communication channels of the city administration.

At USS Bullhead Memorial Park, every visitor will find something to enjoy. For fans of team sports, there are seven soccer fields and four lighted softball fields, which frequently host practices and local competitions. It is a great place to watch a game or even join in on the sporting activities.

Families with children will especially enjoy the two modern playgrounds, while the presence of BBQ areas and picnic tables makes the park an ideal spot for an outdoor picnic. You can organize a lunch surrounded by greenery, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.

Don't forget to take some time for the educational aspect: a walk through the grounds allows you to learn more about the fate of the legendary submarine. The combination of active recreation and the opportunity to pay tribute to the heroes of the past makes a visit to the park a truly valuable experience.

USS Bullhead Memorial Park is conveniently located in the southeastern part of the city, near the Veterans Hospital. The main landmark for drivers is the address 1606 San Pedro Dr SE. Thanks to its proximity to major city thoroughfares, it takes only 10–15 minutes to drive here from the city center.

For those who prefer public transport, several bus routes from the Albuquerque city network serve the area. It is recommended to check the current schedule and nearest stops on the local transit service website in advance. You can also use taxis or popular ride-sharing services, which will take you directly to the main entrance of the recreation area.

The history of the park is inextricably linked to the fate of the Balao-class submarine USS Bullhead (SS-332). It was commissioned in December 1944 and participated in the final naval operations of the era. A tragic event occurred on August 6, 1945: the vessel was attacked by a Japanese aircraft in the Java Sea off the coast of Bali. Symbolically, this happened on the same day the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.

USS Bullhead went down in history as the last U.S. Navy ship to be sunk by enemy action during World War II. Along with the submarine, 84 crew members perished—officers and sailors whose memory is now immortalized in the name of this site. The ship's name itself refers to the bullhead catfish, known for its resilience.

The initiative to create the park emerged in the early 1970s. The official naming decision was made in April 1974, and construction began shortly after receiving federal funding. Today, the 44-acre park is not only a memorial but also an important public space for the city's residents.

Visitors typically find that 1 to 3 hours is enough to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the park. If your primary goal is to pay your respects and see the memorial section, a walk will take about 30–45 minutes.

For those planning a family picnic or wanting to spend time actively on the sports fields, it is worth setting aside at least a couple of hours. The spacious grounds and developed infrastructure are perfect for a leisurely break in the fresh air.

USS Bullhead Memorial Park is open to the public daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary any day of the week. The park's hours are very convenient for those who enjoy both early morning walks and evening relaxation.

The schedule from Monday to Sunday remains consistent: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Please note that the lighting on the sports fields operates according to the park's general schedule.

A visit to the memorial park can be combined with exploring other interesting locations nearby. The city offers many options—from unique architectural sites to modern entertainment centers—making your day full and varied.