Tampa's SS American Victory Offers Special Restoration Tour Hours/Admission for July 4 Freedom Fest & Fireworks

Special hours and admission prices on July 4th for tours and Freedom Fest Fireworks viewing aboard the World War II vintage cargo vessel under restoration into a mariner's museum and cruising ship.

The SS American Victory is celebrating Americas 2003 salute to independence by offering special Four for the Fourth" Restoration Tour admission to the ship on Friday, July 4. Restoration tour admission for adults and children (age 6 and above) is $4 on July 4 from 9:30 AM -- 7 PM.

Beginning at 7 PM, admission to the ship for viewing the City of Tampas official fireworks display is $8 for adults and $4 for children (ages 6-12). Kids 5 and under are admitted free throughout the day and evening. All admission proceeds are used to continue restoration of the World War II era merchant cargo vessel into a mariners memorial and cruising ship.

Th ship is loicated in Tampa's thriving Channelside District, at 705 Channelside Drive, adjacent to the Florida Aquarium.

The foredeck of the American Victory offers the best location from which to view the fireworks display, which begin at 9 PM, launched from near the St. Pete Forum. Food, refreshments, and family entertainment, including an appearance by Uncle Sam, will be available throughout the day on board the ship and on the dock adjacent to the American Victory.

The 2003 Freedom Fest celebration continues a Tampa tradition in its third year at Tampas thriving Channelside District. Freedom Fest, which runs from 12 Noon-10 PM, is free to the public and includes family activities, exhibits, music, food, and entertainment outside The Florida Aquarium and along Channelside Drive.

Freedom Fest is the City of Tampas official Fourth of July celebration; last years event drew over 30,000 guests.

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