Here's where you can see 'America's Tall Ship' for nation's 250th birthday

The U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle, known as America’s tall ship, will tour nearly a dozen cities in 2025 as part of the nation’s 250th birthday celebrations. The voyage coincides with Sail250, a global gathering of tall ships and military vessels marking the U.S. anniversary. Events across the country will include races, public tours, and large-scale festivities.

The Barque Eagle’s journey begins in Pensacola, Florida (May 23–25), before moving to New Orleans (May 28–June 1) and Charleston (June 11–14). Further stops include Norfolk (June 19–22), Baltimore (June 25–28), and a Fourth of July visit to New York City (July 4–8). The ship will then sail to Boston (July 11–14), Portland (July 24–27), Newport (July 31–August 3), Greenport (August 7–10), and finally New London (August 14).

For the first time since 1976, the Barque Eagle and its sister ships will compete in the Five Sisters Trophy race from New York to Boston, starting July 9. Public tour schedules at each port will be released closer to the dates.

Beyond the tall ship’s voyage, other Freedom 250 events include a Great American State Fair on the National Mall in summer and a UFC fight on the White House lawn. In autumn, the Patriot Games will showcase top high school athletes from every state and territory. The celebrations will also feature festive lights at the Washington Monument to welcome 2026.

Sail250 itself will bring over 20 tall ships to major ports like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle, with New York hosting a July 4 gathering of the fleet.

The Barque Eagle’s tour and Sail250 form part of a wider programme of events honouring the U.S. semiquincentennial. From athletic competitions to historic ship races, the celebrations will span multiple cities and months. Detailed public access plans for the Barque Eagle’s visits will be shared as the dates approach.