Are you fascinated by the sea and maritime history? These are the top maritime museums in Virginia
1Cape Henry Lighthouse
Fort Story, VAThe Cape Henry Lighthouses are a significant landmark located at Cape Henry, which marks the southern entrance to the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia. These two lighthouses have played a crucial role in guiding ocean-going shipping traffic for the harbors, its rivers, and shipping headed to ports on the bay. Their strategic location and historical significance make them an interesting site for visitors. 2Mariners' Museum and Park
Newport News, VAThe Mariners' Museum and Park, situated in Newport News, Virginia, holds the prestigious title of America’s National Maritime Museum, as designated by Congress. This recognition underscores the museum's significance in the realm of maritime history and culture, making it a noteworthy destination for those interested in exploring America's rich maritime heritage. 3Nauticus National Maritime Center
Norfolk, VANauticus, also known as the National Maritime Center, is a maritime-themed science center and museum. It is conveniently located on the downtown waterfront in Norfolk, Virginia. This location offers visitors easy access to the museum and its exhibits, as well as stunning views of the waterfront. 4Uss Wisconsin Bb-64
Norfolk, VAThe USS Wisconsin (BB-64), affectionately known as Wisky or WisKy, is an American battleship of the Iowa class. It is the second ship of the United States Navy to be named after the American state of Wisconsin. This historical vessel offers a unique insight into naval history and the strategic importance of naval warfare. 5United States Army Transportation Museum
Newport News, VAThe U.S. Army Transportation Museum, located on the grounds of Fort Eustis in Newport News, Virginia, is a unique destination that showcases a variety of vehicles and other transportation-related equipment and memorabilia. The museum offers a comprehensive look into the history of the United States Army, particularly the Transportation Corps, with a collection that includes nearly 100 military vehicles such as aircraft, wheeled vehicles, watercraft, and rolling stock. 6Uss Monitor Center
Newport News, VAAstonishing museum dealing with the existence and technology of the USS Monitor. Great for fans of the theme! 7Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Virginia Beach, VAThe Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is a significant institution that honors and preserves the rich maritime heritage of Virginia, its coastal communities, and the history of the United States Lifesaving Service and the United States Coast Guard along the Atlantic coast. The museum provides a deep dive into the past, showcasing the evolution of these services and their crucial role in the nation's history. 8Lightship Portsmouth Museum
Portsmouth, VAThe United States Lightship 101, now known as Portsmouth (LV-101), is a museum ship that was first stationed at Cape Charles in Virginia. Today, it is a significant part of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in Portsmouth, Virginia. This historic ship offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region and serves as a fascinating attraction for visitors. 9Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Norfolk, VAThe Hampton Roads Naval Museum, located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia, is one of ten Navy museums operated by the Naval History & Heritage Command. This museum celebrates the long history of the U.S. Navy in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia. It is co-located with Nauticus, a maritime-themed science center and museum. 10Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum
Portsmouth, VAThe Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, along with the associated Lightship Museum, is situated on the downtown waterfront of Portsmouth, Virginia, in the United States. These museums offer a unique insight into the rich maritime history of the region and are easily accessible due to their central location. 11Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park
Deltaville, VAwhere maritime history comes to life. Peruse our website and then come to see our beautiful park and museum for yourself. Our exhibits reveal the maritime history of the Deltaville area beginning with the catastrophic impact of the Delmarva meteorite 35 million years ago and chronicle the more mode 12Air Power Park
Hampton, VAThe Air Power Park, located in Hampton, Virginia, is an outdoor museum that pays tribute to the city's significant contribution to the early stages of space exploration and aircraft testing in the United States. This roadside attraction offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.- 13
Watermen's Museum
Yorktown, VAThe Watermen's Museum, located in Yorktown, Virginia, offers a comprehensive look into the history of Chesapeake Bay's 'watermen' from pre-colonial times to the present. The museum provides an in-depth exploration of the lives and work of these individuals, who have played a significant role in shaping the region's history and culture.