For a full day of exciting and educational fun, plan a visit to the Nauticus Museum in Norfolk, Virginia. There’s so much to do at the museum that you’ll need to put aside a large chunk of time to really be able to explore everything it has to offer. Here’s a quick guide of what to expect from this one-of-a-kind museum.
Sea Exhibits
If you’re a fan of history or natural science, you’ll love everything there is to see at the Nauticus Museum. You’ll learn about maritime commerce and the American Navy, explore the sea floor, experience what it’s like to be in a hurricane and tsunami, and so much more through the many exhibits you’ll find.
For young children, nothing is more exciting than meeting new animals. Let them see and touch exotic sea creatures at the Horseshoe Crab Cove, come face-to-face with sharks, and learn about Chesapeake Bay’s rich animal and plant life.
Battleship Wisconsin
The Battleship Wisconsin is one of the largest battleships the United States ever made — a military marvel. The Wisconsin was launched for the first time on Dec. 7, 1943, and from that day, it was an integral part of American history. It earned five battle stars during World War II and then went on to play a part during the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm.
Now, the Battleship Wisconsin calls the Nauticus Museum home. Its current duty is to give visitors the chance to explore one of the largest and most successful military ships in U.S. history. Explore several exhibits within the Wisconsin to see what life was like aboard the ship, its history, and more.
Special Features
While exploring the Nauticus Museum, you’ll find more than simple exhibits. The brand-new Escape Ship: To Catch A Spy attraction is the nation’s only escape room that’s housed on a battleship. You’ll also get a chance to see fantastic movies in exciting 3-D in the museum’s theater. Take one of the fun scavenger hunts to get kids more immersed in the experience.
If you want a more educational and hands-on experience for your kids, sign them up for one of the great outreaches and camps the museum offers. Let them explore the world around them while developing new skills. There’s so much to do at the Nauticus Museum that every visit is a new experience.
Hours and Pricing
From Memorial Day to Labor, the Nauticus museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the rest of the year, the museum is closed Mondays, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
A standard ticket to the museum is $15.95 for adults and $11.50 for children 4-12. It includes admission to the museum, the Battleship Wisconsin, and the 3D movie. An upgraded ticket is also available that includes a guided tour of the Battleship Wisconsin. This ticket costs $35.95 for adults and $31.50 for children.
Take the whole family to the museum and have a fantastic time learning about the sea and American history at the Nauticus Museum. If you’ve never been there, this museum should be at the top of your to-do list.
Image via Missy_Schmidt | Licensed under CC BY 2.0
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