In 1937, Archer Huntington met a community need in founding The Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, Virginia — a city built to support the local shipbuilding industry. Steeped in a culture teeming with maritime connections, The Mariners’ Museum and Park strives to connect visitors to the water, because through the water, we are all connected to each other.
Throughout the 90,000 square feet of exhibitions, the museum houses priceless artifacts, each telling a fascinating story. Exhibitions including the USS Monitor Center, miniature ship models, America’s Cup racing catamarans, and naval warfare and history, pull visitors in while they discover how people are connected to the water.
Whether visiting for an afternoon or a few days, the museum and park has more than enough to entertain, educate, and enthrall groups.
Tour of The Mariners’ Museum
Either take in the highlights through a guided tour with one of our knowledgeable docents, or have the group create its own adventure. Select from pre-set themed tours or request a customized tour for the group. A minimum of 1½ hours is recommended for a guided tour to see all the museum has to offer.
Beyond the Galleries Presentation
Only 2 percent of the museum’s vast collection of more than 35,000 artifacts is on display, which means there is a lot to see behind the scenes. Collections Management staff will pick a variety of artifacts that interest the group during this special presentation, which may even take place in a workshop space. Depending on the objects, the group may be able to touch or hold them, and visitors will definitely be able to take pictures.
Explorers Theater 3D Movie
Experience thrilling 3D films and other feature films covering a wide range of maritime topics in this high definition theater. Private showings for larger groups are available! There are two films showing daily, and each typically run about 40 minutes. Whether you enjoy beautiful ocean scenery or an action filled experience of how we’re all connected by the water, these films are great for all groups.
Boxed lunches or a themed meal
Order boxed lunches or a themed meal (inspired from different times in history or different cultures) from local restaurants with a variety of menu options. Groups can enjoy their lunch in museum banquet space. Groups can even order to-go if they’re looking to hit the road. Add on a costumed interpreter to liven up the lunch experience and interact with history in a new way.
ASK
The Mariners’ Museum and Park
757-591-7754
marinersmuseum.org/groups
