NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Mariners’ Museum and Park offers a unique intersection of maritime history, environmental stewardship, and outdoor recreation, serving as a nationally recognized hub within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. As a designated Chesapeake Gateways Place, the institution invites visitors to explore the interconnectedness of global waters and maritime cultures through expansive exhibitions and natural landscapes.
The Museum spans 90,000 square feet and features world-class exhibits that chronicle maritime history both globally and regionally. Among the highlights is the USS Monitor Center, which preserves the legacy of the iconic Civil War ironclad. Additional displays include intricate ship models and narratives of mariners who played a pivotal role in shaping the culture and commerce of the Chesapeake Bay. Cultural initiatives such as Hidden Histories and The Multicultural Mariner underscore the maritime contributions of diverse communities around the world. General admission to the Museum is priced at just $1, ensuring broad accessibility.
Complementing the indoor exhibits, the 550-acre Mariners’ Park provides an immersive natural experience. Key features include the 167-acre Mariners’ Lake—fed by stormwater—the scenic five-mile Noland Trail, kayak launch points, pollinator gardens, and interactive nature play zones. The park also hosts educational initiatives like Mariners’ Lake Effect and Lake Stewards, programs designed to foster environmental responsibility and expand access to Chesapeake Bay watershed education for students.
Open year-round and free to the public, the Park encourages visitors of all ages to engage with maritime heritage and the surrounding natural environment.
