National Museum of the United States Navy

The National Museum of the United States Navy is located at the Washington Navy Yard and displays a diverse collection of naval objects across multiple exhibition halls. The collection includes ship models, uniforms, weapons, military equipment, and documents that document maritime history spanning centuries.

The museum was founded in 1961 and documents naval operations from the American Revolution through modern military conflicts. Its collections offer insights into the evolution of naval strategy and military technology over two centuries.

The museum presents the stories of women in naval service and preserves veterans' accounts through recorded interviews. These perspectives shed light on roles that are often overlooked in broader military narratives.

A valid government identification or military credentials are required to enter, as the museum sits within an active military installation. Allow extra time for security screening when planning your visit.

Visitors can look through working periscopes in the submarine section and explore detailed recreations of Atlantic and Pacific operations from World War II. These hands-on elements provide direct insight into the perspective of naval personnel during that conflict.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1961

Official opening: 1963

Address: Sicard Street Southeast

Opening Hours: Saturday 10:00-16:00

Website: http://history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm

GPS coordinates: 38.87330,-76.99530

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:29