Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime museum in downtown Norfolk spread across multiple buildings along the waterfront. It features interactive exhibits about naval operations, ships, and ocean science with hands-on learning stations throughout.

The museum opened in 1994 and transformed the waterfront into an educational center for the public. The decommissioned USS Wisconsin, one of the last battleships built for the Navy, became the institution's focal point.

The museum connects Norfolk's maritime heritage with displays about ships, ocean research, and naval operations that shaped the region. You can see how the sea has influenced life and work in this historic port city.

The museum spreads across the waterfront, so comfortable shoes and time for walking are important. Plan to spend several hours exploring the different buildings and the ship to get the full experience.

Visitors can touch sharks in specialized tanks and walk through the interior of one of the last battleships built by the US Navy. This hands-on experience with both marine life and warship technology creates memorable moments.

Location: Norfolk

Inception: 1994

Address: 1 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: +(757)6641000

Website: http://nauticus.org

GPS coordinates: 36.84740,-76.29440

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:22