The Naval Shipyard Museum

Exploring the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is a panoramic experience, covering over 250 years of Portsmouth's history.

Come explore the fascinating history of America's oldest and largest naval shipyard, which is located on the Portsmouth, Virginia's waterfront.

During the Revolutionary War, the shipyard was described by the British as "the most considerable one in America." It's been burned three times by retreating armies because of its strategic importance. Many historic ships have been built here, including the CSS VIRGINIA (EX-MERRIMAC), the first ironclad to engage in battle; the nation's first battleship, the TEXAS; and the nation's first aircraft carrier, the LANGLEY. The shipyard is also home to the country's first drydock, which is still in use. At its peak during WWII, the yard employed nearly 43,000 workers.

Founded in 1767 as the Gosport Shipyard, its name was changed during the Civil War to the Norfolk Navy Yard, and later the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. ("Norfolk" was chosen because, at the time, there was already a Portsmouth Navy Yard in New Hampshire.)Naval Shipyard Museum

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum offers a unique perspective on U.S. history, from Colonial to Civil War times and beyond. You'll find beautiful ship models, uniforms, military artifacts and exhibits
portraying life in 18th, 19th and 20th century Portsmouth.

For current programming information, please click here.

ADMISSION

Adults: $3.00
Students (ages 2-17): $1.00
(Admission covers both the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and the Lightship Portsmouth)

Military (with active Military ID) and Senior Citizens (60 years of age and over) discount is $.50 off the regular admissions price (see hours of operations schedule to determine your rate).