Bring your group, your imagination & your love of adventure! At one of the largest maritime museums in the country, you will discover fascinating stories captured in the priceless artifacts of the open sea.
Conveniently located off I-64, 20 minutes from the Historic Triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, and 45 minutes from Downtown Norfolk, The Mariners’ Museum is close to many restaurants, hotels and shopping centers. And with a 550-acre park and 5-mile hiking trail, The Mariners’ Museum and Park is a true urban oasis in the heart of Newport News.
Our goal is to engage visitors with the world’s waterways, and help them find their connection to the sea. Inside, guests can explore small craft from around the world. Discover the USS Monitor Center, home to the Civil War ironclad’s iconic gun turret. View maritime art, handcrafted ship models and rare figureheads. Experience a 3D film in the Explorers Theater. And so much more.
Groups can expect a first-class experience with our staff who are passionate about the Museum’s stories. We have a wide variety of customized, engaging experiences that await groups at every turn. Enhance your groups experience with special opportunities such as themed tours, behind the scenes experiences, boxed lunches, and customized packages.
Only two weeks in advance is the minimum needed to book a group experience. Whether you spend the day with us, or just have an hour, your group will enjoy the Museum and its rich and varied sea stories and will make memories to last a lifetime.
The Mariners’ Museum provides engaging student programs designed to enhance and supplement classroom instruction. Click here to read more.
We look forward to your group visit!
At the Mariners’ Museum and Park, we are open to all. Each of our tours and packages can be catered based on your group’s needs. Please inquire for more information and details.
Location
100 Museum Drive Newport News, VA 23606.
Located off Exit 258-A on I-64.
Parking
We offer FREE parking and a convenient on-site motorcoach/bus drop-off and pick-up area.
Museum Hours
Read Museum hours here
Cafe and Shopping
Click here for dining options for groups! Find nautical treasures at Unclaimed Cargo, the museum’s gift shop!
TripAdvisor Reviews
Are you a tour and travel professional planning your group visit to Coastal Virginia? Or, part of a military organization, church, retirement community, or other independent organization looking for an outing for your group? Find out why The Mariners’ Museum should be at the top of your itinerary.
At one of the largest maritime museums in the country, you will discover fascinating stories captured in the priceless artifacts that celebrate the spirit of the open sea. Explore small craft from around the world, view maritime art, handcrafted ship models and rare figureheads, and experience a 3D film in the Explorers Theater!
Newport News is located in the heart of Coastal Virginia, 20 minutes from Williamsburg, 45 minutes from Norfolk, and one hour from Virginia Beach. From here, go anywhere!
The Mariners’ Museum and Park connects people to the world’s waters because that’s how we’re connected to one another. Explore your maritime connections with a docent-guided tour, tailored to your group’s interest.
Choose one of the following themes:
We recommend two to three hours per tour; minimum one hour.
Add-on options for Your Group:
Plus $100*
Only two percent of the Museum’s vast collection of more than 35,000 artifacts is on display. This special presentation by Collections Management staff allows you to see and learn about artifacts of particular interest to your group that are not currently on display.
Allow one hour.
Plus $150*
Customize a lecture on a variety of maritime topics presented by our staff and experienced volunteers. From examining the history of the USS Monitor, learning about fascinating tales such as Team USA’s thrilling victory in the 2013 America’s Cup race, to discovering rare objects in the Museum’s collection, we cover a wide range of interests to better tailor your experience.
Allow one hour.
Plus $100*
Learn about the current projects the Monitor Center’s Conversation staff is working on. Get to know what life was like for Monitor‘s crew through their personal stories and historical accounts. See rarely-seen artifacts from the Civil War ironclad. Lecture style program.
Allow one hour.
In the Batten Conservation Complex
Plus $200*
See conservation in action as you tour the Batten Conservation Complex (BCC) and its laboratories. The BCC houses 210 tons of artifacts from USS Monitor, including cannons and the iconic turret. Tour is led by members of our Conservation staff.
Allow one hour. Tours subject to availability. For guests ages 10 and over. Maximum of 15 guests allowed per lab tour group; larger groups may be divided and tours run concurrently.
Prices vary; several menus available
Order boxed lunches suited for adults or students. Enjoy your lunch in a Museum banquet space. In a hurry? Order them to go! Allow one hour.
Plus $6 per person, per movie*
Experience thrilling 3D films and other feature films covering a wide range of maritime topics in our high- definition theater. Private showings for larger groups are available.
Theater capacity: 49 guests
Average film run-time: 40 minutes
* Subject to availability
All packages will be scheduled to accommodate your group’s timeline.
Please contact us for a quote based on the number of people in your group.
Want to see it all? Begin your group’s visit with a tour, led by one of our knowledgeable docents. You’ll get a look at our “Must See” highlights. Then, enjoy lunch in a Museum banquet space. Before your group departs, experience a 3D film in the Explorers Theater. Films cover a wide range of maritime topics; each film’s run-time averages 40 minutes.
On this special tour, your group will discover the influences and impacts made by Africans and African Americans across centuries of maritime history. Following your guided gallery tour, enjoy a lecture presented by our Interpretation Department as you interact with artifacts selected from our Collection. End your visit with a themed meal inspired by soul food.
Built of iron and designed for unsurpassed luxury and comfort, the RMS Titanic set sail on her maiden voyage and tragically sank on April 15, 1912. As told through stories, artifacts, and images of some of the passengers and crew, explore the facts and fiction surrounding this remarkable vessel and how this infamous disaster still holds sway in modern maritime culture. Concluding your program, enjoy a special dinner based on the meals served in each class on the Titanic.
Home of the USS Monitor Center, The Mariners’ Museum invites your group to explore artifacts, interactive displays, and dramatic films that tell the story of the March 8-9, 1862 Battle of the Ironclads. Start your day with a guided tour focusing on the American Civil War. Enjoy a lecture by a member of our Conservation staff who will share stories from members of Monitor‘s crew. End your visit with a meal inspired by dishes from the Civil War era.
Explore the Shady Ladies of the Seven Seas, this maritime adventure begins with a guided tour focusing on women’s roles in maritime history. Enjoy afternoon tea in a Museum banquet space, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at artifacts chosen by our Collections staff to be of special interest to your group.
Experience the Museum in a whole new light…the dark! Your group will have the Museum to itself in this private experience, after regular business hours. Explore the Museum with a docent-led tour. Enjoy a delectable dinner from one of our local restaurant partners. Before you depart, your group will have free time to explore the galleries or participate in a scavenger hunt!
$50
Hold your reenlistment ceremony in a Museum space of your choice. Popular locations include the Main Lobby, site of the Lancaster Eagle, and the full-size replica of USS Monitor. Your guests are invited to exploring the Museum at their leisure, before or after your ceremony.
The Museum works closely with approved caterers to offer the best dining experience for groups. Currently, the Museum is partnering with a variety of caterers to provide box lunches for your group experience. Contact your Group Tour Coordinator today to plan your lunch and visit!
MARINERS’ PARK CAFÉ
BOX LUNCHES
$10 each (includes tax and tip)
Choice of:
Homemade Carolina BBQ Sandwich
With Slaw & Bag of Potato Chips
Chicken Salad Sandwich on Wheat Bread
With Bag of Potato Chips
Chili served with Dinner Salad
(Vegetarian chili available on request)
Veggie Wrap
Roasted Eggplant & Peppers, Spinach, Sundried Tomatoes and Hummus on Flour Tortilla
SW Chicken Salad
Grilled Chicken, Corn, Black Beans, Pico & Cheddar with SW Ranch
Served with:
Pickle Spear, Grandma’s Chocolate Chip Cookie & Bottled Water
DIVINE LUNCHES
BOX LUNCHES
$12 each
Includes:
Meal (Sandwich or Salad)
Choice of Side Dish
Choice of Dessert
Bottled Water
Sandwich Options:
Chicken Salad with lettuce on Country White Bread
Smoked Turkey with Colby-Jack, lettuce and tomato on Country White Bread
Honey Baked Ham with Cheddar, lettuce and tomato on Country White Bread
Salad Options:
Salad Divine – Baby greens, cucumber, carrots, peppers, and tomato. Served with Deviled Eggs and choice of housemade Ranch or Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing.
Watermelon Salad – Arugula, watermelon, red onion, feta cheese, and toasted almonds. Served with housemade Balsamic Vinaigrette.
Side Dishes:
Pasta Salad or Cole Slaw
Dessert:
Chocolate Chip Cookie or Brownie
DIVINE LUNCHES
BOX LUNCHES
$12 each
Includes:
Meal (Sandwich or Salad)
Choice of Side Dish
Choice of Dessert
Bottled Water
Sandwich Options:
Chicken Salad with lettuce on Country White Bread
Smoked Turkey with Colby-Jack, lettuce and tomato on Country White Bread
Honey Baked Ham with Cheddar, lettuce and tomato on Country White Bread
Salad Options:
Salad Divine – Baby greens, cucumber, carrots, peppers, and tomato. Served with Deviled Eggs and choice of housemade Ranch or Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing.
Autumn Salad – Baby spinach, red onion, Bartlett pears, blue cheese, and candied, curried walnuts. Served with housemade Maple-Cider Vinaigrette.
Side Dishes:
Pasta Salad or Cole Slaw
Dessert:
Chocolate Chip Cookie or Brownie
DONATOS PIZZA
PICK 2
Two delicious choices for $12
YOUR CHOICE OF
Choose One Item
7” PIZZA
CHEESE, PEPPERONI or THE WORKS
Heritage pepperoni, family recipe sausage, freshly cut green peppers and yellow onions, fresh mushrooms.
OVEN BAKED SUBS
BIG DON ITALIAN
Ham, salami, smoked Provolone cheese, banana peppers, fresh cut tomatoes, fresh lettuce, Italian dressing
FRESH VEGY
Fresh cut tomatoes, yellow onions and green peppers, fresh mushrooms, lettuce, banana peppers, smoked Provolone, house Italian dressing.
MEATBALL
Family recipe meatballs with marinara sauce, smoked Provolone cheese, Romano, and Italian seasoning.
CALZONE
PEPPERONI or SPINACH & MUSHROOM
Served with marinara sauce
YOUR CHOICE OF
Choose One Item
WINGS
BONELESS or TRADITIONAL
Mild, Hot, Bourbon BBQ, or Sweet Thai Chili
Served with Ranch or Bleu Cheese
SALADS
CHICKEN HARVEST
All-natural chicken, smoked bacon, Bleu cheese, fresh apples, honey roasted pecans, cranberries. Served with apple vinaigrette dressing.
ITALIAN CHEF
Heritage pepperoni, shaved ham, sliced salami, fresh cut tomatoes, green peppers, banana peppers, black olives, smoked Provolone, Romano cheese and Italian seasonings. Served with house Italian dressing.
ASIAGO CHEESE BREAD
Fresh baked artisan pull-apart bread topped with garlic and Asiago cheese, and served with marinara sauce for dipping
CINNAMON BREAD
Fresh artisan loaf of pull-apart bread topped with cinnamon spread, streusel topping, oven-baked and drizzled with vanilla icing.
MARINERS’ PARK CAFÉ
BOX LUNCHES
$10 each (includes tax and tip)
Middle & High School Box Lunch
Choice of:
1/3 Pound All Beef Hot Dog
Slice of Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza
Grilled Chicken BLT Wrap
Includes:
Pickle Spear, Chips, Chocolate Chip Cookie, & Bottled Water
MARINERS’ PARK CAFÉ
BOX LUNCHES
$6 each (includes tax and tip)
Elementary Bag Lunch
Grilled Cheese
(PB&J available as dietary sub)
Pudding Cup
Bag of Potato Chips
Capri Sun Fruit Juice
DIVINE LUNCHES
BOX LUNCHES
$9 each
Kid’s Lunches (9 and under)
Includes:
Sandwich
Potato Chips
Baby Carrots
Chocolate Chip Cookie
Bottled Water
Sandwich Options:
Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jelly on Country White Bread
Smoked Turkey with Colby-Jack cheese on Country White Bread
DONATOS PIZZA
PICK 2
Two delicious choices for $12
YOUR CHOICE OF
Choose One Item
7” PIZZA
CHEESE, PEPPERONI or THE WORKS
Heritage pepperoni, family recipe sausage, freshly cut green peppers and yellow onions, fresh mushrooms.
OVEN BAKED SUBS
BIG DON ITALIAN
Ham, salami, smoked Provolone cheese, banana peppers, fresh cut tomatoes, fresh lettuce, Italian dressing
FRESH VEGY
Fresh cut tomatoes, yellow onions and green peppers, fresh mushrooms, lettuce, banana peppers, smoked Provolone, house Italian dressing.
MEATBALL
Family recipe meatballs with marinara sauce, smoked Provolone cheese, Romano, and Italian seasoning.
CALZONE
PEPPERONI or SPINACH & MUSHROOM
Served with marinara sauce
YOUR CHOICE OF
Choose One Item
WINGS
BONELESS or TRADITIONAL
Mild, Hot, Bourbon BBQ, or Sweet Thai Chili
Served with Ranch or Bleu Cheese
SALADS
CHICKEN HARVEST
All-natural chicken, smoked bacon, Bleu cheese, fresh apples, honey roasted pecans, cranberries. Served with apple vinaigrette dressing.
ITALIAN CHEF
Heritage pepperoni, shaved ham, sliced salami, fresh cut tomatoes, green peppers, banana peppers, black olives, smoked Provolone, Romano cheese and Italian seasonings. Served with house Italian dressing.
ASIAGO CHEESE BREAD
Fresh baked artisan pull-apart bread topped with garlic and Asiago cheese, and served with marinara sauce for dipping
CINNAMON BREAD
Fresh artisan loaf of pull-apart bread topped with cinnamon spread, streusel topping, oven-baked and drizzled with vanilla icing.
For more information or to book a group tour, please contact:
To book an education program,
please click here.
Shari Lovett Solomon
Group Sales Coordinator
Phone: (757) 591-7731
groups@MarinersMuseum.org
Mailing Address:
The Mariners’ Museum and Park
100 Museum Drive
Newport News, VA 23606
Office Hours:
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed Saturday & Sunday and on select holidays
