National Museum of the United States Navy

The U.S. Navy Museum was established in 1961 and opened to the public in 1963. As one of 14 Navy museums throughout the country, it is the only one to present a complete overview of U.S. naval history. Permanent and temporary exhibitions commemorate the Navy's wartime heroes and battles, as well as its peacetime contributions in exploration, diplomacy, navigation, and humanitarian service.

Located in the historic Washington Navy Yard, the Museum is housed in the former Breech Mechanism Shop of the old Naval Gun Factory. The 600-foot long building, constructed between 1887 and 1899 was one of a number of shops in the Yard where ordnance, missile components, and electronic equipment were produced.

More than 150,000 individuals visit The U.S. Navy Museum annually. Admission to the Museum and its programs are free. The Museum is architecturally accessible.

The U.S. Navy Museum is part of the Naval History and Heritage Command, which includes a library, archives, and research facilities.