For many first time visitors to Annapolis, and even for some locals in the area, the United States Naval Academy can seem like a bit of a mystery. Many don’t know that the USNA grounds – known as the “Yard” – are open to the public, free of charge, all year-round (with valid ID). Once behind the 170-year-old walls, the Academy offers visitors a wide range of attractions from the impressive Bancroft Hall, U.S. Naval Academy Chapel, tours of the Yard, the Crypt of John Paul Jones, dining options, and most notably, the world-class U.S. Naval Academy Museum.

The Museum welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually from all over the world. Located in Preble Hall, the Museum offers two floors (First Deck and Second Deck) of exhibits about the history of seapower, the development of the U.S. Navy, and the role of the U.S. Naval Academy in producing officers capable of leading America's sailors and marines.

Head up to the Second Deck and you’ll find the Class of 1951 Gallery of Ships, one of the world's finest collections of warship models from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Each of these priceless models was constructed within a few years of the ship or ship type it represents.

Visit the U.S. Naval Academy Museum online for more information on all the great exhibits on display throughout the year.

 

Videography courtesy of DMH Visual Productions, photography courtesy of VisitAnnapolis