Intro
Discover the rich history and maritime heritage of Virginias Navy Shipyard with these 5 exciting ways to explore. From guided tours to self-guided visits, learn about naval aviation, shipbuilding, and the brave men and women who serve. Explore historic ships, naval museums, and scenic waterfront views in this fascinating destination.
The Navy Shipyard in Virginia, also known as the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, is a historic and bustling hub of maritime activity. Located in Portsmouth, Virginia, this shipyard has been in operation since 1767, making it the oldest shipyard in the United States. With a rich history, impressive facilities, and a wide range of activities, the Navy Shipyard in Virginia offers a unique and fascinating experience for visitors. Here are 5 ways to explore this incredible destination:
1. Take a Guided Tour
One of the best ways to explore the Navy Shipyard in Virginia is to take a guided tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the shipyard's historic facilities, including the Dry Dock 1, the oldest dry dock in the United States. You'll also get to see the shipyard's impressive collection of historic ships, including the USS Monitor and the USS Wisconsin.
During the tour, you'll learn about the shipyard's rich history, from its founding in 1767 to its current role as a major hub for naval shipbuilding and repair. You'll also get to see firsthand the shipyard's cutting-edge facilities, including its state-of-the-art dry docks and machine shops.
Types of Tours
The Navy Shipyard in Virginia offers several types of guided tours, including:
- General Public Tours: These tours are open to the general public and provide a comprehensive overview of the shipyard's history and facilities.
- Group Tours: These tours are designed for groups of 10 or more people and can be tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of the group.
- Specialty Tours: These tours focus on specific aspects of the shipyard's history and operations, such as its role in World War II or its current efforts to support the Navy's nuclear submarine program.
2. Visit the Shipyard's Museums
The Navy Shipyard in Virginia is home to several museums that showcase the shipyard's rich history and heritage. These museums offer a unique and interactive way to explore the shipyard's past, from its earliest days to the present.
Museums
Some of the museums you can visit at the Navy Shipyard in Virginia include:
- The Naval Shipyard Museum: This museum showcases the shipyard's history, from its founding in 1767 to the present day.
- The USS Monitor Center: This museum is dedicated to the history of the USS Monitor, a Civil War-era ironclad warship that was built at the shipyard.
- The Hampton Roads Naval Museum: This museum explores the naval history of the Hampton Roads region, including the shipyard's role in World War II.
3. Take a Self-Guided Tour
If you prefer to explore the Navy Shipyard in Virginia at your own pace, you can take a self-guided tour. The shipyard offers a self-guided tour route that takes you through its historic facilities and past its impressive collection of historic ships.
Self-Guided Tour Route
The self-guided tour route takes you through the following locations:
- The Dry Dock 1: This is the oldest dry dock in the United States and a must-see for anyone interested in naval history.
- The USS Monitor: This Civil War-era ironclad warship is a National Historic Landmark and a fascinating piece of naval history.
- The USS Wisconsin: This Iowa-class battleship is a veteran of World War II and the Korean War and offers a unique glimpse into the shipyard's history.
4. Attend a Special Event
The Navy Shipyard in Virginia hosts a wide range of special events throughout the year, from concerts and festivals to reenactments and ceremonies. These events offer a unique and exciting way to experience the shipyard and its rich history.
Types of Events
Some of the special events you can attend at the Navy Shipyard in Virginia include:
- Concerts: The shipyard hosts a range of concerts throughout the year, from classical music to rock and roll.
- Festivals: The shipyard hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Naval Shipyard Festival.
- Reenactments: The shipyard hosts several reenactments throughout the year, including a annual reenactment of the Battle of Hampton Roads.
5. Explore the Surrounding Area
The Navy Shipyard in Virginia is located in the heart of the Hampton Roads region, which offers a wide range of attractions and activities. From historic sites and museums to parks and beaches, there's something for everyone in the surrounding area.
Attractions
Some of the attractions you can visit in the surrounding area include:
- The Hampton Roads Naval Museum: This museum explores the naval history of the Hampton Roads region and offers a unique glimpse into the shipyard's past.
- The USS Monitor Center: This museum is dedicated to the history of the USS Monitor, a Civil War-era ironclad warship that was built at the shipyard.
- The Virginia Beach Boardwalk: This historic boardwalk offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a range of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Navy Shipyard in Virginia Image Gallery
What is the best way to explore the Navy Shipyard in Virginia?
+The best way to explore the Navy Shipyard in Virginia is to take a guided tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the shipyard's historic facilities and provide a comprehensive overview of its history and operations.
Can I take a self-guided tour of the Navy Shipyard in Virginia?
+Yes, you can take a self-guided tour of the Navy Shipyard in Virginia. The shipyard offers a self-guided tour route that takes you through its historic facilities and past its impressive collection of historic ships.
What types of events does the Navy Shipyard in Virginia host?
+The Navy Shipyard in Virginia hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, reenactments, and ceremonies.
In conclusion, the Navy Shipyard in Virginia is a fascinating destination that offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors. From guided tours and self-guided tours to special events and attractions, there's something for everyone at this historic shipyard. Whether you're interested in naval history, want to explore the surrounding area, or simply want to experience the shipyard's cutting-edge facilities, the Navy Shipyard in Virginia is a must-visit destination.