NORFOLK, Va. — Nauticus is celebrating a big milestone this weekend: 25 years being a part of the Downtown Norfolk waterfront.
The maritime museum actually opened its doors for the first time on June 1, 1994. Since then, it's evolved into an established interactive museum and education resource. And of course, there's the Battleship Wisconsin, which has been docked alongside Nauticus as a museum ship since 2000.
"There’s quite literally no other place like it," said Nauticus executive director, Stephen E. Kirkland in a news release. "Where else can you visit a museum, walk the decks of an enormous battleship, take a sailboat out for a spin, and board a 3,000-passenger cruise ship?"
Now Nauticus, along with the City of Norfolk, is celebrating its birthday on Saturday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with giveaways, music, face painting and more! Kids 12 and under will receive free admission (limited to 2 kids per paying adult).
Visitors will also receive a free souvenir cup, while supplies last.
Nauticus will conclude its 25th-year celebration with the recognition of its 8 millionth visitor, which is projected to take place in early October.