Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Come and see a collection of Chesapeake Bay boats, a lighthouse, and an expansive museum.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum was founded in 1965 at an old seafood packing site and workboat dock. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Chesapeake Bay boats, artifacts, and the Hooper Strait Lighthouse, saved from demolition by the museum. There are plenty of interactive exhibits in and around the 35 buildings that are part of this maritime museum. This is the best place to learn more about the history and heritage of Chesapeake Bay. The museum tells the stories of the Bay's geological, economic, and social aspects and those who lived there. 

The exhibits include hundreds of different boats, a large collection of artwork, guns, ship signboards, and decoys, along with other Bay artifacts. Some of the hands-on experiences include hauling crab pots out of Fogg Cove, hand construction of a wooden skiff, and tours of the Bay in a replica buoy boat. The museum also offers year-round educational seminars and workshops. If you visit anytime between May and October, this museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm. From November through April, it is open from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission prices are $14 for adults, $11 for seniors and students with college ID, $10 for retired military, $4 for children (ages 6-17), and free for active military and children 5 and under.