Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin
Nauticus Scavenger Hunt
One of the most fascinating stops your group can make while in the Virginia Beach area is Nauticus, the maritime science center also referred to as the National Maritime Museum.
Technically located in Norfolk (just 20 minutes west of Virginia Beach), Nauticus provides guests with truly unique seaside science and history, it's most well-known feature being the resident ship, Battleship Wisconsin. This is the largest and last ship built by the US Navy, and Iowa-Class cruiser commissioned in 1941. This ship has seen both WWII and the Korean War, it even earned a Combat Action Ribbon during the latter. Your group can opt-in for a school/group tour of the ship, a daily scheduled public tour, or explore on your own. Younger groups may really enjoy the scavenger hunts available on deck, such as the one to the right. (Your group may download and print several before arriving).
Inside Nauticus itself, you will find almost endless opportunities for learning and fun with such activities as Science on a Sphere, in which you can look at earth from 22,000 miles away, the Touch Tank, Shark Lab, or even onsite 3D Theater. In the theater, you can choose between the features Secret Ocean, or Aircraft Carrier; Guardian of the Sea. Opt-in for a school tour and you will go through each of these areas, or just explore at your own pace. There are additional exhibits such as Mighty Seaport, 1907, SOS Station, Secrets of the Deep, and Guns Sweat and Gears.
Before you go head over to the Banana Pier Gift Shop and pick up some educational materials or fun souvenirs!
