National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico: Exploring Gulf Coast History

The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, located in Mobile, Alabama, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich maritime history and culture of the Gulf of Mexico [4, 8, 17]. Formerly known as GulfQuest, the museum's exhibits delve into the Gulf's past, from early exploration and trade to naval conflicts and modern maritime industries [1, 4, 17]. The museum features over 80 interactive exhibits, simulators, and theaters spread across multiple decks [1, 2, 4]. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including shipwrecks, marine archaeology, hurricanes, and the diverse marine life of the Gulf [2, 4, 9]. Visitors can explore exhibits on early settlements and trade routes, the Civil War, World War II, and the offshore oil and gas industry [2]. One of the museum's highlights is a full-sized replica of a container ship, housing many of its interactive displays [4, 13]. The museum aims to provide an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages [1, 7, 17]. Exhibits like 'Take the Helm' allow visitors to navigate vessels through the Port of Mobile using a simulator [4, 13]. The 'Ocean Planet Theater' displays real satellite data on a large globe, while the 'Discovery Hull' exhibit focuses on shipwrecks in the Gulf [4, 6, 13]. The museum also offers outdoor balconies with views of the Mobile River and the Port of Mobile [1]. Originally opened as GulfQuest in 2015, the museum was designed to resemble a ship heading into Mobile Bay [4, 9]. In 2024, it was renamed the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico [4, 14]. The museum is actively developing new exhibits, including one on Jimmy Buffett planned for 2026 and an interactive exhibit about the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta [4].