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National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico: Discover the Gulf's Maritime Legacy

Explore the maritime history, culture, and traditions of the Gulf of Mexico at this interactive Mobile museum.

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The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico in Mobile, Alabama, is dedicated to the Gulf's rich maritime history, culture, and traditions. With over 80 interactive exhibits, the museum offers an engaging experience for all ages, exploring everything from early exploration to modern shipping and marine life.

A brief summary to The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for current hours, as they are only open Wednesday through Saturday.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available across Water Street under the overpass.
  • Visit the outdoor balconies for great views of the Mobile River and the Port of Mobile.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mobile Convention Center, walk east on Water Street. The museum will be on your left, approximately a 10-minute walk. Sidewalks are available along Water Street.

  • Public Transport

    The Wave Transit System provides bus service in downtown Mobile. Check the Wave's website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. The closest bus stop is near the corner of Water Street and Government Street, a short walk from the museum. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mobile. A ride from downtown hotels typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    Approaching downtown Mobile via I-10 East, take Exit 26A (Canal Street). Turn right onto Water Street and proceed two blocks to Monroe Street. Approaching via I-10 West, take Exit 26B (Water Street). Proceed to Government Street, turn left on Government Street, then left on Royal Street, then left on Monroe Street. Free parking is available at the museum and across Water Street under the overpass. Additional paid parking is available in the parking lot next to the convention center; rates vary.

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Discover more about The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico

The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, located on Mobile's waterfront, is dedicated to the maritime heritage and culture of the Gulf of Mexico. Formerly known as GulfQuest, the museum's 120,000-square-foot building is designed to resemble a ship headed into Mobile Bay. The museum features over 80 immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and state-of-the-art simulators. Visitors can explore the Gulf's indigenous cultures, early European exploration, and the modern shipping industry. Exhibits delve into famous shipwrecks, the Atlantic slave trade, the Civil War, World War II, early settlements, trade routes, marine archeology, and catastrophic hurricanes. Highlights include piloting a cargo vessel up the Mobile River, exploring historic shipwrecks, and learning about the Gulf's diverse marine life. The museum also showcases the cultural significance of the Gulf, its role in shaping the U.S. economy, and industries like fishing, oil, and shipbuilding. Visitors can also step onto outdoor balconies for views of the Port of Mobile. The museum's exhibits are housed inside a full-sized replica of a container ship, commemorating the development of containerization in Mobile. Exhibits include the “Container Ships” exhibit, the “Great Gulf Challenge,” and the “SS McLean” exhibit.

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