Deck 1
Explore the Wonders of America’s Sea at the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf
Set sail on a journey through the rich maritime heritage of the Gulf Coast. Our exhibits deliver unforgettable, hands-on experiences that bring to life the stories of early coastal settlements, historic trade routes, dramatic shipwrecks, and the treasures of marine archaeology. Dive into the vibrant ecosystems of Gulf marine and plant life. Unravel the forces behind hurricanes and weather systems. Discover the dynamic world of maritime commerce, shipbuilding, navigation, and communication. From coastal environments to deep-sea oil and gas platforms, the National Maritime Museum offers a thrilling voyage across a sea of knowledge—perfect for explorers of all ages.
Grand Lobby – Your Gateway to Discovery
Begin your adventure in our stunning Grand Lobby, where convenience meets coastal charm. Here you’ll find:
- Visitor Services and Group Check-In to start your journey
- Clean, accessible Restrooms, Security, and First Aid
- Fresh Fruit Cafe, offering a delicious menu and the only waterfront dining in downtown Mobile
- Treasures Museum Store, designed by Auburn University students to resemble a sunken Spanish galleon—an immersive shopping experience for nautical-themed gifts and souvenirs
Above Mobile Bay – A Soaring Artistic Tribute
Look up and be inspired. Towering three stories high in the museum’s atrium is Above Mobile Bay, a breathtaking silk batik installation by nationally acclaimed artist Mary Edna Fraser. Crafted in the shape of sails, this extraordinary piece maps the journey from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta to Mobile Bay and out into the Gulf of America. Known for her intricate artwork based on maps, satellite imagery, and aerial photography, Fraser captures the essence of the region in stunning detail.
America’s Sea – An Interactive Journey Around the Gulf
Sitting in the center of the Grand Lobby is America’s Sea—a massive, interactive map that brings the Gulf of America to life like never before! With just a touch, visitors can light up the map with vibrant, color-coded points that showcase the Gulf’s most fascinating stories in Exploration (Yellow), Combat (Red), Environment (Green) and Commerce (Blue). Each interactive station invites guests to dive into rich multimedia content, revealing the powerful history, diverse ecosystems, and pivotal events that have shaped “America’s Sea.” It’s geography, discovery, and adventure—all in one unforgettable experience.
Shores of the Gulf – A Vibrant Coastal Experience
Wander the coastlines of the entire Gulf—without ever leaving the museum! Shores of the Gulf is a dynamic gallery that captures the spirit, sounds, and textures of life along the water. From Florida’s white sands to the colorful culture of Cuba and the Yucatán, explore authentic artifacts, maritime treasures, and environmental exhibits set against real shoreline materials collected from seven unique Gulf regions.
Orientation Gallery & Theater – Your Gateway to the Gulf
Your immersive journey begins here! Step inside the Orientation Gallery and Theater—your official entry point into museum’s paid exhibit experience. This gallery introduces you to the extraordinary natural wonders, cultural richness, and economic significance of the Gulf. A short film sets the stage for what lies ahead, preparing you for an epic exploration of the maritime world that surrounds us.
The Container Ship
At the center of the museum stands an unforgettable icon: a life-sized container ship, the museum’s largest and most immersive exhibit. Towering with stacked containers and surrounded by water, this incredible replica brings the bustling world of maritime trade to life. Step aboard and feel the subtle hum of engines beneath your feet as you explore a ship that honors one of the greatest revolutions in shipping—containerization. This game-changing innovation was pioneered in the 1950s by the McLean Family right here in Mobile. It’s more than just an exhibit—it’s your passport to a world of discovery at sea.
Welcome Aboard! – Dive Into Life on the Working Waterfront
Kick off your journey with Welcome Aboard!, a dynamic, multi-screen media experience that pulls back the curtain on the Gulf Coast’s busy maritime world. From shipbuilding and oystering to Coast Guard patrols and stevedoring, this powerful presentation captures the sights and sounds of real waterfront action. As you move through the space, kids can get hands-on at industrial-style “control panels,” lighting up the exhibit with the press of a button—perfect for little captains in training!
Seagoing Slang – Everyday Sayings with Nautical Roots
Ever wonder where phrases like “Cup of Joe” or “All in a Day’s Work” come from? You’ll find the answers as you ascend the Seagoing Slang rampways on either side of the container ship. This fun and fascinating exhibit showcases 72 everyday expressions that were born at sea. Each panel reveals the maritime meaning behind familiar sayings, connecting the language we use today with the lives of sailors from centuries past. It’s a clever, crowd-pleasing mix of language, history, and nautical know-how.