The Journey Begins September 12
Experience the Official Jimmy Buffett: Son of a Son of a Sailor Exhibition
A permanent immersive celebration of the music, stories, adventures, and Gulf Coast spirit that inspired generations.
Museum Hours:
Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am– 4 pm
(Closed Monday and Tuesday)
Admission:
$19 for adults
(includes Buffett exhibition AND general museum admission)
Advanced Tickets Now On Sale!
Presale tickets are ONLY available by clicking the above button.
The Jimmy Buffett: Son of a Son of a Sailor Experience — not just an exhibit, but what the museum is calling a living tribute. 6,000 square feet inside the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf, right on the waterfront by the Mobile Convention Center and Cooper Riverside Park.
Why This Exhibition Matters
Jimmy Buffett’s Story Started Here.
Long before Margaritaville,
there was Mobile Bay.
From family roots on the Gulf Coast to adventures that inspired songs loved around the world, this exhibition brings Jimmy Buffett home through immersive experiences, rare artifacts, personal stories, music, film, and memories shared by those who knew him best.
Over 130 artifacts from Buffett’s life — many never seen before — plus never-before-seen concert footage and photos. Some early previews are saying up to 250+ items when you count photos and film. It’s built across two levels and tells the full circle story — from growing up in Mobile after moving from Pascagoula when he was 18 months old to becoming the guy who taught the world to chase the joy in the journey.
The location is intentional — the city said the museum sits across the river where Jimmy’s parents worked at Alabama Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Co. and adjacent to the river where his grandfather, the actual son of a sailor in the song, sailed.
What You’ll Experience
Immersive Concert
Theater
Feel like you're front row at a Buffett concert.
Stories
Never Told
Exclusive interviews, photographs, and personal recordings.
The Gulf That Inspired Everything
Discover the waters, people, and places behind the songs.
Rare Artifacts
Handwritten lyrics, instruments, photographs, clothing, memorabilia and more.
Interactive Experiences
Explore exclusive stories and create your own Buffett memories.
The Legacy
How Jimmy inspired millions to embrace adventure, kindness and living life well.
Opening Weekend Events
Friday:
Festivities for the weekend include Mac McAnally performing at the Saenger theater on September 11. The show “Margaritas and Memories” will include Mac and Scottie Emerick sharing memories and performing Buffett favorites.
Record setting 10x CMA Musician of the Year, Mac McAnally is a Nashville Songwriters HoF, Mississippi Musicians HoF and Alabama Music HoF inductee. The renowned songwriter, singer, and instrumentalist has written dozens of hit records for other artists, several of which peaked at #1. His own recording career began with debut hit single “It’s A Crazy World” and grown to 14 album releases. He has written hits for Alabama, Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and Sawyer Brown, and has studio credits that include albums by Toby Keith, Linda Ronstadt, George Strait and Dolly Parton among many others.
Saturday:
- Grand Opening
- Ribbon Cutting
- Statue Unveiling – A new larger-than-life bronze sculpture by Ben Victor will be unveiled on the waterfront at the museum.
- Live Music
- Food Trucks
- Mural Festival
- Family Activities
- Photo Opportunities
Sunday:
- More Celebration!
- Food Trucks
- Live Music
- Mural Festival
- Photo Opportunities
Food Trucks
SATURDAY:
Frank N Lola’s Hamburgers and Hotdogs
Kona Ice
Mr. Tom’s Coffee
Jefe Paletas
Goobers Boiled Peanuts
Birria Boys
Miso Hungry
Coach Brown’s BBQ
Mo’Bay Beignets
Bottles Up Mobile
SUNDAY:
Bottles Up Mobile
Maas Snacks and Quacks
Not Your Average Joe Food Truck
Here's your sneak peek.
Check out this concept art.
We we will keep updating it as we work.
HELP US KEEP THE PARTY GOING!
Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the most comprehensive Jimmy Buffett exhibition in the world. Help us celebrate Jimmy’s life, legacy, and enduring connection to the Gulf Coast. Your support will help create this extraordinary tribute and preserve Buffett’s story for generations to come.
NOTE: tips to GIVEBUTTER Donation app are optional and fully customizable at checkout.
