Virginia Military History Museums

The Marine Corps Raider Museum is located on Marine Corps Base Quantico. The museum features large displays that tell the story of the Raiders. Some notable features include the first Japanese flag captured during the World War 2. This particuar flag was captured during the famous Makin Island Raid of 1942. There are also many firearms, equipment, and uniforms that give visitors a glance into the history of the raiders. To visit the museum, you must contact the museum ahead of time. 

Historical Associates has put together detailed directions to the museum. Check out their website for more information. 

Directions to the Marine Raider Museum  

Going North:  
Traveling from Richmond, Va., north towards Washington, D.C., on Interstate 95, get off the Interstate at Exit 148. At the bottom of the hill, turn left. Go 1.5 miles to the Sentry Booth.  
 
Going South:  
Traveling from the Washington, D.C. area south on Interstate 95, take Exit 148. At the bottom of the hill turn right. Go 1.3 miles to the Sentry Booth.  
 
At the Sentry Booth:  
You will need to show your driver's license and tell them where you are going. Your destination is Raider Hall or MACE (the Martial Arts Center of Excellence) to visit the U. S. Marine Raider Museum. The Sentry may not be aware of these specific locations but tell him they are by TBS (The Basic School).  
 
From the Sentry Booth:  
Keep straight for 1.6 miles to the intersection at the Fire Department. (There is a water tower on the right at this intersection.) Turn left at the Fire Department and keep straight for 2.8 miles. At the stop sign, turn left. Go .2 mile to the next stop sign. Keep straight and drive up onto the parade deck/parking lot. At the top of the hill, Raider Hall will be located to your extreme left, at the end of the parking area.  
 
Reserved Spots:  
There are several reserved spots at the end of the area reserved for visitors going to the Martial Arts Training Center (Raider Hall); you may use these if you like.  
 
A Word of Caution:  
When you visit the base, obey the speed limit and directional signs. When they say 35 MPH, they mean 35 MPH!  
Gung Ho!  

Image Citation - Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach has one of the largest collections of vintage military aircraft in the world. With aircraft ranging from World War 1, through World War 2, and into the Vietnam era, there is definitely something for every aviation enthusiast. Even more impressive is just how many of these aircraft are still air worthy. Many of the aircraft in this collection have been painstakingly restored to their military conditions. Some of these aircraft are the last airworthy craft of their kind. 

Other than just checking out parked aircraft, visitors can also get a taste of what a real Luftwaffe hangar was like. The Cuttbus hangar, named so due to it being relocated from the Cottbus Army Airfield in Cottbus Gernamny, is a real hangar used by the Luftwaffe. Designed as a makeshift transportable hangar, this particular hangar was damaged by bombs from an 8th Air Force attack. The hangar was repaired and eventually found its way here. A definite one of a kind sight for an aviation enthusiast. 

The museum also offers warbird rides which can be scheduled in advance. As of this writing the museum offers rides in their 1989 Waco YMF-5 and 1941 Boeing Stearman. Call now and book a ride! These aircraft and more can also be seen at the various events the museum puts on throughout the year so be sure to follow them on Facebook  to keep in touch and up to date.

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a lasting tribute to U.S. Marines--past, present, and future. Situated on a 135-acre site adjacent to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, and under the command of Marine Corps University, the Museum's soaring design evokes the image of the flag-raisers of Iwo Jima and beckons visitors to this 120,000-square-foot structure. World-class interactive exhibits using the most innovative technology surround visitors with irreplaceable artifacts and immerse them in the sights and sounds of Marines in action.

The Museum is a public-private partnership between the U.S. Marine Corps and the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. The Foundation was established in 1979 as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization to support the historical programs of the Marine Corps in ways not possible through government funds. The Foundation supports the Museum's volunteer and educational programs.

Welcome aboard the USS Wisconsin, an incredible, one-of-a-kind battleship that has a long and fascinating history. Launched December 7th, 1943 at Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, this mighty vessel sailed for over 40 years and was involved in several major conflicts during its impressive service. Here onboard the Wisconsin you can experience first-hand what it was like to live and fight on a real naval ship.

The USS Wisconsin is a one-of-a-kind experience that you should not miss! Located at the Nauticus National Maritime Center in Norfolk, Virginia, this historic battleship offers guests a unique glimpse into our nation's past. On board the Wisconsin, visitors can explore the ship's decks and see firsthand the many artifacts from her storied 45-year career. Whether it's marveling at the massive 16" guns or admiring the impressive collection military artifacts on display, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

But what really sets the USS Wisconsin apart from other attractions is its interactive exhibits. Through these hands-on experiences, guests can learn about life aboard a battleship during WWII and how it evolved over time. There are also educational programs available for individuals, school groups, and families to take part in special demonstrations like waving signal flags and climbing around! Plus, you can't forget about all of the amazing stories told by veteran crew members as they guide you around this historic vessel.

So if you're looking for an unforgettable trip filled with history and fun activities that will keep you engaged, then make sure to add The USS Wisconsin battleship museum to your itinerary! After all, where else can you tour an authentic military vessel while learning about its past?