Visiting USNA

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dani2016

5-Year Member
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Feb 13, 2010
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Hey, I live close to the academy and wanted to just go there for a day trip, does anyone know if just anyone can walk around the yard or can I only go to the museum part?

Thanks
 
If it's your first trip I would recommend a tour - you'll learn all about the academy and it's history that way.
 
Yes, you can just walk around (although some areas are off-limits -- those are clearly marked). Be sure you bring a photo ID.
 
You can walk almost anywhere outdoors on the Yard. You can also visit the public areas of Bancroft Hall: the Rotunda, a mock-Mid's room (near the main office), and Memorial Hall. You can usually visit the USNA chapel, except during services, but they close pretty early (~3 PM, I think). The crypt of John Paul Jones (well worth your time) is in the basement of the Chapel. The USNA museum, which was closed for renovation for more than a year, is now open again. The USNA Visitors Center has interesting exhibits and a nice gift shop where you can stock up on everything USNA (apparel, bumper stickers, books, etc.)

Anyone 16 or older must show a government-issued photo ID to walk on.
 
Note 2012 said "walk on." And walk you must. Park in Annapolis and make sure you've your photo ID (and anyone over 16, as 2012 stated). I ditto the tour but it's non-essential if it doesn't fit. Hit the museum, Visitros Center, walk thru the basements of the science halls. Ditto on the Chapel, Rotunda, Mem Hall. Crown Sailing Center if that's of any interest. Just sit on one of the benches. Check out the new statues and rec bldg.

And if you want a real USNA lesson? Go over and walk around the cemetary. Stunning to see the names that have made the U.S. Navy the greatest. Terrific history lesson. Read some of the plaques. The Herndon monument recognizes the heroic USN captain of the Central America, a "mail ship" with passengers and more notably, the world's largest treasure to be found about 15 years ago off coast of NC. Sunk hauling gold from the California gold fields. Herndon kept the steam fired paddle wheeler afloat and saved many, including all women and children passengers. Back in those days, a USN officer was required for all ships carrying mail.
 
The tour is not a bad idea for those who've never been to the yard. You'll be able to see most of what is open to tourists and have a reasonably knowledgeable civilian guide. While mids around USNA will answer questions, they really don't have the time or inclination to take tourists around the yard -- other than friends and family, of course.

If you have a specific question or two that your guide couldn't answer, a random mid could help. Also, CGO has daily open houses M-Sat, I believe. Check the usna.edu website under Admissions to see if there are more details. This is an opportunity to explain the process and for people to ask questions . . . they aren't interviewing you.

If you DO take the USNA tour, wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking.
 
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