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Heart of the Navy

Presented by The Perry Family Foundation

Good For
All Ages

Location:
Third Floor

Interdisciplinary
Highly Interactive

The Heart of the Navy experience advances the public understanding of the Navy as a vital, human-centered enterprise engaged in shaping the future. This gallery places an emphasis on the vital role family and community play in supporting the U.S. Navy.

Don’t Miss These Interactives!

AR Viewer
Battleship Wisconsin Viewer

Soar as high as airplanes or take a trip to the international space station in an exciting hot air balloon simulator. Test your map making skills and learn from local innovators such as DroneUp.

Soar as high as airplanes or take a trip to the international space station in an exciting hot air balloon simulator. Test your map making skills and learn from local innovators such as DroneUp.

A cutting-edge AR exhibit that brings the ship to life like never before! Using augmented reality, you can explore an interactive overlay highlighting the locations of rooms and key areas inside the ship—all while viewing it from the outside.

Video Board
Real Stories

Soar as high as airplanes or take a trip to the international space station in an exciting hot air balloon simulator. Test your map making skills and learn from local innovators such as DroneUp.

Soar as high as airplanes or take a trip to the international space station in an exciting hot air balloon simulator. Test your map making skills and learn from local innovators such as DroneUp.

A powerful video exhibit that highlights the core pillars of life for sailors serving in the Navy: Sacrifice, Honor, Challenge, Mission, and Home. Through heartfelt accounts, discover the dedication and resilience that define their service and commitment.

Log Lift
Log Lift

Soar as high as airplanes or take a trip to the international space station in an exciting hot air balloon simulator. Test your map making skills and learn from local innovators such as DroneUp.

Where you’ll take on the challenge of lifting the same heavy logs used in Navy SEAL training. Discover firsthand the power of collaboration and why teamwork is essential to accomplishing the mission!

Magical Books
Interactive Comic Book

Watch as moving pictures appear on the screen as you read along with “magic books” featuring daring and resilient individual from Norfolk’s history.

Discover the stories of influential sailors who shaped Navy history. Through engaging visuals and hands-on interaction, this comic book brings to life the bravery, innovation, and leadership of remarkable individuals who served.

Tattoos
Earning Your Ink

Watch as moving pictures appear on the screen as you read along with “magic books” featuring daring and resilient individual from Norfolk’s history.

This hands on exhibit explores the rich tradition of tattoos in maritime careers, especially within the Navy. Discover how sailors used tattoos to showcase achievements, tell their stories, and connect to the seafaring community.

Meet the Fleet
Meet the Fleet

Discover what home means to you and reflect on the spirit and drive of your own city.

An engaging exhibit that introduces you to the diverse ships in the naval fleet. Explore the unique features of these vessels that keep our seas safe and operations running smoothly.

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