The Sailing Museum Opens in Newport, RI

In early May, the brand-new Sailing Museum opened its doors to the public for the first time. The museum has been in the works for many years and is the fruit of a lot of hard work and persistence on the part of its founders. Dedicated to the past, present and future of sailing, the new museum incorporates the National Sailing Hall of Fame and the America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Housed in the old Newport Armory on Lower Thames Street, the museum offers innovative interactive displays on seamanship, history and racing that will be fun for the whole family. The personalized museum journey begins with the selection of a boat. For sailors, they can select from one of seven; while those experiencing sailing for the first time will be given the option of a short quiz that will help them select a boat. For all, this boat becomes their avatar throughout their museum experience, guiding them through the interactive elements, and offering the chance to build skills and earn virtual rewards. The first floor of the museum is divided into six thematic areas: Wind & Water; The Making of a Sailor: Mental; The Making of a Sailor: Physical; Teamwork; Competition; and Legends of Sailing, National Sailing Hall of Fame & America’s Cup Hall of Fame. The second floor is home to additional exhibits and a private lounge honoring Hall of Famers. If you are sailing or driving to Newport this summer, put The Sailing Museum on your “must see” list. Check out the museum’s website, make a donation and book tickets here.