The museum building originally functioned as the commandant's residence for the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Exhibits include an actual periscope from a decommissioned submarine that allows visitors to view the shipyard area.
The collection features thousands of artifacts, including uniforms, medals, and pieces of decommissioned naval vessels.
It is one of only ten U.S. Navy-operated museums in the United States.
The shipyard itself, adjacent to the museum, has been operational since 1891.
The Puget Sound Navy Museum preserves the naval heritage of the Pacific Northwest, focusing specifically on the history of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and its contributions to the U.S. Navy. The museum occupies a historic building constructed in 1896, which previously served as the commandant's house for the naval base. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits featuring scale models of aircraft carriers, submarine periscopes, and extensive archives of naval personnel photographs. The facility highlights the evolution of ship repair technology and the strategic role of Bremerton in maritime conflicts. A primary focus is the history of the USS John C. Stennis and various local naval installations. The museum is a command-operated facility under the Naval History and Heritage Command.
The museum entrance provides a framed view of the historic shipyard and naval vessels moored in the harbor.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Bremerton Boardwalk for views of the active fleet.
Check the museum's official calendar for special lecture series or rotating temporary exhibits before visiting.
The museum is self-guided, but volunteer docents are often available to provide historical context.
Do not attempt to photograph restricted areas of the adjacent active naval shipyard, as this is strictly prohibited by federal law.
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the year.
No food or drink allowed; photography is generally permitted, though some sensitive archives may be restricted.
