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Naval Academy tours are a must-do when you step onto the Yard in Annapolis. Whether you're a history buff, a future midshipman, or just looking for an incredible experience, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) has a tour for you! Choose from a variety of guided experiences, including the classic 90-minute Historical Walking Tour, the elegant USNA Tour & Tea, the Admissions Briefing and Walking Tour, or specialty tours like the Jewish Chapel & Levy Center Tour, the GEM Car Tour, and the Anchors Aweigh Music Tour.
Spring Is the Perfect Time for a USNA Tour
Spring has arrived, and there’s no better time to experience Naval Academy tours! With the Yard in full bloom and midshipmen in action, you’ll get an inside look at the daily life of the young men and women training to serve our nation. For those considering applying to USNA, spring tours offer the perfect opportunity to see Bancroft Hall, one of the largest dormitories in the world, and visit the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center for valuable admissions information.
Sneak Peek: What You’ll Learn on a USNA Tour
We don’t want to spoil all the surprises, but here’s a glimpse of the incredible history and traditions you’ll encounter on your tour!
How Did the Naval Academy Begin?
Believe it or not, the Army was here first! The land that is now home to the Naval Academy was originally Fort Severn, built in 1808 to defend Annapolis Harbor. But by 1845, the Army had no further need for it, so the Navy acquired the fort - at the unbeatable price of zero dollars. And the rest, as they say, is history!
How Big Is the Naval Academy Now?
Fast forward almost two centuries, and the USNA is ranked the #1 public school by U.S. News & World Report. It offers 26 different majors and is home to roughly 4,500 midshipmen. The approximately 600 faculty members represent an almost even mix of military and civilian professionals, ensuring a top-tier education.
Who Is Bill the Goat?
The USNA’s beloved mascot, Bill the Goat, is more than just a good luck charm - he’s a legend. You’ll find his statue near the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, and nearby is a resting place for past Bills, starting with Bill XXXIII. It’s Bill XXXVII that now riles up the crowds at Navy games.
What Is the N* Flag?
A tour wouldn’t be complete without spotting the iconic N* flag pole! This flag celebrates Navy’s victories over Army. Varsity athletes earn a star on their “N” for every Army win, and the blue and gold pennants on the pole tally up those victories across all men’s and women’s varsity sports. With 35 varsity sports in total, Navy has more sports than all other colleges (except for Stanford and Ohio State).
Related: The History of the N*: An Epic Rivalry That Rolls On.
Where Do Midshipmen Train for Swimming?
Lejeune Hall is home to the swimming complex, where midshipmen undergo rigorous water survival training. Plebes (first-year students) must swim 200 meters (four laps) in under five minutes and twelve seconds. Third class midshipmen (sophomores) must swim 400 meters (eight laps) in less than eleven minutes and second class midshipmen (juniors) must swim 700 meters (fifteen laps) in less than 30 minutes. However, they must do this in a khaki uniform with no shoes. By their junior year, they leap from a ten-meter platform into deep water while wearing their khaki uniforms!
Where Are the Heisman Trophies?
The USNA boasts two Heisman Trophy winners: Joe Bellino and Roger Staubach. Their Heisman trophies (replicas gifted by the Downtown Athletic Club of New York City) are proudly displayed in the Football Hall of Fame display in Lejeune Hall, with their retired jersey numbers (27 and 12) forever enshrined in Navy football history.
Related: USNA Notable Graduate Highlight: Roger Staubach
What’s Inside Bancroft Hall?
Bancroft Hall is more than just a dormitory, it’s a small city! This architectural marvel houses over 4,000 midshipmen and features a barber and beauty shop, cobbler shop, post office, and the legendary King Hall, one of the world’s largest dining facilities, serving more than 13,500 meals each day. Covering 34 acres, Bancroft Hall has 1,800+ rooms, 4.8 miles of corridors, and even its own zip code!
What’s the Deal with USS ANTIETAM?
Step into Dahlgren Hall to see the impressive 52-foot-long model of USS ANTIETAM. This detailed warship replica was originally built for the U.S. Centennial Exposition in 1876 and has helped generations of midshipmen to literally learn the ropes!
What Is Captains Row?
Stroll down Porter Road, also known as Captains Row, where top-ranking officers reside. Fun fact: This road was originally a canal used to transport granite for Yard architect Ernest Flagg’s Beaux-Arts buildings in the early 1900s. Today, it’s home to senior faculty and leadership, including the Dean of Admissions and the Commandant of Midshipmen.
Related: U.S. Naval Academy Captains Row: A Sneak Peek at Some of the Historic Homes on the Yard
What Is T-Court?
Tamanend Court, or T-Court, is where the USNA officially began on October 10, 1845 at the Fort Severn mess hall. Plebes are often sworn in here on Induction Day (I-Day), and it’s also the site of Noon Meal Formation, when midshipmen gather before heading to King Hall for lunch. Overseeing it all is the Tamanend figurehead, a replica of the original that was given to the Naval Academy in 1866. It’s from the bow of the salvaged Delaware, purposely sunk at Norfolk during the Civil War.
What’s Inside Preble Hall?
The USNA Museum in Preble Hall is a hidden gem, home to the world-renowned Rogers Ship Model Collection. With 108 meticulously crafted ship models dating from 1650-1850, it offers an incredible glimpse into naval history.
Plan Your Visit Today!
United States Naval Academy tours are the best way to experience the rich history, traditions, and daily life at USNA. Whether you’re exploring Bancroft Hall, learning about legendary mascots or athletes, or seeing where future officers train, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, proceeds from USNA tours go directly toward supporting midshipmen activities, including extracurriculars like the arts, music, theater, club sports, and more.
So what are you waiting for? Book your United States Naval Academy tour today and become a part of this incredible history!
