Overview

A field trip to the MCRD Command Museum provides students with a unique opportunity to experience United States and world history through the eyes of the Marines; the Marine Corps has been involved in every U.S. conflict from the Revolutionary War to the Global War on Terror. 

A visit to the Command Museum brings to life what students study in their text books.  It is designed to be a fun, educational, and memorable experience.  The Museum is a reminder that the freedom we enjoy in America has never been free.  It is also a tribute to the determined and spirited men and women who since 1775 have proudly claimed the title of United States Marine.

Scheduling your Visit

Organization, communication, and advance planning guarantee the best possible experience for children as well as for teachers, group leaders, and chaperones.  Please contact us with the name of your organization, contact information, number of children and adults, age-level of the children, and preferred date and time of your visit.  After speaking with the museum, you will need to register your group visit with the MCRD G-3 office at (619) 524-8828.

Planning your Visit

We recommend groups spend a minimum of one hour in the Command Museum. An ideal visit to the museum consists of one and a half to two hours of time.  Periods of instruction and guided tours are tailored to each visiting group.  The type of tour or instruction your group receives will be coordinated with the Museum education staff.  Groups are also welcome to take self-guided tours of the Command Museum.

Museum Manners

In order to maintain a pleasant and orderly museum environment for visitors and staff, we ask that teachers and group leaders review our "Museum Manners" with students prior to your visit.  It is important that all visitors understand our behavior expectations. The following behaviors will not be tolerated: loud talking and shouting; running; misuse of museum artifacts; disrespecting museum staff, group leaders, and chaperones; eating or drinking in the galleries; any inconsiderate actions that disrupt the experience of others.

Meal Options

Groups are welcome to bring their lunches.  Picnic areas around the Command Museum are limited, however, groups may request in advance the use of MCRD's picnic facilities near the Boat House.  For a unique dining experience, groups may eat at one of MCRD's mess halls (dining facilities) with the Marines.  Group dining in the mess hall must be requested for and purchased in advance.  Please contact the MCRD G-3 office for these two dining options at (619) 524-8828. 

Groups may also purchase snacks from the convenience store across from the PX.  The Bayview Restaurant, housed in the former Officer's Club, offers menu-service and a buffet.  Reservations for groups are recommended.

Special Needs

The MCRD Command Museum strives to give the best possible service to all of its visitors.  Please contact us if members of your group have special needs.  An elevator is available for guests who need extra assistance and benches are placed throughout the museum for visitors to rest.  An ADA compliant family restroom is available on the first floor of the museum.  Parking is available close to the museum's main entrance.  Parking throughout MCRD is relatively flat.

Questions?

Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about your visit at (619) 524-6038.  We look forward to giving you an outstanding visitor experience.