Educator and School Group Visits

Teachers and students receive free admission!

The Custom House Maritime Museum welcomes educators and schools to engage with our programs and exhibits focused on the maritime history of Newburyport, Massachusetts, one of the first ports of entry of the newly formed republic of the United States of America. The Custom House, built in 1835, became a museum in 1978 and offers unique learning opportunities for visitors of all ages, featuring exhibits on maritime trade, shipbuilding, art, privateers, and the development of the US Coast Guard.

Our programs for educators include related activities to promote professional development, as well as educational programs and guided tours for their students, supporting classroom instruction and student motivation with learning opportunities. These include topics on the age of sail, maritime trade, ship building and historical events that helped to shape our nation, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, our culture, and the development of the Newburyport area.

We recommend that educators visit the museum before a class visit.

We will be pleased to help tailor your visit to meet your learning goals and your students’ needs.

Reservations

Please make reservations in advance. For groups larger than 6 students, advance planning is required to facilitate efficient movement through the museum.

Bus drop-off is located at the driveway located on the right side, when facing the front of the CHMM. Buses will be able to turn around or park in the large parking area on that side of the building next to “Oldies” building. 

What to Expect During Your Visit

To ensure that everyone has an enjoyable visit, please review the following:

  •  CHMM requires one adult chaperone for every 10 students visiting the museum.
  • All students must always stay with their adult chaperones when visiting the museum galleries.
  • Travel light! All bags are subject to inspection upon arrival.
  • Eating or drinking is not allowed in galleries.
  • There is a lot to talk about, but please do so with “inside” voices and remind your group to walk, not run, inside the museum and maintain proper behavior.
  • Everyone is asked to turn off cell phones or set to “silent/mute” when in the galleries.
  • To preserve the artwork, flash photography and videotaping are NOT permitted in any galleries.
  • Close looking is encouraged, but not too close. Remind students to stay 18 inches away from artwork, even when pointing.
  • Get those creative juices flowing! Please make sure students with writing/drawing assignments have proper writing surfaces such as clipboards. Only pencils are allowed in galleries. (Clipboards may be reserved with advanced notice).

Accessibility

Accessibility: The CHMM building is not ADA compliant due to the configuration and physical constraints of this unique and historic building.