Custom House Maritime Museum

Explore Newburyport’s Maritime History

Discover Newburyport’s rich seafaring heritage at the Custom House Maritime Museum, located at 25 Water Street in downtown Newburyport. Through maritime art, model ships, historical artifacts and engaging exhibits, the museum shares the stories of the sailors, merchants and shipbuilders who helped shape this historic waterfront community.

Newburyport developed into one of the eastern seaboard’s most important commercial ports and is recognized as the birthplace of the United States Coast Guard. Today, the Custom House Maritime Museum preserves this history while offering an educational and memorable experience for residents, families and visitors.

Exhibits and Collections

Visitors can explore an extensive collection of maritime art, model clipper ships, navigational artifacts and exhibits highlighting Newburyport’s shipbuilding and trading history. Displays also examine notable shipwrecks, life along the Merrimack River and the region’s important connection to the United States Coast Guard.

The museum’s collections help illustrate how maritime commerce influenced the growth of Newburyport and communities throughout the lower Merrimack Valley.

A Historic Newburyport Landmark

The Custom House was constructed during the 1830s to support international trade and collect duties on imported goods arriving at the busy Newburyport waterfront. The Classical Revival building was designed by noted American architect Robert Mills and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Newburyport Maritime Society was established in 1968 to preserve the building and operate it as the Custom House Maritime Museum. Today, the museum serves as an educational center, research resource and gathering place for the community.

Tours, Events and Private Rentals

Docent-led tours provide additional insight into the museum’s collections and Newburyport’s maritime past. The museum also presents lectures, family programs, special exhibits and community events throughout the year.

The historic building can be reserved for weddings, concerts, meetings and other private gatherings, offering a distinctive setting near Newburyport’s waterfront.

Plan Your Visit

The Custom House Maritime Museum is conveniently located in downtown Newburyport, within walking distance of Market Square, Waterfront Park, restaurants and local shops.