NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

I’m certain that you are all keenly aware of the threat the COVID-19 virus presents to the health and well-being of each of us, our families, friends, and country. After careful consideration of all known risks and recommendations/requirements published by the CDC and the Commonwealth, we have decided that we are prepared to safely open the Museum on a limited basis starting Thursday, 16 July. Although our hours will still be from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, we plan, at least initially, to open only on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Click on this COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS link to see the steps we have taken and have asked our visitors and staff to take to ensure your safety.

You can also click on this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) link for more information we hope will enhance your visit.

Finally, click on the “Make Reservation Now” button to pick a date & time to visit.

Be safe out there and do all you can to stay well. Hope to see you soon.

Greg Ketchen

President

CG Heritage Museum

Make Reservation Now

About Us

Who we are...

The Coast Guard Heritage Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Our mission is to tell the Coast Guard story from a regional Cape Cod perspective. We are one of only two free-standing museums in the country dedicated to celebrating U.S. Coast Guard history. It is very appropriate that we occupy the 1856 U.S. Customs House in Barnstable. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the birth place of the Coast Guard and both Customs and Coast Guard have 18th century origins under the Treasury Department. Both organizations have worked closely since that time. The service’s legacy on the Cape is very deep and rich. It has protected our shores and harbors, rescued thousands of distressed seamen, saved cargo worth millions of dollars, interdicted illegal drugs, promoted vessel safety, and enforced environmental, fisheries and maritime laws. In short, the Coast Guard has performed and continues to perform critical missions that protect our national interests, promote economic prosperity, and ensure public safety. With over 2700 square feet of display space, we have exhibits filled with historic artifacts, models and stories that celebrate that history. Your admission includes an audio tour, if desired.

More Information

Where we are located...

The Coast Guard Heritage Museum is located in the historic old Customs House at the corner of Main Street and Millway in Barnstable Village on Cape Cod, MA. Built in 1855 to a design by Ammi Young, it was used as a custom house and post office until 1913, continuing to house the post office and other offices until 1958. It was converted into a museum in 1960, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Find out more

We are now OPEN for the season!

Opening day for the 2020 season is Thursday 16 July. We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, Friday or Saturday this season, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Admission is still $5 for adults, children 10 and under, active duty Coast Guard personnel and Museum Members are free. Advance Reservations are highly recommended! New exhibits include celebration of Air Station Cape Cod's 50th anniversary.

To make a reservation, click here.

Check out our Facebook page!

Learn more

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person (with precautions)!

We have two full floors of displays and over 2700 square feet of exhibits covering the history of the Coast Guard from its beginnings as the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service and U.S. Life Saving Service through stories about the two Coast Guardsmen that went to space. Come and browse on your own, use our free audio tour system, or have a personal tour by one of our friendly volunteer docents. You won't be disappointed!

Coast Guard Heritage Museum

3353 Main Street, P.O. Box 161, Barnstable, Massachusetts 02630, United States

Phone: (508) 362-8521 Email: CGHeritage@Comcast.net

Hours of Operation

We will be operating on an "abbreviated" schedule during the 2020 season. Opening day is Thursday 16 July and we will only be open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for the season. Hours will still be 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Admission is $5.00 for adults. Children under 10, Active Duty Coast Guard personnel and Museum Members are still free.

We highly recommend you make online reservations in advance!

Coast Guard Heritage Museum

Coast Guard Heritage Museum

Welcome to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum

Welcome to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum

NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS!