Patriots Point Expects Nine Millionth Visitor

In the next two weeks, Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum will welcome its nine millionth paid visitor since the museum’s inception in 1976. A series of surprises are in store for the visitor, including a prize pack valued at nearly $2,500.

“When Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum got its start almost forty years ago, we were the first aircraft carrier museum in the nation. Since that time, we have welcomed millions of students, generations of families, and countless veterans,” said Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette.

Thanks to a number of donors, Patriots Point will present the nine millionth visitor with a prize package valued at nearly $2,500. Here's what's being offered:

• Private three-course dinner for two aboard the USS Yorktown (donated by
• Corporate Events and Catered Affairs);
• Charleston Harbor tour for four (donated by SpiritLine Cruises);
• Carriage tour for four (donated by Palmetto Carriage Works);
• Two–night stay for a family of four plus dinner and breakfast (donated by Bennett Hospitality);
• Voucher for a Carnival Cruise for two people;
• Helicopter ride at Patriots Point with PeeDee Helicopter;
• Experience in the Patriots Point Flight Simulator courtesy of Flight Avionics, Inc.;
• Merchandise from the Patriots Point Ship’s Store gift shop;
• One-year membership for free future visits to Patriots Point.

The exact date the museum will reach this number will not be known exactly until the day before; but it is likely that it will be between June 4 – 8. Members of the media are invited to join Patriots Point staff aboard the USS Yorktown to surprise the visitor.

“Our museum’s nine million visitors have contributed significantly to our region’s economy since 1976,” said Burdette, estimating that over the past 37 years that Patriots Point has had an economic impact on the region and state of over $700 million.

“We take as much pride in welcoming visitors today as we did the day we opened – on January 3, 1976," he said. "This is an exciting day for all of us at Patriots Point. We sincerely appreciate the support and patronage of our local and out of town visitors. There are not many museums or attractions that can boast of this kind of success.”