Puerto Vallarta families and visitors are invited to step into history during the 4th edition of Museum Night at the Naval History Museum of Puerto Vallarta on April 25. The evening will commemorate the arrival of the schooner Iguala, recognized as the first warship of Mexico’s Navy.
The historic schooner Iguala, commissioned in 1822, became part of the first naval squadron formed after Mexico gained independence. Acquired in the United States, the vessel played an important role in early national defense, including efforts to blockade the Spanish stronghold of San Juan de Ulúa in Veracruz. Its legacy remains an important symbol in Mexican naval history and has been honored during national bicentennial commemorations.
This special Museum Night offers a variety of family-friendly activities designed to connect visitors with Mexico’s maritime heritage. From 6:00 to 9:30 pm, guests can explore interactive displays, meet members of the Marine Infantry and Canine Unit, and participate in hands-on workshops such as nautical knot tying, choreography, and drawing.
The program will also feature performances by local poets from Poets and Writers of Puerto Vallarta, along with live musical entertainment.
Located on Zaragoza Street in the heart of downtown, the Naval History Museum occupies a historic colonial-style building next to the Los Arcos Amphitheater along the Malecón. The structure has served several roles over the years, including Port Authority offices, a Naval Hospital, and Navy Headquarters, before opening as a museum in 2006.
Today, the museum houses five exhibition rooms that highlight Mexico’s naval history from pre-Hispanic times to the modern era. Visitors can view collections of naval uniforms, historic photographs, paintings, maps, navigation instruments, and scale models of forts and vessels. Interactive audiovisual exhibits and a five-screen navigation simulator allow guests to experience piloting a large ship through changing conditions.
The museum also supports the arts through temporary exhibitions coordinated with Puerto Vallarta’s Department of Art and Culture, showcasing works by local, national, and international artists. The 4th edition of Museum Night offers an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to learn about Mexico’s maritime heritage while enjoying an engaging evening of culture, creativity, and community.
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