San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, San Francisco

Located across from Ghirardelli Square and housed in a 1930s building that resembles a ship, this museum chronicles maritime history with photographs, miniature models of Navy ships, passenger lines and fascinating interactive exhibits. The Steamship Room details the evolution of wind-to-steam power. On display is the Mermaid, a one-man sailboat that carried a solo adventurer across the Pacific from Japan in 94 days. Hours vary with the different attractions within the park. The Visitor Center is located at 499 Jefferson Street and the Maritime Museum is at 900 Beach Street. Call or the visit the website for further details.