NEW SHOPPING EXPERIENCE: The VMI Museum System has launched its brand new online store – in time for your holiday shopping needs. Explore the new site to find vintage and museum-inspired apparel and gifts celebrating the proud history and spirit of Virginia Military Institute.
The VMI Museum is open daily 9AM – 5PM
Since 1839, VMI has helped mold the history of America. The museum traces the amazing civilian and military careers of many alumni. Among the ranks of the alumni are Nobel Prize recipients, Pulitzer Prize winners, explorers, film stars, as well as national, state and local political and civic leaders.
Founded in 1845, the VMI Museum was the first public museum in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The VMI Museum collects, preserves, interprets, and exhibits the heritage of VMI as recorded in the 20,000 artifact collection. Many items in the collection have been presented by the individuals who used them (“One of my VMI web belts Mama kept” reads a handwritten note penned by WWII Gen. George Patton, VMI Class of 1907).
From the mounted hide of Little Sorrel, “Stonewall” Jackson’s favorite horse, to the seven Medals of Honor awarded to VMI alumni, the museum chronicles the story of the nation’s first state-sponsored military college. Special exhibits on the career of Gen. George C. Marshall, VMI Class of 1901, known as the “Architect of Victory” during WWII and author of the “Marshall Plan,” and the world-class Stewart Firearms Collection are featured in the museum.
Plan Your Visit
Cadet Guided Tours
Arrange your visit to the VMI Museum before or following a cadet-led walking tour of the historic VMI post. The tour is free and is offered daily while classes are in session. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m. in the VMI Museum lobby located on the 2nd floor of Memorial Hall and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Reservations are only required for groups larger than 15. Please call 540-464-7334 to arrange group reservations.
Museum Admission Fees
Lexington Experience Package: Bundle & Save! — 25% savings off of regular ticket cost
VMI Museum AND
Jackson House Museum
Adult (13-64): $15
Senior/Military: $12
Youth (6-12): $9
Valley Experience Package: Bundle & Save! — 30% savings off of regular ticket cost
VMI Museum AND
Jackson House Museum AND Virginia Museum of the Civil War
Adult (13-64): $22
Senior/Military: $18
Youth (6-12): $13
Tickets are valid for up to 7 days. Group Rates available for 15 or more. Please call 540-464-7334 for rates and information.
Discounts and Complimentary Entry for VMI Museum:
- Senior (65+) $8
- Military (active/retired) $8
- VMI Alumni free *
- VMI Cadet/Faculty/Staff free *
- Local Residents free **
* Immediate family included and must be accompanied by the alumnus or cadet
** Lexington, Buena Vista, Rockbridge County
An Inside Look
The VMI Museum is mapped out as part of the Institute’s virtual tour. Take a look around the displays from the comfort of your own home before you visit or after to get a closer look. Please note, the tour may not include all items currently on display, including any special exhibits.
Did you know?
Not only is the museum a destination for the general public to research and explore the rich history of this Institute, but it also serves as a classroom for VMI cadets, particularly those studying history and chemistry. Faculty members collaborate with our museum professionals to design hands-on experiences for cadets using items from our collections, including those on display and pulled from storage.
Questions? We’re Here to Help
Email: frenchlt@vmi.edu
Phone: (540) 464-7704
VMI Museum
415 Letcher Avenue