Arts and Entertainment

African American Scientists & Inventors Day

February 14 2026

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Nauticus 1 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510 Price: $12
African American Scientists & Inventors Day

Celebrate the incredible contributions of African American inventors and scientists who have shaped our world through their groundbreaking innovations and discoveries.

Join us for only $12 admission* to Nauticus on Saturday, February 14th from 10AM – 5PM.This engaging day at Nauticus will showcase hands-on activities, inspiring stories, and fun experiments that highlight these remarkable individuals’ lasting impact on science and technology.

PLUS, Arrive early and enjoy a tasty perk — the first 50 guests will receive a $5 off coupon to Anchor & Spoon, our brand-new café inside Nauticus!
Anchor & Spoon will also be offering a Sweet Potato Biscuit at their cafe – one day only! Visit the website to view the full menu!

Check out these featured activities:

  • 10AM-4PM – From Safety Hood to Gas  Mask (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This program will highlight the inventor Garrett Augustus Morgan on his invention of the “Safety Hood” which was patented in 1914. The Safety Hood was a precursor to the Gas Mask. A Wisconsin Emergency Escape Breathing Device will be on display. Guests can learn a brief history about Garret Morgan, his inventions, and the founding of his “National Safety Device Company”.
  • 10AM-4PM – Poster Display – Explore the groundbreaking achievements of famous inventors and African American scientists who have shaped our world. These posters highlight their contributions across various fields, from engineering and medicine to space exploration and technology.
  • 10AM-4PM – Golf Tee 3D (Located on 1st Floor Atrium)  This display will highlight inventor George Franklin Grant and his invention of the golf tee. Visitors can see Nauticus’ 3D printer in action and even take away their own custom-printed golf tee.
  • 10AM- 12PM – Super Soaker Soccer (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This activity will highlight inventor Lonnie Johnson and his invention of the Super Soaker; all the rage in the 1980s and 1990s. Visitors will have the opportunity to test their skill and aim while battling their opponent in a game of Super Soaker Soccer.
  • 2PM-4PM – Making Light Last (Located on 1st Floor Atrium) – This program will highlight inventor Lewis Latimer and the significant improvement he made for the incandescent light bulb. Visitors will receive a brief history of the light bulb and learn how and why Latimer’s filament lasted longer than Edison’s.

Events from 11AM-2PM:
Want to explore more? Add on our Sea Glass Valentine’s Workshop to your experience! Learn more and register here!
(Drop-in format – arrive anytime & create at your own pace!)

As always, Nauticus members visit for FREE! To become a member, click here.

*No other discounts apply.

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