The Steamboat Era Museum opened its doors in 2004. It tells the story of the steamboats and how they altered the lives of everyone along the Chesapeake Bay. The steamboats provided an economic lifeline. The cities of Norfolk and, more predominately, Baltimore acted as gateways to the world beyond. The cities provided the markets, the towns provided the goods, and the steamboats provided a means to both. The era is brought to life with models, artifacts, and photos . Here you can step back into time; a romantic time full of adventure, splendor and prosperity. The pilothouse of the steamboat Potomac has been restored and is the centerpiece of the museum!