Are you a history buff? If not, there is still plenty to appreciate when taking the time to visit museums along the Great Lakes. Exhibits of artifacts, old ships and lighthouses make these attractions something someone with the least amount of knowledge could appreciate. So, pack your bags and start planning your next trip.
National Museum Of The Great Lakes
Toledo, Ohio
It’s not often that a person has the opportunity to explore a historic ship. Visitors of the National Museum of the Great Lakes can not only admire the Col. James M. Schoonmaker from the outside, but they can also walk around inside, taking a look at the various cabins and the private lounge and grill.
The museum itself offers a variety of exhibits with over 300 artifacts from around the Great Lakes region. If you are still feeling uncertain about clearing time on your schedule for this interaction, then be sure to take a look at the virtual tour offered on the National Museum of the Great Lakes website.
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Detroit, Mich.
The price is right at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Free admission makes this attraction available to all that would like to catch a glimpse at some of their signature exhibits. Some of our favorites include their “Outdoor Treasures” exhibit, which features the bow of the Edmund Fitzgerald and naval cannons from the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, as well as the “William Clay Ford Pilot House” exhibit.
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
Paradise, Mich.
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum website alone is enough to make any boater or history lover drool. Gorgeous photos on the homepage throw a small hint at the wonders that await upon your arrival — catch the perfect view of Whitefish Point Light Tower and have the opportunity to climb to the top. Go on an exploration of shipwrecks in the Shipwreck Museum Building, and walk the barrier-free boardwalk to Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Michigan Maritime Museum
South Haven, Mich.
Avid boaters, this is the museum for you. Have you ever wanted to learn to build a boat? The Michigan Maritime Museum has a center for the teaching of boat building. If you’ve ever had the desire to learn to create your own vessel, this is the place to go. Of course, this isn’t the only thing of interest at this museum; there is also a replica of Friends Good Will to explore, a research library and the museum’s many exhibits.
Museum Of The American Sailor
Great Lakes, Ill.
Is naval history something that interests you? The Museum of the American Sailor offers a peek into the life of the American sailor, with exhibits spanning from the colonial era to present day. Also, don’t forget to check out the “Navy Tails” exhibit, which will be around until fall of 2019. The exhibit tells the story of how animals were used by the navy.
For More Information:
National Museum of the Great Lakes
www.inlandseas.org
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
detroithistorical.org
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
www.shipwreckmuseum.com
Michigan Maritime Museum
www.michiganmaritimemuseum.org
Museum of the American Sailor
www.michiganmaritimemuseum.org
