Interactive maritime museum featuring historic ships, immersive exhibits, and artifacts that chronicle the rich history of the Great Lakes.
General Information
Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
November–April: Closed Tuesdays
Closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve
Adults: $14.00
Seniors (65+): $12.00
Military & First Responders: $12.00
Youth (6–17): $8.00
Children (0–5): Free
Museum + Ship Admission (May–October):
Adults: $20.00
Seniors (65+): $18.00
Youth (6–17): $14.00
Children (0–5): Free
How to Get There
From downtown Toledo, take Front Street eastbound for about 2 miles; the museum is located on the Maumee River waterfront near the Craig Memorial Bridge.
Overview
The National Museum of the Great Lakes offers a captivating journey through the maritime history of North America's inland seas. Located on the banks of the Maumee River, the museum features over 300 artifacts, immersive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that explore the cultural, economic, and environmental impact of the Great Lakes. Visitors can trace the evolution of shipping, commerce, and exploration from the 17th century to the present day, with stories of shipwrecks, icebreakers, and rum runners vividly brought to life.
A highlight of the museum is the opportunity to board the 617-foot Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the historic Tug Ohio, both open seasonally from May through October. These vessels provide a hands-on experience of life on the water, from the engine room to the captain’s quarters. With its engaging exhibits and scenic riverfront setting, the National Museum of the Great Lakes is a must-visit destination for history buffs, families, and anyone fascinated by the power and legacy of the Great Lakes.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the National Museum of the Great Lakes, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
