The National Museum of the Great Lakes is situated in the Toledo Maritime Center, a heritage location on the banks of the Maumee River on the east side of Toledo, Ohio. This museum, operated by the Great Lakes Historical Society, celebrates the natural and built heritage of the North American Great Lakes from a U.S. perspective.
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is particularly known as the docking location of a museum Lake freighter, the SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker. This 1911-launched vessel's riveted plates and pre-radar pilothouse showcase the technology available to shipbuilders and mariners at the beginning of the 1900s. The vessel is open to the public during the warm months.
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is open to visitors year-round. This allows tourists to plan their visit at any time of the year, providing flexibility and convenience.
History & Anthropology Science & Technology Maritime Industrial heritage
Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 – 17:00 |
Closed on Tuesdays: November 1 - April 30
Closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve
Front Street 1701, Toledo
No exhibitions in National Museum of the Great Lakes have been found.
National Museum of the Great Lakes has 1 rating.
The National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo offers visitors an informative and engaging experience focused on the history and significance of the Great Lakes region. Located on the banks of the Maumee River, the museum features both indoor exhibits and outdoor attractions, including the museum ship SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker.
Visitors appreciate the well-curated exhibits that cover various aspects of Great Lakes history, from early exploration and settlement to maritime commerce and shipwrecks. The interactive displays and artifacts provide an educational experience suitable for all ages. Many guests highlight the museum's ability to balance factual information with engaging presentations.
The outdoor exhibits, particularly the opportunity to explore the restored lake freighter SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker, are frequently mentioned as highlights of the visit. This hands-on experience allows visitors to get a real sense of life aboard a Great Lakes vessel.
While the museum generally receives positive feedback, some visitors note that it may be on the smaller side compared to other maritime museums. Additionally, a few guests mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or expansion to provide an even more comprehensive look at Great Lakes history.
Overall, the National Museum of the Great Lakes is considered a worthwhile destination for those interested in maritime history, offering a solid educational experience with a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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