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National Museum of the Great Lakes
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Exhibit Philosophy

“Our exhibit philosophy is simple; educate and entertain.”

Our exhibit philosophy is simple; educate and entertain.

Our displays will educate the visitor about the importance of the Great Lakes to our national story.

The experience will be designed to educate a diverse audience both in age and knowledge of the topic.

We will accomplish this goal of education in visually, auditory and tactile compelling ways so that the experience is engrossing and entertaining.

Plan Your Visit

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Admission Fees

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Museum Floor Plan

Schematic Plan

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Exhibit Philosophy

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Preserving Great Lakes History

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News

  • National Museum of the Great Lakes and Great Lakes Observing System Partner on New Micro-ExhibitJune 30, 2026 - 10:26 am

    July 1, 2026 (Toledo, Ohio) – The National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL) invites visitors to discover the technology and data networks that help scientists, mariners, and communities better

  • National Museum of the Great Lakes Launches Kids Programming on Saturdays All Summer LongMay 24, 2026 - 12:08 pm

    May 27, 2026 (Toledo, Ohio) – The National Museum of the Great Lakes is inviting families to dive into creativity, science, and engineering this summer with the return of Capt.

  • National Museum of the Great Lakes Announces Return of Wellness by the Boat Free Outdoor Fitness SeriesMay 14, 2026 - 4:42 pm

    The National Museum of the Great Lakes is excited to announce the return of its popular Wellness by the Boat series for 2026. This year, the program is free to

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VISIT US

National Museum of the Great Lakes
1701 Front Street
Toledo, Ohio 43605
United States of America
Phone: (419) 214-5000
Url: www.nmgl.org

HOURS

Monday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Closed on Tuesdays: November 1 - April 30

Museum is Closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve
SS Col James M. Schoonmaker and Tug Ohio
open May – October
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EXPLORE THE MUSEUM

The National Museum of the Great Lakes reveals the varied and fascinating history of our treasured Great Lakes, which make up 84% of all of the fresh water in North America. Come explore the history of the world's greatest natural resource—from canoes and schooners to early steamers and freighters—some of which ply the mighty Maumee River right next to the Museum.
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