Experience the National Museum of the Great Lakes for FREE with Museums for All

Discover the fascinating history of the Great Lakes—without the barrier of admission costs. Thanks to our partnership with the Museums for All program and support from UToledo Health and Toledo Refining, our community receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can enjoy free access to our museum and museum ships.

Join us to explore interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and the fascinating stories that have shaped our region, all at no cost to you.

How It Works

Visiting the National Museum of the Great Lakes through the Museums for All program is simple:

  1. Bring Your SNAP EBT Card – Present your valid SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card at our front desk.
  2. Enjoy Free Admission – Receive free entry for up to four people, including access to all museum exhibits and our historic museum ships (during their open season).
  3. Explore and Learn – Immerse yourself in Great Lakes history through interactive displays, hands-on activities, and engaging storytelling.

Plan Your Visit

  • Location: National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St., Toledo, OH, 43605
  • Transportation: Located on TARTA Bus Route #12
  • Parking: Free parking lot available on site
  • Current Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday: 12pm-5pm, Closed on Tuesdays.
  • Museum Ships Open Season: May 1 – October 31 
  • What to Bring: Your SNAP EBT card and a valid photo ID
  • Cost: Free admission for up to four individuals per EBT card

Travel directly to the National Museum of the Great Lakes via TARTA Route #12.

Discover, Explore, and Have Fun!

The National Museum of the Great Lakes is a fun place to learn about the history of the Great Lakes. You can see real boats, hear exciting stories, and explore unique exhibits that show how people traveled and worked on the lakes. You can even step onto a giant ship to see what life was like on the water!

Thanks to UToledo Health and Toledo Refining, we also have special days where you can learn about wellness and science. 

Whether you love history or just want a fun adventure, this museum is a great place to visit!