Address
1701 Front Street
Toledo, OH 43605
Parking
The museum offers multiple free parking lots for visitors.
Designated accessible parking is available in each lot.
Parking is always free.
Current Hours
Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Closed on Tuesdays November 1 – April 30
The Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and Museum Tug Ohio are open May–October.
Last boarding for the vessels is 4 PM.
Admission
Pre-Order Your Tickets Online
Skip the line and purchase your tickets in advance. Or consider purchasing a membership (more details below).
Museum Only Admission
Adult – $14
Senior – $12
Military & First Responder – $12
Youth (6–17) – $8
Children (0–5) – FREE
Museum & Ships Admission
Adult – $20
Senior – $18
Military & First Responder – $18
Youth (6–17) – $14
Children (0–5) – FREE
The Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and Museum Tug Ohio are open May–October.
The museum ships are historical artifacts and not accessible.
Sensory Friendly Admission
Experience the museum in a serene and accommodating atmosphere every second Saturday & Sunday of the month.
Museums for All Admission
Families and individuals receiving SNAP benefits (food assistance) get free admission to the museum and museum ships.
Pre-order is not available for Museums for All tickets. The program is presented by UToledo Health and Toledo Refining Company.
Group Visits
Discounts may be available for groups of 15 or more if you pre-book.
New Exhibit Now Open
Currents of Change: The Living History of the Great Lakes
April 22 – October 18
Currents of Change: The Living History of the Great Lakes, presented by the John and Virginia Hankison Foundation, invites visitors to explore the ever-evolving relationship between people and our freshwaters.
From beavers that shaped early Great Lakes economies to invasive species and harmful algae blooms that challenge us today, this immersive exhibit traces the powerful forces that have transformed our region. Visitors will experience pivotal turning points in Great Lakes history while discovering how science, conservation, and community action continue to influence the lakes’ future.
A membership to the National Museum of the Great Lakes is the best way to experience everything the museum has to offer.
Free Admission
Unlimited visits to the Museum, featuring innovative rotating exhibits in our NEW expansion, plus the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, Museum Tug Ohio, and programming for all ages.
Exclusive Access
Receive special Great Lakes stories and invites to members-only events including July 4th fireworks viewing, pancake breakfast aboard the Schoonmaker, and more!
Reciprocal Attractions & Discounts
Your membership opens doors to museums and experiences beyond our walls.
Special Savings
Get discounts on museum programs and 10% off all museum store purchases (in person or online!)
Upgrade to an Inland Seas or Inland Seas Society Level Membership
Enjoy a subscription to our award-winning quarterly journal plus all the benefits of membership.
Make the most of your visit by downloading our Schoonmaker Tour App, which offers guided insights and additional stories as you explore the historic vessel.
