Michigan Maritime Museum

The Michigan Maritime Museum occupies multiple buildings along Lake Michigan's shore and displays exhibits about Great Lakes shipping and seafaring traditions. The site includes a research library, boat-building workshop, and port facilities where historic vessels can dock.

South Haven served as a shipping port starting in 1860 and became a major hub for Great Lakes commerce. The museum opened in 1973 to record and protect this maritime past.

The museum keeps a collection of working sailing vessels, including the tall ship Friends Good Will, which still operates on the lake and connects visitors directly to traditional seafaring methods.

The museum campus sits directly on the waterfront and is walkable, with buildings spread out in a manageable area. Plan extra time during summer months when water activities and visiting vessels are most active.

Visitors can learn traditional boat-building techniques directly in a working workshop where skilled craftspeople still practice their trade. This hands-on access to historical skills sets the museum apart from typical exhibitions.

Location: South Haven

Address: 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, Michigan 49090

Phone: +(269)6378078

Website: https://michiganmaritimemuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 42.40660,-86.27446

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42