Lake Superior Marine Museum

"The Lake Superior Marine Museum in Duluth offers visitors a hands-on, historic look into commercial shipping on the Great Lakes. Located near the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, this free, federally operated museum features ship replicas, a towering steam engine, and interactive educational experiences for all ages."

Recommended for

Maritime history buffs
Dive into Great Lakes shipping history, engineering marvels, and Duluth’s port heritage

Families & school groups
Participate in free guided tours, hands-on programs, and kid-friendly educational activities

Curious travelers
Explore a working replica pilothouse, steam engine, and the history of the Aerial Lift Bridge

Gift shop browsers
Find maps, books, apparel, and souvenirs celebrating Lake Superior and its maritime culture

Things to See & Do

Fresnel Lens Exhibit: View the historic 1901 lens from the Duluth Ship Canal, restored and on display
Ship Models & Replicas: Examine over 50 detailed models and walk through realistic cabin and pilothouse reconstructions
Three-Story Steam Engine: Marvel at this engineering feat used in early Great Lakes shipping vessels
Aerial Lift Bridge Exhibit: Learn the history and mechanics of Duluth’s iconic bridge
Gift Shop: Shop for maps, Lake Superior-themed merchandise, and marine memorabilia

Educational Programs

Who’s in Charge: Kids K–3 learn what it’s like to work aboard a ship on the Great Lakes
Up & Down the Soo Locks: Understand the logistics and significance of the Great Lakes shipping channels
Pier History Tour: Explore Duluth’s historic canal district with a ranger-led walking tour (May–Sept)
Cell Phone Tour: Access narrated insights on-site by dialing 218-213-9069 (standard rates apply)

Good to Know

Style: Educational and family-friendly with immersive, historically accurate exhibits
Extras: Gift shop discounts for Museum Association members; free admission year-round
Founded: Opened in 1973 and operated by the U.S. federal government

Map & Location