Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience
airzoo.org | 866-524-7966
Portage
The Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience, a Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science museum, is one of the largest air and space museums in the U.S. With more than 100 rare and unique aircraft and spacecraft, inspiring interactive exhibits, 3D HD full-motion flight simulators, indoor amusement park rides, and hands-on, science-based camps and classes, there is something for all ages and interests to experience. The Air Zoo campus allows visitors to explore and discover aviation, engineering, science, technology, math, and art.
Michigan Maritime Museum
michiganmaritimemuseum.org | 269-637-8078
South Haven
Learn about the Great Lakes’ rich maritime heritage as you explore the Michigan Maritime Museum’s (MMM) authentic waterfront campus. From hands-on exhibits to historically-immersive experiences aboard an on-water fleet, the MMM has something for every Great Lakes history enthusiast. Five separate structures offer a variety of engaging opportunities, including permanent and changing exhibits, a center for the teaching of boat building and related maritime skills, and a fleet of period and replica vessels for on-water experiences.
Holland Museum
hollandmuseum.org | 616-796-3329
Holland
Discover Holland’s multi-faceted history and rich culture at the Holland Museum. In the main galleries, you’ll follow Holland’s immigrant roots from the old country to the new world through fine art and artifacts. Learn how a settlement carved out of the forested shores of Lake Michigan 170 years ago, developed into an innovative, vibrant city. The Cappon and Settlers Houses, just a few blocks from the museum, tell the stories of Holland’s earliest settlers, including its first mayor.
Tri-Cities Historical Museum
tri-citiesmuseum.org | 616-842-0700
Grand Haven
Tri-Cities Historical Museum is the premier showcase for the history of the Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg area. The main museum at 200 Washington Avenue features exhibits that include a range of local topics such as the indigenous Native American contributions, the fur trade, early settlers, industry, commerce, and daily life.
Lakeshore Museum Center
lakeshoremuseum.org | 231-722-0278
Muskegon
There’s always something new to learn and do at all of the Lakeshore Museum Center’s locations. Experience hands-on interactive exhibits, tours, and programs that feature 400 million years of Michigan’s history. The Lakeshore Museum Center houses natural and cultural history exhibits, and its other sites and buildings include the Hackley & Hume Historic Site, the Fire Barn Museum, the Scolnik House of the Depression Era, the Archives, and the Museum Store.
Muskegon Museum of Art
muskegonartmuseum.org | 231-720-2570
Muskegon
Experience the world-class collections of paintings, prints, sculpture, and glass at The Muskegon Museum of Art. This community treasure hosts a wide variety of temporary exhibitions, and conducts educational programs, classes, family programs, lectures, hands-on activities, and guided tours. Educational programs, including classes, family programs, lectures, and hands-on activities. Books and unique gift items may be purchased in the Museum Store.
USS Silversides Submarine Museum
silversidesmuseum.org | 231-755-1230
Muskegon
Tour the USS Silversides, a Gato-class World War II submarine, the museum’s feature attraction; and the US Coast Guard Cutter, McLane, a rare prohibition-era vessel. The Silversides received 12 battle stars for WWII service and one Presidential Unit Citation for cumulative action over four patrols. She is credited with sinking 23 ships, the third-most of any allied WWII submarine. The Robert G. Morin facility at the museum honors the men and women of the military, preserves military history, and provides educational experiences about past and present military history and technology.
White River Light Station
splka.org | 231-845-7417
White Lake Area
The White River Light station was built in 1875, just four years after the Great Chicago fire. A channel was dug in 1870 between Lake Michigan and White Lake to facilitate the access of lumber schooners. The light station was decommissioned in 1960 and opened its doors as a museum in 1970 under the ownership and management of Fruitland Township. Today, SPLKA, a non-profit that proudly manages four lighthouses along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, operates the White River Lighthouse. You can climb to the top of her tower or wander around the museum and grounds. Don’t miss viewing the original Fourth Order Fresnel lens on display in the museum.
