National Museum of the Great Lakes and The Sandpiper Collaborate for Ultimate Great Lakes History Day
June 5, 2024 (Toledo, Ohio) – The National Museum of the Great Lakes is partnering once again with The Sandpiper tour boat for Ship & Shore: The Ultimate Great Lakes History Day. This summer, on Saturday, July 6 and Saturday, August 3, visitors can purchase a special ticket that combines full access to the National Museum of the Great Lakes with a scenic trip along the Maumee River aboard The Sandpiper.
“The Ship & Shore experience provides an immersive way to explore Great Lakes history all day long,” said Ellen Kennedy, Director of Museum Operations at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. “Guests will enjoy full access to our family-friendly exhibits and museum boats. Mid-day, they will embark on a trip along the Maumee River aboard The Sandpiper, visiting spots like the Port of Toledo. The tour departs and returns from the museum docks.”
During the Maumee River tour, visitors will engage with the award-winning "Port of Toledo: Then and Now" exhibit. This interactive exhibit uses QR codes onboard The Sandpiper, allowing cruisers to delve into the rich history along the Maumee River. The QR codes provide images and information, enabling visitors to visually compare the historical and current views of the river.
Tickets for “Ship & Shore: The Ultimate Great Lakes History Day” can be purchased in advance at nmgl.org or by calling 419-214-5000. Day-of tickets will be available only if space permits. For additional information, visit nmgl.org/events.
Event Highlights:
- Ultimate Great Lakes History Day: July 6 and August 3, 2024
- Full Museum Access: Explore the museum’s family-friendly exhibits, the 617-foot Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, and Museum Tug Ohio
- Maumee River Tour: Board The Sandpiper at 1 PM for a two-hour guided tour, featuring the interactive "Port of Toledo: Then and Now" exhibit.
- All-Day Exploration: The museum opens at 10 AM, with the last chance to board museum ships at 4 PM.
Tips for Visitors:
- Start Early: Arrive around 10 AM to maximize your visit.
- Plan for Lunch: Food is not included; consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the Maritime Park before the Sandpiper tour.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire.
Experience Great Lakes history first-hand, from tugboats and freighters to local industry in action. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the National Museum of the Great Lakes and the Maumee River on the same day.
About the National Museum of the Great Lakes: Founded in 1944, the Great Lakes Historical Society has been preserving our shared cultural history by publishing a quarterly journal Inland Seas® since 1945; by operating a maritime museum since 1952; by offering educational programs to the general public since 1956; by conducting underwater archaeological research across the Great Lakes since 2001; and by managing the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship since 2014 and Museum Tug Ohio since 2019. The opening of the National Museum of the Great Lakes enables the Great Lakes Historical Society to continue its mission to preserve and make known the important history of the Great Lakes.
WHAT: Ship & Shore: The Ultimate Great Lakes History Day
WHEN: Saturday, July 6 and August 3, 2024; 10am-5pm
WHERE: National Museum of the Great Lakes
1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605
ADMISSION: Adults (18+) $45, Youth (3-17) $35
GLHS/NMGL Members: Adults $30, Youth $22
FREE for all Children 2 and Under
MEDIA CONTACT: Ashley Streichert, 419-460-8181
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