Metro Detroit Families Rediscover the Dossin Great Lakes Museum

For families in Metro Detroit seeking an engaging and educational outing, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle offers a captivating journey through the region's rich maritime heritage.

 

Perched along the Detroit River, the museum presents exhibits that span over 300 years of Great Lakes history. Visitors can explore the William Clay Ford Pilot House, providing a glimpse into the life of a ship captain, and the Gothic Room from the luxury steamer City of Detroit III, showcasing the opulence of early 20th-century travel.

 

A highlight for many is the "Mail by the Pail: The J.W. Westcott Company" exhibit, detailing the unique method of delivering mail to ships on the Great Lakes—a practice that has continued for over a century.

 

Located at 100 Strand Drive, Belle Isle, Detroit, MI 48207, the museum operates Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for guests aged 6 and older, with free entry for children under 6 and Detroit Historical Society members. Families of five or more receive a $1 discount per admission.

 

While on Belle Isle, families can also enjoy nearby attractions:

 

Belle Isle Aquarium: As the oldest continuously operating public aquarium in the U.S., it features a diverse collection of freshwater and saltwater species.

 

Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory: A lush, tropical escape showcasing a variety of plant species and seasonal floral displays.

 

Belle Isle Nature Center: Offers interactive exhibits and live animal displays, focusing on Michigan's wildlife and conservation efforts.

 

Please note, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry onto Belle Isle. Many Michigan residents have this pass included with their vehicle registration; day passes are also available for purchase.

 

For more information on current exhibits and events, visit the museum's official website.