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Museum on Main Street

4.4
·12 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

Discover rotating Smithsonian exhibitions and local Ann Arbor history in this charming community museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturdays & Sundays, 12–4 PM

Free admission for all visitors

CrowdMedium
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Museum on Main Street - Image 1

Museum on Main Street

Best Time

Saturdays & Sundays, 12–4 PM

Free admission for all visitors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover rotating Smithsonian exhibitions and local Ann Arbor history in this charming community museum.

4.4
(12 reviews)

"Wonderful small museum! Very knowledgable and friendly staff!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Weekend Entry

Enjoy the museum for free on Saturdays and Sundays between 12-4 PM!

📚 Local History Books

Browse and purchase local history books and unique souvenirs in the small gift shop.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Smithsonian Exhibits

Rotating Smithsonian Exhibits

Experience unique traveling exhibitions from the Smithsonian, showcasing innovation and culture.

Local History Displays

Local History Displays

Discover fascinating artifacts and stories about the Ann Arbor area's past.

Knowledgeable Docents

Knowledgeable Docents

Engage with friendly staff and volunteers eager to share insights and local lore.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Operating Hours

While some exhibits are permanent, the Museum on Main Street hosts rotating Smithsonian traveling exhibitions. Always verify current hours and exhibit schedules online before your visit to avoid disappointment, especially if you're planning a specific trip around a particular display. TikTok

Book Private Tours

For a more in-depth experience or if visiting outside of weekend public hours, consider booking a private tour. This allows for personalized attention and access to knowledgeable docents who can share fascinating local history and exhibit details. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturdays & Sundays, 12–4 PM
Why
Free admission for all visitors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter, ideal for focused exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

KD Montgomery of the Essex Shipbuilding Museum shares what it was like hosting Museum on Main Street in 2022! May 10 is the deadline to apply for “Voices and Votes”, the MoMS exhibit coming to Massachusetts in 2025-2026. Apply at masshumanities.org/grants. #museumonmainstreet
masshumanities
39 likes • 1.5K views

🎯 Free Weekend Entry

Enjoy the museum for free on Saturdays and Sundays between 12-4 PM! Reddit

📚 Local History Books

Browse and purchase local history books and unique souvenirs in the small gift shop. Reddit

Looking for something cool to do over Christmas break? Come explore a Smithsonian exhibition! This traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street (MoMS) program showcases innovation in rural America from the perspective of the people who experienced it. The exhibition features unique innovations in technology, culture, art, and more, making every innovation as unique as each co...
nampalibrary
16 likes • 515 views
Step into the past at the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum, right on Main Street in Jennings. Frozen in time since 1949, the General Store-turned-museum offers a glimpse into history, showcasing life in Jeff Davis Parish over 75 years ago. Tours available Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm. You have to see this gem!! #visitjeffdavis #explorelouisiana #mylouisiana
visitjeffdavisparish
17 likes • 212 views

💡 Ask the Docents

Docents are a wealth of information about exhibits and local history. Don't hesitate to ask questions! Reddit

📅 Check Exhibit Schedule

Confirm current exhibitions online as they rotate frequently. TikTok

reddit.com

Day Trip Recommendations

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Weekend Entry

Enjoy the museum for free on Saturdays and Sundays between 12-4 PM! Reddit

📚 Local History Books

Browse and purchase local history books and unique souvenirs in the small gift shop. Reddit

💡 Ask the Docents

Docents are a wealth of information about exhibits and local history. Don't hesitate to ask questions! Reddit

📅 Check Exhibit Schedule

Confirm current exhibitions online as they rotate frequently. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Museum on Main Street as a 'hidden gem' for its fascinating rotating Smithsonian exhibits and engaging local history displays. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, particularly the docents, are frequently highlighted for enhancing the visitor experience. While some have encountered issues with hours being inaccurate, the overall sentiment is positive, appreciating the free weekend access and the wealth of information available.

"Fun, free and local museum with rotating exhibits about fascinating Ann Arbor-area history. Free to all Saturdays and Sundays from 12-4 and available for private tours the rest of the week by reservation"

Kara Gavin

"Wonderful small museum! Very knowledgable and friendly staff! I stopped in today to see the quilting exhibit and was amazed by the amount of information and display of artifacts they could fit in such a small building. The docent, John, had a wealth of information about the building and local history. There's even a small "gift shop" where you can purchase local history books and such."

Katie Adams

"I just got off the phone with your employee, Judy Chrisman, she was very congenial, helpful, and courteous. I look forward to hopefully meeting her when I come in this summer with pictures that I inherited from my family. Thank you, Judy.

I have no problem with the posting, however, I would like in use (Opal) as a middle name as shown since that is the family name that will be associated with the pictures."

Joan Kelly

What People Like

Engaging rotating exhibits
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Free weekend admission

What People Dislike

Inaccurate operating hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum on Main Street is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors find it convenient to park in nearby downtown garages. Reddit

Yes, there are several public parking garages and street parking options available in downtown Ann Arbor, which is where the museum is located. Reddit

Ann Arbor has a public bus system (TheRide) that serves many areas of the city. Check their routes and schedules for the most convenient stops near the museum. Reddit

Information regarding accessibility for wheelchairs and other mobility devices can typically be found on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly. Reddit

To avoid crowds, aim for weekday afternoons. Weekends, especially during free admission hours, tend to be busier. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is free for everyone on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM. Private tours are available on other days by reservation. Reddit

For weekend free admission, advance booking is generally not required. However, for private tours or special events, it's highly recommended to book in advance. Reddit

The museum is open to the public for free admission on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM. Private tours can be arranged for other times. Always check their official website for the most current hours. Reddit

Holiday hours can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly to confirm their operating schedule on public holidays. Reddit

While weekend admission is free, group rates for private tours might be available. Contact the museum directly to inquire about group bookings and potential discounts. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features rotating Smithsonian traveling exhibitions, often focusing on innovation and culture, alongside permanent displays of local Ann Arbor history and artifacts. TikTokReddit

A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you engage with the docents. Reddit

Yes, there is a small gift shop where you can purchase local history books and other related items. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibit. It's advisable to check for signage or ask a museum staff member before taking pictures. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available within the museum. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, being located in downtown Ann Arbor, there are numerous dining options nearby. Reddit

Downtown Ann Arbor offers a wide array of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining. You can find everything from pizza and burgers to international cuisine. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. It's best to consume them outside or at a designated area if available. Reddit

Yes, Ann Arbor has many family-friendly restaurants that cater to all ages. Reddit

Numerous delis, sandwich shops, and fast-casual eateries are located within walking distance of the museum for a quick meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can differ for each exhibit. Look for signs or ask staff for guidance on whether you can take photos. Reddit

Flash photography is often prohibited to protect artifacts. Always check the museum's policy before using your flash. Reddit

Many exhibits offer visually interesting displays and historical artifacts that make for great photos, especially if non-flash photography is permitted. Reddit

This depends on the current rotating Smithsonian exhibition. Past exhibits have featured diverse themes, offering unique visual content. TikTok

Professional photoshoots usually require special permission and may incur fees. Contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policy. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum on Main Street can be a great outing for families, especially during the free weekend hours. The rotating Smithsonian exhibits often have engaging themes that can spark curiosity in children, and the local history displays offer a chance to learn about the community. TikTokReddit

Keep in mind that it's a smaller museum, so it's perfect for a shorter visit that won't overwhelm younger attention spans. Encourage kids to ask questions of the friendly docents, who are often happy to share interesting facts in an accessible way. Nearby dining options make it easy to combine a museum visit with lunch. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Lifelong Learners

For those passionate about history, the Museum on Main Street offers a dual treat: engaging Smithsonian traveling exhibitions and deep dives into local Ann Arbor heritage. The knowledgeable docents are a key asset, providing nuanced perspectives and answering in-depth questions. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to browse the gift shop for local history books, which can offer further avenues for research and learning. Consider booking a private tour for a more personalized and comprehensive exploration of the exhibits and local history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Smithsonian's Museum on Main Street Program

The Museum on Main Street (MoMS) is a unique initiative by the Smithsonian Institution that brings traveling exhibitions to rural and small-town communities across America. This program aims to provide access to world-class museum experiences in areas that may not have their own large institutions. Exhibitions are carefully curated to resonate with local histories and contemporary issues, fostering community engagement and dialogue. TikTok+1

Each MoMS exhibition is designed to be adaptable to various community spaces, including libraries, historical societies, and small museums like the one on Main Street. This approach democratizes access to cultural heritage, allowing diverse audiences to connect with the Smithsonian's vast collections and expertise. The program often partners with state humanities councils to manage the exhibition's tour within their respective states. TikTok

Visitors can expect thoughtfully presented exhibits that often explore themes of innovation, culture, and the American experience. These traveling shows offer a fresh perspective and a chance to learn about different facets of history and society, making each visit to a MoMS venue a potentially new and enriching experience. TikTok

Exploring Ann Arbor's Local History

The Museum on Main Street serves as a gateway to understanding the rich tapestry of Ann Arbor's local history. Beyond the traveling exhibits, the museum often houses displays and artifacts that tell the story of the city's development, its people, and its significant contributions. These local collections provide a tangible connection to the past, showcasing how the community has evolved over time. Reddit

Docents and staff are invaluable resources for delving deeper into local lore. They can share anecdotes and historical context that bring the exhibits to life, offering insights into the lives of past residents and the events that shaped Ann Arbor. This personal touch transforms a visit from passive observation to an interactive learning experience. Reddit

For those who wish to continue their historical exploration, the museum's gift shop offers local history books. These publications can provide further details on specific topics, families, or periods, allowing visitors to take a piece of Ann Arbor's heritage home with them. Reddit

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