Museum on Main Street
Discover rotating Smithsonian exhibitions and local Ann Arbor history in this charming community museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission for all visitors
Museum on Main Street
Best Time
Free admission for all visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rotating Smithsonian exhibitions and local Ann Arbor history in this charming community museum.
"Wonderful small museum! Very knowledgable and friendly staff!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Smithsonian Exhibits
Experience unique traveling exhibitions from the Smithsonian, showcasing innovation and culture.
Local History Displays
Discover fascinating artifacts and stories about the Ann Arbor area's past.
Knowledgeable Docents
Engage with friendly staff and volunteers eager to share insights and local lore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Operating Hours
Book Private Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
💡 Ask the Docents
Docents are a wealth of information about exhibits and local history. Don't hesitate to ask questions!
📅 Check Exhibit Schedule
Confirm current exhibitions online as they rotate frequently.
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!
📚 Local History Books
Browse and purchase local history books and unique souvenirs in the small gift shop.
💡 Ask the Docents
Docents are a wealth of information about exhibits and local history. Don't hesitate to ask questions!
📅 Check Exhibit Schedule
Confirm current exhibitions online as they rotate frequently.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there are several public parking garages and street parking options available in downtown Ann Arbor, which is where the museum is located.
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.
Information regarding accessibility for wheelchairs and other mobility devices can typically be found on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday afternoons. Weekends, especially during free admission hours, tend to be busier.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you engage with the docents.
Yes, there is a small gift shop where you can purchase local history books and other related items.
Photography policies can vary by exhibit. It's advisable to check for signage or ask a museum staff member before taking pictures.
Restroom facilities are typically available within the museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
Yes, Ann Arbor has many family-friendly restaurants that cater to all ages.
Numerous delis, sandwich shops, and fast-casual eateries are located within walking distance of the museum for a quick meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ for each exhibit. Look for signs or ask staff for guidance on whether you can take photos.
Flash photography is often prohibited to protect artifacts. Always check the museum's policy before using your flash.
Many exhibits offer visually interesting displays and historical artifacts that make for great photos, especially if non-flash photography is permitted.
This depends on the current rotating Smithsonian exhibition. Past exhibits have featured diverse themes, offering unique visual content.
Professional photoshoots usually require special permission and may incur fees. Contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📚 History Buffs & Lifelong Learners
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Smithsonian's Museum on Main Street Program
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.
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.
Exploring Ann Arbor's Local History
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.
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit