Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Discover the maritime heart of the Great Lakes at the Dossin Museum on Belle Isle, featuring the iconic Edmund Fitzgerald anchor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the maritime heart of the Great Lakes at the Dossin Museum on Belle Isle, featuring the iconic Edmund Fitzgerald anchor.
"Incredible one of a kind museum you wouldn't expect to be right here on Belle Isle so close and easy to get to."
🚗 Belle Isle Recreation Passport
A Michigan Recreation Passport is needed for vehicle entry onto Belle Isle.
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is $5 per person, with children under 6 admitted free.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edmund Fitzgerald Anchor
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
See the recovered bow anchor from the legendary SS Edmund Fitzgerald, lost in a storm.
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Pilot House Mock-up
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Step into the shoes of a captain in this interactive pilot house exhibit.
Great Lakes Maritime History
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Explore artifacts and exhibits detailing the rich history of shipping on the Great Lakes.
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Planning Your Visit
Belle Isle Access & Hours
Time Commitment & Cost
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 Belle Isle Recreation Passport
A Michigan Recreation Passport is needed for vehicle entry onto Belle Isle. +1
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is $5 per person, with children under 6 admitted free.
⏳ Allow ample time
While some find it quick, others suggest it's larger than it appears.
💧 Stay hydrated
There's a water bottle filling station and cold drinks available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Belle Isle Recreation Passport
A Michigan Recreation Passport is needed for vehicle entry onto Belle Isle. +1
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is $5 per person, with children under 6 admitted free.
⏳ Allow ample time
While some find it quick, others suggest it's larger than it appears.
💧 Stay hydrated
There's a water bottle filling station and cold drinks available.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
Browse apparel, cards, and historic books in the gift shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Dossin Great Lakes Museum to be an unexpectedly fascinating and well-organized maritime history experience on Belle Isle. Many appreciate the unique artifacts, like the Edmund Fitzgerald anchor, and the interactive exhibits, such as the pilot house. While some note the admission fee and the potential for a quick visit, most agree it's an informative and worthwhile stop.
"Interesting place..got the oldest aquarium in the country and a beautiful house for plants and a very pretty flower garden.. cool place to walk around and see some beautiful sites. Some history on the ships that sail on the great lakes which was very interesting. Cool place to go. Can look over into Windsor Canada and wave at the folks"
Rock Summers
"Small maritime museum focused on boats and the boating industry in the area. They have a section on the history of river events on the Detroit River. They cover time periods from the initial settling of Detroit through the present. Cool exhibit on a boat that got its own zip code! There's a section where you can climb up as if you were steering a boat. Took us about 25 minutes to see it all"
Dave Cameron
"Incredible one of a kind museum you wouldn't expect to be right here on Belle Isle so close and easy to get to. Clean well organized exhibits. A fantastic well educated and knowledgeable staff to answer questions. Plenty of cool artifacts to look at. Many one of a kind items you won't see anywhere else."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on Belle Isle in Detroit. You'll need a Michigan Recreation Passport for your vehicle to enter the island. +1 The island is accessible by car via the MacArthur Bridge. Once on Belle Isle, follow signs for the museum.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available near the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle. +1
While possible, it's less convenient. Public transportation options to Belle Isle are limited. Many visitors opt to drive or use ride-sharing services.
From downtown Detroit, take I-375 North to the exit for Jefferson Avenue East. Follow Jefferson Avenue East, and you will see signs for Belle Isle.
Belle Isle is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours when attractions like the Dossin Great Lakes Museum are open. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is $5 per person. Children under 6 years old are free. Keep an eye out for special free admission days, like those in February.
The Dossin Great Lakes Museum is typically open Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website or social media before your visit.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like 'Dossin After Dark,' tickets should be purchased in advance.
Children under 6 are free. Special free admission days are sometimes offered, particularly in February.
The museum is generally accessible, with exhibits on the main floor. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on Great Lakes maritime history, see the anchor from the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, and interact with a pilot house mock-up. +1 There are also displays on river events and ship architecture.
Yes, kids often enjoy the hands-on experiences, like the pilot house, and learning about boats.
Some visitors report a quick 20-25 minute visit, while others found it much larger and more engaging than expected. Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits.
Yes, the museum offers clean restrooms and amenities like a water bottle filling station and a souvenir shop.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there is a souvenir shop that offers cold drinks and snacks.
Belle Isle has picnic areas if you wish to bring your own food. For more dining options, you'll need to venture off the island into Detroit.
You can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in designated picnic areas on Belle Isle.
Currently, there are no major restaurants operating on Belle Isle. The island is more focused on its natural beauty and recreational facilities.
The souvenir shop offers a cooler with many cold drink options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the impressive gothic ship architecture at the entrance, the interactive pilot house, and the artifacts like the Edmund Fitzgerald anchor.
Personal photography is generally permitted, but always check for signs regarding flash photography or specific exhibit restrictions.
Absolutely! Belle Isle offers scenic views of the Detroit River, the city skyline, and various historical structures. The Dossin Museum itself has unique architectural elements.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots of the museum and the surrounding Belle Isle landscape.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's advisable to check with Belle Isle Park management before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's focus on boats and maritime history is engaging, and many children find the large artifacts, like the Edmund Fitzgerald anchor, fascinating. +2Plan to spend a good portion of your day on Belle Isle, as the museum is just one of many attractions. Pack snacks and drinks, or utilize the picnic areas. Remember the Recreation Passport is needed for your vehicle to enter the island.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your museum visit with exploring the many free attractions on Belle Isle, such as the aquarium and conservatory, to maximize your savings.
Bringing your own picnic lunch is also a great way to keep costs down.🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
+1 The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of shipping on the Great Lakes, from early settlement to modern times, with detailed exhibits and knowledgeable staff. Beyond the Fitzgerald, delve into the history of the Detroit River as a vital shipping channel and explore the evolution of naval architecture. The museum provides a deep dive into the region's rich seafaring past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Edmund Fitzgerald
+1 The museum's exhibit provides a tangible connection to this enduring story, allowing visitors to see a piece of history firsthand. The anchor was recovered in 1992 and eventually found its home at the Dossin Museum, serving as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by mariners on these vast inland seas. This exhibit is a significant draw for those interested in maritime history and the lore of the Great Lakes. It sparks conversations about the unforgiving nature of the lakes and the bravery of those who navigated them. The museum's location on the Detroit River further enhances the context, as this waterway has been a crucial artery for shipping for centuries.
Exploring Belle Isle's Treasures
The island also features the Belle Isle Nature Center, walking trails, and scenic views of the Detroit River and the Windsor, Canada skyline. Many visitors combine a trip to the Dossin Museum with explorations of other Belle Isle attractions, making for a full day of discovery. The island's accessibility and diverse offerings make it a popular destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a day outdoors with a touch of history and nature.
Remember that a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry onto the island, so plan accordingly. Interactive Learning for All Ages
These interactive exhibits are particularly appealing to younger visitors, making the museum a great destination for families.
+2 The museum aims to educate and inspire, providing a fun and memorable way to learn about Michigan's vital connection to the Great Lakes. The blend of historical artifacts and engaging activities ensures there's something to capture the interest of every visitor, from seasoned maritime enthusiasts to curious first-time explorers. 
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