SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum
Explore the SS William A. Irvin, a 1937 flagship ore boat offering a journey through Great Lakes maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the SS William A. Irvin, a 1937 flagship ore boat offering a journey through Great Lakes maritime history.
"A great piece of history! The ship itself is really neat, from the engine room to the fancy guest quarters."
🎯 Check Ticket Types Carefully
Ensure you have the correct tickets before purchasing, as refunds can be difficult.
⏰ Arrive Before Last Tour
To avoid feeling rushed, plan your visit well before the final tour begins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pilothouse View
Pilothouse
Experience a superlative view of Duluth from the captain's vantage point. A truly memorable perspective.
Engine Room Exploration
Engine Room
Step back in time and marvel at the impressive industrial technology of this 88-year-old freighter.
Crew & Guest Quarters
Accommodations
Discover the living spaces of the crew and the more luxurious accommodations for distinguished guests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smooth Visit
Ticket Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Ticket Types Carefully
Ensure you have the correct tickets before purchasing, as refunds can be difficult.
⏰ Arrive Before Last Tour
To avoid feeling rushed, plan your visit well before the final tour begins.
William A Irving
Cool spots in downtown Duluth?
☀️ Be Prepared for Heat
The interior of the ship can get quite warm, especially during summer months.
🗣️ Chat with Docents
Knowledgeable staff are stationed throughout the ship to share fascinating insights.
Lake freighter SS WILLIAM A. IRVIN; built 1937, now a museum ship. [2000×1348]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Ticket Types Carefully
Ensure you have the correct tickets before purchasing, as refunds can be difficult.
⏰ Arrive Before Last Tour
To avoid feeling rushed, plan your visit well before the final tour begins.
☀️ Be Prepared for Heat
The interior of the ship can get quite warm, especially during summer months.
🗣️ Chat with Docents
Knowledgeable staff are stationed throughout the ship to share fascinating insights.
👻 Seasonal Haunted House
Check for the annual Halloween Haunted House setup in one of the holds during spooky season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum for its impressive historical preservation and the engaging knowledge of its staff. The ship itself is a fascinating relic of industrial America, offering a unique glimpse into Great Lakes maritime history. However, some guests have experienced discomfort due to feeling rushed by staff towards the end of the day, particularly if arriving close to closing time.
"If you drive as far as we did to get to Duluth you need to visit here, it's worth the cost of admission.
88 years old, the Irvin is solid old fashioned American industrial tech. (of all things I was super impressed by the vice in the workshop. Oh if only I could get one for my workbench!)
Helpful staff are stationed at various points to answer any questions. Superlative view of Duluth from the Pilothouse. Gift shop has clean bathrooms. (They were setting up their annual Halloween Haunted House in one of the holds while we were there.)
As usual, visit during the week when the weather isn't the best. No crowds whatsoever.
I recommend."
castercamber
"It's a self-guided tour, but there's very knowledgeable people along the way to give talks and answer questions. It was about $50 for a family of 4. It takes as long as you want. You could quickly walk through and see everything in 20 minutes. We took a couple of hours. Pics are of the crew / distinguished guest accommodations. FYI, it can get hot inside the ship."
N Gnillah
"Very cool! If you are at all interested in ships/history/industry/engineering, this is a great stop. The tour guides are fabulous - you can tell they really love what they do. The ship itself is really neat, from the engine room all the way up to the fancy guest quarters. I would definitely recommend setting aside a couple of hours. Great piece of history!"
Calla Bjorklund Jarvie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum is located in Duluth, Minnesota. Visitors typically drive to the museum. Parking information is usually available on the official website or at the visitor center.
While specific routes can vary, checking local Duluth transit schedules for buses that service the Canal Park area or nearby attractions is advisable.
Parking is often available in designated lots near the ship, especially in the Canal Park area. Arriving early can secure better spots.
Absolutely! The museum is often visited alongside other Canal Park attractions like the Aerial Lift Bridge and the Great Lakes Aquarium.
Information regarding oversized vehicle parking is best obtained directly from the museum's official contact channels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest around $50 for a family of 4 and $130 for six adults and one child. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
The museum is seasonal. The last tour typically starts around 4:30 p.m., with tours lasting 45-60 minutes. Always verify current hours before your visit.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. Check the museum's website or inquire directly about any available promotions.
Refund policies can be strict. It's crucial to double-check the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets, as one visitor noted issues with incorrect ticket types.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a self-guided tour where you can explore most areas of the ship. Knowledgeable docents are stationed throughout to answer questions and provide insights.
You can do a quick walkthrough in about 20 minutes, but to fully appreciate it and chat with staff, allow 1-2 hours.
While the ship offers a unique experience, accessibility might be limited due to its historical nature. It's best to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
Yes, the gift shop area typically has clean restrooms available for visitors.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the historical details of the ore boat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Pilothouse offers stunning views of Duluth. The engine room and crew quarters also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos throughout the ship to document its historical features.
Lighting can vary. Some areas are well-lit, while others might be dimmer, adding to the atmospheric feel. Consider bringing a small flashlight if you plan on detailed shots in darker areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most public areas and around historical sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Experiment with aperture and ISO settings to manage varying light conditions. A wider lens can be useful for capturing the confined spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Engage with the docents stationed throughout the ship; they often have great stories that can captivate children. While the ship itself is the main attraction, the gift shop also offers a chance to pick up a souvenir. Be mindful that the ship can get warm inside, so keep children hydrated.
🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
This is more than just a museum; it's an opportunity to step aboard a piece of living history. The superlative views from the Pilothouse add another layer to the experience, allowing you to appreciate the ship's role in the region's economic development.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Maritime History
Visitors can wander through the engine room, marveling at the machinery that powered this giant vessel. The crew accommodations provide insight into the living conditions of those who worked aboard, while the distinguished guest quarters highlight the ship's status and purpose. The Pilothouse offers a commanding view, allowing you to imagine navigating the vast waters of Lake Superior.
Docents stationed throughout the ship are a valuable resource, eager to share stories and answer questions. Their passion for the vessel's history enhances the self-guided tour, bringing the ship to life with personal anecdotes and historical facts. This immersive experience makes the SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum a compelling destination for history buffs and maritime enthusiasts alike.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
When purchasing tickets, double-check the details carefully, as one visitor encountered an issue with incorrect ticket types and noted a lack of refunds. It's also advisable to arrive well before the last tour of the day to ensure you have ample time to explore without feeling rushed by staff eager to close up.
Don't hesitate to engage with the knowledgeable docents stationed throughout the ship. They are a wealth of information and can provide fascinating insights into the vessel's history and operations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit