Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
Duluth
Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ships, boating, and the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Located in Duluth, Minnesota, the center provides visitors with an up-close look at the vessels that traverse Lake Superior and the Duluth-Superior Harbor. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center.
Tour the William A. Irvin
The William A. Irvin was once a massive iron ore carrier that helped transport iron ore from Minnesota’s Mesabi Range to steel mills in the eastern United States. Today, the ship is permanently docked at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, and visitors can take a tour of the vessel to see what life was like aboard a Great Lakes freighter. During the tour, visitors will learn about the ship’s history, see the ship’s massive engines, and explore the ship’s crew quarters.
Learn about the history of shipping on the Great Lakes
The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center features exhibits that cover the history of shipping on the Great Lakes. Visitors can learn about the development of the Great Lakes shipping industry and how it contributed to the growth of cities like Duluth and Superior. The exhibits also cover the challenges that ships face on the Great Lakes, including storms, ice, and narrow channels.
See the Aerial Lift Bridge in action
The Aerial Lift Bridge is one of Duluth’s most iconic landmarks, and it is also one of the busiest bridges in the world. The bridge spans the Duluth-Superior Harbor and allows ships to enter and exit the harbor. Visitors to the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center can watch the bridge in action as it lifts to allow ships to pass underneath.
Take a harbor cruise
The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center offers harbor cruises that provide visitors with an up-close look at the ships that traverse the Duluth-Superior Harbor. During the cruise, visitors will learn about the history of shipping on the Great Lakes and see some of the harbor’s most interesting sights, including the Aerial Lift Bridge and the massive ore docks.
Visit the gift shop
No trip to the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is complete without a stop at the gift shop. The shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and ship models. Visitors can also purchase books and other items related to the Great Lakes shipping industry.
In conclusion, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in ships, boating, and the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Visitors can tour the William A. Irvin, learn about the history of shipping on the Great Lakes, watch the Aerial Lift Bridge in action, take a harbor cruise, and visit the gift shop. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just someone looking for a unique and educational experience, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is definitely worth a visit.