Ruth Wiser Plastic Boat Regatta: Kid's Competition
2026-06-20 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Join us for the launching of the Ruth Wiser Innovation Portal and show off your skills at the Plastic Boat Regatta! This competition will take place on June 20th from 1:00pm-2:00pm. The kid’s competition will be split into two categories; Ages 10 & under and ages 11-17.
Boats are highly encouraged to be built at home, but participants may also build during our open boat-building session beginning at 11:00 AM in the Jerry Mason Learning Center. Please note that supplies will be limited.
Participants should arrive at the museum no later than 12:45 PM to register for the regatta. All boats must be checked in and measured by 1:00 PM to compete.
Free with membership or museum entry!
OFFICIAL RULES HERE

Ruth Wiser Plastic Boat Regatta: Adult Competition
2026-06-20 15:30 - 17:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Join us for the launch of the Ruth Wiser Innovation Portal and put your skills to the test in the Plastic Boat Regatta!
The competition will take place on June 20 from 3:30–5:00 PM and is open to participants ages 18 and older.
Boats are highly encouraged to be built at home, but participants may also build during our open boat-building session beginning at 11:00 AM in the Jerry Mason Learning Center. Please note that supplies will be limited.
Participants must arrive at the museum by 3:15 PM on June 20 to register. All boats must be checked in, measured, and the $10 entry fee paid by 3:30 PM in order to compete.
The registration fee is $10 per boat, and all proceeds benefit the Michigan Maritime Museum.
OFFICIAL RULES HERE

P.I.R.A.T.E Camp Session 1
2026-06-23 09:00 - 2026-06-26 17:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
P.I.R.A.T.E Camp stands for…
Play. Imagine. Research. Adventure. Think. Explore.
Each camp session will be split into two age groups: Grades 3 to 4 and Grades 5 to 6. Please note that the June session and July session will be the same program.
P.I.R.A.T.E CAMP SESSION 1
Tuesday, June 23- Friday, June 26, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (aftercare available until 5:30 pm)
Set sail on a summer of discovery with the Michigan Maritime Museum’s full day summer camp! We’ll set sail on our tall ship Friends Good Will, paddle aboard a voyager canoe, get up close with local wildlife, make baggywrinkles (you’ll have to find out), and even go on a treasure hunt! Pirate camper crafts include making signal flags, sewing felt fish, and assembling our own wooden boats.
Afternoon snacks and reusable water bottles will be provided. Campers will need to bring their own lunch (no refrigeration). Sails and activities are all weather permitting, however, fun is happening rain or shine.
Price: $200
Member Price: $175
Registration is closed, all slots have been filled.
Thanks to the sponsorship of Cathy & Clark Carmichael, Mike & Sue Smith, and the South Haven Area Community Foundation.

MMM Lecture Series: Iron Ore Trimmers Wars on the Upper Great Lakes
2026-06-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Iron ore trimmers of the late 1800s worked by hand in gangs to level the cargo dumped into a vessel’s hold. It was dirty, exhausting work that depended on speed and reliability. Trimmers occupied a unique position on the docks, often fighting rival gangs and employers to keep the work in their control. The trimmers of Escanaba and Marquette fought in a series of conflicts local papers dubbed the “trimmer wars,” battling with fists, shovels, clubs, and sometimes bullets.

Tickets are free for Museum members and $10 for non-members. Doors open at 6 PM. You can purchase tickets for this event online, over the phone, or in-person.

This lecture series is made possible thanks to the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike & Sue Smith.
The virtual viewing is made possible thanks to Steve & Emily Holt.
Reserve Tickets Here!
Purchase your Virtual Lecture Pass Here!

Fish Tales Storytime
2026-06-24 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-01 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-15 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-22 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-29 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-05 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-12 11:00 - 12:00 and 1 more date | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Come visit the Michigan Maritime Museum for a weekly storytime featuring a rotating selection of books and storytellers every Wednesday, June through August, from 11:00 to 12:00 PM in either the Jerry Mason Learning Center or, weather permitting, under the Ruth Wiser Innovation Tent.
This event is free with membership or admission to the museum.

Great Lakes Learners x Sarett Nature Center: Wildlife Wonders
2026-06-27 10:30 - 11:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
WildLife Wonders
The Michigan Maritime Museum is excited to host the Sarett Nature Center and their Wildlife Wonders program. Sarett naturalists will bring along a variety of animal ambassadors and taxidermied mounts to this program so we can learn about animal adaptations, diets, and animal habitats. This program is free with your museum admission ticket and limited to the first 40 participants.
Morning Session: 10:30-11:30 AM

Michigan Soldiers in the War of 1812
2026-06-27 14:00 - 15:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Michigan Soldiers in the War of 1812
Date: Saturday, June 27th, 2026
Time: 2:00-3:30 PM
Join Military History Academy Educator Jerry Berg as he takes us back to when Michigan Territory became the first theater of the War of 1812. Through weapons and clothing, we’ll learn about how Michigan citizens and soldiers had to find their own ways to prepare for combat. This presentation will also take a look at the unique military units recruited from Michigan’s frontier population, the battles fought within Michigan, and even a story about a Michigan unit that took up arms for the British!
This event is free with admission to the museum. If you purchase your tickets in advance, just check in at the Museum Welcome Desk with your name.
REGISTER FOR TICKETS HERE

Maritime Makers
2026-07-03 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-10 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-17 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-24 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Set sail for creativity at the Museum every Friday from 1:00–3:00 pm, June through August. Drop in for a hands-on maritime craft perfect for curious kids and families. No registration needed—just bring your imagination. The activity is free with membership or museum admission.
Sponsored by Cathy and Clark Carmichael

Maritime Bingo for Books
2026-07-10 15:00 - 16:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Maritime Bingo for Books is a lively, family-friendly event designed for curious minds ages 8 and up (children must attend with an adult), this 90-minute program puts a big, interactive twist on classic Bingo—and everything you need to play is provided.
Each number called connects to a fascinating maritime fact. You might hear B1 and learn that Eber Brock Ward was Michigan’s first millionaire, making his fortune in shipping, or B9 to discover that 9 pounds is the average weight of a steelhead trout caught in Lake Michigan. Every call turns the game into a fast-paced learning experience.
Winners choose a children’s or adult book from a curated gift shop selection, receive a sticker prize pack, and—of course—earn high fives all around. Hosted by Michigan Maritime Museum Executive Director Bailey Sisoy Moore. We hope you’ll join us.
Reserve your tickets here
Cost: $10 for members | $15 for non-members

ADULTS ONLY: Maritime Bingo for Books
2026-07-10 17:30 - 19:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Join Executive Director Bailey Sisoy-Moore for a riotous, rowdy, and downright ridiculous night of fun at the Michigan Maritime Museum.
On Friday, July 10, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, we’ll gather in the R.B. Annis Room for a special adults-only Maritime Bingo for Books.
Think bingo—but like you’ve never seen it before.

Which Great Lakes captain lived fast, loved hard, and left behind the most marriages?
How big can a monster sturgeon really get—and would you want to meet one?
Which lonely lighthouse kept the same three souls watching the horizon for generations?
What ship stretched longer than your imagination—and ruled the lakes because of it?
Which American “princess” turned shipping fortune into a jaw-dropping $3 million dowry?
Which ship met a dramatic end just miles from safety?
What cargo once made fortunes—and disappeared overnight?
Which Great Lakes storm rewrote maritime history in a single night?
And so much more….

No maritime knowledge required—this isn’t trivia. It’s bingo with bite-sized lessons woven in: part show, part lecture, and an absolute blast, where anyone can play, win, and have a great time.

All game supplies are provided.
In the great tradition of bingo halls, this is BYOB—please bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy during the event.
Winners will select a fabulous maritime book of their choice from Maggie’s Ship Store, the museum’s gift shop. Whether you’re interested in Great Lakes history, invasive species, or legendary shipwrecks, there’s something for everyone.
This special presentation contains adult themes and is not suitable for children or families. Guests of all ages are warmly invited to attend our regular Maritime Bingo for Books, taking place the same day from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Come ready to learn, explore, and win.
PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE
Cost: $10 for members | $15 for non-members

Great Lakes Learners x Sarett Nature Center: Slime and Scales
2026-07-11 10:30 - 11:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Slime and Scales
The Michigan Maritime Museum is excited to host the Sarett Nature Center and their Slime and Scales program. Discover the world of herpetology by looking into the differences between reptiles and amphibians. Both native and non-native species will be discussed using live animal ambassadors. This program is free with your museum admission ticket and limited to the first 40 participants.
Morning Session: 10:30-11:30 AM

MMM Lecture Series: The Forgotten Iron King of the Great Lakes
2026-07-22 18:30 - 19:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Eber Brock Ward (1811–1875) began his career as a cabin boy on his uncle’s sailing vessels, but when he died in 1875, he was the wealthiest man in Michigan. Decades before moguls such as Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, Ward was already vertically integrating his operations into an empire. And yet, despite his countless successes, Ward’s life was filled with ruthless competition, labor conflict, familial dispute, and scandal. Join us as we uncover this forgotten, but fascinating figure of Michigan history with Michael Nagle, historian and author of The Forgotten Iron King of the Great Lakes.

Tickets are free for Museum members and $10 for non-members. Doors open at 6 PM. You can purchase tickets for this event online, over the phone, or in-person.

This lecture series is made possible thanks to the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike & Sue Smith.
The virtual viewing is made possible thanks to Steve & Emily Holt.
Reserve Tickets Here!
Purchase your Virtual Lecture Pass Here!

Great Lakes Learners- Invasion of the Vampire Fish
2026-07-25 10:30 - 14:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Invasion of the Vampire Fish
What are sea lampreys, and where did they come from? What can we do to prevent invasive species from entering our Great Lakes? This program is free with your museum admission ticket, though it is limited to the first 40 participants per session.
Morning Session: 10:30-11:30 AM
Afternoon Session: 1:30-2:30 PM

P.I.R.A.T.E Camp Session 2
2026-07-28 09:00 - 2026-07-31 17:00 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
P.I.R.A.T.E Camp stands for…
Play. Imagine. Research. Adventure. Think. Explore.
Each camp session will be split into two age groups: Grades 3 to 4 and Grades 5 to 6. Please note that the June session and July session will be the same program.
P.I.R.A.T.E CAMP SESSION 2
Tuesday, July 28-Friday, July 31, 9:00 am-5:00 pm (aftercare available until 5:30 pm)

Set sail on a summer of discovery with the Michigan Maritime Museum’s full day summer camp! We’ll set sail on our tall ship Friends Good Will, paddle aboard a voyager canoe, get up close with local wildlife, make baggywrinkles (you’ll have to find out), and even go on a treasure hunt! Pirate camper crafts include making signal flags, sewing felt fish, and assembling our own wooden boats.
Afternoon snacks and reusable water bottles will be provided. Campers will need to bring their own lunch (no refrigeration). Sails and activities are all weather permitting, however, fun is happening rain or shine.
Price: $200
Member Price: $175
Registration is closed, all slots have been filled.
Thanks to the sponsorship of Cathy & Clark Carmichael, Mike & Sue Smith, and the South Haven Area Community Foundation.

From Forest to Shore: Stories of Michigan’s Land and Lakes- Commercial Fishing on Lake Michigan
2026-07-30 18:30 - 19:30 | Kalamazoo Nature Center, 7000 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49090-1065, United States
A Collaborative Lecture Series by Kalamazoo Nature Center & Michigan Maritime Museum
Discover the rich tapestry of Michigan’s natural landscapes and maritime heritage in this engaging lecture series. From Forest to Shore brings together maritime experts and naturalists to explore the deep connections between the state’s inland ecosystems and its Great Lakes waterways. Through captivating stories, scientific insights, and cultural perspectives, each lecture will highlight how forests, wetlands, and shorelines have shaped Michigan’s history, ecology, and communities. Join us as we journey across time and terrain—celebrating the resilience of nature and the enduring legacy of life along the lakes.
Join Michigan Maritime Museum Director Bailey Sisoy-Moore as she explores the rich, often gritty history of one of the Great Lakes’ most important industries! Trace the evolution of commercial fishing on Lake Michigan from Indigenous fishing traditions and early hand-set gill nets to steam-powered tugs, state regulation, and the industrialization that reshaped the trade and meet the people who pulled their livelihood from the lake and the communities that grew up around docks and nets.
Tickets are free for Michigan Maritime Museum members and Kalamazoo Nature Center members. $10 for non-members.
This event will be hosted at Kalamazoo Nature Center.
This event was rescheduled from 6/11/2026

MMM Lecture Series: The Civil War Comes to the Great Lakes: Confederate Raiders on the Inland Seas
2026-08-06 18:30 - 19:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
When the Civil War is discussed in Michigan it is often as events that happened in such exotic locales as Virginia, Tennessee or Arkansas. While this is mostly true, it was not exclusively so, with subterfuge, secrecy and invasion fears popping up in places like Detroit throughout the conflict. This was especially true in September of 1864, when a group of Rebel plotters hijacked a steamer with an aim to set the shores of the Great Lakes ablaze and lay its cities in ruins. Together we’ll explore the events of that dramatic raid, the personalities of those involved, and discuss how close the Great Lakes came to being a battlefield.
About the speaker: Jeff Pollock is a public historian, event organizer, and advocate for the ‘Vernors Cure.’ Prior to coming to Detroit History Tours, Jeff (known as Pollock at Detroit History Tours) had stints at museums in Monroe, Sanilac County, Macomb County and Detroit. He has a passion for history, but is especially drawn to the history of crime in Detroit, the Civil War, sports history and the W.P.A. He is an advocate for all things history, and relishes a good trivia question. He has been Executive Director at Detroit History Tours since May of 2025.

This lecture series is made possible thanks to the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike & Sue Smith.
The virtual viewing is made possible thanks to Steve & Emily Holt.
Reserve Tickets Here!
Purchase your Virtual Lecture Pass Here!

Great Lakes Learners- Knot Tying and Secret Messages
2026-08-08 10:30 - 14:30 | Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Knot Tying and Secret Messages
First, we’ll learn all about how to tie nautical knots. Then, we’ll explore how we can send secret messages on the high seas! This program is free with your museum admission ticket, though it is limited to the first 40 participants per session.
Morning Session: 10:30-11:30 AM
Afternoon Session: 1:30-2:30 PM
