William A Irvin Museum

Step aboard the William A. Irvin, a massive 610-foot retired ore carrier that sailed the Great Lakes for four decades! Kids get a hands-on maritime adventure as they explore the captain's quarters, climb through the engine room with its towering machinery, and walk through enormous cargo holds that once carried thousands of tons of iron ore and coal.

• ✓Massive four-story engine room with original machinery that powered the 610-foot ship
• ✓Captain's elegant quarters with authentic 1970s furnishings and wood paneling
• ✓Crew living spaces showing how 30+ sailors lived aboard during voyages
• ✓Enormous cargo holds that once carried 14,000 tons of iron ore
• ✓Authentic ship's galley where meals were prepared for the entire crew

1. 1.Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip,ship stairs are steep and metal ladders can be slippery
2. 2.Tours last about 45 minutes with lots of stair climbing, so use restrooms beforehand at the nearby Maritime Visitor Center
3. 3.Visit during weekday mornings in summer for smaller tour groups and more opportunities to ask the knowledgeable guides questions
4. 4.Bring a light jacket even in summer,the ship's interior stays cool, especially in the lower decks
5. 5.The ship is docked right at Canal Park, so combine your visit with watching ships pass through the Aerial Lift Bridge

Weekday mornings during the shoulder season (May or September) offer the best experience with smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures for exploring both the ship's warm engine room and cool upper decks.

The ship is only accessible via guided tour with steep stairs and ladders throughout,not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Tours typically run May through October with varying schedules, so check ahead for times and ticket prices (usually under $15 for adults, less for kids).

Open seasonally from approximately May through October, with extended hours during peak summer months. The ship occasionally closes for special events like the popular Ship of Ghouls Halloween tours. Always check the official schedule before visiting as hours vary by month.

Grandma's Saloon & Grill is a short walk away with a kid-friendly menu and lakefront views, or grab pizza and ice cream at Canal Park's many casual eateries within a few blocks of the ship.