2025 Education Programs

LECTURES

45-50 min / Group Size ~60

The lecture hall can accommodate up to 60 members for a seated presentation.

Introduction to Great Lakes Shipping (Grades K-12)

Learn about the Great Lake Shipping industry including cargos, vessels, and the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald (Grades 6-12)

Detailed history of the fateful voyage that sunk the Edmund Fitzgerald on November 10, 1975.

WALKING TOURS

30-35 min / Group Size ~30

Outside guided tours in Canal Park, walk to each feature.

Aerial Lift Bridge (Grades K-12)

Cross the Aerial Lift Bridge with a brief history of the iconic Duluth landmark, and delve into its critical role for Twin Ports shipping.

Duluth Ship Canal (Grades K-12)

Journey to the North Pier Lighthouse discussing the history of the Duluth Ship Canal, piers, and lighthouses.

ACTIVITY LESSONS

20-25 min / Group Size ~30

Hands on activity based lessons inside the Maritime Museum.

Museum Scavenger Hunt (Grades 4-12)

Hunt for facts and dates throughout the museum exhibits. Scavenger sheets and pencils provided.

Know Your Knots (Grades K-12)

Coming in 2026! Tie tried and true mariner knots used on docks and ships. Rope and tying stations provided with instruction for students.

DISCOVERY DAY

Group Size ~5-10

Small informal education carts with prompts for audiences. Upon request!

Twin Ports Shipping (Grades K-12)

Discover Great Lakes Shipping in the Duluth-Superior Harbor. Inspect ship models, bulk cargos, and maritime maps.

Lake Superior Agates (Grades K-12)

Unearth how agates formed in the Lake Superior region. Master rock hunting skills to spot agates on local beaches!

Great Lakes Gulls (Grades K-12)

Spy gulls through binoculars and identify native Great Lake gull species. Learn about gull habitat, diet, and breeding.