Are you interested in military history? These are the must-visit war museums in Michigan:
1Colonial Fort Michilimackinac
Mackinaw City, MIFort Michilimackinac, located in present-day Mackinaw City, was originally a French, later British fortified trading post. It was strategically positioned on the south coast of the Straits of Mackinac, between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. This location played a significant role in the economic activities of the time, serving as a link in a chain of French trading posts that extended from the Mississippi River through the present-day state of Illinois to the Saint Lawrence River. 2Fort Mackinac
Mackinac Island, MIFort Mackinac is a historical site located on Mackinac Island in the US state of Michigan. This fortress was built in the late 18th century and played a significant role in the history of the region. It was strategically positioned to secure the Straits of Mackinac, the transition between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's rich history and is a popular destination for tourists. 3River Raisin National Battlefield Park
Monroe, MIThe River Raisin National Battlefield Park is a significant historical site located in Monroe, Michigan. This protected American area offers visitors a chance to explore the grounds where the Battle of Frenchtown took place during the Anglo-American War of 1812. The park, established on March 30, 2009, is operated by the National Park Service and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since December 10, 1982. 4USS LST-393
Muskegon, MIToday, the USS LST 393 serves as a museum ship in Muskegon, Michigan. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its rich history and the role it played during World War II. 5Mackinac Island State Park
Mackinac Island, MIMackinac Island State Park is a unique blend of natural and historical reserve. It is situated on Mackinac Island, which is part of Mackinac County in the northeastern United States. The park offers a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for tourists. 6Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
Copper Harbor, MIFort Wilkins Historic State Park, located in Copper Harbor, Michigan, is a historical park managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The park is home to the restored 1844 army military outpost, Fort Wilkins, which is a significant historical site that was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. 7The War Memorial
Grosse Pointe Farms, MIThe War Memorial, also known as the Russell A. Alger Jr. House and as the Moorings, is a significant historical site located at 32 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. This location is not only a tribute to the memory of veterans and soldiers of World War II, but also a testament to the rich history of the Alger family, prominent figures in Michigan's history. The house itself is an Italian Renaissance Revival style mansion, offering a unique architectural experience for visitors. 8Eagle Harbor Lighthouse
Eagle Harbor, MIEagle Harbor Light is a functioning lighthouse located at Eagle Harbor, in Keweenaw County, Michigan. It is one of several light stations that guide mariners on Lake Superior across the northern edge of the Keweenaw Peninsula. The lighthouse is not only a beacon for mariners but also a point of interest for tourists visiting the area. 9Byron Area Historic Museum
Byron Center, MIThe Byron Area Historic Museum is located in the heart of Byron Center, Michigan. This museum is a significant part of the local community and offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the area. 10Grice House Museum
Harbor Beach, MIThe Grice House Museum is situated at 865 North Huron Avenue in Harbor Beach, Michigan. It provides a glimpse into life in years gone by, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the past. The museum is housed in a building that was constructed by James G. Grice, an immigrant from England who arrived in the United States in the early 1860s. Today, the museum complex includes the original house, the old Adam's schoolhouse, and a pole barn. 11AJ Phillips Fenton Museum
Fenton, MIThe A.J. Phillips Fenton Museum and Historical Society is housed in a historic building in Fenton, Michigan. This building, which was constructed in 1900, was generously donated to the City of Fenton in 1906 by the heirs of Andrew Jackson Phillips. The building is a significant part of the city's history and is currently owned and maintained by the City of Fenton. 12Selfridge Military Air Museum
Harrison, MIDedicated to the history of this base. Displays both aircraft and memorabilia of all sorts. A great spot for military history fans. 13USS Silversides Submarine Museum
Muskegon, MIThe USS Silversides SS AGSS 236, a Gato class submarine, is a significant part of the United States Navy's history. It was one of the most successful submarines in the Pacific Theater of World War II, with 23 confirmed sinkings totalling more than 90,000 long tons of shipping. This impressive record makes it a fascinating attraction for those interested in naval history and World War II. 14Almira Historical Society
Lake Ann, MIThe Almira Historical Society was formed in 1992 by a group of citizens devoted to collecting and preserving the history of the Village of Lake Ann and Almira Township. Through the efforts of many individuals, funds were raised to purchase land and build a museum where more than 1,500 local artifact 15Light Keeper’s House
Grand Marais, MIThe Lightkeeper’s House, situated at the end of Coast Guard Point Road in Grand Marais, offers visitors a chance to step back in time. Built in 1908 by the Life Saving Service, this brick house replaced the lightkeeper's previous shack made of scrap lumber. During World War II, the Coast Guard to 16The Zekelman Holocaust Center
Farmington Hills, MIThe Holocaust Memorial Center, also known as the Michigan Holocaust Museum, is a significant American institution situated in Farmington Hills, close to Detroit, Michigan. This museum, which was established in April 1984, serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and provides an educational platform for visitors to learn about this dark period in history.- 17
Tuskegee Airmen National Museum
Detroit, MIHoused on the premises of famous Fort Wayne near the Detroit downtown, this museum is dedicated to heroes of World War II. - 18
Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum
Bay City, MIThe Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum, located in Bay City, Michigan, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the United States Navy. The museum is permanently housed in the USS Edson, a retired United States Navy destroyer that has been converted into a museum. This destroyer serves as the main attraction of the museum, offering visitors a chance to explore a piece of naval history.