Get ready for some “knot”-so-serious nautical fun! Join us aboard the ship for a hands-on program where visitors of all ages can learn the ropes and try their hand at classic maritime knot-tying. Through interactive demonstrations, games, and activities, you’ll discover how sailors used knots every day aboard ships like the Mackinaw. From practical skills to playful challenges, this program is a fun way to connect with maritime traditions while exploring the ship. Perfect for families, curious learners, and anyone who wants to test their knot skills! Events at 10AM, 2PM, and 4PM Included with regular museum admission.

Sweeten your visit with Mackinaw Cookie Day! Guests visiting the ship can enjoy free cookies while supplies last and discover one of our favorite traditions—our not-so-secret Mackinaw WAGB-83 cookie recipes. It’s a fun and tasty way to celebrate the history of the ship and the community that has supported the museum over the years. Stop by, grab a cookie, and enjoy a delicious treat while exploring the decks of the Mackinaw. Included with regular museum admission.

Discover how the Mackinaw conquers the frozen waters of the Great Lakes and keeps vital shipping lanes open during the toughest winter conditions. In this interactive program, visitors will learn how powerful icebreakers work—from the ship’s design and weight to the techniques crews use to break through thick ice. After learning the science and strategy behind Great Lakes icebreaking, guests can test their own skills in a fun, all-ages icebreaking challenge. It’s a hands-on way to explore one of the Mackinaw’s most important missions and experience a little of the challenge faced by the crews who served aboard her. Included... Read More »

Join us for a special History Happy Hour featuring Northern Michigan author and journalist Mike Fornes, whose book USCGC Mackinaw WAGB-83: An Illustrated History of a Great Lakes Queen tells the story of one of the most iconic ships on the Great Lakes. Fornes spent 26 years covering both Coast Guard icebreakers named Mackinaw for several Northern Michigan media outlets, including the Cheboygan Daily Tribune. As a frequent guest aboard the icebreakers, he sailed with the crews and witnessed firsthand the shiphandling, seamanship, and icebreaking techniques used by these remarkable vessels. During this engaging talk, Fornes will share stories from... Read More »

Get ready for an exciting day of skill, teamwork, and maritime training as Coast Guard crews put their abilities to the test during the DC Olympics. Visitors can watch as crews demonstrate the kinds of skills used during real maritime emergencies—showcasing the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork that define life aboard Coast Guard vessels. Visitors will then have the chance to test their own abilities in a series of timed, hands-on challenges inspired by real shipboard emergency response scenarios.  Come see the action and experience a unique look at the training and expertise behind maritime safety. Free event.

Step into the world of shipboard communication during Ham Radio Day aboard the Mackinaw. Visitors can meet local amateur radio operators and see live demonstrations of how ham radios connect people across cities, states, and even oceans. Learn how radio communication has played an important role in maritime operations, safety, and global connections. Special guest Rosie the Riveter will also be on board, celebrating the history of communication and the vital roles people played in supporting maritime missions. Stop by to explore the technology, ask questions, and experience radio communication in action. Included with regular museum admission.

Bring the whole family aboard for a full day of fun and discovery. Kids Day features hands-on activities, crafts, scavenger hunts, and opportunities to explore the ship while learning about Great Lakes maritime history. It’s a day designed especially for young explorers and curious minds. Kids Receive Free Admission All Day

Join us for a special community day focused on vision care and service. The Mackinaw City Lions Club will provide free vision screenings for children during museum hours. Visitors will also receive free museum admission when they donate a pair of gently used eyeglasses, helping support Lions Club programs that provide vision care to those in need. Come support a great cause while enjoying a day aboard the ship.   Free Museum Admission with a donation of a pair of gently used eyeglasses.

Join us aboard the ship as we honor the men and women who have served our country. Veteran Appreciation Day recognizes the dedication and sacrifice of military veterans with a day of gratitude and remembrance. Veterans are invited to explore the museum, connect with fellow service members, and enjoy the stories of those who served aboard Great Lakes vessels. Throughout the day, we will recognize the important role veterans have played in protecting our nation and shaping maritime history. As a token of appreciation, all veterans receive free admission during museum hours.

Celebrate community, history, and the start of Independence Day weekend during this special First Friday Volunteer Day as part of our 20th Anniversary Celebration. Join us aboard the ship to lend a hand while helping preserve the stories and spaces that make this museum special. Volunteers can join for one hour or the whole afternoon, assisting with a variety of projects such as organizing, light cleaning, painting, and other hands-on tasks that keep the ship shipshape. It’s a fun and meaningful way to connect with the community, celebrate 20 years of the museum, and kick off the Fourth of July... Read More »

Step into the spirit of the World War II home front and meet Rosie the Riveter, the powerful symbol of the women who stepped forward to help build, repair, and support America’s fleet. Visitors can meet Rosie aboard the ship, learn about the vital work women performed during wartime, and discover how their efforts helped keep vessels like the Mackinaw ready for service. It’s a chance to explore an inspiring chapter of history while celebrating the determination and teamwork that defined a generation. Stop by, ask questions, snap a photo, and discover why Rosie’s message still inspires today. Included with... Read More »