Midwest
The National Museum of the Great Lakes (Toledo, Ohio)
In Toledo, Ohio, the National Museum of the Great Lakes provides a fascinating look at the maritime history of the Great Lakes region. The museum’s exhibits focus on the vital role that these inland seas played in American commerce and transportation.
Visitors can explore interactive displays, historical vessels, and artifacts that illustrate the impact of the Great Lakes on the development of the United States. The museum’s centerpiece, the historic vessel Inland Seas, offers a hands-on experience of Great Lakes maritime history.
Pere Marquette State Park (Grafton, Illinois)
Pere Marquette State Park, named after the French explorer Père Marquette, offers both historical intrigue and natural beauty. The park is located in Grafton, Illinois, and provides visitors with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities to learn about Marquette’s explorations of the Mississippi River.
The park’s historical exhibits and nature trails make it a perfect destination for those interested in both early American exploration and outdoor recreation.