The Discovery Center and Pier originated as the shared home of four important water-focused nonprofit organizations: the Maritime Heritage Alliance, the Watershed Center Grand Traverse Bay, the Great Lakes Children’s Museum, and the Traverse Area Community Sailing. The Inland Seas Education Association joined in 2015. The Traverse Tall Ship Company joined the campus in 2012 as a business affiliate. See these organizations websites for further details.
The Discovery Center's outdoors exhibit "Ship Shapes"allows visitor to inspect and climb in replicas boats. This includes a a replica if an historic Mackinaw boat. During the 19th century, Mackinaw boats were used for transportation and commercial fishing.
On the shore across M-22 from the Discovery Center, lies the Discovery Center Pier the home port of tall ships Madeline, Manitou, Utopia, and Champion. Other historical small craft from the Maritime Heritage Alliance's fleet also use these docks. Discovery Pier is open to the public during daylight hours.
The Discovery Center and Pier dedicated to preserving and promotion the history, education, stewardship and recreation of the Grand Traverse Bay. It is a Rotary Legacy Project for the Community.
that explore water-related outdoors exhibit "Ship Shapes" includes a replica if an historic Mackinaw boat replica that kids caner- climb in as well as other smallcraft popular in the Great Lakes. During the 19th century, Mackinaw boats were used for commercial fishing. See their website for further information!
What you can do here
Access Fishing History & Culture Research, Boat Rides, Boat Viewing, View Exhibits
Traverse City, MI 49684