Guest post sponsored by Maritime Museum of Sandusky written by Molly Sampson
Nestled near the heart of downtown Sandusky, the Maritime Museum of Sandusky is a gateway to the region’s deep-rooted connection with Lake Erie. From commercial shipping and passenger steamers to shipwrecks, ice harvesting, and the history of the Underground Railroad, the museum brings to life the stories that have shaped the shoreline.
As Executive Director—and a lifelong lover of history—I’ve had the pleasure of seeing firsthand how this museum connects visitors of all ages to our region’s unique maritime legacy. Whether you’re a boat enthusiast, a local history buff, or a family looking for an afternoon adventure, there’s something here to discover.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore hands-on exhibits that illuminate centuries of maritime industry and innovation. You’ll find artifacts from 19th-century schooners, models of passenger steamships, and tools used by ice harvesters who once cut blocks from the frozen bay. Behind the scenes, we’re currently restoring a 1939 Lyman 
Runabout with ties to Lay Brother’s Fishery—once complete, it will be a striking example of Lake Erie craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Younger guests can dive into our kid-friendly activities, including interactive knots, a scavenger hunt, and a signal station. Outside, the museum’s location just steps from downtown Sandusky makes it easy to pair a visit with a stroll along Jackson Street Pier, coffee at a local café, or lunch at one of the many nearby restaurants overlooking the bay.
The museum is more than just a building; it’s a community hub. We host lectures, festivals, and restoration classes throughout the year. And every August, we cap off the summer with our Big Splash Raffle, a beloved local tradition and our biggest annual fundraiser, featuring music, community spirit, and the chance to win major cash prizes.
Visiting the Maritime Museum is a great way to experience Sandusky’s harbor heritage and understand how Lake Erie has shaped this region’s culture and economy. We’re proud to be part of the Shores & Islands Ohio community and invite you to stop in and explore the stories of those who lived, worked, and sailed on these waters.
Molly Sampson is the Executive Director of the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. When she’s not researching WWII or sharing stories of service, you’ll find her paddle boarding on the bay, browsing the farmers market, or grabbing a coffee after yoga on the pier.
