This summer, the Lakeshore Museum Center invites residents and visitors alike to step into Muskegon’s rich history through a series of guided walking tours. Held on select dates in June, July, and August, these 90-minute tours offer an engaging way to explore the city’s vibrant downtown while uncovering stories from the past that still echo through the streets today.
Participants can choose between two distinct tours, each designed to offer a unique perspective on Muskegon’s legacy. The Historic Downtown Tour provides a deep dive into the evolution of the city, revealing the changing uses of familiar buildings, stories of prominent and lesser-known Muskegonites, and the historical forces that have shaped the urban landscape. On alternating dates, the World War II Tour offers a powerful look into Muskegon’s critical contributions to the war effort, both at home and abroad. Stops along the way include landmarks such as the LST 393, the Hackley House, and the Mart Dock, where the personal and collective experiences of the war years come to life.
Tours are offered on a rotating schedule, with Historic Tours in the morning during June and August and in the afternoon during July, while the WWII Tours are offered in the afternoon in June and August and in the morning during July. All tours begin promptly at either 10:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes, covering one mile along flat, city sidewalks. The routes are fully accessible for mobility aids and strollers, with frequent stops and seating available at many of the locations.
Tickets for each tour are $13 for Lakeshore Museum Center members and $15 for non-members. Pre-registration is highly encouraged due to limited space. Registration for the Historic Tour is available at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/
Whether you're a lifelong resident, a history enthusiast, or a visitor seeking a deeper connection to Muskegon, these tours offer a meaningful way to experience the city and its stories. Join the Lakeshore Museum Center this summer to explore the footsteps of the past, right in the heart of downtown Muskegon. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.
