National Museum of the Great Lakes and Great Lakes Observing System Partner on New Micro-Exhibit

Daily Dose | 07/01/2026 2:30 pm

The National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL) invites visitors to discover the technology and data networks that help scientists, mariners, and communities better understand the Great Lakes through its newest temporary micro-exhibit, From Buoys to Boaters and Beachgoers.

Presented in partnership with the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS), the exhibit offers an inside look at the observation and information network that monitors the Great Lakes and connecting waterways. Visitors will learn how hundreds of observing platforms—including buoys, weather stations, and water quality sensors—collect real-time data that supports research, forecasting, navigation, recreation, and environmental stewardship across the region.

“Many people benefit from Great Lakes monitoring systems every day without realizing it,” said Carrie Sowden, Director of Archaeology and Research, National Museum of the Great Lakes. “This exhibit highlights the technology and collaboration that help us better understand and protect one of the world’s largest freshwater resources.”

The micro-exhibit is included with regular museum admission and will be available during regular museum hours from July 3 through August 31, 2026.

About the National Museum of the Great Lakes: The National Museum of the Great Lakes preserves, shares, and celebrates the past, present, and future of the Great Lakes story. As an interactive, experiential museum, we offer visitors the chance to explore thousands of years of history and stories through nine dynamic exhibit galleries—including a rotating temporary exhibition space—and two historic museum vessels, the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the Museum Tug Ohio, plus the pilothouse of the storied St. Marys Challenger.

Founded in 1944 as the Great Lakes Historical Society, we have a long-standing commitment to education, research, and storytelling. Our initiatives include the publication of Inland Seas®, a quarterly journal of Great Lakes history since 1945 and decades of maritime preservation and archaeological exploration. Today, we strive to be the gathering place for Great Lakes conversations—welcoming all to connect with the stories, people, and innovations that have shaped and continue to influence this vital region.

About the Great Lakes Observing System: The Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing data and information that supports science, safety, and stewardship throughout the Great Lakes region. By integrating data from hundreds of observing platforms, GLOS helps deliver the information needed to understand and manage the Great Lakes ecosystem.

WHAT: Micro-Exhibit: From Buoys to Boaters and Beachgoers

WHEN: July 3 - August 31, 2026 | Museum Hours

WHERE: National Museum of the Great Lakes 1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605

ADMISSION:

$20.00 (Museum & Ship) / $14.00 (Museum Only) – Adults (18-64)

$18.00 (Museum & Ship) / $12.00 (Museum Only) – Seniors (65+)

$14.00 (Museum & Ship) / $8.00 (Museum Only) – Youth (6-17) FREE – Children 5 and under, GLHS/NMGL Members

MEDIA CONTACT: Ashley Streichert Lovejoy, 419-460-8181