Whether youβre a history buff looking to dive into an interesting subject, a gamer with an eye for technology, a fashion fanatic, or just looking for your next adventure, these unique Michigan museums leave plenty to be discovered.
American Museum of Magic
Known as the countryβs largest collection of magic, the American Museum of Magic is located in Marshall. Thousands of artifacts with rich histories can be found within, making every step surprising. The museum was founded by journalist Robert Lund and his wife, Elaine. It started as a private collection including over 12,000 books, photos, journals, and 350,000 pieces of memorabilia.ΜύThe American Museum of Magic is open by appointment only from December to MarchΜύand will reopen to the public in April. American Museum of Magic, ; 269-781-7570;Μύ.
Michigan Transit Museum
For those looking to travel back in time, the Michigan Transit Museum provides a look into the days before cars. The Mount Clemens depot has been restored to its 1900s appearance. The former depot, which has not been used as a functioning railway since 1980, was home to an incredibly famous employee: Thomas Edison. The railroading era is shown through artifacts and is a great place to learn the deep history of the railroad system has in the U.S., and specifically Michigan. Thereβs always something new to see, with rotating exhibits, train rides, and a gift shop.ΜύMichigan Transit Museum, ; 586-463-1863;.
Pickle Barrel House Museum
Built as a house for 1920s cartoonist William Donahey, this is by far one of the most unique museums on our list. Donahey was best known for his βTeenie Weenieβ comic strip for theΜύChicago Tribune. The house, built to serve as Donaheyβs summer home, is shaped like a large pickle barrel. The museum remains in its original design and contains old copies of the βTeenie Weenieβ comics, books showcasing the home in the β20s and β30s, and other memorabilia. The one-of-a-kind home has become a hot spot for tourists and is beloved by locals.ΜύPickle Barrel House Museum, ; .
Michigan Firehouse Museum and Education Center
This 26,000-square-foot museum is devoted to firefighting history and teaching and promoting fire safety. The space contains a restored 1898 firehouse and large, modern addition with 25 exhibits. Artifacts include antique fire trucks, tools, equipment, and the largest collection of truck bells in the U.S.ΜύMichigan Firehouse Museum and Education Center, , 734-547-0663;Μύ.
The Lace Museum
Based in Northville Square,ΜύThe Lace MuseumΜύis a must-visit spot for those who are interested in fashion history. Curated by owner Mary Salmon, who has experience as a purveyor and merchant of lace, the museum houses 18th- and 19th-century handmade lace and linen from the U.S., Central Europe, Ireland, and England. Lace-making tools, textiles, and vintage clothing are also part of the collection.ΜύThe Lace Museum, ; 937-681-7219;Μύ.
Marvinβs Marvelous Mechanical Museum
This massive collection of all things mechanical is sure to impress visitors of every age. Founded in 1980, the interactive museum is home to a ton of vintage coin-operated games and new video games, animatronics, and nostalgic collectorβs items. The lively space is perfect for family fun days, quirky date nights, and general curiosity. Marked as one of the World Almanacβs 100 Most Unusual Museums, this is something youβll need to see to believe. The museum will be open until the end of 2024 at which point it will leave its current home, which is set to be demolished. The museum has announced it will move to a new location but details on where it will move have yet to be released.ΜύMarvinβs Marvelous Mechanical Museum,Μύ31005 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-626-5020;Μύ.
Midwest Miniatures Museum
In 2007, the Midwest Miniatures Museum became a place where people could experience the fine art of miniatures. The museum, which is in a historic mansion, is filled with miniatures set of scale-models from different eras throughout history. Some permanent collections, like van Goghβs yellow house and the Lynnwood House, can be found on display at the museum. Midwest Miniatures Museum, ; 616-414-5809 .
This post has been updated for 2024.Μύ
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