James Mischler

The Museum provides a comprehensive historical view of the ships and sailors who plied the Great Lakes the past 250 years, especially Lake Superior, which has the shipwrecks. There is a very good documentary that plays every hour about the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the biggest ship ever lost in the Great Lakes. The gift shop has some nice items that aren’t overly touristy. If you love the water and ships, check it out.

A 21st-century office building on the outside with historic and entertaining surprises on the inside. Within the main doors, the modern, high-ceiling walkway is an architectural gem. The path leads past a small stone building, built in 1845, that is completely enclosed by the new complex. The walkway leads to a large room that offers a food court and the Hockey Hall of Fame. Lots of good food and sports history. The food court could use more places to sit, but otherwise, a great place for lunch downtown.