Today we are excited to announce that the Museum is open for the 2023 season as of Saturday, May 20 and we’ll be open daily with free admission until October 15!
What is there to look forward to? This season offers a unique, engaging experience for families, history buffs, mariners, boat builders, learners, paddlers, and lake lovers of all ages. All are welcome to browse exhibits, stroll and picnic on museum grounds, learn about historic and replica boats, watch boats being built, shop for local gifts in the museum store, and take part in educational activities. Oh, and friendly leashed dogs are welcome in our outdoor spaces!
“We believe that all people should have equal and free access to Lake Champlain and the opportunity to learn from the lake and our history, connect with each other, and be inspired to see new possibilities. Thanks to our sponsors, donors, and members our doors are open for free in 2023 and we look forward to welcoming everyone on campus this season!”
Lauren Ross
Interim Co-Director and Director of DevelopmentLake Champlain Maritime Museum
Highlights of the 2023 season include:
- Free admission: We are free for all visitors and open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 20–Oct. 15. Plan a visit at www.lcmm.org/visit.
- Indoor and outdoor exhibits: Visitors can enjoy a dozen exhibit spaces on campus including the updated Hazelett Small Watercraft Center which documents the history and craft of small boats in the Champlain Valley; outboard motors collection on display in Steam to Gasoline, open for the first time since the pandemic; and new interactive panels about native and invasive species at the waterfront. Open exhibits are listed at www.lcmm.org/exhibits.
- Pay-what-you-can camps and expeditions: All our summer programs have a pay-what-you-can tuition model to ensure all kids and teens have equal access to a great camp experience. Participants can sign up to build kayaks, learn about underwater archaeology, go on an overnight kayak or rowing expedition, and more. Details available at www.lcmm.org/camps.
- Events and activities: Throughout the season, we have events and activities for all to enjoy including Abenaki Heritage Weekend on June 17–18 presented by the Vermont Abenaki Artists Association and Abenaki Arts and Education Center; the Museum After Hours Summer Party on July 7; free monthly Collection Corner events with unique artifacts from the museum’s collection; and ROV shipwreck tours on Lake Champlain. For the most up-to-date list of events visit www.lcmm.org/calendar.
- Open-water rowing: Each spring through fall, adults of all ages are invited to experience open-water rowing on the lake in the museum’s fleet of rowing gigs. Interested participants can join a weekly rowing club, which range from beginner to experienced, or sign up for one of the rowing events this season including the Hope for TomorROW on June 24 or the Lake Champlain Challenge Race on Sept. 9. Rowing clubs and events available at www.lcmm.org/adult-rowing.
Free admission for the 2023 season and pay-what-you-can camps and expeditions are made possible with support from Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership, the Lake Champlain Basin Program, local businesses, individuals, foundations, and the museum’s membership program.
