
Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre
Discover Muskoka's rich maritime past, Indigenous heritage, and natural beauty through engaging exhibits and historic steamships.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, more intimate visits

Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre
Best Time
Quieter, more intimate visits

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Muskoka's rich maritime past, Indigenous heritage, and natural beauty through engaging exhibits and historic steamships.
"A clean, friendly, and educational place that shows the true beauty and spirit of Muskoka."

🎟️ Discount with Cruise Tickets
Entry to the museum is often free or discounted with a steamship cruise ticket, especially in the off-season.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Love the Play Area
The interactive kids' zone is a huge hit, keeping children entertained for hours.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Wooden Boat Display
Boathouse
Marvel at a world-class collection of vintage wooden boats, a testament to Muskoka's rich maritime heritage.

Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures
Indigenous Exhibit
Explore an integral part of the Muskoka story through this powerful exhibit curated by an Indigenous team.

Interactive Kids' Zone
Children's Play Area
An engaging space where little ones can explore Muskoka's wonders through hands-on activities and boat-themed play.

RMS Segwun & Wenonah II
Dockside
See the majestic steamships that once plied these waters, offering a glimpse into Muskoka's golden tourism era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Bundle Up for Boat & Museum Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Discount with Cruise Tickets
Entry to the museum is often free or discounted with a steamship cruise ticket, especially in the off-season.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Love the Play Area
The interactive kids' zone is a huge hit, keeping children entertained for hours.
📚 Learn Muskoka's History
Discover local stories, nature, and culture that make Muskoka unique.
🚢 Combine with a Boat Tour
Enhance your visit by booking a scenic cruise on the historic steamships.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Discount with Cruise Tickets
Entry to the museum is often free or discounted with a steamship cruise ticket, especially in the off-season.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Love the Play Area
The interactive kids' zone is a huge hit, keeping children entertained for hours.
📚 Learn Muskoka's History
Discover local stories, nature, and culture that make Muskoka unique.
🚢 Combine with a Boat Tour
Enhance your visit by booking a scenic cruise on the historic steamships.
🐾 Special Animal Events
Keep an eye out for unique pop-up exhibitions, like the 'Zoo-to-You' event.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Muskoka Discovery Centre for its engaging exhibits on local history, nature, and culture, particularly highlighting the impressive Indigenous history section and the well-designed Kids' Zone. The staff are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a clean, calm, and educational experience. While generally well-received, some visitors find the adult admission price steep if they are primarily accompanying children to the play area.
"The Muskoka Discovery Centre is the best place to learn about Muskoka’s history, nature, and culture. It helps visitors understand what makes this area so special, from old steamships and local stories to the beautiful lakes and forests.
The building is well designed and carefully arranged, making it easy to walk around and enjoy the displays. Each part connects nicely to the next, and the exhibits are interesting and easy to follow.
The staff are very nice and helpful, and they really care about sharing their knowledge with visitors.
Overall, it’s a clean, friendly, and educational place that shows the true beauty and spirit of Muskoka. Highly recommended!"
Saeed Moayyedi
"Quiet in September, discounted with Steamboat cruise tickets. Had a fun encounter with a pop up exhibition of exotic animals. The museum is interactive and well laid out with an awesome indigenous section upstairs."
Tammy K
"A fun informative museum which covered alot of different topics for it's size. There's small exhibits on everything from fisheries and seaweed farming to water conservation, local wildlife to 20th century boats and engines. The main exhibits focused on the history of tourism in the Gravenhurst area, the steamships, and a must-not-miss exhibit on Indigenous history of the entire Muskoka region. I would definitely recommending making a stop here, there's enough for both adults and families to do for at least a couple hours. Currently for the month of October, entry to the museum is free for anyone with a steamship cruise ticket, normally it's a discounted rate."
Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre is located at the Gravenhurst Wharf. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If you're coming from Bracebridge, it's a short drive south.
While specific public transit routes directly to the wharf might be limited, local taxi services or ride-sharing options can be utilized from nearby towns like Gravenhurst. Check local transit schedules for Bracebridge or Gravenhurst if you're relying on public transport.
For a day trip from Ottawa, driving is the most common method, allowing flexibility to explore the region. Consider an early start to maximize your time.
Yes, the Discovery Centre is the departure point for the historic RMS Segwun and Wenonah II steamship cruises on Lake Muskoka.
The Discovery Centre is situated at the Gravenhurst Wharf, which is a central and scenic part of the town. It's generally a pleasant walk from the downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically there's a fee for adults and children. It's worth noting that entry can be free or discounted if you have a ticket for a steamship cruise, especially during the off-season like October.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events like 'Zoo-to-You', is recommended to secure your spot. You can usually book online via their website.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, particularly for the museum and boat tours.
Yes, discounts are often available, particularly for those holding steamship cruise tickets. Family passes or special event pricing may also be offered.
Often, you can bundle tickets for the museum and a steamship cruise for a combined experience. This can sometimes offer a better value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on Muskoka's history, nature, and culture, including a significant Indigenous history section, a collection of vintage wooden boats, and an interactive kids' zone.
Absolutely! The Discovery Centre features a dedicated and highly praised interactive kids' zone that keeps children engaged for hours.
Most visitors spend at least a couple of hours exploring the exhibits, especially if they engage with the interactive displays and the children's area.
Yes, they host special events like 'Zoo-to-You' and have featured exhibits such as 'Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures'. It's worth checking their schedule for unique happenings.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the Discovery Centre. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially regarding flash photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Discovery Centre itself may not have a full-service restaurant, there are often snack bars or cafes available. Additionally, the Gravenhurst Wharf area has several dining options nearby.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the main exhibit areas. However, there might be designated areas for picnics or snacks. It's best to confirm their policy upon arrival.
The Gravenhurst Wharf area offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual cafes to restaurants serving local fare. You might even find unique options like oyster bars on the boats themselves.
Yes, the vicinity of the Gravenhurst Wharf has several eateries that are perfect for a pre- or post-visit meal. Consider local pubs or lakeside cafes.
Most restaurants in tourist areas like Gravenhurst are accustomed to dietary requests. It's advisable to check menus online or ask staff about vegetarian and vegan options when dining nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic steamships docked at the wharf, the vintage wooden boats in the boathouse, and the scenic lake views from the centre offer excellent photo opportunities.
For professional photography or drone usage, it's essential to contact the Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre in advance to obtain permission and understand any regulations or fees.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing the details of the boats and the expansive lake views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots of the exhibits.
Generally, personal photography is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful lighting for photographing the steamships and the lake. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant details of the wooden boats.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending special events like 'Zoo-to-You' for an extra layer of fun and education. Combining a museum visit with a short steamship cruise can also be a hit, offering a taste of Muskoka's maritime heritage in a way that appeals to all ages.
🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
Exploring the historic steamships like the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II offers a tangible connection to Muskoka's past as a bustling resort destination. The exhibits delve into the stories behind these vessels and their impact on local development.
📚 Culture & Heritage Seekers
Beyond this, the centre covers various aspects of Muskoka's local history, from fisheries to tourism, making it a well-rounded destination for anyone interested in the cultural tapestry of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Muskoka's Steamships
Visitors can get up close to these historic ships, appreciating their intricate engineering and imagining the bustling era of steam travel. The Discovery Centre complements this by showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring this maritime history to life. It's a chance to connect with a bygone era and understand how these boats shaped the Muskoka landscape and its economy.
Beyond the grand steamships, the centre also highlights the evolution of boating in Muskoka, including a stunning display of vintage wooden boats. This collection underscores the enduring craftsmanship and passion for boating that continues to define the Muskoka experience today.
Exploring Indigenous Heritage: Misko-Aki
The exhibit goes beyond mere historical recounting; it aims to foster understanding and respect for the deep connection Indigenous communities have with this land. Visitors can expect to learn about the ancestral territories, cultural practices, and the enduring spirit of the Anishinaabe people who have called this area home for generations.
This section of the Discovery Centre is noted for its respectful and informative presentation, providing a crucial perspective on Muskoka's story that is essential for a complete understanding of the region's heritage. It’s an integral part of the Muskoka narrative that visitors should not miss.
Family Fun at the Discovery Centre
Children can engage with various elements that reflect Muskoka's natural and maritime environment. From interactive screens featuring lake creatures to play areas that mimic the experience of being on a boat, the Kids' Zone ensures that even the youngest visitors have an exciting and memorable time. Parents often praise how this area keeps their children happily occupied for extended periods.
Beyond the play area, the entire museum offers engaging content for all ages. Special events, like the 'Zoo-to-You' program, further enhance the family-friendly appeal, offering unique learning opportunities that go beyond typical museum exhibits.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit