Emily B.
Yelp
As someone who is born and bred in the Great Lakes Region, and is somewhat of a shipwreck nerd, I've been wanting to visit for many years, and it far exceeded my expectations.
The campus is beautiful and well-maintained. Admission is $15, which I consider a steal - there are six buildings you can enter, each with their own "theme", as well as an interpreter to answer any questions. We spent way longer than we anticipated. While each building is small, they are packed with displays, artifacts, and informational graphics that really highlight many of the individuals that were involved in the U.S. Lighthouse Service, as well individuals who were involved in some of rhe over 550 shipwrecks on Lake Superior alone.
The main gallery/building (the one with the bell from the Edmund Fitzgerald) was particularly beautiful and very moving. I'm not ashamed to admit that this was a pretty emotional experience for me.
After you view the very moving displays, the beach is right there to walk along and contemplate the fragility of human life in the face of chaotic nature. Whitefish Point is also home to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge and an Audubon Bird Observatory.
Yes, it's a long drive from, well, anywhere. But the drive is scenic, and the small town of Paradise is only about 10 miles away and offers plenty of lodging and nice diners and such for those needs. Taquamenon Falls is also quite close, and a wonderful experience in and of itself.
This place is truly a gem, and an important place to visit for anyone interested in history, seafaring, nature, etc. I couldn't recommend it more.