Family Activities:

William A. Irvin

Attraction

William A. Irvin

350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN

Someone said “Supersize Me” when these mighty iron ore ships were built. Be prepared to feel very small while boarding this 1937 flagship of the U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet that operated for more than 40 years. Families can tour the ship and learn about life on a “Laker,” ships that are too big to reach the ocean via the St. Lawrence Seaway and spend their years hauling 13,000 tons of iron ore per load into Great Lakes ports.

The ship may be overwhelming for young children, but fun for curious adventurers who want to see the contrast between a 2,000 horsepower steam turbine engine and the elegant luxury rooms used by company dignitaries.

Teens who crave an adrenaline rush and one-of-a-kind haunted house experience can test their courage on October weekends when the echoing dark metal maze of the William A. Irvin opens as a ship of ghouls. Attendees must be at least 12 to attend without a parent.

The ship requires climbing several stairs and is not handicapped accessible.

Admission
Free for kids 10 and under with a paid parent admission; $8 for students and seniors; $12, adults.

Hours
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29 to Memorial Day and from Labor Day through Sept. 25; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends