The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary's visitor center tells the story of the many shipwrecks of the Great Lakes. Ideally placed for trading and supply boats on their way to Mackinaw, Sault Ste. Marie, and Green Bay, Thunder Bay is home to a large collection of shipwrecks. The goal of the sanctuary is to document, protect, and educate the public about the history and resources of these wrecks.

Summer hours start the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. The visitor center is open for extended evening hours in July and August, until 7:00 p.m. Winter hours start the second Monday in October and run from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.