The Cook County Historical Society (CCHS) is excited to announce the launch of two different tours, which share the history and stories of the Grand Marais Harbor. 

The first is a self-guided walkable, rollable, or driveable tour, which begins at the Grand Marais City Hall and ends at the Bally Blacksmith and Metal Shop. Along the way, you’ll learn about the different industries and groups that have utilized the harbor for goods, services, and at one time, even games of baseball.

Access the tour digitally on our website at any time, or stop by the History Museum or Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery during open hours and grab a physical booklet. To help us preserve the resources of this beautiful place we all love, you can return booklets to the Museum or JHP during open hours, or via a dropbox at both sites at any time. 

The second tour is led by CCHS’s Interpretive Specialist John each week through summer on Fridays, beginning at 7 p.m. at the History Museum (8 S. Broadway Ave), weather permitting. Join John as he leads participants around the harbor, pointing out remnants from life long ago, and sharing stories of how the landscape has changed over the past century. The route will take participants from the History Museum to the Coast Guard Station, Harbor Park, and Compass Park. Please note: Participants on the guided tour will be required to sign a waiver, and should expect to walk on uneven surfaces for approximately one mile. 

Participants have already shared positive experiences. One recent attendee noted, “Great tour last night with John.  Always something new to learn about GM.  Thanks so much.”

All tours are free, family-friendly, and open to the public, with donations graciously accepted. 

Both harbor history tours are made possible through the generous support of the Grand Marais Area Tourism Association 1% Events and Program Grant and Visit Cook County.

To learn more, visit cookcountyhistory.org 

About the Cook County Historical Society

The Cook County Historical Society (CCHS), which just celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025, is committed to the collection, preservation, and dissemination of Cook County history, connecting it to the state of Minnesota's narrative. CCHS manages five historical sites: the Cook County History Museum (1896 Lightkeeper's House), the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, St. Francis Xavier “Chippewa City” Church, the Bally Blacksmith Shop, and a 1930s fish house replica featuring the fishing tug Nee-Gee.  Learn more at cookcountyhistory.org.