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Soo Locks Visitors Center

The Soo Locks Visitors Center is open seasonally from May 1 to October 31. During those months, the center is open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, seven days a week. The center features interactive exhibits, up-to-date vessel information, and knowledgable rangers to make your visit memorable. Select merchandise may be available for purchase inside the center.

The center is located inside the Soo Locks Park at 209 E Portage Ave in Sault Ste. Marie. Both the front and rear doors of the building are accessible entrances. Metered parking is available along Portage Ave, and free parking is available throughout Sault Ste. Marie.

Soo Locks Park

The Soo Locks Park is managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and is open daily throughout the year. The park features a central viewing platform that offers visitors an elevated view of the locks, walking paths, public restrooms, and opportunities to watch freighters as they proceed through the locks. The lower level of the viewing platform is accessible; stairs are required to reach the upper level.

 

Events & Other Resources

  • Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on what’s happening at the locks. Questions about what to expect as you plan your visit? Message us on Facebook, and a park ranger will be able to assist you.

  • People from all over flock to the Soo on the last Friday of June for Engineer’s Day. This all-day event allows boatnerds the rare opportunity to cross the locks and view the freighters up close.

    The 2025 Engineer’s Day will be Friday, June 27. Please watch our Facebook page for more infomation.

  • Round out your visit to the locks by experiencing all of what Sault Ste. Marie has to offer! With many options for attractions, shopping, and dining, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. For more information, visit our friends at the Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitor Bureau to learn more.

  • During the active shipping season, call our hotline at (906) 202-1333 to hear a pre-recorded message that lists the freighters currently in the St. Mary’s River.

  • Learning about the locks doesn’t have to end when you leave the Soo! Join us throughout the year on the USACE YouTube channel for Virtual Visitors Center, a recurring video series that features interviews and presentations from maritime professionals.

    Programs begin at 12:30 EDT (11:30 am CDT)

    2025–2026 Season Schedule

    January 8 – Minnesota’s North Shore Shipwrecks

    Join Ranger Kaylee as she explores the history of shipwrecks on the western side of Lake Superior along Minnesota’s North Shore using an interactive GIS map.

    February 5 – Pilot Eric Treece

    Pilot Eric Treece joins us in the Virtual Visitor Center to share his experiences as a captain and pilot guiding ships through the St. Marys River and tell us about the Western Great Lakes Pilot Association.

    March 5 – Navigating the Great Lakes: A Captain’s Perspective from the Rivers to the Locks

    Join Captain TJ for a firsthand look at navigating the Great Lakes system, from tight river channels and the Welland Canal to daily life and decision-making aboard a working freighter. He’ll share experiences from the wheelhouse, stories from the lakes and oceans, as well as insights into the challenges and realities of modern Great Lakes shipping.

    April 2 – Exploring the Seaway: History from the Visitor Center at Eisenhower Lock

    The St. Lawrence Seaway connects the Great Lakes with ports around the world. Amy Stark, Visitor Center Manager at the Eisenhower Lock, joins us to share the fascinating story of this series of U.S. and Canadian Locks that have linked the Upper Midwest to the world since 1959.

  • Fans of the locks are invited to celebrate the start of the new shipping season during our annual open house. Enjoy snacks and mingle with fellow boatnerds during this fun event.

    Please note: The 2025 Open House will now be on Friday, March 21 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm in the Visitors Center.