The award was given out on Thursday, Jun. 4, 2026, at Attractions Ontario’s Annual General Meeting held at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, as stated in a release from the local museum on Tuesday, Jun. 9, 2026. The Ontario’s Choice Awards highlight excellence in tourism and acknowledge attractions that provide outstanding visitor experiences throughout the province.
This acknowledgment is particularly special since the Ontario’s Choice Awards are based on public votes, showcasing the opinions of visitors, supporters, and the wider tourism community across the province, according to details from the Great Lakes Museum.
The Great Lakes Museum, which was formerly known as the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston, celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. In 2023, the SS Keewatin arrived at dry dock at 55 Ontario Street, becoming a new feature for the museum. Then in 2025, this Edwardian-era steamship received recognition as Museum Ship of the Year from the Steamship Historical Society of America.
The Great Lakes Museum has faced major challenges over time; one notable instance occurred when the federal government declared its property surplus and sold it to local developer Jay Patry in early 2016 while issuing an eviction notice to the museum. Luckily for them, plans for a high-rise building on that site ran into various issues over three years including city opposition and high site cleanup expenses.
In July 2019, thanks to a donation from an anonymous benefactor, the museum managed to buy back its property at 55 Ontario Street from Patry who had listed it for sale earlier that same year.
The museum reopened its doors to guests in fall 2021 and once again became one of Kingston’s top attractions for both locals and tourists alike.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition from Attractions Ontario,” said Bep Schippers, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Museum.
“This award reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, board members, and supporters who work tirelessly to preserve and share the rich maritime heritage of the Great Lakes. We are grateful to the visitors and community members whose support makes our work possible.”
In their announcement, the museum expressed heartfelt thanks to Attractions Ontario and everyone who continues supporting its mission.
Learn more about the Great Lakes Museum on its website.
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