Finnish Heritage Museum

Finnish Heritage Museum. gjmount (Atlas Obscura User)

Housed in a building that once served the community in every capacity from firehouse to senior center, the Finnish Heritage Museum opened in 2007 as a tribute to the Finnish legacy of a small Lake Erie shore town.

While exploring the museum, you’ll come across items that document and explain the connection between Finland and the small Ohio village. You’ll see a replica of an authentic Finnish sauna, along with Finnish crafts, musical instruments, and clothing.

The museum entrance opens into the gift shop, where you will be greeted by a volunteer. All volunteers are of Finnish blood or otherwise have a Finnish connection and will offer to personally guide you through the exhibits.

The museum lets you do more than just see its collection—you’ll also have a chance to taste a bit of Finnish culture as well. Once you have taken a look at the exhibits, you’ll enter back into the gift shop, where Finnish delicacies await. A slice of pulla, a traditional Finnish sweet bread with cardamom, is yours with the price of admission. For a couple extra dollars, enjoy it with a cup of coffee.

Know Before You Go

The museum is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. year-round. Its additional hours vary throughout the year. Admission is $3.00 for adults, $2.00 for kids ages 13 to 17, and free for kids under 12.

Craving more pulla after your visit? Head down the street to the Finnish Treasures Gift Shop to purchase a loaf. The volunteers will be more than happy to give you directions.