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Epaulette shark
Text reads SHARKS with a shark silhouette in the center of the A

Open now through August 31

Majestic. Powerful. Diverse. Get a new perspective on sharks.

Dive in and submerge yourself in the world of SHARKS. This blockbuster exhibition from the Australian Museum brings together the history, science, and cultural significance of a fascinating class of fierce fish. Explore 100 specimens and artifacts and 9 breathtaking, life-sized, scientifically accurate models of shark species, from the iconic great white shark to the extinct 270-million-year-old buzzsaw shark. 

Sharks have survived in the world’s oceans for over 450 million years through five global mass extinctions. What makes these creatures so incredibly resilient, and what challenges do they face today in the age of industry? The fate of sharks is in human hands. How will we respond?

What you'll encounter in this exhibit:

  • Life-sized shark models

  • An immersive cylindrical surround theater where you can learn about several sharks

  • Cutting-edge audiovisual and media presentations

  • Hands-on displays like touchtable models and casts

  • First Nations’ stories of sharks and culture from around the world

  • The impact of a changing climate on sharks and their habitats

  • Information suitable for shark enthusiasts of all ages, great for families and school groups

Visitors look at a model of the extinct 270-million-year-old Helicoprion, also known as the Buzzsaw Shark.
Children stand in a model megalodon jaw, pointing at its teeth.
Visitors look at a life size model bull shark
Children look at panels beside a large lit up blue cylinder with sharks on it
Visitors face away from camera to look at a large screen depicting sharks swimming in the ocean.
A life sized model of a hammerhead shark
sharks7

Thank you to our Sponsors

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David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation logo

Ambassador

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Meijer Logo
Steve and Amy Van Andel Foundation
TonTin Hardwood and Millwork logo

Patron

DTE Foundation logo

Sustainer

Friend

Museum Parking Ramp Closed Saturday, July 26

The Museum Parking Ramp will be unavailable for use this Saturday due to the Pleasant Peninsula Mural Festival taking place on Front Avenue. They will be painting 21 new beautiful murals to brighten up Downtown Grand Rapids.

Alternative FREE parking will still be available in the GVSU Mt. Vernon lot at 50 Front Ave SW. See the map below for directions on how to access the Mt. Vernon lot.

See Map

U.S. Service Members and Families Free This Weekend!

This weekend, the GRPM extends free admission to all U.S. service members—active or retired—and their families.
 
See our new Veterans display, in partnership with the Michigan Heroes Museum, honoring West Michiganders who served the United States during World War II.
 

This offer includes those serving in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reserves, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and NOAA Commissioned Corps, along with up to five family members.

Ask our front desk upon arrival to redeem.

Early Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closing early at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14th, for Cabinet of Curiosities: Grand Slam!

This elevated spring fundraiser explores America’s favorite pastime through Grand Rapids history and celebrates the GRPM’s new exhibit, Play Ball! The World’s Largest Collection of Detroit Tigers Autographed Baseballs.

Get Tickets

Planetarium Closure Notice

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is closed June 8 through June 15 for the most significant systems upgrade made to our Planetarium in 10 years!

Come back after June 15 to see crisper, cleaner, and more vibrant visuals, and a system capable of showcasing parts of the universe we weren’t able to display before!

Upcoming
Planetarium Closure Notice

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium will be closed June 8 through June 15 for the most significant systems upgrade made to our Planetarium in 10 years!

Come back after June 15 to see crisper, cleaner, and more vibrant visuals, and a system capable of showcasing parts of the universe we weren’t able to display before!

Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closed for Easter on Sunday, April 20. We will reopen on Monday, April 21 for normal hours. 

Extended! Become A GRPM Member, Earn $20 in Museum Promo Cash

Get $20 in Museum Promo Cash with the purchase of any membership now through Friday, December 6!

This promo cash can be used towards admission to the Museum, Planetarium tickets, unique local gifts at the Curiosity Shop, and food and beverages at the Museum Cafe.

Become a Member Today!

Museum Promo Cash expires June 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Any unused balance will be forfeited after this date. This card is for promotional purposes only and is not redeemable for cash or Museum credit.

Become A GRPM Member, Earn $20 in Museum Promo Cash!

Get $20 in Museum Promo Cash with the purchase of any membership now through Tuesday, December 3! 

This promo cash can be used towards admission to the Museum, Planetarium tickets, unique local gifts at the Curiosity Shop, and food and beverages at the Museum Cafe.

Become a Member Today!

Museum Promo Cash expires June 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Any unused balance will be forfeited after this date. This card is for promotional purposes only and is not redeemable for cash or Museum credit.

Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closed on Thursday, September 12, 2024 for an event. We will re-open on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 9 a.m. 

Late Opening Notice.

On Saturday, May 11, the Museum will open at 12 p.m. due to road closures for the Amway River Bank Run.

Early Closure Notice.

The Museum will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1 for Museum Adventure After Dark. Tickets are still available!