New for Summer 2026
Start your visit at the Williams-Ruleau Visitor Center.
Opened in summer 2026, the new Visitor Center gives guests a comfortable place to begin: step into the Pioneer Room for a video reel through local history, explore the local-history archive, browse the gift shop, use modern restrooms, and cool off in air conditioning before heading back onto the grounds.
Opened Summer 2026
Williams-Ruleau Visitor Center
A new reason to make West Shore your stop on M-35.
Begin in the Pioneer Room, where a video reel moves through local history and a timeline of the community. The center also houses a local-history archive, gift shop, modern restrooms, and air conditioning — a comfortable place to orient yourself before exploring the grounds.
Inside the center
What you’ll find.
Pioneer RoomA video reel that moves through local history and a timeline of the community.
Archive roomPreserved local history connecting the museum to the broader community.
Gift shopPurchases help support the museum.
Modern restroomsInside the Visitor Center, open during museum hours.
Air conditioningA comfortable place to cool off before heading back onto the grounds.
Start hereVolunteers can help you get oriented and point you toward the Bailey House, boats, and trails.