Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit

a broken down francis turbine displayed on a historic floor
Inside the Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit

NPS Photo

 
 

Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit

600 Suffolk Street

Tucked in the Wannalancit building at 600 Suffolk Street, the Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit explores how water from the Merrimack River provided power to the mills through canal systems. Learn about some of important work of Lowell’s nationally renowned engineers whose turbine designs are still used today.

 

Hours of Operation

May 3 - June 20, 2026

Only open during guided tours

June 21 - July 23, 2026

Wednesday - Sunday
1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

 
A group of visitors enter the five story brick Suffolk Mills
The Suffolk Mills in Lowell

Jim Higgins

Visiting the Exhibit

Whether attending a guided tour or exploring during open house hours, the Suffolk Mill offers the chance to step back in time and learn how water power in the mills changed the course of history in Lowell.

Guided Tours

When available, the Suffolk Mill Tour and River Transformed Walking Tour both explore the Turbine Exhibit at the Suffolk Mill with a Ranger. These 90-minute tours offer short trips across the city of Lowell from the Boott Cotton Mills Museum to the Suffolk Mill, offering insight into the history of the mills that once dominated the landscape.

To learn more about these tours, explore our Guided Tours page for offerings and details.

Open House

New this year! Beginning June 21, 2026

Take a ride on one of the iconic Trolleys from the Boott Cotton Mills Museum or walk along the Merrimack Riverwalk to the Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit. Wednesday through Sunday from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. stop by to see a real Francis Turbine and learn how this technology revolutionized the textile industry in Lowell.

 

Parking

The Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit is located in the Wannalancit Mill Building. It is a 15-20 minute walk (~.75 miles) from from the Visitor Center (246 Market Street) and the Hamilton Canal Innovation District parking garage (350 Dutton Street). Parking in this garage (only) is available to National Park visitors at no cost provided they obtain a valid parking voucher at either the Visitor Center or at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum.

If you would like to park closer to the exhibit, parking is available for a fee at city garages or on metered street parking. Parking fees apply.

Vehicles that display disability license plates or a hanging placard may also park at no cost in any designated parking space within the City of Lowell.
 

Accessibility

For Visitors With Mobility Impairments:

The Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit is fully accessible. An accessible ramp is available to enter the exhibit space. Inside a wheelchair lift is available for visitors to visit the basement area. Please let a staff member know so that they can assist in using the equipment.

Service dogs are welcome throughout the park, on tours, and in all facilities. For more information about service animals, please refer to the ADA service dog guidelines.
 

Last updated: June 11, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

67 Kirk Street
Lowell, MA 01852

Phone:

978 970-5000

Contact Us