Exhibits include displays on Native American life, the history of Euro-American traders and settlement, key industries such as logging and automobiles, and the role of Michigan in World War I and World War II.

The center is a part of the overall Michigan Capitol Complex, the group of state-owned buildings that adjoins the Michigan State Capitol.

[1] The Michigan History Museum is the flagship facility of the Michigan History Museum System, a 12-site state bureau that operates a variety of publicly interpreted historical museums and locations throughout Michigan.

The Michigan History Museum has a press outreach program as of 2024, and actively encourages visitation by state residents and tourists.

[2] The museum operates a program of rotating exhibits and visitation events.