Empire Area Museum

Tucked away on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, Jim DeWildt's gallery showcases the raw beauty of Northern Michigan through masterful landscape paintings. DeWildt captures the region's dramatic lakeshores, rolling vineyards, and dense forests with a painter's eye that locals instantly recognize. His studio space allows visitors to watch the artistic process unfold, while original oils and watercolors line the walls—each piece telling a story of Michigan's changing seasons. This isn't your typical tourist gallery; it's where authentic regional artistry meets genuine passion for the Great Lakes landscape.

Leelanau Studios sits at the heart of the Grand Traverse Regional Arts Campus, where creativity flows as freely as Lake Michigan's shoreline breezes. This vibrant arts hub transforms the Peninsula's natural beauty into inspiration for working artists and visiting creators alike. Local painters, sculptors, and multimedia artists call these studios home, crafting everything from cherry blossom watercolors to driftwood installations. The open studio events let visitors peek behind the creative curtain, watching art come to life in real time. It's where Traverse City's artistic soul meets the raw, untamed spirit of the Leelanau Peninsula.

The Northport Arts Association transforms this charming Leelanau Peninsula village into a creative hub where local artists and visitors connect through rotating exhibitions, workshops, and community events. Founded by passionate residents who believed art belonged at the heart of small-town life, the association showcases everything from maritime paintings inspired by Grand Traverse Bay to sculptures crafted from driftwood collected along nearby beaches. The intimate gallery space encourages conversations between artists and admirers, while regular programming brings together painters, photographers, and craftspeople who call northern Michigan home.

Step into this welcoming gallery space on the Leelanau Peninsula where local and regional artists showcase their work in rotating exhibitions. Kids gravitate toward the interactive displays and hands-on art stations, while parents browse paintings, sculptures, and crafts that capture Northern Michigan's natural beauty. The gallery owners know their artists personally and love sharing stories behind each piece. You'll find everything from vibrant landscapes of nearby vineyards to whimsical pottery that makes perfect gifts. The relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering, and the reasonable prices make it easy to take home a piece of Leelanau's creative spirit.

You'd be surprised how much fascinating history is packed into this unassuming Benzie County gem. The Benzie Area Historical Society and Museum tells the story of this corner of Northern Michigan through authentic artifacts, vintage photographs, and exhibits that bring the past to life. Kids love exploring the old-fashioned schoolroom and seeing how people lived decades ago, while adults get absorbed in maritime history and local lumber industry stories. The volunteers here are incredibly knowledgeable locals who share captivating tales about the area's early settlers and Native American heritage.

Blue Heron Gallery showcases the artistic spirit of Antrim County with carefully curated collections from regional and national artists. This intimate gallery space highlights diverse mediums including oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, and handcrafted jewelry. Local landscape artists capture the stunning beauty of northern Michigan's lakes and forests, while contemporary pieces add modern flair. The knowledgeable staff provides insights into each piece's creation and the artists' backgrounds. Regular rotating exhibitions keep the collection fresh, making repeat visits rewarding. Perfect for art collectors seeking unique pieces or visitors wanting to discover Michigan's vibrant creative community.