Harbor Springs History Museum narrates the history of this beautiful city. Managed by the Harbor Springs Historical Society, this museum displays permanent exhibits that include photographs and artifacts that celebrate the history of the Ottawa community and the Indo-American tribes native to the area. The museum houses five galleries within itself: local history gallery, discovery gallery, west vault gallery which features permanent exhibits and the main and north galleries that house temporary exhibits. Harbor Springs History Museum also serves as an event venue.
Little Traverse Wheelway is a picturesque paved trail running parallel to the Route 31. The 26-mile (41.8-kilometer) strip stretches from Charlevoix to Petoskey to Harbor Springs, thus interlinking Northern Michigan's coastal crowned jewels. A popular path among joggers, walkers, cyclists and rollerblading enthusiasts, the winding trail gives way to stunning views of the bay and the glistening Lake Michigan. Make a pit stop for lunch at one of the many parks en route; equipped with picnic facilities, the Petoskey State Park is a scenic respite. During the warmer months, the metamorphosing hues of the foliage add an extra dimension to your excursion.
With a pretty location by the riverside, the Old City Park has been around for over a century and hosts some rather interesting species of flora and fauna. A perfect backdrop for weddings and anniversaries, the park confines can be rented out for private events. Festivities and concerts are a regular affair at this grand green space which has entertained and provided respite to the people of Boyne since years.
In its current form, the Petoskey Pierhead Lighthouse dates from the 1930s and serves as a guiding light for vessels navigating the bay waters. Steeped in history, the lighthouse was first built at the end of the 19th Century in the shape of an inverted funnel. However, in 1924, the landmark sustained irreparable damage during a storm, leading to its destruction. It was later replaced by a cylindrical tower painted in shades of red and white. Today, the Petoskey Pierhead Lighthouse measures 40 feet (12 meters) and is situated on a platform that juts out into the Petoskey Breakwater.
Located inside a historic building, the Crooked Tree Arts Center is an artistic hub in Petoskey. Featuring spaces for art exhibitions, stage performances, and small-scale events, it is widely used by many members of the community. The space is a bustling cultural center of Petoskey, with regular art exhibitions featuring local artists. The arts center also offers a variety of classes and workshops for both kids and adults cover everything from dance to pottery. When in town, don't miss out on a visit to this local gem!
Little Traverse History Museum, managed by the Little Traverse Historical Society, is home to several artifacts and exhibits that talk about the history of the Little Traverse region of Petoskey. Permanent exhibits at the museum include pictures and artifacts pertaining to Ernest Hemingway and other famous personalities of the Emmet County. Apart from this, Little Traverse History Museum also houses the Parlor Exhibit, which is a model of a Victorian Parlor, adorned with conservative furniture and other accessories.
The Hramiec Hoffman Studio & Gallery is owned by Mary Hrameic Hoffman and Mark Hrameic Hoffman. It is a studio partly dedicated to cancer charities since Mary has lost several members of her family to the dreadful disease. The oil painting and portraits are mainly done by Mary herself, while Mark runs the shop. It is a joyous store with a welcoming home-like feel. So when in Harbor Springs do not forget to pay a visit to this gallery.
Right on the grassy coast overlooking Lake Michigan, Saint Ignatius Church pokes above the trees to welcome guests to explore its historical grounds. The white steeple that crowns Saint Ignatius was the third permanent structure in the area, first erected in 1889. After exploring the property or enjoying a Sunday morning service, visitors can take a small trail down to the nearby beach to enjoy a sunset or commune with their spiritual side.
Trisha Witty is a local artist who has garnered acclaim for her beautiful paintings and art work. Her work even graces the labels of wine bottles from the Harbor Springs Vineyards. Specimens of her artwork can be found at Witty Galerie. The oil paintings, featuring landscapes, show great depth of texture and detailing that make them unique. They are inspired by her personal experiences and travel.
Located on Marian Center's 38 acres (15.38 hectares) of land, the Archangel Grotto is the only grotto of its kind, not only in Michigan but in the United States. Dedicated to three archangels - St. Michael, St. Raphael and St. Gabriel, it is a beautiful monument that symbolizes beautifully that each of our lives are protected by God's own angels. The 9 foot (2.74 meter) statues are beautiful to look at and bring in a certain sense of peace.
Art lovers will enjoy a visit to Knox Galleries. The gallery specializes in sculptural art and exhibits works by famous American artists like George Lundeen and Glenna Goodacre, amongst others. You'll also find oil paintings and egg tempura etchings and works by the likes of Mark Thompson and Dorothy Fitzgerald here. Stroll through their beautiful outdoor display, where you can view each piece from multiple angles which best allow you to appreciate the artist's amazing attention to detail and exquisite workmanship. Collectors will find enough to pique their interest, while those simply interested in viewing art will have enough to intrigue them for an afternoon. For additional details, visit the website.
The Nun Doll Museum is a rare and unique museum located on the grounds of the National Shrine of the Cross. The museum was founded by Wally and Sally Rogalski. During the 1940s Wally, a young girl was fond of dressing her dolls in traditional Catholic style as a hobby. In present times the museum is believed to be the largest collection of dolls dressed like this in America. The female dolls are dressed up like nuns and a few male dolls are dressed up in clothes of a clergy or religious brothers. The museum was blessed by Pope John Paul II in 1988 for their contribution in promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life.