Take a Flip-Flop Art Tour in Southwest Michigan

Public art is everywhere in Southwest Michigan — tucked between shops, standing tall near the beach, even wrapped around buildings and sidewalks. And the best part? You don’t need fancy shoes or an art degree to enjoy it. Just slip on your flip-flops and explore sculptures, murals and creative spaces that are as relaxed and welcoming as the towns they live in. From strolls along tree-lined paths to spontaneous photo ops with colorful murals, these art tours offer something fun and meaningful for every age, interest and itinerary.

Flip-Flop Art Tour #1: Krasl Art Center, Public Art

The Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph proves that public art doesn’t belong only in galleries. With more than 30 sculptures across its campus and throughout the community, this collection is always open, always free and perfect for exploring — whether you’re in flip-flops, beachwear or walking shoes. Stand beneath Richard Hunt’s Rising Crossing Tides, a dramatic sweeping steel sculpture, or admire his towering And You, Seas at Silver Beach near the South Pier. Don’t miss Allegheny Drift by Michael Dunbar — its abstract steel forms and circular drift pin shapes are a nod to the artist’s family roots and the origins of the American steel industry.

Krasl’s collection invites interaction. Walk around Strata by David Barr, a three-piece sculpture guiding you from the dunes toward the lake. Use your phone to scan QR codes posted near each piece or download the Public Art Map to follow the walkable, art-filled route along the St. Joseph River and beyond. 

Want to ramp up your fun and see the art on a Surrey Bike? Sign up for the 90-minute Sculpture Scavenger Hunt — there’s a gift from the Krasl if you find them all. From towering metal to playful forms, this is public art made to be shared, explored and enjoyed — no dress code required.

Flip-Flop Art Tour #2: Three Oaks, Chamberlain Path

Between Village Hall and Commune+Market, Chamberlain Path in downtown Three Oaks is a quiet, artistic walkway. It connects Elm Street’s shops with the lively venues on Generations Drive, including The Acorn Theatre and Journeyman Distillery. Lined with sculptures by esteemed artists, this green space is part garden, part gallery. The recent addition of the rain garden is turning this art route a favorite of nature lovers, too. While you are visiting, be on the lookout for this creative village’s galleries and outdoor art.

Flip-Flop Art Tour #3: Dowagiac, Sculptures in the City

Dowagiac is more than a charming small town with lakes, wineries and pick-your-own farms — it’s also a place where public art takes center stage. Thirteen outdoor sculptures by renowned artists line the walkable downtown streets between M-62 and Main Street. Each sculpture was a private gift to the community, commissioned by residents and local organizations who wanted to share their love of the arts and leave a lasting legacy. Discover Dowagiac’s creative spirit — thoughtful, inspiring and welcoming.

Flip-Flop Art Tour #4: Murals Worthy of a Selfie

Southwest Michigan’s mural scene adds bold personality to streetscapes from St. Joseph to Edwardsburg and beyond. These large-scale artworks are colorful, imaginative and often tell the story of the community around them. In Benton Harbor, stroll through the bohemian Arts District to see vibrant pieces like Ja’Kobi’s Wings, the Mason Jar Café Mural and the bright, tech-themed Ravitron Mural. Even alleyways surprise — don’t miss the painted pavement of Pipestone Alley leading to a stunning mural on the Cornerstone Alliance building.

Want to spice up your mural search? Join the Southwest Michigan Murals Challenge through the Visit Southwest Michigan app. Check in at mural sites as you explore. In St. Joseph, don’t miss the playful Holt Bosse Squirrel Mural, lakefront-inspired Shoreline Alleyway Mural and seasonal art on the Lake Bluff staircase. Bridgman’s Body Shop Mural pops with bold, quirky shapes and Baroda’s Chill Hill Winery Mural invites you to snap a photo and then unwind inside with a glass of their craft wines. You’ll want to keep your camera ready — and your flip-flops moving — as you find one story-filled wall after another.

Switch-to-Golf-Shoes Art Tour #5: Harbor Shores

You’ll have to change from your flip-flops to golf shoes and hop in a cart to see the 18 sculptures on one of Michigan’s premier public courses, Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor. This 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course is lauded for its diverse terrain and dramatic design. Each tee marker is a sculpture created by metal sculptor Josh Andres and glassblower, the late Jerry Catania, both with connections in the Arts District in Benton Harbor.

Before heading home, slip back into your flip-flops to take in the artwork at nearby Jean Klock Park (within yards of Harbor Shores holes 7, 8 and 9). The Lake Michigan beach pavilion showcases vibrant glass mosaics created by teens in the Water Street Glassworks Fired Up! after-school program.

Creative Connections Challenge

As you take these flip-flop art tours, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to participate in the Creative Connections Challenge, an enriching invitation to explore the artistic spirit of this region one stop at a time. Meet painters, performers, musicians and makers who bring our community to life — and each visit offers a new way to connect, reflect or simply have fun. 

Running now through April 30, 2026, the challenge turns your art adventures into a game. As you check in at destinations like The Acorn, Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, Silver Beach Carousel and Fernwood Botanical Garden, you’ll earn prizes just for enjoying the creativity around you. It’s an exhilarating way to discover new places, support regional talent and share memorable moments together.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to turn your flip-flop art stroll into a full getaway? Start by exploring Southwest Michigan’s galleries, museums and creative spaces — many offer artist meet-and-greets, hands-on workshops and rotating exhibits. Pair your tour with a meal at one of the region’s farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafés or lakeview dining spots. Then unwind at a nearby hotel that fits your travel style, whether you're seeking relaxation or a playful place to recharge with the family. With so much to see, taste and experience, a little planning goes a long way to making priceless memories.

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