Benton Harbor Arts District

Some places exude a carefree, unabashed bohemian vibe, the Benton Harbor Arts District is one of them. Day or night, it sparks your inner creativity, daring you to try something new — see a first-run play, groove to emerging music, discover a rising artist or savor bold flavors that stop you mid-bite.

For several decades, this District tucked off Main Street has been at the forefront of the City’s revival. From its first studio and gallery (which is still creating gorgeous glass art) to new shops, breweries and restaurants, the excitement is non-stop.

The Best Way to Explore the Arts District Year-Round

The best way to connect with the artists and locals is to attend one of the Art Hops organized by the Benton Harbor Arts Association. Each of the four seasons, local businesses, restaurants and galleries invite you to park and stroll through this walkable downtown going inside to see what’s on display at each stop and enjoying light refreshments along the way. Additionally, throughout the summer, you can come down for Arts in the Park showcasing local artist booths, music and food. 

Find What Sparks Your Interests

Arts & Classes

• ARS Gallery & Culture Center: Have you noticed several orange metal sculptures on rooftops and walkways in Benton Harbor and St. Joseph? These sculptures were created by Michigan-based artist John Suave for the “I Am The Greatest Project,” an ARS youth program inspired by boxer Muhammad Ali who for years called Southwest Michigan home. ARS features gallery exhibits of both local and national artists, outreach programs, films and language, cultural and wine classes.
• The Citadel Dance & Music Center: Dedicated to the performing arts, this center develops skills and character through dance, performance, music and vocal lessons. Follow their Facebook page for upcoming events you will want to bring the whole family.
• The GhostLight Theatre: This intimate, ADA-accessible, state-of-the-art venue is home to a slate of thought-provoking and innovative theatrical productions. You won’t be disappointed in the talented performers from the community and beyond during its February through November season. You will laugh, cry and talk about the shows for days after — eagerly awaiting the next performance.
• Richard Hunt Studio Center: The Arts District is home to one of the studios of internationally acclaimed sculptor Richard Hunt who passed away in December 2023. He has over 100 sculptures on public display in the United States. These include, “And You, Seas” located at Silver Beach, “Rising Crossing Tides” and “Slowly Toward the North,” both located at the Krasl Art Center.
  Before passing away, Hunt donated his studio at 258 Territorial Road to the Krasl which plans to use the space to honor his legacy and expand the Art Center’s presence in Benton Harbor. Follow the Facebook page to learn about plans and events. 
• Water Street Glassworks: This nonprofit studio, gallery and school is dedicated to the glass and metal arts. Open year-round, the best time to overlook the school's “hot shop” and watch students and artists glassblowing and casting is in the spring, fall and winter. If you are interested in more than observing, many classes and workshops are open to the public. You can also purchase several of the artists’ glass-blown creations. Look for their one-of-a-kind pumpkins in the fall and festive jewelry and ornaments during the winter holiday season.

Shops & Dispensaries

• Phaseshifter Records: For decades, this shop on Water Street was known as 3 Pillars. Under new ownership, it continues to be a gathering place for anyone passionate about music. Find a diverse collection of vinyl records, CDs, guitars and stereos. Or show up for live music events that bring the community together. 
• Emergency Shelter Services 6^o Resale Store: This unique resale shop is a funky, eclectic mix of gently used clothing, household goods, furniture, toys, jewelry, antiques and more. Proceeds from each sale support the shelter and its clients so fill your cart.
• Wolf's Marine Inc: Find everything you need for fun on and in the water. The store has a large selection of name-brand marine products including boats, accessories, clothing, shoes, scuba equipment and classes and more.
• Nobody's Home: Well-regarded for their excellent customer service, as they assist new and experienced users in finding products that suit their needs. The dispensary's laid-back atmosphere allows you to browse and make well-informed decisions buying the flowers, edibles and concentrates.
• NOBO: This is one of the leading provisioning centers for high-quality medical and recreational cannabis. Their knowledgeable staff takes the time to build your confidence in choosing from their selection of flowers, prerolls, vaporizers, concentrates, edibles and tinctures.
• BLOC Dispensary: Your source for an extensive range of cannabis products, catering to both recreational and medical needs. Knowledgeable budtenders help you find the right products to match your individual preferences and the shop’s dispensary's loyalty program rewards repeat customers with discounts and deals.
• First Class Cannabis Weed Dispensary: Looking for a relaxed shopping experience? Stop in to see First Class’s wide array of options, including high-potency and budget-friendly choices. The staff’s personalized guidance makes it easier to find the perfect product for your desired effects. 

Experiences & Activities

• The Golf Club at Harbor Shores: This Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course is a premier destination for golfers throughout the Midwest. The championship, 18-hole course challenges players of every skill level while providing spectacular views over its four diverse terrains. There are three dramatic holes with dune vistas of Lake Michigan; nine holes along the beautiful banks of the Paw Paw River, Ox Creek and its wetlands; and six holes with rolling hills and ravines. The golf experience exceeds the expectations of even the most discerning players.
  The resort also welcomes you to stay at the Inn at Harbor Shores, enjoy an exceptional meal at Plank’s Tavern on the Water overlooking the St. Joseph Harbor, indulge in a spa day or host a wedding or special event in its spacious ballroom or meeting spaces. 
• The Hawk’s Nest at the Harbor & The Secret Garden: These are two of the Arts District’s newest event and wedding venues. Meticulously restored, they blend industrial chic with vintage charm. The Hawk’s Nest welcomes your guests to enjoy rooftop seating; The Secret Garden lets you create from sweet birthday parties to extravagant wedding celebrations. Best of all, your party doesn’t have to end at 11 p.m.  
• Morton House Museum: The oldest building in Benton Harbor houses this fascinating town’s history from its first settlers to today. Explore the ornate details of its Queen Anne-style architecture and the exhibits and displays, read the original family’s journals and attend special events that bring our area’s past stories to life. 
• The Oak Room at The Citadel: A great location for public and private events including weddings, performances, celebrations and meetings. In the heart of the Arts District, you and your guests will feel at ease in its understated elegance and marvel at its exceptional acoustics. 
• Pipestone Indoor Country Club: Every day is a golf day at this indoor facility. You won’t find a more comfortable and private place to hit the links using Golf Digest’s top-ranked premium simulators.

Breweries

• The Livery: If you crave “Hand-Forged” craft beer and spent-grain pizza with amazing toppings, The Livery is your destination. The beer garden is a favorite hangout in the summer. Locals also say this is a year-round “hot spot” for regional and national musicians and entertainers. Cheers!
• North Pier Brewing Company: Serving great beer and food, this is a friendly, easy-going microbrewery. Two standouts are the shuffleboard table and the fact that you can stop here for lunch and a cold brew while kayaking along the peaceful Paw Paw River. Talk to the folks at Third Coast Paddling if you want to rent a kayak.

Dining Options

• Anemel Tortaria: This wood-fired tortaria and taco joint helps satiate your hunger quickly with its fast-casual counter service. You will fill up fast on the TexMex flavors and refreshing cocktails.
• Ben's Soft Pretzels: Whether packing a picnic for the Arts District pocket park or are hungry for a snack, you'll love the options available. Imagine the possibilities of Amish-inspired pretzel dough — soft, fluffy-in-the-center pretzels, delicious pizzas and savory pocket sandwiches, all appear on Ben’s menu.
• The Brick House: Come on in for smash burgers, sandwiches, salads and a unique selection of craft cocktails.
• Chatterbox: When you want a talk-of-the-town burger, gather around one of their tables. One bite and you will know why locals repeatedly vote it “The Best Place for a Burger.”
• Clifford's Coffee Canal: Open seasonally, this cafe features a selection of coffees, smoothies, juices, breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Besides the tasty food and beverage choices, this location is popular for its unique ambiance and location along the canal. 
• Forté Coffee: Thirsting for a love-every-sip cup of coffee, espresso or latte? This micro-roaster features single-origin and specialty coffees along with a selection of baked goods, including love-every-morsel cookies, scones and muffins. 
• Happy Poochie Eatery: When the folks that run this eatery say “WE LOVE FOOD” they are not joking. Look for the huge FOOD sign on Main Street and go inside to struggle with choosing which of the gourmet sandwiches, salads and soups you are going to order. Eat in, eat outside or take out for your Lake Michigan or St. Joseph River picnic.  
• Houndstooth: This fine dining, New American restaurant is all about togetherness — from sharing a dish among friends to experiencing new seasonal flavors for the first time. Its open-floor kitchen and bar immerse you in the kitchen's energy and make you feel part of the family the entire time you are here.
• Larks Bar-B-Que: Grab extra napkins when you order from this popular BBQ on Main Street. They smoke their racks of ribs, tips, brisket and chicken nice and slow and serve up specialties such as jambalaya, macaroni and cheese, greens and cornbread and rice and red beans for a nice-and-easy lunch, dinner or picnic. 
• Mason Jar Cafe: They recently expanded the indoor seating to accommodate the droves of townies and out-of-townies who come for their delicious breakfast and brunch options. Everything is made from scratch and most of the ingredients are sourced nearby. If you’re unsure what to try, we recommend the spicy egg sandwich, stuffed French toast, corned beef hash, huevos rancheros, or the daily quiche. Pair your meal with a specialty latte, a boozy beverage or a rich hot chocolate.

Plan your Visit to the Benton Harbor Arts District

With plenty of stellar art galleries, food options, great drinks, fun activities and shopping, you can easily fill more than a day trip here. So, stay at one of the nearby hotels and make it a multi-day art and culinary adventure. Most hotels are only minutes away — as are some of Lake Michigan’s best beaches and sunsets, U-pick farms and farm markets, hiking and biking trails and the Makers Trail with over 40 craft wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries to make-your-own tasting tour. We have many fun reasons to come back all year long!

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