North Country Trail
Created in 1980, this trail has 1,000 miles running through Michigan, which also runs through the Huron-Manistee National Forest.
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Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Art can be complicated to explain, due to the diverse range of activities that are involved, including painting, photography, music, dance, theater, and more. The communities within West Michigan are alive with an array of cultural events that take place throughout the year. Combined with the beauty of lake views and richly forested land, this area of West Michigan has emerged as a venue for those who truly love all kinds of art.
Nothing brings people together more than music, and there is certainly no shortage of concerts and performances in West Michigan. Summer music fills the air with events such as the Pentwater Civic Band concerts, Thursday night concert series in downtown Ludington, and live music during the Final Friday Experience events. Many of the local bars and restaurants host live music throughout the summer, as well. Not a week goes by that you can’t find a musical performance somewhere in West Michigan.
Our very own West Shore Community College presents its Performing Arts Series which includes entertaining plays, jazz and choir concerts, and unique artists gifted in piano, guitar, saxophone, and numerous other instruments. The hilariously funny and talented Scottville Clown Band has been entertaining crowds for well over 100 years. Members of the band come from all walks of life and all across the country. They are definitely the highlight of summer parades throughout the state.
A movie is a nice escape from life, but a good live performance is hard to beat. Here in West Michigan we have three venues for outstanding plays. The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts is where the famous actor James Earl Jones got his start and features top-notch performances by the Manistee Civic Players. West Shore Community College and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts also showcase local talent in their theater productions. Outdoor theatre performances of Shakespeare and other classical works come alive each summer during the Stratford on the Avenue Theatre Festival in downtown Ludington’s Rotary Park.
Amateur and professional photographers love the beauty of West Michigan and its spectacular scenery to create digital memories. Places like the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, the Manistee National Forest, and Ludington State Park provide the perfect backdrop for memorable vacation photos.
Small towns are known for arts and crafts fairs, and Ludington has two separate events during the summer. The first, the West Shore Art Fair, is a juried fine arts fair held in early July. The second event is the Gold Coast Artisan Fair held in mid-August. Pentwater has its Fine Arts Fair in mid-July on the Village Green, and other local communities such as Manistee also hold Art Fairs.
Created in 1980, this trail has 1,000 miles running through Michigan, which also runs through the Huron-Manistee National Forest.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
A site to behold along Lake Michigan, these structures with a rich history give both a sense of safety and a beautiful site.
The Michigan Audubon Society Lake Bluff Center overlooks Lake Michigan near Manistee and features wildlife and a bird sanctuary.
Pet live animals, enjoy fresh produce and dairy products, and more! Lots of experiences are available for the family when you visit the farm!
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The colorful attire and crazy antics of the Scottville Clown Band amuse people, but they also have extraordinary musical talent.
West Michigan boasts numerous museums to learn about the area’s rich history and to expand knowledge through activities and exhibits.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
Standing tall and proud along the shores of Lake Michigan, Point Betsie marks the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Enjoy the happiest of holidays in West Michigan! From Manistee to Ludington and every city in-between, there is holiday cheer all around!
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
The historical Vogue Theatre in Manistee, renovated as a modern-day movie theater, shows current movies, classic films, and family movies.
The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts is a cultural center in West Michigan and plays an integral part in Manistee’s history.