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Michigan Art Galleries, Studios & Performing Arts

Find a vibrant arts scene with several Michigan art galleries showcasing local and regional talent. Glen Arbor, Empire, and Leland are home to galleries featuring a wide range of art forms, including painting, photography, sculpture, and pottery. Many galleries highlight works inspired by the natural beauty of the region, with pieces reflecting the dunes, lakes, and landscapes. Notable galleries include the Glen Arbor Artisans Gallery and Synchronicity Gallery, which display a mix of contemporary and traditional art. The area also hosts seasonal art fairs and events where visitors can meet local artists and purchase unique handmade items.

Please call ahead to confirm days and hours of service and events, as these change by season. Also please check individual social media profiles and content for current events, receptions, and performances.

Arbor Gallery 

Located in the West End of Glen Arbor, the Arbor Gallery offers unique and fine art by local artists “inspired by the beautiful region we call home.” Handcrafted beautiful furniture, original paintings (including by renowned local artist David Westerfield), prints, iconic local vintage photography, and more.

6654 Western Ave #M, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

(231) 633-2057
Glen Arbor Artisans

Glen Arbor Artisans has a bit of everything, a variety of fine art and Michigan-made goods – lovely to browse the artwork as well as to shop. Inside you will find original works from owners Paul May and Kristin Hurlin, including their well renowned furniture, paintings, prints, and local “map rocks.” Puzzles, local artisan notecards, kitchenware, maps, posters, photography, books – there’s a lot to enjoy here!

5956 S Ray St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636 

(231) 251-2545
Glen Arbor Arts Center

The “GAAC” is a “destination for creativity and a catalyst for community collaborations that engage and inspire” – tucked into a wooded location in the heart of town. The center offers year-round exhibits of visual, performing, written, and spoken arts, including artist interviews, coffee with authors, art history talks, music, dance, and poetry. Youth and adult classes at all levels are also offered year-round. In the warmer months, ceramics and pottery classes are offered in the beautiful historical setting of Thoreson Farm, located in the national park. In summer months, the center hosts Friday night receptions and all are encouraged to come meander and commune amongst the art and artists.

6031 S Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636 

(231) 334-6112
Interlochen Center for the Arts

Interlochen has served as a global destination for artists and arts enthusiasts for nearly a century – and we are blessed to have this gem in such close proximity. Check out their summer concert series, holiday traditional favorites such as The Nutcracker and holiday symphony classics, and year-round top-notch performances. Dance, theater, music, film, you name it, they have it. Also check out their classes (in person and online) and world renowned camps and arts academy.

4000 J Maddy Pkwy, Interlochen, MI 49643

(231) 276-7200
Lake Street Studios & Center Gallery & Forest Gallery

Lake Street Studios, in the heart of Glen Arbor, is a privately owned art center that houses four art galleries: Center Gallery, Forest Gallery, North Gallery, and the Glen Lake Artists Gallery. The Center Gallery specializes in representing painters whose work reflects the landscape and culture of Leelanau County and the Sleeping Bear Dunes region and also represents local ceramic artists and jewelers, and across the four you will find art across the spectrum. Throughout the summer months, the galleries host Friday night wine receptions with the kickoff of weekly single featured artist exhibits in Center Gallery.

6023 S Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636 

(231) 334-3179
Ruth Conklin Gallery

For over forty years, the Ruth Conklin Gallery has showcased artwork bringing to life the magic of Lake Michigan, Leelanau, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Inside the series of rooms are handcrafted pieces and original art of over 100 artists: glassware, paintings, furniture, jewelry, tiles, home décor, and more. Be sure to check out the wide selection of beautifully crafted petoskey and Leland Blue jewelry.

6632 Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

(231) 334-3880
Synchronicity Gallery 

Synchronicity is in the West End of Glen Arbor and showcases the original work of 95 Michigan artists across a wide variety of media. Find magical works by local artists across the spectrum – photography, paintings, ceramics, furniture, home décor, sculpture, and more.

6671 W Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

(231) 334-4732

Winter Dinner Special

You can enjoy dinner at the Inn featuring our chef prepared entree of the day as a $35/person add-on to your stay. Email info@sleepingbearinn.org for menu information and to make your reservation, 3 day advance notice required please.