Krasl Art Center is one of the most inspiring places to experience contemporary sculpture and high-quality art exhibitions in downtown St. Joseph, Michigan. As part of the Michigan Family Retreats collection, our upcoming vacation home in Three Oaks offers a charming and convenient base to explore this creative hub—just 30 minutes away by car.
Opening in late summer 2025, our Three Oaks home will offer peaceful countryside charm, ideal for relaxing after a cultural day trip. At Krasl, you’ll find rotating exhibitions, outdoor installations, art classes, and special events year-round. Whether visiting with family or friends, a stop here adds color, wonder, and inspiration to your Michigan getaway.
Table of Contents
Things to Do at Krasl Art Center
1. Explore Rotating Exhibitions
Step into changing art shows that feature top artists from around the nation. These high quality art exhibitions run year-round and are free to the public.
⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (272 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Free admission (donations welcome)
📍 Location: 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph, MI 49085
⏰ Opening Hours:
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Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Wednesday & Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
2. Tour the Permanent Sculpture Collection
Enjoy the best of contemporary sculpture on campus and across the twin cities of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor. Take a self-guided walk under the open sky and discover over a dozen art pieces.
⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (272 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Free
📍 Locations: Campus and community sites in St. Joseph & Benton Harbor
Our family retreat is the perfect home base for this tour. Pack a picnic from our fully equipped kitchen and head out to Lake Bluff Park right after breakfast. For route trips, check out our curated guide to the best eats near Saddle Lake and St. Joseph.
3. Shop at The Shop at Krasl Art Center
Find unique gifts in the shop at Krasl Art Center. This gift shop features rare handmade art, jewelry, and décor from juried artists.
✨ Handmade art & fine craft
📍 Location: Onsite at 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph
🛍️ Hours: Open during gallery hours
See gift ideas on Krals Art Center Shop or plan dinner using our Restaurants guide.
4. Join Art Classes & Workshops
Tap into your inner artist with art classes for all ages. The center offers drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, and more.
💵 Price Level: Mid-range to low cost
📞 Contact: +1 269-983-0271
📚 Class Types:
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Multi-week courses
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Themed Family Days
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Youth & adult workshops
We can help you book a private art session at home or at the studio. Learn more about local options on our Activities page.
5. Experience Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff
Join one of the top outdoor art fairs the second weekend in July. The fair features over 200 juried artists, food, music, and a community vibe at Lake Bluff Park.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (23,000+ attendees)
📅 Date: Second weekend in July
📍 Location: Lake Bluff Park, Lake Blvd, St. Joseph
Book early at our home to relax in the Jacuzzi before heading to the fair. For event details visit Art Fair Info.
6. Enjoy Special Events: Envision Party & Soup’s On
Celebrate art and community at fall events like the Envision Party and Soup’s On. These gatherings offer live music, art previews, and delicious local soups.
💵 Price Level: Donation-based
📅 Season: Fall
Warm up by our outdoor fire pit and drive 30 minutes to the center for an evening of art and community. Check the calendar at krasl.org for dates.
Insider Tips from Michigan Family Retreats
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Get there early on free admission days to find the best parking.
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Plan a lakeside picnic: pack sandwiches from our fully stocked kitchen for Lake Bluff Park.
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Wear comfortable shoes for outdoor sculpture walks around town.
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Make it a full-day cultural escape while enjoying the rural peace of Three Oaks at night.
Conclusion
A visit to Krasl Art Center is the perfect pairing of art and leisure for our next guests staying in Three Oaks, Michigan. With rotating exhibitions that change regularly, visitors can see something new every time they come. There’s a fun sculpture tour available that takes you around the outdoor artworks, which are great for exploring while enjoying the fresh air. For those who want to get creative, there are exciting workshops where you can learn different art techniques, like painting, pottery, and even photography! Each workshop lets you express yourself in a fun way and creates a perfect memory with family or friends. No matter what age you are, there is something to inspire everyone at Krasl Art Center!
Prepare your upcoming stay at our new Three Oaks property—opening late summer 2025—and be among the first to enjoy this peaceful getaway near one of Michigan’s most creative destinations. Visit Michigan Family Retreats to learn more.
FAQ
What did Mellwood Art Center used to be?
Mellwood Art Center originally housed the Fischer Meat Packing Company, a 1904 factory turned into studios and galleries for local entrepreneurs.
How big is art center?
Krasl Art Center’s campus covers about 4.5 acres on Lake Bluff with indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture walkways.
What does an art center do?
An art center like Krasl does many fun things! It has exhibitions where you can see beautiful art from different artists. They also have workshops where you can learn to create your own art, like painting and drawing.
Is admission to Krasl Art Center free?
Yes, admission to all indoor exhibitions and outdoor sculpture tours at Krasl Art Center is free, though donations are appreciated.
Are there classes for kids at Krasl Art Center?
Absolutely. Krasl offers youth art camps, themed Family Days, and workshops in drawing, painting, and more for children of all ages.
