If you know about "Arts & Apples," you know about Paint Creek Center for the Arts. As the organizer of the popular fall festival, the PCCA brings together artists and art forms for community enjoyment. But the center is also much more: A gift gallery inside its downtown building features jewelry and artwork from local artists. A full schedule of classes offers lessons in painting, ceramics and photography, among other subjects. And community outreach programs throughout the year promote the arts and encourage creative opportunities.
The Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center is one of Metro Detroit's premier cultural community centers that offers an eclectic array of art from some of the area's finest artists. The BBAC also offers an amazing art classes beginning with those for pre-school students to advanced seniors. Whether you are interested in joining the community center for a class, or featuring your work in one of the studios or selling in the gallery, the BBAC is one resource that every artist will enjoy. The BBAC is a tax-exempt regional art center, focused on connecting people of all ages and abilities with visual arts education, exhibitions, and other creative experiences. Please visit the BBAC for a current fall schedule, or contact the BBAC via website to for more information on registration and exhibitions.
Located in the center of downtown Lansing, the Michigan Capitol Building boasts a dome inspired by the national Capitol in Washington D.C. and offers daily tours Monday through Friday. History buffs and travelers will enjoy the stories behind the art, architecture and galleries on display throughout the building.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Michigan State Capitol
Parking is a challenge in downtown Lansing, and visitors should come prepared for meter parking. Public meter parking can be found along Washington Square, a block from the Capitol Building. Parking garages on either side of the building are also available to visitors, although a fee is charged per vehicle.
The Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides a public bus system throughout the city and surrounding areas. Use CATA's Trip Planner to identify the appropriate route.
Best and Worst Time to Visit Michigan's Capitol Building
The building is closed on weekends and state and federal holidays.
The best time to visit is in the summer season, when the grounds are beautifully landscaped and the weather is conducive to walking. Three times a year, in July, August and September, the Capitol Building hosts a massive farmer's market on the East Lawn. Over 15,000 people come to support Michigan farmers and businesses.
Admission to Michigan's Capitol Building
Admission to the building, as well as the tours, is free. Self-guided tours are also allowed.
Other Places to Visit Near Michigan's Capitol Building
Downtown Lansing is a lively place to visit, especially in the summer. Just block from the Capitol visitors can enjoy a Lansing Lugnuts Baseball game at the Cooley Law School Stadium or hands-on science fun at Impression 5 Science Center. There are also countless bars and restaurants along Washington Square and Michigan Ave.
Insider Tip for Visiting Michigan's Capitol Building
While the regular guided tours do cover the inside of the Capitol Building's dome, a climb to the top of the Cupola is allowed by special request.
Author's bio: Allie McLary is a digital communications profesional from Lansing, MI, bitten by the travel bug.
The Grosse Ile Historical Museum consists of two historical buildings from the 1870s: the Michigan Central Railroad Depot and the Customs House, which was moved to the site in 1979 from its original location on Macomb Street. The two buildings are in the East River Road National Historic District, which includes the St. James Episcopal Church chapel and six private homes. In addition to artifacts on display from the early days of the island's history, art and handicrafts are often for sale at the museum, especially during the holiday season.
