4 of the Best Museums in Driving Distance of Benton Harbor, MI

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Benton Harbor, MI is known for its beautiful beaches, its vibrant arts community, and its sumptuous peaches. Some of the best museums in the region are also within easy driving distance.

1. Michigan Maritime Museum

The Michigan Maritime Museum is a great place to experience the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes. This museum, located at 260 Dyckman Avenue in South Haven, has five separate structures that house permanent and rotating exhibits. Period and replica vessels take visitors on immersive, on-the-water experiences. This museum is a 30-minute drive north from Benton Harbor.

2. Studebaker National Museum

The Studebaker National Museum, as its name implies, displays cars, wagons, carriages and other vehicles tied to the Studebaker Corp. Don’t miss the collection of U.S. Presidential carriages, including the one used by Abraham Lincoln the night of his assassination. The younger members of your group will love the Studebaker Service Center, an interactive exhibit where children can perform maintenance in a pretend auto shop.

Before you leave, stop by the museum store, which has an amazing collection of Studebaker-themed items. Located just over the state line in South Bend, Indiana, this museum is located at 201 Chapin St. and is just a 45-minute drive from Benton Harbor.

3. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

If you’re interested in art, there’s no better place to visit in southwest Michigan than the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. The permanent collection here features more than 4,600 original pieces with a focus on 20th-century American Art. Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and Ansel Adams are among the artists whose pieces are on display here.

Located at 314 S. Park St. in Kalamazoo, this museum is just a 50-minute drive from Benton Harbor.

4. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum traces the rise of a Michigander from a young Eagle Scout to becoming the 38th President. You’ll learn about Ford’s life and Presidency, and your visit will include a stop in a life-sized Oval Office. This is a fascinating museum that makes an ideal day trip. You’ll want to plan on spending about three hours here.

It takes about 75 minutes to reach this museum, which is located at 303 Pear St. NW in Grand Rapids. But the drive in your Chevrolet Equinox will be an easy one, thanks to adaptive cruise control and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, which alerts you if you’re unintentionally drifting out of your lane.

With so many terrific museums to explore, you’ll want to have a great set of wheels on hand. When you’re ready to purchase your next vehicle, head straight to LeValley Chevrolet GMC.

Tags: Benton Harbor Activities, Benton Harbor Museums, Benton Harbor Places to Visit, Chevrolet Community, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, LeValley Chevrolet, Michigan Maritime Museum, Studebaker National Museum, The Gerald R Ford Presidential Museum
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