One reason for the abundance of art offerings in the Traverse City area is the fine arts community at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. Located just 13 miles south of Traverse City, Interlochen has been a resource for quality arts presentations for 70 years hosting some 750 concerts, visual art exhibits and theater and dance productions annually. During the summer months, pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and plan to tailgate under the pines before the show.

The Interlochen Arts Summer Camp and the Interlochen Arts Academy during the academic year are among the country's premier training centers for young musicians, dancers, actors, visual artists and writers. More than 2,000 campers age 8-18 come from 50 states and 38 foreign countries. The Academy's 425 high school and post-graduate students come from 46 states and 17 countries.

Having access to both the campus and performances is a delight for both visitors and Traverse City locals. Even without a concert ticket, visitors can take in the inspiring atmosphere and visit the historic sites. Walk through the campus and catch the sights and sounds of the gifted young musicians playing their instruments in small practice huts and musical groups of all sizes in the classroom buildings or outside under the trees.

Interlochen

Kresge Auditorium