There are a lot of things to do and places to go in South Haven, Michigan, and these are the focus of topics in this category.
South Haven is a port city, a tourist destination, a resort community, and a historical city in southwestern Michigan. As such, the city includes several historical places, and hosts museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as annual activities and events that bring people into town. The city's harbors, riverfront, and Lake Michigan beaches significantly increase its population during the summer months.
As an example, the Michigan Maritime Museum is a riverfront facility near the Dyckman Bridge. Its exhibits highlight the history of local maritime activities, including Native American traditions, commercial fishing, commercial shipping, commercial steamship travel, boat building, the United States Life Saving Service, and the United States Coast Guard.
Located on Bailey Street, the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum commemorates the life and work of Dr. Liberty Hyde Bailey, known as the Father of Modern Horticulture, and the Historical Association of South Haven encourages an appreciation and understanding of the history of the city through its exhibits, programs, and publications, including its restoration of the South Haven Lighthouse.
The South Haven Center for the Arts is headquartered in the old Carnegie Library on Phoenix Street, where it houses several exhibits and shows. The Scott Club, also on Phoenix Street, serves as a place for literary advancement, and sponsors several community programs throughout the year. Adjacent to South Haven High School, Listiak Auditorium is used for school and community theatrical activities.
Additionally, the city and township of South Haven operate a variety of recreational facilities and opportunities, including beaches, boating and canoeing on the Black River, non-motorized trails, riding stables, ballfields, playgrounds, and golfing. The city maintains several public parks and recreational facilities, some in conjunction with South Haven Charter Township, South Haven Public Schools, and the South Haven Area Recreation Authority.
Appropriate topics for this category include historical places, museums, theaters, and libraries, as well as parks, sports and recreational facilities and programs, whether operated by the city, school district, community organization, or as a private venue. Festivals, concerts, and other events in South Haven may also be listed here.
Recommended Resources
Housed in the birthplace and childhood home of Liberty Hyde Bailey, Jr., America's Father of Modern Horticulture, and founder of the New Agrarian philosophy, the museum, and gardens in South Haven, Michigan are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Serving as a historic site, museum, educational research center, garden, and park, its mission, history, programs, and a calendar of upcoming programs and events are posted on the site. An online shopping area is included.
https://www.libertyhydebailey.org/
Historical Association of South Haven
Housed in the former Hartman School Building on Hubbard Street in South Haven, Michigan, the organization seeks to preserve the history of the community, promote understanding and appreciation for its history, and enhance public support for the preservation of the community's history. The non-profit organization's history, purpose, and board of directors are highlighted, along with membership levels and fees, and a form for becoming a member or renewing membership.
https://historyofsouthhaven.org/
The non-profit organization is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of antique gas and steam engines and tractors. Situated on about eight acres, the museum features displays of antique farm machinery, a sawmill, a shingle mill, and its Olde Town, a 1920s-era community filled with period businesses, such as a blacksmith shop, a farm machinery repair shop, and the Old Tyme Jail. Its location, hours, tour information, and a calendar of events are posted, and contacts are included.
https://michiganflywheelers.org/
Situated on Dyckman Avenue in the Maritime District of South Haven, Michigan, the museum preserves and interprets the heritage of the Great Lakes while enhancing the South Haven Maritime District. Its mission, vision, and core values are stated, a promotional video is presented, and a staff directory is included, along with employment opportunities. Its hours, admissions costs, parking, and directions are stated, and its exhibits and fleets are highlighted.
https://www.michiganmaritimemuseum.org/
Held on the second weekend of August, the Blueberry Festival is one of the oldest continuously-running fruit festivals in the United States. Commemorating the importance of the blueberry industry to the South Haven area, the festival promotes the education and future of agriculture in Southwest Michigan. Its history, event details, schedules, and sponsors are highlighted, and information for musicians interested in performing is provided, along with a form.
https://www.blueberryfestival.com/
South Haven Center for the Arts
Organized in 1951 as the South Haven Art League, under the sponsorship of the American Association of University Women, the South Haven Center for the Arts is currently housed in a Carnegie Library built in 1905, and renovated in the mid-1980s. The organization's sponsors are acknowledged, and its location, hours, and an overview of its exhibitions, events, and classes are included. Artist memberships and benefits are defined, and membership and volunteer opportunities are discussed.
https://www.southhavenarts.org/
