From vibrant galleries and gardens to enchanting musical performances, Shores & Islands Ohio is a canvas where art and creativity flourish at every turn. Taking the time to explore these local artistic attractions will transform your visit into a celebration of the region’s creative spirit.
Walkable Sites
One of the best ways to begin viewing the beautiful art in Shores & Islands Ohio is simply by strolling through the bustling towns, neighborhoods, parks, and islands. Dispersed in between cafés and restaurants, breathtaking murals are waiting to be admired. On almost every street corner, you can find a new sculpture, each reflecting the region’s beauty from different perspectives. Visit downtown Sandusky and travel the path of the Outdoor Sculpture Walk to spot a rotating array of art, or hop on the Shores & Islands Ohio Mini-Lighthouse Trail to track down twelve masterfully painted lighthouses, exploring and learning about Sandusky along the way. Visit the city of Vermilion and marvel at the town’s Postcard Project. This initiative has revived public art in the city through the installation of fifteen new murals over the last five years.
Gardens
Nature is a fundamental part of why Shores & Islands Ohio is so picturesque, and it is continuously showcased within the community. Charles Herndon Galleries and Sculpture Garden, located on Kelleys Island, is a collaboration of nature and art in a 10-acre immersive garden walk-through surrounding the primary galleries. It is a serene and peaceful artistic encounter, perfect for a day on Kelleys Island. Schoepfle Garden is another opportunity for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors while also admiring the scenic views. These botanical gardens and natural woods span 77-acres, and dispersed across every inch of the grounds are idyllic collections of flowers, trees, shrubs, and topiaries. Shifting to the West Shores, a hidden gem in Elmore is Schedel Arboretum & Gardens. Visitors come to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but stay to be a part of the beautiful nature that surrounds them in this gorgeous 17-acre arboretum. Each one of these gardens emulates the importance of nature as art and brings color and light to the community.
Galleries
For those looking to experience art in its classic form, the region has exactly that, and more, in the many galleries available for exploration. The Ferguson Gallery in Marblehead is a masterful exhibit of glass art by Carey Ferguson. Beyond just viewing the glass creations, the gallery has a studio where demonstrations and classes are frequently occurring. Opening soon, Beach Glass Lounge is a coastal-themed restaurant adjacent to the gallery, filled with pieces by Ferguson and where guests can sit on the deck and watch glass blowing next door. The Vermilion Arts Guild Gallery showcases local artists and provides them with a space to bring their work into the community, whether it be watercolor, pottery, or pastels. Visitors can stop in and experience the beauty of Shores & Islands Ohio through the eyes of the locals. Similarly, The Arts Garage in Port Clinton is a space where local artists create, display, sell, teach, and more. Walking through the garage and interacting with the artists brings a whole new perspective to visitors. The handcrafts, paintings, pots, jewelry, and more that are created and exhibited inside The Arts Garage reflect the unique character and vibrant spirit of the region. Each gallery offers visitors a rich, immersive experience where they can engage with local artistry firsthand, presenting a window into the region's creative heart and allowing art lovers to connect deeply with the essence and talent of the community.
Music
Music thrives in Shores & Islands Ohio! Almost every city blasts the tunes at free summer concert series, like Party at the Pier in Sandusky, Boppin’ on the Basin in Huron, and Live at the Lighthouse in Vermilion. But the melodies don’t stop when summer does. The Firelands Symphony Orchestra brings a rich, melodious depth to the region’s musical landscape year-round. Renowned for its exceptional performances, this ensemble captivates audiences with a diverse repertoire ranging from timeless classics to contemporary compositions. Whether performing under the stars during summer concerts or gracing the stage in fall or winter settings, the orchestra never fails to offer truly unforgettable musical experiences.
Incorporating any of the area’s artistic treasures into a Shores & Islands Ohio visit will transform the trip into something breathtaking, so make sure to check out these attractions and find even more on the Shores & Islands Ohio Fine Art Trail!
