steel sculpture "muskegon rising" sits in roundabout in front of historic Frauenthal theater at sunset. blurred car headlights illuminate the left side of the photo Adam Alexander

Welcome to Muskegon County...

We sincerely hope you enjoy your time at the new Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt Pavilion located at the Muskegon Museum of Art. The museum expansion and the new art that accompanies it truly makes the Muskegon Museum of Art a world-class destination, and your support for this endeavor is very much appreciated. Thank you!

The Staff of Visit Muskegon

Your Guide to the New Bennett Schmidt Pavilion at Muskegon Museum of Art Feb 07
Attractions

Your Guide to the New Bennett Schmidt Pavilion at Muskegon Museum of Art

A New Era for the Muskegon Museum of Art: The Bennett Schmidt Pavilion Opens The Muskegon Museum of Art (MMA) has expanded with the 26,000 sq. ft. Bennett Schmidt Pavilion, adding new galleries, education studios, and event spaces. This expansion allows the museum to showcase rotating…

Travel Tips for Muskegon County

Muskegon County Airport (MKG)  offers daily jet service to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) provided by Denver Air Connection with seamless ticketing and baggage connections through both United and American Airlines. Book directly from United.com, AA.com, or any third-party travel site.

Renting a car during your time in Muskegon is recommended, as rideshare and taxi services are limited in the area. You’ll find rental cars available at the Muskegon County Airport through well-known agencies like Budget, Avis, and Fly Drive (formerly Mid Michigan Rental Cars). Availability can be limited on short notice, so booking in advance is a good idea if possible.

Private Hackley & Hume Historic Site Tour

Saturday, March 29 11am- 12pm

Guests of Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt are invited to a private guided tour of lumber baron Charles Hackley's fully restored Queen Anne home and this partner Thomas Hume's home. This tour is compliments of Visit Muskegon, but guests are asked to preregister. 

The Muskegon Museum of Art began when Muskegon lumber baron Charles Hackley gifted $150,000 to Muskegon Public Schools to purchase "pictures of the best kind". Over time the Hackley Picture Fund also funded the construction of a building, the Hackley Art Gallery, to house the many artworks collected under the fund.

By 1980 the need for a larger museum quality facility resulted in a building expansion and a new name to what is now known as the Muskegon Museum of Art.

Once again the need for a larger facility was acknowledged, and in 2025 the opening of the Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt Pavillion more than doubled what was once called the Hackley Art Gallery.  

Hackley and Hume Historic Site

Hackley and Hume Historic Site

The Hackley and Hume Homes, both beautifully restored Queen Anne-style mansions, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcase Muskegon's rich history. They were also voted the #1 historic attraction in Muskegon on TripAdvisor. The Hackley House is an exceptional example of…

Making the Most of Your Stay

While you’re in Muskegon, we invite you to indulge in the city's rich cultural offerings. Take a driving tour of outdoor sculptures, visit the historic home of Charles Hackley, the philanthropist behind the Muskegon Museum of Art, or enjoy a performance in a beautifully restored historic movie house. Muskegon promises a seamless blend of art, history, and charm that will enhance your visit.