Photo by North Central Michigan College
Harris Gardens at North Central Michigan College
What began as a gift of sculpture to an open area on the North Central Michigan College (NCMC) campus is now a spectacular sculpture garden filled with 26 pieces of vibrant art.
The late retired business man and NCMC benefactor Jack Harris first approached the college about donating a piece of sculpture several years ago. Then came another sculpture gift by Jack. Followed by another. And another. As each sculpture was placed, the gardens grew.
The Harris Gardens are now not only a sculpture garden but also a beautifully landscaped garden area with benches and pathways. Each of the 26 sculptures are identified with a plaque. Maps identifying each of the works are available.
The variety of artistic styles in each of the sculptures is dramatic. The artists who created these pieces of art come from across the U.S. The sculptures are made from a variety of materials include steel, bronze, copper, and stone.
Some are whimsical, some reflect history, others reflect thought. The wide, spacious lawn areas where the gardens have “grown”, are surrounded by NCMC buildings and pathways flow through the sculptures.
Harris has passed away and the sculpture garden is a wonderful legacy to his love of art and learning. The students at NCMC can often be seen contemplating a sculpture or sitting on a bench next to a sculpture. The Harris Gardens enrich the daily life of the students. Open to the public year ’round (free of charge), the Harris Gardens are located on the NCMC campus in Petoskey.
Experience Petoskey
Destinations Up North
Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Little Traverse History Museum in Petoskey
Within the historic Chicago/West Michigan railroad depot in Petoskey, the Little Traverse History Museum is a history filled gem.

Oden State Fish Hatchery in Alanson
The Oden State Fish Hatchery in Alanson produces three strains of brown trout and one strain of rainbow trout.

Searching for Petoskey Stones in Northern Michigan
A visit to Northern Michigan is not complete without a walk along the Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey stones.

Cross Country Skiing in Charlevoix & Boyne City
With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.

Heritage Village Celebrates Mackinaw’s History
Mackinaw City’s Heritage Village lets visitors explore life in the Straits of Mackinac as it was during the era of 1880-1917.

Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park is one of the premier destinations for campers and outdoor lovers and is tucked away between Petoskey and Harbor Springs.

Harris Gardens at North Central Michigan College
Harris Gardens at North Central Michigan College is a spectacular sculpture garden filled with 26 pieces of vibrant art.

Ski Resorts in Northern Michigan
The many ski resorts in Northern Michigan have winter activities for the entire family including sledding, sleigh rides, tubing, and more.

National Shrine of the Cross in the Woods in Indian River
The National Shrine of the Cross in the Woods is a 55′ x 22′ redwood cross cut from one redwood tree and with a 28′ tall bronze crucifix.

Wilderness State Park on Lake Michigan
Wilderness State Park’s 2,582 acres of natural area and 4,492 acres of wilderness area make this a great place to explore all year ’round.

Arch Rock – A Natural Wonder on Mackinac Island
Arch Rock is a geologic wonder on Mackinac Island and stands 146′ over the Lake Huron shoreline- nearly 15 stories tall.

Petoskey’s Bear River Valley Recreation Area
This 36 acre, 1.5 mile long Bear River Valley in Petoskey is truly spectacular and filled with natural beauty and things to do.

Northern Michigan Beaches
Summer’s not summer without a day at the beach and Northern Michigan offers some of the best beaches anywhere.

Cruise the Inland Waterway from Near Lake Michigan to Lake Huron
This Inland Waterway covers 38.2 miles from outside of Petoskey to Cheboygan. Find state parks, fishing, swimming, and more along the way.

Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island
Fort Mackinac is open from May-October and includes buildings restored their original look after the fort’s occupation by the British