Far enough away from the city to serve as a retreat, yet close enough to be connected to Oregon’s largest arts and culture center, Manzanita and the Nehalem Bay area in general are brimming with artists. You’ll be sure to find inspiration here.

Manzanita’s Hoffman Center for the Arts is a community arts center located downtown on Laneda Avenue. There you can find a wide variety of workshops taught by knowledgeable, creative artists. The center also hosts live musical performances, film screenings and readings from nationally recognized authors as well as an ongoing clay program and writing lounge which, for a small drop-in fee, are open to the public.

There’s even an outdoor area, the Wonder Garden, just across the street. There, you can take in a variety of seasonal events, including Hoffman Center’s summer music schedule.

Manzanita is home to several fine art galleries and a bookstore that offers everything from the classics to bestsellers to work by up-and-coming authors. Polaris Gallery, owned by J. Scott Wilson, is filled with his paintings celebrating the sea, land and sky. He also includes paintings and sculptures by other Northwest artists.

The 4^th Street Studio and Gallery showcases the fresh talent of local and regional artists.  Owner/artist Kathleen Kanas presents her latest handwoven natural fiber basket designs and hand-built ceramics amid works such as original paintings, black and white photography.

At any given moment, there is an exhibit hanging in the North County Recreation District Gallery in Nehalem for all to see. NCRD is also home to the newly remodeled Performing Arts Theater where you can find a variety of programs such as concerts, talent shows, and theatrical productions. NCRD is the home to a vibrant theater group, Riverbend Players Community Theater, which brings four productions each year, attracting enthusiastic audiences.

The Manzanita Farmers Market, held Fridays from mid-May to end of September. is also a great opportunity to meet the artists in person and learn about their work.