Spring Awakening

This weekend, the J Anderson Gallery reopens for the season, after a winter hibernation since the end of December. The gallery is a showcase for Jeannene Anderson, the owner and an artist, and houses more than 100 of her Michigan landscapes, many of them striking portrayals of Lake Michigan and its dramatic shoreline. Self taught, Anderson primarily works with oil on canvas and draws much of her inspiration from the lake and forested views visible from her dune-side home. Don’t want to invest in a full-scale landscape? Anderson also has a wide selection of gorgeous note cards imprinted with miniatures of her work. The gallery is open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, or otherwise by appointment.

GO J Anderson Gallery, 2315 E. Highway 12, 708-420-8721, jandersongallery.com

While You’re in the Area: From 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, visit Shady Creek Winery (2030 Tyron Rd., 219-874-9463, shadycreekwinery.com), where live music and hors d’oeuvres will accompany wine tastings before the fireplace in the cozy tasting room. Shady Creek is known for its dry whites and reds, as well as its Michigan-made riesling and semi-sweet cherry wine. The winery is also a mini art gallery, with the works of local artists lining the walls. Shady Creek is open noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays; and noon to 5 pm. on Sundays.

Where to Stay: The Blue Chip Casino Hotel and Spa (777 Blue Chip Dr., 219-879-7711, bluechipcasino.com) has a 22-story hotel tower, from which rooms have Lake Michigan views and, of course, easy access to the complex’s casino; rates this weekend start at $160 a night.

Where to Eat: The Shoreline Brewery and Restaurant (208 Wabash St., 219-879-4677, shorelinebrewery.com) has microbrews on tap, live music, and a menu that includes mussels, smoked salmon, and slow-cooked baby-back ribs. Sahara (1701 Franklin St., 219-871-1223, sahara-restaurant.net) is loved by locals for its Lebanese fare and friendly service.

Photograph: Courtesy of J Anderson Gallery