Downtown Muskegon’s rich history has gained a new chapter with the revitalization of “The Corner,” a landmark at Muskegon Avenue and 3rd Street.
Built in 1930, the building originally housed the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Muskegon. In recent years, the space was used by Central United Methodist Church for community outreach.
In June 2024, the Bernhardt family purchased the property with plans to transform it into a family-friendly commercial hub offering gathering, event, performance, entertainment, and retail spaces. Multiple businesses within “The Corner” will be operated by members of the Bernhardt family.
“Our family firmly believes in the ongoing growth and evolution of downtown Muskegon,” says Victoria Bernhardt, owner of “Little Miss Green Thumb,” one of the businesses at The Corner. “We are dedicated to developing a multifunctional gathering space that is, first and foremost, safe, kid-friendly, and family-oriented. Our goal is to create an ideal environment for all ages to learn, play, and grow together. It will be a community center that combines retail, entertainment, and event space unlike any other in the area.”
Renovations of both the interior and exterior of the building have been underway for several months. New features include an expanded front patio and a pedestrian plaza at the rear.
![]()
Courtesy Bernhardt familyRenovations of both the interior and exterior of the historic church at Muskegon Avenue and 3rd Street have been underway for several months.
Variety of tenants
The Corner is set to house several distinctive businesses.
Among these is “The Stage,” a performance venue located in the top-level auditorium. This space, with its sloped floor, acoustically plastered walls, and vaulted ceiling, can seat up to 300 guests. It is available for lease for events such as reunions, weddings, lectures, and concerts. A fully operational Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ, installed in 1948, adds to the venue's charm. “The Stage” is managed by Alex Bernhardt.
Little Miss Green Thumb, a decorative plant business that emphasizes sustainability by using upcycled pots and containers, began as an incubator business in 2023. It also offers plant rehabilitation and education, and hosts planting parties for the public.
PLAY Muskegon, another tenant, is an interactive play experience designed for children ages 6 and younger. It is set to open in October. The facility, inspired by successful European models, will feature immersive environments such as a grocery store and classroom, supporting childhood development through creative play.
Broadway Bootcamp LLC, owned by Jacqui (Bernhardt) Robinson, provides musical theater opportunities for children. With The Stage as its new home base, Broadway Bootcamp will offer weekly rehearsals, classes, and a Broadway Babies program for children 6 and younger.
Heal From Within, operated by Theresa Bernhardt, offers personalized healing practices incorporating ancient wisdom and modern techniques, such as Reiki and reflexology, to help clients heal from within.
Additional space at The Corner is available for lease.
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.