A Weekend in New Buffalo & the Southwest Michigan Wine Coast: Beaches, Bottles & Small-Town Bliss

Just 90 minutes from Chicago, New Buffalo is the unofficial gateway to the Southwest Michigan Wine Coast — a region known for its Lake Michigan beaches, quaint harbor towns, and award-winning wineries. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a girls’ weekend, or a slow-paced couple of days near the water, this three-day itinerary will guide you through the best of the coast.

Day 1: Arrive in New Buffalo – Beachfront Town With Big Charm

Morning/Afternoon:
Arrive in New Buffalo, a welcoming beach town known for its walkable downtown, white sand beach, and harborfront dining. If you're staying in town, check in to a place like The Harbor Grand Hotel or Marina Grand Resort, both walkable to the lake and restaurants.

Hit the Beach:
Stroll down to New Buffalo Public Beach, a spacious Lake Michigan shoreline with soft sand, a pier, and excellent sunset views. Rent a paddleboard, take a dip, or walk the breakwater to the lighthouse.

Shop & Sip:
Explore local shops downtown like Froehlich’s Kitchen & Pantry for small-batch jams and baked goods, or browse curated gifts at Michigan Mercantile. Grab a cold drink at Ghost Isle Brewery or a pre-dinner wine flight at The Stray Dog’s rooftop bar.

Dinner:
Book a lakeside dinner at Bentwood Tavern, located at the Marina Grand, or try Timothy’s Restaurant for upscale dining in nearby Union Pier.

Evening:
Walk back toward the beach and catch the sunset from the sand or the pier — this stretch of Lake Michigan is known for its fiery, picture-perfect skies.

Day 2: Wine Trail Wandering – Sip, Savor & Explore

The Southwest Michigan Wine Trail is one of the top wine regions in the Midwest. Expect rolling vineyards, relaxed tastings, and scenic back roads connecting towns like Union Pier, Sawyer, Baroda, and Buchanan.

Morning:
Start with coffee and a pastry at David’s Delicatessen & Coffee. Then hit the road for a day of tastings. Suggested route:

• Round Barn Estate (Baroda): Famous for their wine, spirits, and “barn” vibes with live music.
• Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant: Elevated food and wine pairings with vineyard views.
• Dablon Vineyards (Baroda): Boutique winery with French-style wines and a beautiful tasting room.
• Gravity Winery: Peaceful pondside seating and a flight-friendly menu.

If beer or spirits are more your speed, Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks offers handcrafted spirits in a converted corset factory.

Lunch:
Stop at The Vineyard at 12 Corners or grab a picnic from Froehlich’s to enjoy among the vines. Some wineries also offer small plates or food trucks on weekends.

Evening:
Return to New Buffalo for a casual dinner at Brewster’s Italian Café or something sweet and simple from Oink’s Dutch Treat, a local legend with over 50 ice cream flavors.

Day 3: Coastal Coffee & Hidden Gems

Morning:
Wake up slow with a walk along the Galien River County Park Boardwalk, just minutes from downtown. The elevated walkway offers panoramic marsh views and peaceful birdwatching.

Brunch:
Enjoy a final meal at Luisa’s Café in Harbert — locals love their cinnamon rolls and garden seating.

On the Way Home (Optional Stops):

• Warren Dunes State Park: Towering dunes, wide beach, and a bit more off-the-beaten-path.
• Downtown Three Oaks: Home to Journeyman Distillery, a vintage movie theater, and artsy boutiques.

Where to Stay:

• The Harbor Grand Hotel – Modern luxury near the harbor
• Goldberry Woods – Boutique inn & microfarm in Union Pier
• Lakeside Inn – Historic lakeshore lodging

‍