One of Michigan’s many treasures is a region in its southwest corner known as Harbor Country. The welcoming towns dotting Lake Michigan’s eastern shore not only offer gorgeous sandy beaches, lakefront parks, historic lighthouses, water sports, sand dunes and sunsets, but are also well known for their rich cultural downtown life. Harbor Country is home to some of Michigan’s greatest restaurants with world-renowned chefs as well as art galleries, cocktail bars, award-winning breweries, elegant and cool music venues, luxe spas, high end hotels, and much more, all contained within its charming downtown areas. The downtown delights are endless and continue year-round, drawing visitors from all over the region, making Harbor Country one of the city’s most popular vacation spots.
New Buffalo, MI
Located under 90 minutes from the great metropolis of Chicago, New Buffalo is the first stop for many Michigan visitors crossing the Indiana border on eastbound Interstate 94. While its plethora of famed parks and beaches are enough to keep folks occupied for days, many vacationers come for the thriving downtown scene. For being such a quaint city, New Buffalo offers a cornucopia of cultural riches, from craft beer gardens, fine dining, boutique and antique shopping, to the contemporary, classic and fine art of the New Buffalo Art Gallery. Embrace Coastal Chic at No. 44 and indulge in some pampering and self-care at Foundation Mind and Body Spa. At night visitors can choose from the small-batch brew and Neapolitan pizza of the famed Beer Church Brewing Company, cocktails at the False Front, or fine Italian dining at The Terrace.
Sawyer, MI
Sawyer is the perfect destination for city-dwellers seeking to escape the daily grind of urban life. This small but fast-growing southwest Michigan town beckons with its majestic sand dunes and beaches. But hand in hand with the natural paradise of this beloved city is a vibrant downtown lined with charming markets, shops, cafes, restaurants and breweries. Start your day at Infusco Coffee Roasters, a local and visitor favorite cafe, with a sumptuous pastry alongside world-class coffee roasted from beans sourced world-wide. A whole afternoon could be spent perusing and shopping at the delightful Sawyer Home & Garden Center, where patrons will find garden supplies a-plenty, as well as gourmet food items, home decor, fresh Michigan produce, and a broad variety of local wines. Also on Sawyer Road is the upscale Susan’s, or kick back with barbeque and award-winning beer at Greenbush Brewing Co.
Three Oaks, MI
For being a small city of 1,600 people, Three Oaks emanates a distinct air of sophistication. This combined with its undeniable small-town charm has tourists flocking to its eclectic downtown area. Visitors start the day at Froelich’s Kitchen & Pantry, a deli and bakery, as well as a gourmet food shop. Froelich’s is known for its homemade preserves, relishes, jams and jellies and delicious fare. Harbor Country shoppers can peruse a high-end collection of furniture, textiles, art and home accents at Alapash New Home, and art-seekers can stroll through any number of galleries up and down Elm Street. Journeyman Distillery at the Featherbone Factory draws crowds for tours and tastings of its award-winning whiskey and even offers an 18-hole putting green. Also at the Featherbone Factory is The Acorn Center for Performing Arts, an intimate music venue which hosts everything from country artists to opera stars.
Union Pier, MI
Between the clear waters of Lake Michigan and the Galien River in Harbour Country is the charming town of Union Pier. Located 75 miles away from the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Union Pier draws city folks looking for a respite from the urban din. Beyond its soft sandy beaches, this quaint locale has a variety of attractive restaurants with mouth-watering fare. A tourist favorite is Red Arrow Roadhouse, where you can stop in for a cocktail and casual dining with everything from loaded potato wedges to Roadhouse chicken wings. For a change of pace, visit Timothy’s, where Asian flare meets old school vibes, and enjoy their world-class seafood and steaks. Wine enthusiasts will delight in St. Julian Winery & Distillery for a wide array of local wines, ciders and spirits, and don’t forget to stop by Black Currant Bakehouse for delectable pastries with a coffee or tea.
