The Best Things to Do, Eat, and Explore in Southwest Michigan

Can’t Miss Restaurants and Dining in Southwest Michigan 

Searching for the best restaurants in Southwest Michigan? From family-friendly favorites to romantic dinners and unique foodie finds, we’ve eaten our way across Harbor Country and know exactly where to go. Whether you're planning a date night, casual lunch, or unforgettable patio dinner, here are the top dining spots near New Buffalo and beyond. 

 Family-Friendly Favorites:  We have kids so we get it, here are the top kid-friendly restaurants in Southwest Michigan, featuring casual menus, relaxed atmospheres, and fun dining experiences the whole family will love.

• Red Arrow Roadhouse – A laid-back Union Pier staple known for burgers, ribs, and a kid-friendly menu. Casual vibes, great prices, and local charm make it a perfect stop for groups and families. 
•  The Stray Dog Bar & Grill – Located in downtown New Buffalo, The Stray Dog delivers beach-town energy with rooftop seating, a fun menu, and gear shop for take-home souvenirs. 
• Redamak's - This local legend serves up burgers and more from March - October, and is a cash only business! 

• The Terrace Room – Overlooking Lake Michigan in the Harbor Grand Hotel, this cozy Italian-inspired spot is perfect for candlelit dinners and lakeview date nights. 
•  Brewster’s New Buffalo – Charming garden patio, house-made pasta, and rustic décor make this one of the most romantic restaurants in New Buffalo. 
•  Hesston’s Supper Club – A timeless steakhouse experience tucked just inland. Expect hearty portions, vintage vibes, and perfectly crafted martinis. 

•  Journeyman Distillery – Located in a former factory in Three Oaks, Journeyman blends award-winning spirits with creative, locally sourced dishes. Tour the distillery, then stay for dinner in the rustic-meets-industrial dining hall. 

• Bridges Waterside Grille – Right on the water in Michigan City, Bridges offers breezy outdoor seating, boats cruising by, and a casual menu perfect for summer days. 
•  Postboy – This stylish newcomer in New Buffalo is already making waves with its fresh, seasonal menu and charming outdoor dining setup tucked just off Whittaker Street.

Best Beaches & Important Beach Info in Southwest Michigan 

Wondering where to find the best Lake Michigan beaches in Southwest Michigan? As locals, we know which beaches have easy parking, where to go for crowd-free sunsets, and which hidden trails lead to the sand. Here’s your guide to Harbor Country’s top beach spots—plus the details you’ll want to know before you go. 

•  Easiest Parking – Warren Dunes State Park: Located in Sawyer, this is one of the most popular and accessible Lake Michigan beaches. With plenty of parking, restrooms, concessions, and dog-friendly areas, it’s ideal for families, beach days with gear, and sunset picnics on the dunes. 
• Hidden Gem – Cherry Beach: Tucked away in Harbert, Cherry Beach is a locals’ favorite with a quiet, natural shoreline and fewer crowds. Limited paid parking makes it peaceful—go early or bike in. Expect a short stair climb to the water and incredible views.  
• Hike In – Grand Mere State Park: Located near Stevensville, this beach is perfect for beachgoers who don’t mind earning their swim. After a short hike through rolling dunes and wooded trails, you’ll arrive at a remote beach with wide open sand and not too many people—just nature and lake views.

Family-Friendly Adventures & Activities in Southwest Michigan Looking for the best family activities in Southwest Michigan? 

From hands-on museums to train rides and lakeside fun, Harbor Country is packed with kid-friendly attractions perfect for a day of adventure, rain or shine. 

•  Washington Park Zoo – Michigan City: Set on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, this small but mighty zoo is home to over 90 species—from tigers to otters. With walkable paths, a petting area, and a view-packed tower, it’s a must-visit for families with younger kids. 
•  Hesston Steam Museum – La Porte: All aboard! This quirky, kid-approved museum lets you ride real steam-powered trains through the woods. There’s also a blacksmith shop, model trains, and seasonal events that bring the past to life in a fun, interactive way. 
•  Captain Mike’s Fun Park – Bridgman: Mini golf, go-karts, batting cages, and bumper boats—Captain Mike’s is your classic summer fun stop just minutes from Warren Dunes. Great for all ages and ideal for burning off beach day energy.

Best Hiking Trails & Outdoor Adventures in Harbor Country, Michigan

• Warren Woods State Park – Three Oaks: Explore 311 acres of protected towering beech and maple trees, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. Follow the Galien River and enjoy one of the last stands of old-growth forest in Michigan. 
• Chikaming Open Lands - 13 Nature Preserves: Chikaming Open Lands protects over 1,800 acres of prairies, wetlands, and woodlands throughout Harbor Country. Public hiking trails at Robinson Woods and Turtle Creek are short, scenic, and great for spotting wildlife. Perfect for a quick nature break or a relaxed family outing.
• Galien River County Park - New Buffalo: Take in sweeping wetland views at Galien River County Park via an elevated canopy walkway and 60-foot observation tower. This family-friendly spot features easy boardwalk trails, forest loops, and incredible birdwatching—just minutes from downtown New Buffalo.

Best Local Coffee Spots in Harbor Country

Searching for the best coffee in Southwest Michigan? From beach-town espresso bars to cozy roasteries tucked off the highway, Harbor Country is full of local gems serving up freshly brewed coffee, artisanal lattes, and small-batch beans to fuel your vacation mornings. 

New Buffalo

• David’s Delicatessen & Coffee:  A local favorite for breakfast and caffeine, David’s serves Intelligentsia coffee, hearty bagel sandwiches, and cozy small-town vibes. Located downtown, it’s perfect for a morning stroll to the beach with a cup in hand. 

• Whistle Stop Grocery- Whistle Stop is part café, part gourmet market—with lattes, pastries, and picnic-ready snacks all in one charming stop
• Alan Ray's- Newly opened coffee shop located in Commune + Markey with local art and great vibes, 
• Black Currant Bakehouse -For scratch-made baked goods and specialty drinks, head to Black Currant Bakehouse just down the road.