Southwest Michigan is pure magic in the fall with vibrant foliage, crisp lake breezes, and small-town charm at every turn. From quaint beach towns along Lake Michigan to scenic drives through colorful forests, this corner of the state is the ultimate autumn escape. Many come in the summer, but the pros come in September when the weather is still stunning by the crowds have thinned out.
If you’re planning a fall weekend getaway, Third Coast Vacations is your perfect home base. Our warm, welcoming Lake Michigan vacation rentals put you close to the region’s best beaches, wineries, hiking trails, and cozy cafés. Whether you want to sip wine at a Harbor Country vineyard, bike quiet country roads, or browse small-town boutiques, our curated vacation homes give you a place to relax and recharge after your autumn adventures.
Top Towns for Fall Weekend Getaways in SW Michigan
Southwest Michigan’s small towns each bring their own personality to your fall getaway, making it easy to find the perfect fit. New Buffalo buzzes with lakefront energy, offering walkable beaches, boutique shopping, and a lively dining scene. Union Pier has a slower pace, where bike rides to the beach and farm-to-table dining feel are a way of life. Lakeside is serene and secluded, perfect for leaf-peeping drives and quiet afternoons by the fire. Sawyer blends outdoor adventure at Warren Dunes with a thriving craft beer scene, while invites you to sip and swirl your way through wine country.
Wherever you land, Third Coast Vacations has a home that matches the vibe, from cozy cottages with fire pits to spacious retreats near the beach, so you can soak up every moment of Harbor Country’s fall magic.
New Buffalo, Michigan – Lakefront Charm Meets Autumn Adventure
The gateway to Harbor Country, New Buffalo offers the perfect blend of lake life and small-town fun. Enjoy morning walks along the Lake Michigan, grab a latte downtown, and spend your afternoons wine tasting, brewery hopping, or exploring nearby trails bursting with color, like the Galien River County Park.
Where to Stay in New Buffalo, MI
- Whittaker Suites, 3 Suites, each unit sleeps 4: Three coastal-inspired suites that sleep 4 in two bedrooms with full kitchens, king beds, and fantastic location on the heart of downtown, just steps from restaurants, boutiques, and New Buffalo Beach.
- La Dolce Vita, Sleeps 12 in 4 bedrooms: This newly redone New Buffalo home offers multiple living areas across three levels, plus inviting outdoor spaces with a screened porch, fenced yard, and fire pit. Just a short walk to downtown dining, shopping, the marina, and the beach, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.
- Harbor House, Sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms: With sweeping views of the preserve this downtown home is just steps from the Stray Dog and offers bird watching and peaceful views in a secluded, yet central location.
New Buffalo, Michigan
New Buffalo is one of Southwest Michigan’s most popular fall weekend getaway spots. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this beach town has plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Enjoy walks along the beach, wine and beer tasting at nearby nearby vineyards or , and hiking trails that show off the best of Michigan.
- Pinewood Cottage (Sleeps 6) – Cozy two-bedroom home featuring a backyard firepit, jacuzzi tub, and a kid-friendly play area, all within walking distance to the cafes, restaurants, and beachfront of downtown New Buffalo.
- Whittaker Suites (Sleeps 12) – Three beautifully renovated, coastal-themed suites feature fully equipped kitchens, king-sized beds, and amazing access to all downtown New Buffalo has to offer!
Union Pier, Michigan
Union Pier is a quieter, more intimate destination for a cozy fall retreat, perfect for leisurely bicycle rides or peaceful walks along its scenic paths. Union Pier also focuses on farm-to-table dining, where you can enjoy fresh, local ingredients in cozy settings, like at Timothy’s Restaurant.
Here are some great properties for your Union Pier getaway:
- Pier Michigan (Sleeps 8) – Charming three-bedroom home featuring cozy lakeshore decor, a firepit, a hot tub, and easy access to downtown Union Pier’s shops, restaurants, and Townline Beach.
- Pier Bliss (Sleeps 8) – Newly renovated three-bedroom home, offering easy access to local beaches, wineries, and shops, with family-friendly amenities like a lower-level hangout space, outdoor games, a screened porch, fire pit, and hot tub.
Lakeside, Michigan
Lakeside is a hidden gem known for its serene atmosphere and natural beauty. This town is great for a quiet escape, where visitors can enjoy long drives through tree-lined roads or explore nearby nature preserves. Warren Woods State Park is just a short drive away and has hiking trails through beech-maple forests.
Here are some great properties for your Lakeside getaway:
- The Cornelia Cottage (Sleeps 6) – Fully renovated, three-bedroom lakeshore retreat just steps from Lake Michigan, offering charming coastal decor, a fully equipped kitchen, a screened porch, and a spacious outdoor area with a fire pit.
- Modern Living at Lake Michigan (Sleeps 12) – Spacious, vacation home with beautiful architectural details and a guest house, situated across from a private neighborhood beach. With vaulted ceilings, a media room, screened porch, hot tub, and more, this home is a showstopper.
Sawyer, Michigan
Sawyer is home to Warren Dunes State Park, a popular spot for hiking and exploring sand dunes. After a day of outdoor adventure, visitors can unwind at one of the local craft breweries or visit a nearby orchard for fresh apples and pumpkins.
Here are some great properties for your Sawyer getaway:
- Beach Daze (Sleeps 7) – Cozy, updated duplex home, just 1 mile from Warren Dunes State Park, with easy access to local restaurants, wineries, and breweries, with a large backyard, fire pit, and outdoor dining.
- Casa Azul (Sleeps 10) – Beautifully decorated, family-friendly home located on a quiet wooded lot, featuring a spacious backyard, screened porch, hot tub, and a cozy bunk room for kids. Enjoy easy access to local beaches, antique shops, and restaurants.
Baroda, Michigan
Known for its rolling hills and vineyards, Baroda is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The town is home to several wineries with fall wine tours and tastings, where visitors can sip on seasonal blends while taking in the beautiful countryside. Baroda also hosts fall events like wine festivals and farm activities and is a short drive from pumpkin patches and hayrides in nearby Three Oaks.
Here are some great properties for your Baroda getaway:
- Vineyard Vista (Sleeps 8) – Luxurious wine country retreat with stunning country views and direct hiking trails to both Tabor Hill and Round Barn wineries!
- Blueberry Fields (Sleeps 15) – Charming five-bedroom home nestled in Southwest Michigan’s wine country, offering spacious living areas, a hot tub, a tiki bar, and outdoor dining, all within minutes of Warren Dunes State Park.
Bridgman, Michigan
Bridgman is a charming town that blends small-town warmth with outdoor adventure. Home to Weko Beach, visitors can enjoy quiet walks along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Bridgman is also known for its craft beverage scene, with several local breweries serving seasonal fall beers perfect for sipping after a day of exploring.
Must-Do Fall Activities in Southwest Michigan
Fall Color Tours
- West Michigan Pike — One of the best scenic drives in Southwest Michigan.
- For the perfect autumn hike, check out:
- Galien River County Park (New Buffalo)
- Warren Woods State Park (Three Oaks)
- Grand Mere State Park (Stevensville)
- Warren Dunes State Park (Sawyer)
- Chikaming Open Lands (Trails available in several towns)
Festivals and Events
- St. Joseph Fall Fest (St. Joseph) — St. Joseph’s annual Fall Fest offers pumpkin decorating, hot air balloon rides, and a range of local food vendors, making it perfect for a family day out.
- Four Flags Area Apple Festival (Niles) — This beloved event in Niles features apple-themed foods, carnival rides, and a charming small-town atmosphere.
- Apple Cider Century Bike Tour (Three Oaks) — Cyclists won’t want to miss the Apple Cider Century Bike Tour in Three Oaks, which takes riders through Southwest Michigan’s scenic fall countryside and serves fresh apple cider and treats along the way.
Local Food and Drinks
- Autumn is the perfect time to explore Southwest Michigan’s renowned wine and brewery scene. For wine lovers, fall tours through the vineyards offer tastings of seasonal favorites. Be sure to take a day trip to local wineries like:
- Round Barn Winery (Baroda)
- Domaine Berrien Cellars (Berrien Springs)
- If craft beer is more your style, check out some popular breweries serving up fall-inspired ales in cozy taprooms, like:
- Seedz Brewery (Union Pier)
- Beer Church Brewing (New Buffalo)
- Ghost Isle Brewery (New Buffalo)
- To top it off, visitors can savor the season with fresh apples and treats from:
- Stover’s Farm Market & U-Pic (Berrien Springs)
- Garwood Orchards (La Porte, IN)
- The Shafer Farm (Baroda)
- For a farm-to-table dining experience, with restaurants that are known for incorporating local, seasonal ingredients into their menus, don’t miss:
- Greenbush Brewing Co. (Sawyer)
- Timothy’s Restaurant (Union Pier)
Plan Your Perfect Fall Weekend Getaway in SW Michigan
From strolling down beautiful beaches in New Buffalo to exploring scenic trails in Sawyer, Southwest Michigan is a dream destination for a fall getaway. You’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and activities that cater to every type of traveler.
When you’re ready to turn your fall vacation dreams into reality, The Third Coast Vacations team is here to help. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat in Union Pier or a beachside adventure in Lakeside, our curated selection of properties will exceed your expectations. Browse our vacation homes today and discover how easy it is to make Southwest Michigan your home away from home this fall!