Perfect Weekend Getaway on Lake Michigan

We stayed at The Harbor Grand Hotel which I would highly recommend. This upscale boutique hotel is located right on the harbor and within walking distance to many attractions. Lovely amenities include complimentary bike rentals, beach chairs/towels, indoor pool and hot tub, spa and my personal favorite - breakfast baskets that are delivered to your door each morning at your selected time.

Things to do

I could have spent hours on the beautiful beach of Lake Michigan that was just walking distance from our hotel. I was very excited to spend some time at Journeyman Distillery where we had a tour set up. We did a Distillers Tour which was a 90-minute intimate tour where we got to tour the facility and learn about the distilling process. This was followed by a private tasting of 12 spirits and a bonus of 3 samples pulled straight from the barrel! After the tour we enjoyed a delicious lunch at their Staymaker restaurant. The property also has fun activities like mini golf!

Other activities in the area include wine tastings, boat tours, kayak rentals, unique shopping, Warren Dunes State Park, Four Winds Casino, golfing and hiking.

Dining

We were amazed by all of the delicious meals we had in this small town. Here are some great places to enjoy:

Beer Church Brewery: popular craft brewery and restaurant that offers a diverse selection of craft beers, including their own creations brewed on-site. They are known for their Napoli style pizza and being located in an iconic church.

Bentwood Tavern: Located at the Marina Grand Resort, Bentwood Tavern offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative cocktails. The waterfront view is a bonus.

Redamak's: A local institution known for its mouthwatering burgers, Redamak's is a casual and family-friendly spot for classic American fare. The outdoor seating area is popular in the warmer months.

Stray Dog Bar & Grill: With a prime location overlooking Lake Michigan, Stray Dog offers a diverse menu with options ranging from burgers to seafood. It's a popular spot for both dining and drinks, especially on the outdoor patio.

Casey's New Buffalo: This restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining, offering a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients. You can expect a variety of dishes prepared with care.

The Galley Grill & Pub: Known for its friendly atmosphere and pub-style food, The Galley is a popular spot for comfort food and drinks. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy casual dining.

Terrace Room at the Harbor Grand: Located within the Harbor Grand Hotel, the Terrace Room offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring a variety of dishes prepared with local ingredients. It's an excellent choice for a special occasion.

Oink's Dutch Treat: If you're looking for a sweet treat, Oink's is famous for its homemade ice cream and a variety of flavors.

El Rancho: Craving Mexican cuisine? El Rancho is known for its tasty tacos, enchiladas and margaritas. It's a great option for Mexican food lovers.

Roma's Pizzeria & Restaurant: If you're in the mood for pizza and Italian dishes, Roma's offers a menu of classic Italian fare, including pizza, pasta, and subs.

Luisa's Café: For a cozy and casual breakfast or brunch, consider Luisa's Café. They offer a range of breakfast items and coffee in a friendly setting.

I recommend either staying at The Harbor Grand Hotel or the sister property, Marina Grand Resort.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Buffalo, Michigan. In need of further inspiration?