Discover Harbor Country, Michigan

U-pick fruit farms, stylish homegoods stores, vertiginous dunes, and excellent brews define Harbor Country, a strand of eight charming towns on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Spanning just 15 miles, this idyllic region can easily be traversed by car in minutes. However, if you take the time to explore, you’ll uncover a wealth of outdoor adventures, eclectic shopping options, and delightful dining and drinking spots that could entertain you for a weekend—or, for those who’ve permanently relocated from nearby Chicago, a lifetime.

Getting to Know Harbor Country

The towns that make up Harbor Country were predominantly established as logging towns by enterprising mid-19th-century businessmen who recognized the potential of southwestern Michigan’s virgin forests. Local tourism began to flourish with the arrival of trains and highways connecting the region to nearby cities in the Great Lakes. Historically, this area has continued to be favored as a getaway spot, even hosting infamous visitors like Al Capone.

Unique Towns and Attractions

The towns of Harbor Country share a common charm but boast unique quirks. Artsy Three Oaks, five miles east of the lake, is known for its galleries and theaters, blending culture with a relaxed vibe. Harborside New Buffalo is more developed, featuring walkable shopping and dining, along with luxurious accommodations like the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Harbor Grand Hotel and the stylish Marina Grand Resort.

Union Pier offers wine-tasting rooms and cozy cottage accommodations at the Firefly Resort. Lakeside emerges as a hub for fashion and design, marked by boutiques like Frecklefarm, while Harbert celebrates its Nordic heritage with delightful spots such as Harbert Swedish Bakery. Sawyer, the northernmost town, is lively and fun; even its local garden center sells craft beer. Meanwhile, Michiana and Grand Beach offer a more tranquil experience, best enjoyed if you appreciate leisurely strolls and local architecture.

Outdoor Adventures Await

In fine weather, Harbor Country provides ample opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty. A must-visit is the stunning lakefront, with highlights including the impressive 240-foot sand dunes at Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer—perfect for an early evening hike followed by breathtaking sunset views.

Many believe that surfing is reserved for saltwater, but Lake Michigan provides excellent surfing conditions. At the Third Coast Surf Shop in New Buffalo, visitors can enjoy private lessons, rentals, and all the gear needed for a surf adventure on the lake.

As autumn’s colors adorn the landscape, biking along Harbor Country’s scenic backroads becomes a delightful experience. Dewey Cannon Trading Company in Three Oaks is the go-to cycling resource, offering rentals and details about local cycling paths, including the well-known Apple Cider Century event held annually.

Culinary Delights

Given the abundance of local farms, Harbor Country’s dining scene embraces the locavore movement without pretension. Start your day at Froelich’s in Three Oaks, known for handmade bagels and cherry turnovers. For unique Great Lakes specialties, indulge in their extensive selection of pickles and preserves.

Union Pier’s Whistlestop Grocery offers romantic picnic essentials, featuring made-to-order sandwiches, artisan cheeses, flaky pastries, and chilled rosé. Meanwhile, Lakeside presents Flagship, an upscale seafood joint where you can savor al pastor-seasoned cod tacos and smoked salmon BLTs while relaxing to the sound of the waves.

Dinner at the Bentwood Tavern in New Buffalo promises stunning marina views as you taste elevated pub fare such as wood-fired prosciutto and fig pizza. Sweet indulgence awaits at Oink’s Dutch Treat, renowned for its 50+ flavors of locally-sourced ice cream and whimsical decor.

Local Liberties

A perfect getaway is never complete without a drink in hand, and Harbor Country boasts a rich selection of local breweries. In Sawyer, Greenbush Brewing draws large crowds year-round, serving popular brews alongside competitive bocce ball and delicious barbecue from its outdoor area.

For something unique, visit Beer Church, a microbrewery located in a former Methodist church, famous for its striking architecture and creative beers. If your preference leans toward cocktails and spirits, Journeyman in Three Oaks offers organic distillates in a beautifully restored 19th-century building. Enjoy tours on weekends, sampling distinctive creations like bilberry gin and bourbon-laced dishes at the onsite restaurant, Staymaker.

Union Pier features a location of the popular Round Barn, offering wine tastings daily, with a focus on fruit wines and sweet reds.

Shopping Finds

Harbor Country’s shopping scene offers a delightful mix of avant-garde design and vintage finds. Notable boutiques include Three Oaks’ Goods & Heroes, Lakeside’s AP Shop, and Sawyer’s Sojourn, catering to those seeking unique artistic home goods and fashionable items.

For vintage enthusiasts, a leisurely afternoon in Three Oaks is ideal. Explore jewel-toned antique rugs and curated furniture at Mazet, and discover vintage treasures at Poppy Hill, where retro signs and vinyl records create a nostalgic atmosphere.

Plan Your Visit

Harbor Country attracts visitors, especially during the summer months and fall weekends. To enhance your experience, it’s advisable to secure accommodations in advance and expect some traffic. I-94 conveniently connects the towns, but for a more authentic local experience, consider traveling along the scenic Red Arrow Highway. Regular train services from Chicago and Detroit also enhance accessibility.