Southwest Michigan Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Grand Rapids which includes a river or creek, a bridge and a sunset
Muskegon featuring sailing
Lansing showing street scenes, a city and heritage architecture
Windmill Island featuring a garden and wild flowers
Grand Rapids featuring a city

Charming beach towns, nature trails and wineries combine with unique attractions and a renowned dining scene in this exciting region.

Southwest Michigan is a top culinary destination with sandy beaches and lush parks. While outdoor activities and food trails take center stage, world-class museums and historic sites add to its alluring appeal. Enjoy swimming, mountain bike riding and big-city attractions in one eclectic region.

History is on fine display in Southwest Michigan. Visit South Haven’s Michigan Maritime Museum, Coloma’s North Berrien Historical Museum and preserved Victorian-era homes to see artifacts of the region’s Native American and agricultural past. Downtown Coldwater features Tibbits Opera House. Built in 1882, it’s one of the oldest operating theaters in the state.

The shores of Lake Michigan are great for beach vacations. Each quaint town offers its own character. Travel to Holland to see the photogenic lighthouse known as “Big Red.” Hike on trails along the sand dunes of Saugatuck and enjoy kiteboarding, fishing or boating at Pere Marquette State Park in Muskegon.

When it’s time to eat, explore the countryside. U-Pick farms allow you to harvest your own seasonal produce including juicy nectarines, pears, apples and blackberries. Breweries, distilleries and wineries dot the landscape and farmers markets deliver homemade goods using locally raised ingredients. For trendy restaurants and breweries, visit the Benton Harbor Arts District.

Kalamazoo is a craft beer destination with more than 300 restaurants. Find plenty to do when you’re not dining. Shop in cozy bookstores, vintage clothing boutiques and antique markets downtown, along with a range of shopping malls. Visit the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners.

Each season brings something new to do in Southwest Michigan, with colorful fall foliage, snowy winter sports and the warmth of spring and summer. Driving is the easiest form of transportation. However, public bus services operate regularly throughout the region. The closest airport is Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International.

Kalamazoo is a fantastic base for further exploration, with resorts, hotels and motels for every budget. Alternatively, book a room in a Southwest Michigan beach town for an idyllic vacation.

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro

3.5 out of 5
521 Lake Blvd, Saint Joseph, MI
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Saint Joseph. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,019 reviews)
"Great place"

Reviewed on 13 Oct 2025

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro
Four Winds Casino Resort – New Buffalo

Four Winds Casino Resort – New Buffalo

3.5 out of 5
11111 Wilson Road, New Buffalo, MI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$159 per night from 30 Oct to 31 Oct
AU$159
30 Oct - 31 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in New Buffalo. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,553 reviews)
"We enjoyed our stay and will be back again!"

Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025

Four Winds Casino Resort – New Buffalo
Silver Beach Hotel

Silver Beach Hotel

3.5 out of 5
100 Main Street, Saint Joseph, MI
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Saint Joseph. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,160 reviews)
"The hotel was in the downtown area with lots to do! The room was nice and clean with a balcony! Very nice stay"

Reviewed on 13 Oct 2025

Silver Beach Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Neighborhood Hotel - Grand Beach

The Neighborhood Hotel - Grand Beach

4 out of 5
19400 Ravine Dr, New Buffalo, MI
Stay at this 4-star golf apartment in New Buffalo. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Four Winds Casino New Buffalo and ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (62 reviews)
"Absolutely perfect, we loved every bit of our stay!"

Reviewed on 28 Sept 2025

The Neighborhood Hotel - Grand Beach
Breezy Pad, Close to the Lake, with Hot Tub

Breezy Pad, Close to the Lake, with Hot Tub

St Joseph
Book a stay at this golf vacation home in Saint Joseph. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Silver Beach and Lions Park Beach ...
9/10 Wonderful! (99 reviews)
"Great location"

Reviewed on 12 Sept 2025

Breezy Pad, Close to the Lake, with Hot Tub
Juniper Presents: Lakefront Getaway and Outdoor Living Redefined

Juniper Presents: Lakefront Getaway and Outdoor Living Redefined

New Buffalo
Stay at this vacation home in New Buffalo. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Four Winds Casino New Buffalo and New Buffalo ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (102 reviews)
"One of the most beautiful vrbo i have rented. Location is top notch. Lake Michigan is right there."

Reviewed on 27 Sept 2025

Juniper Presents: Lakefront Getaway and Outdoor Living Redefined
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Southwest Michigan

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