girl walking on the beach stretch with winter coat and hat, sun in the sky snow on the beach

New Buffalo

A charming Lake Michigan beach town, only 70 miles from downtown Chicago.

Set on a stunning, dune-backed beach and recreational harbor, New Buffalo is a perfect getaway when a new view and warm hospitality are in order. Home to two boutique hotels on the waterfront, landmark restaurants, and beautiful parks and preserves, the vibe is inviting and the MO fun. Locals know, the lake has a way of putting folks at ease.

As The Gateway to Michigan, New Buffalo is an ideal spot to launch a southern shore adventure. You’ll find unique villages, rolling vineyards, acclaimed one-of-a-kind shopping, and so much more. We’re a community of seasoned hosts, here to share memorable, relaxed experiences that make the most of your time away.

The Best US Wine Regions to Visit This Fall

Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail

Travel Zoo - 2019

Winter Retreat

Winter brings a welcome hush to our beachside towns. While shops, cafes, and wineries continue to welcome guests, the highlight of the day is often time by the fire, a walk in the woods, or a savory, unrushed meal with friends. From a luxury room with a view to a cozy beachside cottage, discover your ideal retreat in this restful season.

two people walking in the woods, trees are glazed with ice crystals, sun shining through the bare trees

Restaurants & Cafes

When the farm is just miles (even steps!) from the table, good eats abound. Find unique restaurants, cozy cafes, and craft-driven markets in our line-up of memorable lakeshore eateries.

restaurant counter with 4 black bar stools, shelves of wine behind the counter, picture on the brick wall

Wine, Beer and Spirits

Explore small-batch wine, beer, and spirits crafted by the makers of Michigan’s southwest shore. Find your ideal drink, scene, and experience with this guide to tours and tasting rooms within 30 minutes of New Buffalo.

two girls standing at a brown fence overlooking the vineyard, girls are wearing flowery sun dresses

Unique, Vintage and Handcrafted

With enough one-of-a-kind shops to justify a day trip, our lakeshore community is home to a talented group of gallerists and shopkeepers. Explore sustainable fashion, handcrafted home goods, and inspired collections of vintage and antique.

boutique with clothing items for sale, set in outfits around the room, large picture window

Ways to Play

Without a doubt, beaches are the thing on the Lake Michigan shore. But beyond watersport, picnics, and pastel sunsets, explore hike, bike and ski trails, farm tours and u-picks, and an emerging arts & culture scene. Looking for things to do? We share New Buffalo’s most unique ways to play.

Places to Stay

There are lots of ways to stay in New Buffalo, from boutique hotels on the waterfront to a growing collection of cozy, design-driven vacation rentals. Our guide explores some of the region’s most unique lodging with an eye toward location, aesthetics, and hospitality.

suite view with balcony outside, table with wine and fruit on it beige/olive green interior curtains and walls

Join the Community

Subscribe to our journal or follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the latest lakeshore happenings. We share what’s new, what’s seasonal, and a behind-the-scenes look at the people and places that make New Buffalo special.