Top 11 Things to Do in Southwest Michigan
- 1. Silver Beach County Park
- 2. Warren Dunes State Park
- 3. South Haven Lighthouses
- 4. Silver Lake State Park
- 5. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- 6. Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail
- 7. Michigan Maritime Museum
- 8. Dr. T.K. Lawless International Dark Sky Park
- 9. Kal-Haven Trail
- 10. Makers Trail
- 11. Friends Good Will Sloop Cruises
Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph offers a tranquil shoreline with clear water, playgrounds, a splash pad, and an observation deck perfect for sunset views. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach or rent paddleboats for a lakeside adventure.
Warren Dunes State Park features towering sand dunes rising over 240 feet, forested hiking trails, and a pet-friendly beach. Climb the dunes for panoramic Lake Michigan vistas, then cool off with a swim or beach picnic.
The iconic black-and-white Outer Lighthouse and red-and-white Inner Lighthouse in South Haven stand sentinel over Lake Michigan. A stroll along the pier at sunset provides stunning photo opportunities and a taste of maritime heritage.
Nestled in Hart, Silver Lake State Park boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, clear waters, and adjacent dunes ideal for kayaking and sandboarding. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a summer staple.
Located in Grand Rapids, this award-winning attraction blends botanical gardens with outdoor art installations. Wander through the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and rotating sculpture exhibits amid peaceful paths.
Tour local wineries along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail to sample award-winning reds, whites, and sparkling varietals. Many tasting rooms overlook vineyards and the lake, offering guided tours and gourmet pairings.
Immerse yourself in Great Lakes nautical history at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven. Highlights include restored vessels, interactive boat-building demonstrations, and seasonal sails on historic replicas.
Experience stargazing at one of Michigan’s three International Dark Sky Parks in Vandalia. With minimal light pollution, you’ll see stars, planets, and nebulae in breathtaking clarity on clear nights.
Bike or hike the 33-mile Kal-Haven Trail from South Haven to Kalamazoo. This former rail corridor traverses forests, farms, and small towns, and is perfect for a day trip or multi-day adventure.
Sample craft beers, ciders, spirits, and wines on the Makers Trail. Use the free passport app to collect stamps and rewards as you explore family-owned breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries.
Sail aboard the 1810 replica sloop Friends Good Will from South Haven’s Michigan Maritime Museum. Crew in period costume invite passengers to help hoist sails and learn traditional seamanship on Lake Michigan.
