New Buffalo is a charming lakeside town just a quick hour and a half drive from Chicago. This location offers a combination of natural beauty, countless activities, a small-town vibe and the perfect weekend getaway. Here, you can find beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, diverse culinary delights, a casino, wineries and so much more. If you’re looking for a slower pace environment where you can relax, sip some local wine and take in tranquil views, consider New Buffalo when considering your next vacation destination.
Things To Do
New Buffalo Public Beach: Relax and unwind on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan at the town’s public beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and stunning sunsets.
Warren Dunes State Park: Just a short drive from New Buffalo, this state park features towering sand dunes, hiking trails, and more beachfront to explore.
Boating and Water Sports: Rent a boat, kayak, or paddle board to explore Lake Michigan. Fishing is also a popular activity. There are quite a few options when it comes to boat tours and sailboat rentals. I highly recommend taking a relaxing sunset cruise on Lake Michigan for breathtaking views and a serene experience.
Golfing: If you’re a golfer, there are several golf courses in the area, including the Woodlands Course at Whittaker and Grand Beach Golf Course.
Explore Downtown New Buffalo: Stroll through the downtown area to discover unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place for shopping and dining.
Four Winds Casino Resort: If you’re feeling lucky, head to the casino for some gambling, entertainment, and dining options.
Antiquing: Browse antique shops in the area to find hidden treasures and unique items.
Hiking and Biking: Explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking or biking along scenic trails like the Indiana Dunes National Park Trail.
Local Events and Festivals: Check the local event calendar for festivals, art fairs, and community events that might be taking place during your visit.
New Buffalo Railroad Museum: If you’re interested in history, visit this museum to learn about the area’s railroad heritage.
Cooking Classes and Workshops: Some local businesses offer cooking classes and workshops where you can learn about local cuisine and culinary techniques.
Food & Drink
The Stray Dog Bar & Grill: A fantastic spot for New American cuisine featuring a delightful rooftop patio with a bar. This restaurant is open until 12am on the weekends and 11pm during the week, which makes it a great late night spot for hanging and socializing.
Casey’s: Located in the heart of downtown, Casey’s offers casual dining with locally sourced foods and a historic Art Deco style. This restaurant and bar is open until 12am on the weekdays and 2am on the weekends, being the only after midnight option in this small town.
Beer Church Brewing Co.: If you’re looking for craft beer, Beer Church Brewing Co. might be worth a visit. They offer a selection of their own brewed beers along with pub-style food.
David’s Delicatessen: If you’re in the mood for deli sandwiches, salads, and other quick bites, David’s Delicatessen is a popular choice. They offer a wide range of options for a quick and satisfying meal. This would be a perfect stop before hitting the beach!
Bentwood Tavern: Located at the Marina Grand Resort, Bentwood Tavern offers a relaxed and upscale dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. They have a diverse menu with a variety of options, including seafood and comfort food classics.
Local Wineries: New Buffalo is within arms reach of many fantastic small wineries worth visiting. I visited this past weekend and had an amazing experience with Dan at Fruitful Vine Tours. A group of girls and I were transported via open-air wagon from winery to winery. Wineries I personally recommend include Shady Creek, Lemon Creek , Dablon, and Tabor Hill Winery.
Spend the day, or the weekend soaking in the cool air this fall, or cozying up by the fire during the winter. New Buffalo is a perfect city escape year round.
Reach out to your travel advisor for more recommendations.
Visit https://mvptravel.com/travel-agency-locations/ to find a travel advisor near you! They look forward to hearing from you!
