Harbor Country Winter Wonderland: 5 Must-Do Activities for Adventure & Relaxation

One of the things that I love best about visiting Michigan’s Harbor Country in the winter is that I feel like I have the place to myself. Of course, that’s not true but it’s just so peaceful here. The pace slows down, and the snow gives the area a winter wonderland effect. New Buffalo, Sawyer, Grand Beach and all of the other towns along the shore of Lake Michigan that make up Harbor Country really do look like a magical fairyland.

Winter is my favorite time to explore Harbor Country. I discover new places and revisit old favorites, and just bask in the beauty of Michigan in winter. Here are five of my favorite things to do in Harbor Country in the winter.

How to Get to Michigan’s Harbor Country

Harbor Country is a perfect winter getaway in Michigan, and is and easy travel destination. If you’re traveling from Chicago, Il, Harbor Country is just an hour drive away and just 90 minutes by train from Union Station to downtown New Buffalo, Michigan. If you’re traveling from Grand Rapids, it’s 90 minutes by car. From Detroit, it’s a three-hour drive west along Interstate 94.

Hit the Beach in the Winter in Harbor Country

Wait- did I just say hit the beach? In winter? Yes, that’s right. The New Buffalo City Beach, a popular gathering spot in the summer, is always one of my first stops in the winter, too. It’s very picturesque here. The Galien River, which flows through southwest Michigan and is a popular sport for kayaking and canoeing, opens into Lake Michigan in New Buffalo.

Bundle up and walk along the shoreline or follow the trails up the small bluffs for a panoramic view of Lake Michigan (you’ll want to have your phone or camera with you). The water is a pretty color of blue and is striking against the ice and snow.

Warm Up & Indulge: Luisa’s Bakery – Winter Comfort in Every Bite

Luisa’s Swedish Bakery and Cafe in Harbert is one of those places that make Harbor Country special anytime of the year.  In the winter, though, this cozy cafe, tucked away in Harbert is even more welcoming. Heavenly scents of warm cinnamon and almond waft from the café, beckoning you in from the cold. Once inside, you’ll find everything from streusels, coffee cakes and donuts to quiche, cakes, breads and soups. Everything is homemade with special care, and you can taste it.

My go to meal here is the Spinach Quiche, light and fluffy with fresh spinach and cheese.  I always make sure to purchase frozen carrot cake waffles to take home and heat up later.

Winter Treasure Hunt: Unearthing Gems in Harbor Country’s Antique Shops 

Whether you’re into antiques or collectibles, Harbor Country is one of the best spots in Michigan to unearth hidden gems. Winter is my favorite time to go antiquing in Harbor Country, because the stores and antique malls are a little less crowded and there is more time to explore at your leisure. 

I like to hunt for eclectic items, like old Tiffany silver serveware or the rare Staffordshire dog, and my friends like to hunt for swung glass vases and mid-century modern décor pieces. The cool thing it that there are so many antique shops here that there is something for everyone. If you go, don’t miss the Sawyer Antique Mall or Vintage Goods in nearby Three Oaks, MI.

Pontius Pilate & Pizza: Winter Brewhouse Delights at Beer Church

It doesn’t matter if it is Sunday, you can go to church any day of the week here. Beer Church Brewing Company, one of Michigan’s top craft breweries, is set inside a restored old church just steps from downtown New Buffalo. It’s a popular spot, and that’s one reason I like to go in winter: I can usually find a table. The other reason I like to go in the winter is that the hot, cheesy Neapolitan pizza that they are famous for tastes even better when you come in from the cold.

Be sure to try some of their special small-batch brews like the Pontius Pilate IPA. It has a refreshing, light citrus taste and pairs well with the pizza.

Winter Wonderland Hike: Dune Trails & Snowy Serenity in Warren Dunes

One of Michigan’s most popular state parks, Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer is home to three miles of Lake Michigan beach to explore, along with towering sand dunes and an extensive trail system that leads you through forests, over dunes and along the shoreline.

It’s busy in the summer but in the winter, it is serene and peaceful, and a great spot to commune with nature, and the six miles of trails make for a snowy Michigan adventure, where you can cross country ski or try some snowshoeing.

Whatever you do if you visit Harbor Country in the winter, just make sure you spend some time taking in views of Lake Michigan in the winter. The icy blue water is breathtakingly beautiful and you’re sure to capture some memorable pictures, too.

Plan Your Winter harbor Country getaway now

If you’re looking for a perfect Michigan winter resort or hotel, be sure to check out our Guide to 15 Top New Buffalo Hotels for All Budgets.