New Buffalo, Michigan Travel Guide: 2025
New Buffalo might be one of the best-kept secrets in the Midwest—and I’ve been coming here for years. Whether I’m strolling the downtown shops, paddling the Galien River, or just breathing in that Lake Michigan breeze, this town always brings me joy..
Why Visit new Buffalo Michigan
If you’re looking for a quick day trip, a weekend escape, or a full vacation, this charming Lake Michigan beach town in Michigan’s Harbor Country is worth exploring. In this updated guide, I’m sharing the best of New Buffalo: where to stay, where to eat, and all the can’t-miss things to do—plus an interactive map at the end to help you plan.
It’s laid-back but never boring. You’ll find soft sandy beaches, a walkable downtown, cozy coffee shops, lakeside patios, amazing pizza and burgers, a Civil War-era brewery, and one of the best wine trails in the Midwest. All surrounded by vineyards, dunes, and the kind of sunsets that make you pull out your phone every time.
Whether I’m traveling solo, with friends, or family in tow, New Buffalo never disappoints.
PRO-TIP: Oh, and the best thing about New Buffalo, MI? It’s super dog-friendly!
📍 Where Is New Buffalo?
New Buffalo is tucked into Michigan’s southwest corner near the Indiana border, just off I-94. From Chicago, it’s only about 70 miles by car or a quick train ride. You can hop off the Amtrak right downtown—just steps from the beach, shops, and restaurants.
Quick Planning Facts for Your New Buffalo Trip
- Pet-friendly: Absolutely—dogs rule here (on leash in most public spaces)
- Where: Southwest corner of Michigan (Berrien County)
- Get here: Easy drive from Chicago/Detroit, or take the train—AMTRAK drops you right downtown
- Vibe: Come as you are—suits, flip flops, families, friend pods, dogs. Everyone fits in.
- Season: All year! Peak is June-Sept but fall color and winter escapes are underrated
Best Beaches in New Buffalo
Start with the New Buffalo Public Beach—this is the main beach, and it’s gorgeous. Wide sandy shoreline, clean bathrooms, lifeguards in the summer, and plenty of space to lay out or swim. It’s also walking distance from downtown, which makes beach-hopping and ice cream runs super easy.
Other nearby favorites:
- Cherry Beach – A quieter spot with a long staircase down to the lake.
- Weko Beach – Just up the road in Bridgman, with great views and picnic spots.
- Warren Dunes State Park – Dramatic dunes and lots of shoreline to explore.
▶️ Want a full beach breakdown? Check out my complete New Buffalo Beach Guide here!
Best Things to Do in New Buffalo Michigan
From amazing restaurants, breweries and wineries to stunning Lake Michigan beaches, nature trails and downtown shopping, tiny New Buffalo packs a lot of fun into one area. Click on the map below to start planning your trip.
Outdoor Things to Do in New Buffalo
- Third Coast Paddling – Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Galien River.
- Galien River County Park – A peaceful boardwalk through wetlands, with a 60-ft observation tower. Great photo spot.
- Warren Woods State Park – Quiet forest trails, especially stunning in fall.
- Warren Dunes State Park – Climb the dunes, swim the lake, bring your pup (there’s a dog beach!).
Climb the Dunes at Warren Dunes State Park
First of all, it’s dog-friendly, so bring your pup along to enjoy the wide Lake Michigan shoreline. This popular spot is a gem of the Michigan State Park system and features sand dunes that tower above the beach at more than 260 feet. You don’t have to trek all the way to the top of the dunes for stunning views: the expansive shoreline provides beautiful Lake Michigan vistas and lots for room for splashing in the clear, blue water. You can catch some stunning Lake Michigan sunsets, here, too.
Where to Eat in New Buffalo
This town punches way above its weight in the food department. My personal favorites:
- Redamak’s – Yes, it’s worth the wait. Classic burgers, milkshakes, and nostalgia.
- The Stray Dog – Great rooftop, great views, and a menu that hits the spot. (And yes, get the T-shirt.)
- Bentwood Tavern – Lakefront dining with wood-fired pizzas and a fantastic wine list.
- Brewster’s Italian Café – Cozy spot with a dreamy outdoor patio.
- David’s Delicatessen – Go for breakfast, stay for the fresh-baked pastries.
Need dessert?
- Oink’s Dutch Treat – Legendary ice cream with a pig-themed twist.
- Beachside Scoops – Right by the marina. Easy stop on your way to or from the beach.
Be sure to check out our complete guide to the best New Buffalo restaurants – updated for 2025!
Breweries & Distilleries
You know I love a good Michigan craft beer, and New Buffalo doesn’t disappoint. Check out our complete guide to all of the breweries near New Buffalo.
- Beer Church Brewing Co. – Housed in a beautifully restored church. The beer’s top-notch and the pizza is even better.
- Journeyman Distillery (Three Oaks) – Grain-to-glass spirits, a killer old-school vibe, and fantastic food.
- Round Barn (Baroda) – Wine, beer, and spirits all in one place. Great for live music and laid-back afternoon sipping.
Hit the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail
Michigan’s wine scene is the real deal, especially in this corner of the state. The Lake Michigan Shore AVA offers everything from bold reds to crisp whites, and it’s easy to hop between tasting rooms from New Buffalo to St. Joe.
Some of my go-to stops:
- Tabor Hill
- Dablon Vineyards
- Free Run Cellars
Consider booking a wine tour—or DIY it with a designated driver and scenic drive up Red Arrow Highway. Be sure to use our complete guide to the best wineries near New Buffalo to help you plan your visit.
🛍️ Shopping & Downtown Strolling
Downtown New Buffalo is small, charming, and fun to explore. Some of my favorites:
- Sweetwater Boating Supply – Stock up on lake gear or grab a souvenir.
- Frolic – Great boutique for women’s clothes and accessories.
- One Cottage Way – Cute gifts and home goods with a rustic twist.
Attend a New Buffalo Festival
Ship and Shore Festival – Held every August, you’ll find live music, food trucks, vendors, a beer tent and the Lighted Boat Parade, too!
New Buffalo Harvest and Wine Festival – Held every October, this fun fall festival is a must on any fall bucket list. Head to New Buffalo as food, music, beer, art, and Lake Michigan unite for three days of local festivities. Open to all, this don’t-miss festival features food trucks, kids activities, and, of course, a plethora of wine, cider, and beer to taste.
Visiting New Buffalo in the Colder Months? Be sure to use our guide to the Best Things to Do in New Buffalo in the Winter!
Take Road Trip on the West Michigan Pike .
The West Michigan Pike is a scenic byway winds its way alongside the majestic Lake Michigan shoreline, stretching from the vibrant Indiana border to the picturesque town of Manistee Start your leisurely drive in New Buffalo, for a memorable trip along one of Michigan’s top road trips.
Where to Stay in New Buffalo
You’ve got options. Here are some of the best:
New Buffalo Inn and Spa
Just minutes from the beach and downown shopping and dining, you’ll find comfortable, cozy rooms with a natutical theme at this cozy Inn with cottages, too.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Buffalo, an IHG Hotel
Great location, within close proximity to the Michigan Wine Trail, including Tabor Hill, St. Julian, Free Run and The Round Barn, and more. The hotel features include complimentary to go breakfast, free local phone calls and free high-speed Internet access, too. It’s about 1.5 miles to the Lake Michigan beach.
Fairfield Inn and Suites New Buffalo
This Fairfield Inn is a solid choice: consistently clean, comfortable and affordable. You’ ll find a pool and a free breakfast, and just a short drive to the casino or beach.
You Might Also Want to Check Out:
🧭 Explore Nearby Harbor Country
New Buffalo is the heart of Harbor Country, a collection of cute towns perfect for day trips:
- Three Oaks – Home to Journeyman and The Acorn Theater.
- Union Pier – Laid-back and beachy.
- Harbert – Don’t miss Luisa’s Swedish Bakery.
- Lakeside & Sawyer – Hidden gem beaches and cool vintage shops.
Final Thoughts
From sandy beach days and brewery hopping to hiking and exploring downtown, New Buffalo has something for every kind of traveler. I’ve spent years coming back to this town—and every time, I find something new to love.
If you’ve never been, you’re in for a treat. And if you have? You already know.
- About Jill
- Recent Michigan Travel Tips
Jill Halpin is a Michigan travel expert and founder of MyMichiganBeach.com, one of the state’s leading travel resources. Based in Michigan, Jill is known for her in-depth knowledge of Michigan destinations, from beach towns and Great Lakes getaways to hidden inland gems. She appears regularly as a TV travel contributor on WDIV Detroit, Fox17 West Michigan, Fox2 Detroit, and other Midwest media, and her travel expertise has been featured in The Detroit News and across major digital outlets.
Jill is a member of top Michigan tourism organizations and is dedicated to helping travelers discover the best things to do, see, and experience throughout the state year-round. See more at MyMichiganBeach.com/media.