West Michigan

Planning a getaway trip to New Buffalo, Michigan? You’re in for a treat! This charming and friendly lakeshore city offers exciting activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy. From its thriving downtown area with a picturesque marina to its beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan, New Buffalo delivers.

But before you set out to explore everything in the area, you need to find the perfect place to stay. Our guide to the best places to stay in New Buffalo, Michigan, intends to help you out with just that! If you’re on a budget or looking for a more luxurious experience on the New Buffalo beach, we’ve got you covered, so read on!

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Getting to New Buffalo

If you’re coming from Indiana, Chicago, or another place in the state of Michigan, know that New Buffalo is located in Berrien County, in the southern part of Western Michigan, just north of Michigan City, Indiana on the shores of Lake Michigan. The Blue Water train from Chicago to Port Huron and the Wolverine train from Chicago to Detroit both stop at the Amtrak railroad station, which is located in the central business district.

Note: Train buffs will want to visit the New Buffalo Railroad Museum adjacent to the Amtrak station. Open on weekends, it has three restored railroad cars along with photographic exhibits. This attraction is often overlooked in favor of other activities, but we think it’s not to be missed.

Motorists will find the city conveniently located off I-94; use the US-12 exit if you’re westbound or the first exit past the New Buffalo Welcome Center just inside the state line if you’re eastbound.

What Are the Best Hotels in New Buffalo Michigan?

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Buffalo

If you’re looking for a top-rated hotel in New Buffalo Michigan, you can’t go wrong with the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Buffalo. This 3-star hotel has received rave reviews for its exceptional service, clean and spacious rooms, and great amenities like complimentary continental breakfast, free wi-fi internet, and indoor pool and hot tub.

The Harbor Grand

For a more luxurious stay, check out The Harbor Grand, a boutique hotel located right on the harbor. Their elegant guest rooms are on par with luxury hotels you’re used to, and feature plush bedding and private balconies with stunning views of the waterfront. Many have fireplaces and spa tubs, and each guest is provided with a comfortable spa robe while at the facility. Outdoor terrace dining and a relaxing spa retreat with a full array of personal service treatments are just a few of the luxury amenities at this thoughtfully designed hotel, one of the great resorts in the region.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Buffalo

Family-friendly hotels are also abundant in New Buffalo Michigan. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Buffalo, affiliated with the IHG hotel family, is a popular choice among families, with its spacious rooms and complimentary buffet breakfast. All the amenities business travelers expect from the Holiday Inn Express & Suites brand are here: self-service laundry room, a business center, heated indoor pool and whirlpool, and fitness center.

What Are the Best Places to Stay in New Buffalo Michigan on a Budget?

New Buffalo Inn & Spa

If you’re looking for the best low-priced accommodations in New Buffalo Michigan, consider staying at the New Buffalo Inn & Spa. This cozy inn offers affordable rates and convenient access to the downtown area. Rooms feature Keurig coffee makers and smart TVs.

The Baymont by Wyndham New Buffalo

The Baymont by Wyndham New Buffalo is another great option, with its comfortable rooms, free continental breakfast, complimentary wireless internet access and short drive to Lake Michigan and outlet shopping.

Quality Inn Near Interstate I94 – Best Low Cost Option of Hotels in New Buffalo MI Near Four Winds Casino

If you want to to keep costs low and find hotels with the best deals in New Buffalo Michigan, keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts for non-refundable reservations, etc. The Quality Inn Near Interstate I94 offers affordable rates, free breakfast, and easy access to popular attractions like Four Winds Casino Resort and the Galien River County Park.

While average prices are climbing for the guest on a tight budget, your stay doesn’t have to be expensive and low prices at New Buffalo hotels can be had. There are plenty of cheap hotels in New Buffalo Michigan to choose from. To find the best time to book the cheapest hotels in New Buffalo Michigan, consider traveling during the fall or winter months when tourism levels lower. 

What Are the Most Convenient Hotels in New Buffalo Michigan?

If you want a hotel room close to the heart of the action, there are several hotels in New Buffalo Michigan that offer convenient access to the downtown area. The Baymont by Wyndham New Buffalo and Quality Inn Near Interstate I94 are both located just a short drive from the city center, making it easy to explore all of the shops, restaurants, and attractions. For those looking to soak up some sun at the shore, The Harbor Grand is located near Lake Michigan.

New Buffalo Bed and Breakfast: The Neighborhood Hotel

If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, the Neighborhood Hotel is an adults-only, nine-room bed and breakfast inn located right in downtown New Buffalo, a ten-minute walking distance from the beach Their cozy rooms feature free wifi, Ralph Lauren linens, flat screen TVs with Netflix, air conditioning and mini-fridges. Choose a terrace room or one with a balcony. Fresh-baked cookies are often available in the common area, too. Note that their free parking area can fill up quickly, so plan accordingly.

If you’re planning on visiting Galien River County Park, consider staying at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Buffalo, the Quality Inn Near I94 or the Fairfield Inn. These hotels are just a short drive from the park, making it easy to explore its hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

What Is the Best Lakeside Resort in New Buffalo Michigan?

The Harbor Grand (Again)

If you want to experience the ultimate in lakeside living, then consider staying at one of the top-rated lakeside resorts in New Buffalo Michigan. The Harbor Grand Resort offers luxurious accommodations with views of the New Buffalo harbor. The Harbor Grand hotel features full resort amenities such as a luxury day spa, sophisticated dining, relaxing common areas and atmospheric rooms with views, fireplaces and hot tubs.

What Are the Best Vacation Rental Options in New Buffalo Michigan?

If you’re looking for a home away from home in the New Buffalo area, then a vacation rental might be the perfect option for you. Lakefront vacation rentals are particularly popular in New Buffalo Michigan, with a remarkable option like the New Buffalo Lakefront House, which is directly on the beach with a saltwater swimming pool and hot tub.

For an in-town experience, the Bradford New Designer Luxury Cottage has a heated pool and sleeps 12, perfect for a multi-generational family vacation or a friends group getaway. Located in a serene residential neighborhood, shops and the beach are just steps away.

For the quintessential Lake Michigan cottage experience, check out the Charming Cottage or the Tallgrass Cottage. These homes feature all the amenities you need, kitchen facilities, comfortable sleeping, and relaxing ambiance.

If you want to be near Four Winds Casino New Buffalo, consider staying at one of the vacation rentals located nearby. The charming Storybook Cottage and the tranquil Deer House both offer easy access to the casino and all its games and amenities.

Tip: For atmospheric eats in New Buffalo, check out the Stray Dog Bar & Grill, Redamak’s, and Oink’s Dutch Treat.

Still Undecided? Use Our Handy Interactive Map to Choose and Book Your Stay

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing places to stay in New Buffalo Michigan, no matter what your budget or preferences may be. Whether you’re a business traveler, a family on holiday, or just looking to explore the area, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home during your stay.

Note: For other ideas to New Buffalo’s North, check out our post on the 5 Best Small Towns in Michigan on Lake Michigan

Can’t Swing a Trip to Europe for Tulip Time? Find the Best Place to See Tulips in Holland Michigan

As spring approaches and Mother Nature awakens from her deep slumber, winter’s barren landscape starts to transform with flowers blooming and foliage emerging on trees. One of the most famous places to visit during this season is the Netherlands, where the Tulip Festival starts and is a sight to behold. Millions of tourists descend onto this European country to witness these wondrous flowers’ beauty and charm. In Holland tulip time is peak tourist season, so visiting the Netherlands makes for a very expensive experience.

History of Holland Michigan

If you want to experience the colorful glory of tulip fields but Europe is not an option, then another great place to get this unique experience is to visit Holland, Michigan, in the United States. A pretty small town on Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa about 30 miles southwest of Grand Rapids, Holland was founded in 1847 by Albertus C. VanRaalte.

VanRaalte came to the United States from the Netherlands with a group of other Dutch immigrants to escape religious oppression and economic instability. With hard work from the new settlers, the city prospered, and the Dutch heritage permeated through the settlement. 

How Tulip Time Festival in Holland Got Started

It was in 1927 that Miss Lida Rogers, a biology teacher in the city of Holland, suggested embracing the tulip as the city’s official flower because of its strong ties with the Netherlands. In 1928, 100,000 tulip bulbs of different varieties were purchased from the Netherlands to be planted around the city.

In 1929, with the blooming of these flowers, Tulip Time came into being as an annual festival in Holland, symbolizing the end of winter and the start of spring. The Holland Tulip Time Festival was a chance to not only admire vivid tulips in bloom but to also showcase Holland and its heritage through traditional dances, costumes, and iconic wooden shoes.

Gorgeous Tulip Varieties and Colors in Profusion 

You’ll notice tulips come in a multitude of colors and varieties: white tulips are often sent as condolences, pink tulips are delivered for congratulations, red tulips signify love and passion, orange tulips could mean you have a spiritual connection, and yellow tulips are associated with happiness and cheer.

Varieties such as double blooms which resemble peonies, gaily striped and multi-colored hues, “parrot” tulips, and fancy frills and fringes represent the skills with which cultivars were developed. Remember, tulips were highly coveted as a luxury item, and so in demand in 17th century Europe, that “Tulip Mania” created an economic bubble that eventually caused financial collapse.

Things to Do in Holland Evolved with the Festival

No longer just a flower festival, over time the Tulip Time festival has evolved and combines a variety of activities and entertainment throughout Holland, Tulip Time attractions and activities celebrate Holland and its Dutch heritage, which include concerts, parades, Klompen dance, historic tours, and of course, viewing the millions of tulips.  This unique experience in the USA has helped The Holland Tulip Festival receive the badge for “Best Small Town Festival in America” by Reader’s Digest.

2023 Tulip Time Dates are May 6 – 14

When you visit Tulip Time in Holland in Spring during the month of May, you’ll notice amazing tulip vistas just about everywhere. The below locations are highly recommended to choose the best place to see tulips in Holland Michigan. Plan for a charming, mesmerizing experience during Holland’s Tulip Time with the best tulip displays along with the best chance to take the tulip photos you want to commemorate your visit.

Every Visit to the Tulip Festival in Holland Begins with Centennial Park

Kick off your annual Tulip Time festival visit by heading to Centennial Park which is located in downtown Holland. This beautiful Victorian-style city park is free to visit and is one of the best places to enjoy the display of beautiful tulips in serene surroundings. You can either relax near the traditional Dutch fountain or admire the koi pond as you enjoy a picnic in the park’s shade. During the Tulip Festival, this acre park also hosts traditional Dutch dances which makes it a popular spot for tourists. 

Downtown and Tulip Lanes

You can further explore Holland’s downtown streets, home to shops, restaurants, and everything in between. Head to 8th Street where tulips in planters are strategically placed in Holland’s historic district, which makes for an enjoyable and vibrant stroll throughout the downtown area. If you time your visit to coincide with the famous Tulip Time parades, then you will be in for a treat. 

The Kinderparade, or Children’s Parade, is kicked off with a beloved tradition of street scrubbing, where elementary school children wear traditional Dutch costumes and scrub the streets of Holland with a broom for upcoming performances. You’ll see floats, Dutch dance performances, bands, etc, all of which combine to create a festive atmosphere.

If all that walking and standing around Holland has tired you out, but you still want to see the 6 miles of tulips that the city has planted, you can! A great way to see some of the 5 million tulips Holland puts out is to just drive around Holland’s neighborhoods along the tulip lanes, where up to 250,000 bulbs are planted along Washington Avenue and 12th Streets.

For the athletic traveler, a more vigorous but equally fun way to experience and see thousands of tulips planted around the city is to participate in the Tulip Time Run. This event is for everyone, featuring a 5k,10k, and even a Kids Fun Run. It starts early morning in Kollen Park and you can choose to either walk or sprint to complete the course that winds through Holland’s Tulip lined streets.

Tulip Immersion Garden

One of the most unique experiences during the Tulip festival is visiting the Tulip Immersion Garden. Previously housed in the Ottawa County Fairgrounds, it has now moved to the new location of Beechwood Church in Park Township. Crafted by the renowned Dutch horticulturist, Ibo Gülsen, the exhibition will feature 50,000 tulips.

The garden’s tulip beds will be raised to eye and chest level to make for a truly immersive experience. The installation depicts the history of the tulip, which was initially cultivated by the Turkish people, but it was the Dutch who were able to grow it on a full scale and therefore incorporate the flower into their culture.  There is an admission fee that allows for entry on an hourly basis so make sure you book before you go. 

Windmill Island Gardens

If you are looking for a truly authentic Dutch experience while being surrounded by a carpet of blooming tulips, one of the best things you can do is take a road trip to the Windmill Island Gardens to see how the tulips burst into bloom.

This beloved island is home to the ‘de Zwaan’, the last authentic windmill that was allowed to leave the Netherlands. This historic landmark is still functional, as it grinds homegrown grain into flour and is sold to visitors and locals alike. You can also take a tour of the windmill and visit the top from where you can view the sprawling manicured gardens covered in thousands of tulips that bloom in time for the Tulip Festival.

Other attractions at the garden include rides on the antique kids’ carousel, complete with hand-painted horses that add to the overall charm of the place. The gardens are also dotted with several replicas of Netherlands’ structures to give you a taste of the Dutch way of life. If you are looking to take a piece of Holland back with you, then the onsite souvenir shop has a wide variety of options you can peruse while partaking in some cheese tasting. 

Take note that instead of large fields of colorful tulips, these beautiful blooms are planted in smaller beds, which you can enjoy by strolling on the walking trails that meander through the beautiful grounds. The park welcomes up to 50,000 people during Tulip Week so it’s important to plan transportation and visit times accordingly as it can get very crowded.

There is an admission fee for both kids and adults, but it is well worth the price as it’s a great place to visit and see a variety of tulips in a setting that is truly reminiscent of the Netherlands.

​Window on the Waterfront Park

This 30-acre park overlooks the Windmill Island Gardens and is home to 100,000 tulip bulbs that start to bloom in late April during the tulip season. Not only is it home to a spectacular display of beautiful flowers, but it is an idyllic escape from daily life to experience nature’s wonders. With numerous walking and biking trails that meander through the marshlands and foliage, this is a great option to enjoy the great outdoors and admire the tulips. 

Nelis’ Dutch Village

If you want to know what life was like in the Netherlands over 100 years ago, then making a day trip to visit Nelis’ Dutch Village is highly recommended. Modeled after a Dutch village, this family-owned theme park is a true celebration of Dutch heritage, traditions, and architecture.

Make sure to schedule at least 3 – 4 hours to fully experience the rich Dutch heritage that is part of the village. Every year around 30,000 tulip bulbs are planted around the park, which makes it a must-visit attraction during the Holland Michigan Tulip Festival. 

A guided tour through the park by employees clad in traditional Dutch costumes is a great way to experience the ritual of cheese making, candle making, and the quintessential wooden shoe carving. An on-site petting zoo is a great hit with the kids, where they can interact with a variety of animals such as llamas, goats, sheep, etc. 

The admission ticket allows you unlimited access to rides such as a classic carousel, a reimagined Ferris Wheel, Dutch Chair Swing Ride, and the recently added tractor ride.

In between the rides, take a break from Tulip Time festivities and fuel yourself with some traditional Dutch snacks, such as Frikandel, a Dutch version of the hot dog, or Banket, a traditional pastry. If you time it right, you might also get to experience some traditional dance performances that are enjoyable and super fun to experience. 

Veldheer’s Tulip Farm and DeKlomp Delft and Wooden Shoe Factory

North of Nelis’ Dutch Village lies the famous Veldheer’s Tulip Gardens, a major attraction during the Annual Tulip Festival. This family farm has one of the biggest displays of tulips, with around 5 million colorful bulbs planted in gardens for a truly spectacular display.

Veldheers Tulip Farm also boasts one of the biggest varieties of tulips which makes it an ideal place for some Instagram-worthy pictures. As a private establishment, there is a $15 entrance fee per person which allows you to roam the 40-acre area which also has other decorative plants besides tulips. 

A visit to the Veldheer Tulip Farm is incomplete without checking out the Deklomp Wooden Shoe & Delft factory, an onsite store where you can purchase authentic Dutch souvenirs, food, and tulip bulbs. You get a chance to observe artists carving authentic wooden shoes on machines that are imported from the Netherlands.

You can also observe authentic blue and white delftware being handmade on-site by skilled artisans. Delftware is tin-glazed blue and white pottery that is now synonymous with the Netherlands and includes things like plates, vases, etc. Even though this experience comes with a price, the Veldheer Tulip Gardens is a great option to not only view the tulips but also sample some truly authentic Dutch products and delicacies. Best of all, it’s not crowded which makes for an enchanting experience.

​Plan Accordingly! Tulips are the Stars of the Show in Holland’s Popular Tulip Festival

If you are looking for a unique travel experience in North America, then look no further than Holland, a city located in West Michigan. The city’s Spring Tulip Festival is an exceptional week-long celebration of Dutch heritage outside of Europe, along with a stunning display of several million tulips all over the city. From traditional Dutch Dancing to live music to the only authentic Dutch windmill in North America, you are certain to have a great time in Holland during Tulip Time, especially while strolling through colorful tulip lanes that are vibrant and colorful. 

Because of the festival’s popularity, it can get very crowded, especially during the weekends, so it’s important to plan the itinerary accordingly. If you have a car, keep a buffer in your plans for finding a parking lot due to the sheer number of people plus closures due to parades, dances etc. If admiring the tulips are a priority versus parades etc, then you can also plan to come a week before or after the festival ends (Tulip Time 2023 dates are May 6-14) to see the tulips while avoiding heavy crowds and take advantage of lower prices. So is your next spring trip to Holland, Michigan?

Looking for sand dunes? Michigan has ’em! And Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a great Michigan dunes vacation. See things to do in Silver Lake Michigan for a plan!

If you grew up in West Michigan like I did, chances are you have fond memories of a visit to Silver Lake sand dunes. Vacationing on the Lake Michigan dunes is a popular summertime activity for Michiganders and out of staters, too. There’s just nothing like it anywhere!

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The magnificent Silver Lake Sand Dunes are adjacent to Silver Lake, Michigan, which is located near the Lake Michigan community of Mears in Oceana County, north of Muskegon. The lake is separated from Lake Michigan to its west by Silver Lake State Park, which has recreational facilities and an off-road vehicle area.

Check out things to do in Silver Lake Michigan and plan the experiences you’re going to love in this unique destination!

1. Play on the Silver Lake Dunes

There are many fun things to do in Silver Lake Michigan, but the big draw, of course, is the sand. Silver Lake Sand Dunes are the only dunes in Michigan where it is legal to drive on the sand.

You can take Silver Lake dune rides in your own off-road vehicle if you have one, rent a dune buggy or ATV, or ride along in a multi-passenger specialty vehicle. If you plan to do your own driving, click here to review the Silver Lake dunes rules from the Michigan DNR.

If you don’t own an ORV, you’ve got plenty of options. For our money, the dune rides Michigan boasts are the real deal in terms of thrills.

Most people think of a traditional sand dune buggy when they consider their options. But be aware you can rent Jeeps and ATVs, too.

Silver Lake Michigan Dune Buggy Rentals

For Silver Lake dune buggy rentals, your go-to is the aptly named Silver Lake Buggy Rentals, where you’ll find 2 and 4 person options.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes ATV Rental

Wild Bill’s ATV Rentals is your source for Silver Lake ATV rentals as well – this is a single person, four wheeler vehicle.

Silver Lake Jeep Rentals

Perhaps the above Silver Lake dune rentals don’t appeal. You’re not limited just to dune buggy rides in Michigan if that’s the case. Open air Jeep Wranglers are perfect for self-drive or be-driven guided options. Get in touch with Parrot’s Landing Jeep Rentals and Tours for the lowdown.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes Rides

Don’t feel like driving yourself at all? For sure, these big dunes can be intimidating, but you can still enjoy a thrill with Mac Woods Dune Rides. Personable guides will take you on a 40 minute journey from the dunes summit at Silver Lake. Sand dunes rides wouldn’t be complete without splashing along the water’s edge, too. Mac Dune Rides’ experience is safe for all ages, and accessible for the mobility impaired.

Walking, Picnicking, or Sand Boarding at Silver Lake

With over 2000 total acres of dunes, Silver Lake State Park has plenty of room for those who prefer to get where they’re going on their own power. The designated walkable part of the state park makes the Lake Michigan dunes experience even more thrilling.

If you’re a sand boarder, this is one of the best places to practice your skills. Those in the know rate the slope’s pitch and sand texture as the very best. Need a board? Rent one at Wave Club Watersports.

Beach lovers can stake a claim on Lake Michigan sand dunes or Silver Lake Beach. Michigan’s soft, golden sand is perfect for a day spent relaxing and picnicking at the water’s edge. For a change of scenery, check out Charles Mears State Park in close by Pentwater, which has swimming, picnic, and play areas.

2. Silver Lake Camping in the Scenic Outdoors

Each of these Silver Lake campgrounds promises fun and relaxation in scenic surroundings. Near Silver Lake Sand Dunes, camping options vary from simple tent sites to amenity-laden resort-style experiences for those who like to bring the comforts of home along.

Silver Lake State Park camping has been popular ever since its opening in the 1950s. The Silver Lake State Park Campground has 200 sites with eco-friendly and many accessible features. Modern facilities include an off-road recreation area, boat launch, hiking trails, fishing pier, playground, and more. Note: alcohol is prohibited within a ¼ mile of the off-road area and completely prohibited throughout the park from late May to early June.

Other camping options are plentiful: the Silver Lake Resort and Campground has over 200 full hook-up sites on 30 acres, with camping cabins, heated swimming pool, camp store, and family movie nights. Playground, picnic area, pavilion for groups, laundry facilities, catch and release fishing pond.

The Silver Creek RV Resort welcomes big rigs and large groups from April 1 – October 31. This gated entry resort has full hook-up sites, each with concrete slab. The community includes a gathering center, fitness center, pickle ball and basketball courts, arcade, pool and hot tub and store. Playground, pet area and wi-fi provided.

Sandy Shores Campground has been located across the lake from the dunes in a beautifully wooded, grassy setting for almost 40 years. This is the only private park with beach on Silver Lake. Michigan camping should include a swimming area with a sandy bottom perfect for all ages, and you’ll find it here. Outdoor heated pool, full playground with equipment, laundry, spacious sites and basic wi-fi.

Silver Hills Campground offers a range of experiences from rustic, non-electric sites to self-catered A-frame cabins. Back-in and pull-through options offer electric, optional water and pond views. Pool, bath house, and store on site.

3. Stay in kitschy Silver Lake Sand Dunes hotels

Silver Lake, Michigan hotels are mostly traditional, but there are a couple of kitschy, retro options you will want to consider for a unique, throwback experience!

The Gateway Motel is an unassuming, 18-unit, family-owned accommodation in a quiet country setting 9 miles from the dunes. Accommodations are clean and simple, with cable TV, Wi-fi, mini-fridge and microwaves in the room. Continental breakfast included, open year ’round.

Try a rustic or full service cabin rental at Dune-Town (formerly Jellystone Park). The Dune-Town Silver Lake experience includes more than 200 campsites, but you’ll want to check out the cabin rentals. Take your pick from self-catered duplex units with kitchens, rustic cabins, or “camping rooms” (like a motel room) that sleep four. On duty every Tuesday and Thursday during peak season for “tuck-ins” – a bedtime story where you’re staying with milk and cookies – is Yogi Bear. Silver Lake’s most endearing tradition, Yogi is also available for singing birthday balloon deliveries.

Great for couples or family groups, Sierra Sands Family Lodge is a 12 minute walk from Silver Lake beach, and has a playground, outdoor swimming pool, outdoor fireplace and picnic area, and free wifi.

For those who prefer a more branded experience, or are looking for Pentwater MI hotels, these hotels near Silver Lake Sand dunes fill up fast during the season: Dunes Express Inn and Suites and American Host Inn.

Check out our interactive map for great places to stay near Silver Lake Sand Dunes!

4. Try an Escape Room

Looking for things to do near Silver Lake MI that are mentally challenging but not overly physically strenuous? If you’ve never tried this unique experience, you’ll want to get a group together and head over to Bamboozled Escape Rooms. You and your team will be locked in, and given a series of clues to solve in order to achieve the steps necessary to free yourselves within an hour’s time. By appointment only.

5. Play on the water near Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Michigan is revered for recreation that revolves around the water, and there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of that here in this beautiful setting.

For recreational boaters, water skiers, and jet skiers, Wave Club Water Sport Rentals is your outfitter. Choose from water ski boats or pontoons to fit your group (up to 12), powerful wave runner machines, and a full range of paddle equipment. Life jackets and safety instructions included with all rentals.

Paddlers who want to explore inland waterways should check out Pentwater Outfitters, where you’ll find a full range of SUP boards, canoes, and kayaks, and comfortable apparel to complement your experience. Guided trip options and lessons available.

6. Visit a Lighthouse

One of a 3-lighthouse cluster, Little Sable Point Lighthouse is a remarkable brick structure which dates back to 1874. Still equipped with its original lens, the lighthouse has a copper roof cap. You can climb to the top for a small fee, and educational guides are on hand during the season.

7. Tour and Taste at a Michigan Winery

Years ago, we’d laugh at the thought of Michigan wines, but the industry has matured and is producing impressive, nuanced offerings nowadays. Take a break from the water and sand to sample and tour at these friendly locations!

Fox Barn Winery – a restored antique tasting barn and food board for patio dining are just two of the features here. With more than 2000 acres of a 5-generation family farm given over to vines and woodlot operations, a full range of vintages includes dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet and sweet varieties. Note their specialty asparagus wine, which sells out every year.

Pleasant Valley Farm and Vineyard – 100% farm sourced interpret classical Europe and modern day styles. Private tastings and tours by appointment, yoga class and tasting, and special events during the season. Wedding venue holds 150 (more guests if outside).

Jomagrha Vineyards and Winery – a small boutique winery established in 1999 with hand-crafted French and new generation hybrids, Bordeaux and Burgundy viniferas. Tasting room is housed in one of the distinctive white barns on the property.

8. Walk or Bike a Beautiful Trail

The William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park is the pride of this area and with good reason! Part of Michigan’s “Rails to Trails” project, the 22 mile paved trail has now been expanded in the hopes of linking now to other projects.

Originally laid as a rail bed in the 1870s and a popular stop as a passenger pigeon hunting center at that time, the trail is an easy, flat surface with five waypoints which have drinking water and restrooms. The route takes you through forested areas, Christmas tree farmland and the fruit orchards so typical of West Michigan.

9. Race Go Karts, Bumper Boats, Zip Line and more!

Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center – Since 1979, a simple go-kart track has evolved into a destination for a variety of fun things to do in Silver Lake. From soaring over the lake on a single or double zip line, to double bumper or swan paddle boats and three kinds of go-karts, you’re sure to have a blast at Craig’s Cruisers! See how good a racer you are on the outdoor track, or partner up for 18 holes of mini-golf.

10. Get Acquainted with an Old-Fashioned Country Dairy

The Country Dairy has been family owned for four generations, boasting Michigan grown and made cheese and ice cream from local milk. Products are certified non-GMO and hormone free. But that’s only part of the story.

Tours take you literally from farm to table during 90 minutes of guided learning about dairy practices, the industry, and the farm itself. The Country Dairy encompasses the entire process of producing and handling milk and turning it into fresh product.

Tour the bottling plant and learn how the farm’s 1200 Holstein cows are fed and milked, sample the incomparable chocolate milk and cheddar cheese curd “moochies.” The Farm Store and Deli serves up a variety of salads, sandwiches, and Country Dairy ice cream treats, and offers gift boxes in various sizes.

I hope you’ve enjoyed our top ten list of things to do in Silver Lake Michigan. The Lake Michigan lifestyle can’t be beat! Check out our post on the 5 best small towns in Michigan on Lake Michigan for more fun ideas!