South Haven is a pleasant hamlet of everybody’s favourite large mitten, Michigan. It’s a small city identified for its spectacular surroundings, scrumptious eating places, and incomes a popularity as a resort hotspot for these within the know.
The most effective locations to go to in Michigan, South Haven, known as ‘the Catskills of the Midwest’ for its abundance of pure wonders. It’s set alongside the shores of Lake Michigan on the mouth of the gorgeous Black River.
Discover out if this charming metropolis lives as much as all of the hype (spoiler: it does) with these finest issues to do in South Haven, Michigan.
Greatest Issues to Do in South Haven, Michigan
South Haven Lighthouse
Also called South Pier Head Gentle, this historic construction is a must-see in South Haven. It was inbuilt 1872 and continues to be operational as we speak. It’s situated on the mouth of the Black River and it reaches 37 ft excessive. It has one among solely 4 boardwalks constructed to attach the lighthouse to the shore that’s nonetheless standing.
This 120-foot lengthy pier provides picturesque panoramas. You’ll be able to take a guided tour to study this well-known fixture’s maritime heritage. You may also go to the two-and-a-half-story tall keeper’s quarters. It’s a perfect place to seize some beautiful picture ops.
Deal with: Water St, South Haven (GPS)
Kal-Haven Path State Park
Stretching over 33 miles between South Haven to Kalamazoo, this epic rail path is the mecca of multipurpose out of doors journey within the space. Take a trek via pretty little cities, huge farmlands, and dense forests. It’s open year-round and is sort of well-liked for snowmobiling and cross-country snowboarding in the course of the winter season.
Hikers and bikers flock to satisfy their pure wants, and there’s even a chosen part obtainable to horseback riders. We like to cease on the town first to pack a picnic after which take pleasure in it within the lush panorama as soon as we’ve found that excellent shady spot.
Deal with: 4143 tenth St N, Kalamazoo (GPS)
Michigan Maritime Museum
The nautical historical past of South Haven has been rigorously preserved and displayed for all to research on the Michigan Maritime Museum. It’s situated proper on the waterfront, and in-depth reveals stroll you thru the thrilling previous of the Nice Lakes.
It’s an all-around immersive expertise with loads of hands-on academic alternatives all through the house. Its crowning glory is the Pals Good Will, a duplicate of an 1812 warship. You’ll be able to climb aboard the square-rigged sloop and see what it might have been prefer to sail the open waters right here.
Deal with: 260 Dyckman Ave, South Haven (GPS)
Price of Admission:
Summer time: Grownup: $12.00, Senior: $11, Army: $8.00, Baby: $8.00, Pupil: $8.00 Educator and member: Free (With college ID for college kids and member card for members)
Winter: Grownup : $10.00, Senior: $9, Army: $6.00 , Baby: $6.00, Pupil: $6.00 Educator and member: Free (With college ID for college kids and member card for members)
Go to the native Farms
South Haven is awful with acres upon acres of beautiful agricultural areas. A go to to an area farm is such a enjoyable solution to spend a day right here.
Overhiser Orchards has been family-run for over 5 generations. They provide a variety of u-pick experiences, together with peaches, plums, cherries, cherries, and pears, all all through their harvest season. Farm contemporary fare is on the market to attempt to purchase, like home made doughnuts.
There’s somewhat petting zoo to satisfy a number of of the lovable creatures that reside right here, wagon rides, and a well-stocked pond for some idyllic fishing as nicely.
Degrand Champ Blueberry Farms focuses on blueberries and cranberries. Their market sells contemporary preserves, sauces, butter, and extra. You’ll be able to wander the scenic groves and replenish your individual basket with contemporary fruit, however even in case you go low season, they’ll doubtless have some frozen goodies to present you.
Deal with: Degrand Champ Blueberry Farms: 76241 14th Ave, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Monday -Sunday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Van Buren State Park
Van Buren State Park boasts a full-mile stretch of scenic shore to discover. Wander via towering dunes on any variety of nature trails right here to achieve an actual appreciation for that well-known South Haven terrain.
The breathtaking vistas appear countless, from forest to seaside. You’ll be able to bike or hike right here; many select to remain on one of many primitive and picturesque campgrounds obtainable.
Their services are additionally good, with a picnic shelter, playground, and restrooms. It’s an awesome escape for a calming respite because it’s one of many extra distant locations in South Haven.
Deal with: 23960 Ruggles Rd, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Monday – Sunday : 8:00 am -10:00 pm
Michigan Flywheelers Museum
Okay, so it’s possible you’ll find yourself studying greater than you ever wished to know concerning the world of farm equipment, however the Michigan Flywheelers Museum is a surprisingly cool museum!
Discover the evolution of this important American know-how spanning over centuries. Tinker with elaborate mechanisms and rise up shut and private with some significantly spectacular antiques, like an unique sawmill. In addition they host fascinating neighborhood occasions all year long, so test their schedule for swap meets and tractor exhibits.
Deal with: 06285 68th St, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday: 10: 00 am- 3:00 pm
Attempt some Michigan Wine
One of many most important attracts of South Haven is the attractive myriad of vineyards to go to! It definitely helped put it on the map as a occurring trip hotspot on this neck of the woods. Essentially the most well-known is probably going Cogdal Vineyards, and for good cause.
They rigorously craft small-batch Michigan wines that they serve by flights, glass, or bottle. Every will be paired with a choice of artisan cheeses or sweets, as nicely, throughout the serene oasis of their tasting room.
The varietals vary from basic and refined to daring and eclectic. Warner Vineyards is situated conveniently downtown alongside the Black River and provides over 25 completely different wines to style check by the glass or bottle. The patio is pleasant and serves ciders and slushies if you wish to department out a bit – I notably love visiting in the course of the fall in Michigan. After sipping your wine, head to Maple Haven to chill out. It’s among the finest treehouses in Michigan!
Deal with: Warner Vineyards: 515 Williams St, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Sunday, Saturday & Friday : 12:00 pm- 8:00 pm, Monday -Thursday : 3:00 pm-8:00 pm
25+ BEST Michigan Wineries You Ought to Go to
Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum
This South Haven establishment honors and celebrates the lifetime of famend horticulturist Liberty Hyde Bailey. Dr. Bailey co-founded the American Society for Horticultural Science. The constructing is ready in his precise birthplace and childhood dwelling. The little farmhouse was constructed within the 1850s on 40 acres of land. It was constructed within the basic Greek Revival period type in a clapboard style.
Many rooms inside have been reconstructed to seem traditionally correct, and you’ll view them on a guided tour to study concerning the preserved facade and the achievements of his legendary life. The gardens are additionally beautiful, and a beautiful little nature path meanders via a number of the panorama.
Deal with: 903 S Bailey Ave, South Haven (GPS)
South Haven Charters
Getting out on the water is among the finest issues to do in South Haven, Michigan. Set sail out on the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan for a scenic cruise you received’t quickly overlook. You will have your selection of vessels, from yachts to sailboats, and every kind of packages proper at your fingertips.
Hop aboard simply to benefit from the sights and really feel the ocean breeze, or load up some gear for a day spent making an attempt to reel in a formidable catch.
We advocate taking a sundown tour, with bites and boozy drinks, for a calming romantic Michigan outing that feels somewhat luxurious. Attempt Crusing South Haven or Jensen Charters, a few reliable companies to get you began, although there are many outfitters round city.
Deal with: South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Monday – Sunday : 9: 00 am – 8:00 pm
Gingerman Raceway
For those who’ve ever felt such as you want for velocity, South Haven is the place to make all these driving goals come true. Gingerman Raceway claims to be one of many quickest tracks round, and auto fanatics have been flocking right here to take pleasure in an actual rush for many years. It’s positively among the finest issues to do in South Haven for the adrenaline junkies.
Runway time is on the market to hire, and you’ll check out your vehicles and motorbikes right here in an excellent secure surroundings. Knowledgeable photographers and videographers are even on deck to seize your steel melting in all its majesty. Loads of thrilling occasions are held right here all year long, as nicely.
Deal with: 61414 Co Rd 388, South Haven (GPS)
Go Buying
Downtown South Haven has an enthralling smattering of specialty outlets and cute boutiques. These native unbiased shops typically really feel one-of-a-kind as they replicate the spirit of this quaint Michigan metropolis.
A couple of of our favorites are Black River Books for looking cabinets for the proper learn, the Blueberry Retailer for gourmand goodies, Decadent Canines for all of the canine lovers on the market, and Props for choosing that additional particular memento. After you’re performed cease by Three Blondes Brewing which is a incredible Michigan brewery!
Deal with: 525 Phoenix St, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Friday – Sunday : 11:00 am -6:00 pm
Khnemu Studio
A lesser-known gem to take a look at in South Haven is Khnemu Studio. It’s set on the scenic Fernwood Farm and focuses on up to date ceramics. The house options the handmade pottery of over 30 native artists. Every bit has its personal distinctive type, crafted meticulously by hand.
Many are on the market as nicely if one thing occurs to strike your fancy. The solar-powered studio additionally provides lessons and workshops for a enjoyable and creative tour. The 2-hour mini class is ideal for freshmen who need to study concerning the methods of the wheel.
Deal with: 6322 113th Ave, Fennville (GPS)
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10: 00 am –5:00 pm
North and South Seashore
There are a lot of stunning seashores in South Haven and its surrounding areas, however two shores stand out particularly. North Seashore and South Seashore are tremendous well-liked picks, particularly in the summertime months.
The shoreline will get crowds of sunshine seekers from throughout, and it’s no shock as these stretches of shoreline are spacious, clear, accessible, and iconically fairly, with all of the facilities you can want.
Deal with: 45 Lakeshore Dr, South Haven (GPS)
Enterprise into the Galleries
South Haven has a tremendous artwork scene to find. The streets right here supply galleries galore for appreciators and aficionados. Our absolute favourite is the South Haven Heart for the Arts, an area solely devoted to the enrichment of the neighborhood via the humanities.
The constructing itself is a stupendous instance of historic structure, as nicely. They show varied rotating works in various mediums from native and worldwide artists and sometimes maintain occasions and lessons for cultural outreach.
Deal with: South Haven Heart for the Arts- 600 Phoenix St, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Wednesday, Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm, Thursday : 11: 00 am – 6:00 pm
Foundry Corridor
A music-focused non-profit, Foundry Corridor makes for such a enjoyable exercise in South Haven. Help the native performers of the town by stopping by and having fun with a present! All types of productions grace the stage right here, together with open mic nights, grand piano live performance collection, a jazz competition, and Rhythm on the River.
It’s an all-ages venue offering leisure for everybody with an eclectic array of genres.
Deal with: 422 Eagle St, South Haven (GPS)
Price of Admission: Particular person: $20, Household: $40
Porter Legacy Dunes
Porter Legacy Dunes is a 48-acre protected piece of land in South Haven that’s ecologically important and boasts some surreal surroundings. It’s a part of a two-mile hall and is an oasis for migratory raptors and songbirds. For those who’re trying to spot some flying buddies whereas on the town, that is the place to do it.
The path system permits all to roam and take within the distinctive terrain of delicate sand dunes, wildflower fields, and fascinating creeks.
Pilgrim Haven Nature Space
Pilgrim Haven Nature Space is one other magical protect ripe with potentialities for out of doors exploration. It gives a tranquil pebble seaside proper on the shores of Lake Michigan. Many will take a small stone as a memento with them after they depart. There are a number of trails, all simple to navigate and underneath a mile, that traverse woods and meadows resulting in sweeping panoramas of the waterfront.
Canines are welcome however have to be leashed, and swimming is allowed although suggested to take action at your individual danger as there is no such thing as a lifeguard on responsibility.
Deal with: South Haven (GPS)
Hours: 6:30 am -10:00 pm
Barden’s Farm Market
For all of the freshest domestically grown grub and handmade wares, you’ll want to hit up the Barden’s Farm Market. It even has extra to supply than you’ll discover out of your typical stroll round any previous farmers market. There are a lot of issues, together with a neighborhood farm, greenhouse, ready meals counter, and bakery. It’s family-owned and has been a long-standing custom in South Haven for many years.
You will discover all the pieces from flowers to sandwiches to native wine and craft beer. A bustling array of all one of the best distributors within the metropolis, it occurs twice every week (Could 1 – November) and isn’t to be missed.
Deal with: 1101 Phoenix St, South Haven (GPS)
Arvesta Sports activities Complicated
Not your common recreation middle, Arvesta Sports activities Complicated is among the city’s most enjoyable and energetic South Haven points of interest. Anybody searching for journey within the nice outdoor might be in for an excellent time right here.
It’s set on Lake Arvesta Farms and provides a variety of thrilling water-filled feats for all ages alongside 4 inland lakes. They’ve bought all the pieces from floating impediment programs to cable wakeboarding to stand-up paddleboarding. Strap on a helmet and put together for action-packed pastimes in South Haven.
Deal with: 06464 Arvesta Drive, South Haven (GPS)
Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9:00 am-6:00 pm
Benefit from the South Haven Festivals
All year long, South Haven hosts varied festive occasions for the entire city, no less than one every season. In the summertime Harborfest occurs, a celebration of the distinctive maritime historical past of Michigan. It’s no shock that the Nationwide Blueberry Competition takes place on this scenic hamlet, as nicely, and is maybe probably the most well-known occasion right here.
It has somewhat little bit of all the pieces, like pie consuming contests, a parade, reside music, and all of the blueberry-themed meals and drinks you’ll be able to think about. It really encompasses one of the best of issues to do in South Haven.
Come the colder months, they usually have the Icebreakers Winter Competition. It’s a enjoyable and frosty fete that entails a chili cook-off, ice sculptures, sled races, ice skating, wagon rides, s’mores roasting, and extra!
Deal with: 1301 M-43, South Haven (GPS)
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