City life in the summer has its perks—nightclubs open to the crack of dawn, 2 a.m. pizza delivery, and dining at rooftop restaurants as the glimmering skyline winks. Albeit, it has its displeasures too: the crowded streets, the drilling overtones of perennial construction, and steamy, congested apartments—to name a few.
It seems impossible to escape sometimes, and maybe it’s just us, but it’s also the time of year when we become rankled at New Yorkers finding sanctuary in the Hamptons. Well, when we used to be rankled.
We’re going to let you in on a secret—Chicago actually has its own romantic and bucolic destination: Harbor Country, haphazardly labeled, “The Hamptons of the Midwest.”
Where is Harbor Country?
Harbor Country is a region in Southwestern Michigan. It’s a favored weekend getaway destination for those looking to relish in a tranquil retreat with beaches, bed and breakfasts, and wineries.
Harbor Country refers to eight small towns along the Southwest Michigan shoreline: New Buffalo, Union Pier, Three Oaks, Lakeside, Grand Beach, Michiana, Harbert, and Sawyer.
How to get to Harbor Country?
Getting to Harbor Country is a breeze with three convenient options: a bus ride, a scenic Amtrak journey, or a leisurely drive. The choice is yours.
Where should you stay?
The variety of lodging options is extensive, with something for everyone: vintage beach cottages, modern hotels, romantic B&Bs, historic inns, and cozy cabins.
Some of our favorite options include Apple Blossom Resort, Aqua Vacation Rentals, Barton Street Bungalow, Elephant Walk Resort, Garden Grove Inn: Bed & Breakfast, and Goldberry Woods—A Modern Farm Resort.
Where should you eat?
Harbor Country is a gourmet haven that offers a variety of dining choices for visitors, ranging from fine dining to no-frills pub grub. These restaurants provide memorable meals with farm-to-table quality.
Notable dining establishments include Stray Dog Bar & Grill, Bentwood Tavern, Brewster’s Italian Cafe, Casey’s New Buffalo, Haymarket Taproom, and more.