Harvest Hues & Lakeside Views: 15 Fall Highlights in South Haven

South Haven Blog
Aerial photo of South Haven displaying fall colors in the trees with lake Michigan shining blue on the horizon.

Harvest Hues & Lakeside Views: 15 Fall Highlights in South Haven

A Playbook for Crisp, Coastal Escapades

Wrap yourself in the warm hospitality of the West Michigan coast in South Haven, where cozy getaways, crisp trails, and festive streets invite you to discover joy in a fresh patchwork of special moments. This season, we’re here to inspire—with the best local flavors, events, and hidden gems that make autumn along the lakeshore unforgettable.

From apple-picking afternoons to viewing the cosmos under campground skies, South Haven has everything you need to make this fall unforgettable. Read on to explore our top recommendations!

1. South Haven Storywalk at The Bailey Museum

At the childhood home of Liberty Hyde Bailey Jr.—a foundational figure in modern agriculture—the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum & Gardens interprets his work through gardens, trails, exhibits, and outreach. Take a crisp fall StoryWalk® through the backwoods sanctuary. Free and family-friendly; check the museum’s site for the current title and hours.

Discover more at libertyhydebailey.org

 

2. A New Season with Fresh Voices at the South Haven Center for the Arts

This fall, the South Haven Center for the Arts (originally a Carnegie Library) presents its Annual Juried Exhibition (Sept. 27–Nov. 8), alongside intimate Pocket Galleries with works by Dorothy Sherrod and Margarita Kulys.

See classes, exhibits, and more at southhavenarts.com

 

3. Line Up Your Weekend with Unique Dining Experiences

South Haven serves up more than just scenery—round out your weekend with a visit to our two favorite local speakeasies:

The Groovin’ Grove – A former blue-collar burger joint reborn as a 70s-inspired music lounge. From formica tables to vintage couches, every seat sets the stage for rockabilly, classic rock, and Americana shows. Pair the tunes with a limited menu and cocktails in this 21+ speakeasy-style venue. Caftans encouraged!

The River Bottom – Tucked beneath Black River Tavern, this hidden gem channels a 1930s speakeasy into a unique Mediterranean dining concept. Weekly chef-inspired specials, international brews, craft cocktails —all in a setting that feels worlds away from the everyday.

Local Tip: The Groovin’ Grove is the Recipient of Visit South Haven’s RAISE THE BAR Award for revitalizing a former restaurant into an in-demand venue. 

 

4. Enjoy Cocktail Classes, Trivia, and Live Music at New Holland Spirits Tasting Room

Test your smarts at Sunday Trivia, peruse the lineup of musicians, or become your own mixologist thanks to New Holland Spirits Tasting Room‘s popular cocktail classes hosted by resident experts It’s all at newhollandbrew.com!

Local Tip: Check out the tasting room’s daily specials, like Mocktail Mondays and the after school special for folks in the education industry.

5. Explore West Michigan Wine County

Take a tour of area wineries in style with Happy Trails Wine Tours & Limo Service, or chart your own fall excursions into West Michigan wine country with our handy maps of The West Michigan Pike and Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. Whether you’re exploring Michigan’s oldest wineries in Paw Paw or exploring the flavors of coastal provenances, the area is ripe with opportunities to broaden your palate.

Wine Tasting in and Around South Haven:

Gravity Tasting Room and 12 Corners Tasting Room – Conveniently located in downtown South Haven, both offer a laid-back setting to sample local wines.

Warner Vineyards Tasting Room – Situated in the charming Old Harbor Village, this spot combines historic ambiance with Michigan-made wines.

Cogdal Vineyards – Just a five-minute drive north of town, this scenic vineyard offers tastings with stunning views, especially vibrant during fall color season.

Veritas Estate Winery – South Haven’s newest addition features an on-site winery, housemade wines, and chef-prepared meals. Overnight stays available for a full vineyard escape.

 

6. Catch the latest thriller at The Michigan Theatre

Take in the latest flick at The Michigan Theatre in downtown South Haven! Enjoy first-run films with affordable tickets in the heart of Downtown South Haven.

Local Tip: Monday Movies are only $4!

 

7. Make it a Market Morning under The Pavilion

Discover autumn’s abundance at the South Haven Farm Market! Located downtown at the Huron Street Pavilion, the freshest produce from local farms is available Saturdays through October 12. 

Did You Know: Come winter, the Huron Street Pavilion transforms into the South Haven Ice Rink!

 

8. Pick Some Apples, Harvest the Memories

Orchards like Dutch Farm Market and Overhiser Orchards offer more than fresh air and ripe apples—they’re the perfect backdrop for quality time. Whether you’re making memories with little ones or stealing a crisp afternoon with someone special, a stroll through the rows sets the pace for a day well spent.

Local Tip: Apple season in Michigan is from mid-September through mid-October.

 

9. Dog Days of Summer are OUT. Doggy Days in the Maze are IN.

Nothing says fall like getting lost in golden rows of corn beneath crisp blue skies. Bumbleberry Acres takes it up a notch with Doggy Days in the Maze—your pup can join the adventure too! Beyond the maze, this family-friendly working farm offers a petting zoo and hands-on demonstrations that give kids a true taste of farm life, down to the jams and jellies!

Find out what makes it “Bumbleberry Good”!

 

10. Explore the Studios of the Blue Coast Artists

The Blue Coast Artists Fall Tour invites you on a self-guided journey through working studios tucked along South Haven’s backroads from October 4-5! From pottery and glassblowing to fine art and multimedia creations, you’ll meet the makers, watch demonstrations, and discover one-of-a-kind pieces in the spaces where they’re created. It’s a weekend of creative connection, wrapped in the sights and colors of lakeshore autumn.

Local Tip: Can’t make the tour? No problem, click here to browse hours for each location and plan your visit.

 

11. A Different Kind of Fall Pick at Lake Effect Acres

Tucked just outside town, Lake Effect Acres offers a uniquely South Haven experience—chestnut harvesting. Available weekends in October, it’s a quiet, hands-on escape where you can gather your own nuts straight from the source. Simple, seasonal, and a little unexpected.

Local Tip: Save some of those chestnuts for Holiday in the Park on November 28—the one thing Santa loves more than visiting South Haven are chestnuts roasted over an open fire pit!

 

12. Explore Fall Scenes in One of Michigan’s Most Beautiful Social Districts

The South Haven Social District lets you take your favorite alcoholic beverage and enjoy it as you explore downtown. With designated outdoor zones and fresh autumn air all around, it’s a relaxed way to slow down and experience the season one sip at a time.

Local tip: Clementine’s Pumpkin Martini has been a community staple for years, available for a limited time!

 

13. Cruise the Black River in the Lindy Lou

Step back in time with the Michigan Maritime Museum aboard the Lindy Lou, an electric-powered replica river launch that recalls the leisurely cruises of the late 1890s. Once used to ferry resort guests and picnickers along the Black River, the Lindy Lou now offers visitors the same relaxing pace of days gone by. On fairweather days in October, it’s a marvelous way to experience the foliage along the river, and to see town from a unique perspective!

View Exhibits, Events, and More at michiganmaritimemuseum.org

 

14. Book a Fall Campout or Glamping Getaway

Cool nights and campfires under the cosmos—fall is perfect time for sleeping under the stars! Spend the night in a cabin or skoolie at Kal-Haven Outpost, go luxe at Off Map Glamping or the nationally recognized Fields of Michigan, or stargaze under the open grounds at DayDreamer Domes. Families will also love the events at Covert/South Haven KOA and Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park.

Related Blog: 5 Unforgettable Campgrounds in South Haven

 

15. Watch Bogs fill with Crimson Cranberries at DeGrandchamp Farms

On the first two Saturdays in October—the 4th and 11th—DeGrandchamp Farms comes alive in brilliant red as cranberries are harvested from the bogs for Cranberry Days! Take a trolley ride to watch the harvest, then stop by the farm market for jams, salsas, baked goods, and other cranberry treats. A South Haven tradition that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Learn more about Cranberry Days

Bonus: Capture a Brilliant Autumn Sunset on Lake Michigan

No matter how full your day is—apple picking, trail biking, or sipping wine at a local vineyard—everything seems to pause when the sun starts its descent. South Haven’s sunsets are pure magic, especially this time of year. From the lakeside bluffs to soft-sand beaches, the sky bursts into an ever-changing masterpiece of fiery oranges, bold purples, and dusky pinks. With more than a dozen public beach access points to choose from between Van Buren State Park to the South and Casco Township Nature Preserve to the North, there’s always a perfect perch for this nightly show.

Related: Choose Your Perfect Beach Day: A Quick Guide to South Haven’s 10 Public Beaches

Here are Southwest Michigan’s best destinations for fall colors, bird watching, paddling and surfing.

St. Joseph Blog
Fall in Warren Dunes - Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki

Lake Michigan’s beaches are beautiful in autumn! 

Discover the best fall beach destinations in Southwest Michigan

Summer isn’t the only time to visit Lake Michigan’s beaches in Southwest Michigan. Fall days and lake temperatures are often warm from September until early October. Then from October through November, pull on a sweater, fleece, or jacket and enjoy the wilder Big Lake waves and less-crowded beaches from golden sunrise to star-studded night. For many, fall is their favorite beach season. Come see why.

Fall in Warren Dunes - Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki
Fall in Warren Dunes – Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Visit nine Lake Michigan beach towns
If you’re planning an autumn getaway, solo retreat, or fall color tour along the lakeshore, add these Lake Michigan beach towns and their beaches to your itinerary. 

Stevensville

Grand Mere State Park | 7337 Thornton Drive
Grand Mere boasts sweeping dunes, deep blowouts, a mile-long sandy beach, and hikes beneath canopies of colorful leaves. 

Round Barn Winery in Fall | Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki
Round Barn Winery in Fall | Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki

St. Joseph

Lions Park Beach | Lions Park Drive
This tranquil beach is a good place to hunt for rocks and beach glass or immerse in the fall beauty on the John and Dede Howard Family Recreational Trail.

Silver Beach County Park | 101 Broad St.

This is one of Southwest Michigan’s most popular year-round beaches with its 2,450 feet of shoreline from the mouth of the St. Joseph River to Park Street. The park gives you access to the South Pier, and you can walk to the beach from downtown St. Joseph. 

Tiscornia Beach Park | 80 Ridgeway St.

Great place to watch freighters, sailboats, and surfers in the fall. Best of all, you can park and walk out onto the North Pier to St. Joseph’s historic lighthouses.  

Benton Harbor/Coloma

Jean Klock Park | Jean Klock Boulevard, Benton Harbor

This is one of the most beautiful, lesser-used beaches in Southwest Michigan. It is also a  trailhead for a 10-mile natural and urban fitness hiking and biking adventure — the trees are autumn showpieces along the way. 

Rocky Gap Park | 1100 Rocky Gap Road, Benton Harbor

You will love the panoramic views of Lake Michigan, especially at sunset. This is also a popular rockhounding site due to all the rocks that wash ashore.

Hagar Park | 5440 M-63, Coloma

Enjoy a picnic beneath red and yellow leaves, toss a Frisbee, or send a kite soaring on the beach. Dogs are welcome. 

Roadside Park | 6930 Bluestar Highway, Coloma

Small, quiet, dog and kayak-friendly beach in the colorful forested dunes.  

New Buffalo

New Buffalo Public Beach & Lakefront Park | 200 Marquette Drive
800 feet of sandy beach near the public boat launch and downtown.

Sawyer/Bridgman

Warren Dunes State Park | 12032 Red Arrow Highway, Sawyer
Three miles of beach frontage, including a separate dog-friendly beach. A top pick for its giant dunes and beautiful fall foliage. 

Weko Beach | 5237 Lake St., Bridgman
Nestled among 42 acres of wooded dunes, it has 960 feet of sandy beach with some of the area’s favorite fall foliage and water vistas. 

Seven favorite fall things to do at our beaches

There are so many ways to fill several fall days in Southwest Michigan. Here are locals’ and visitors’ top picks from high adventures to total relaxation.

Take a fall color tour 

Follow the West Michigan Pike routes in this guide. Along the way, visit our pick-your-own and farm markets to gather just-harvested fruits and vegetables, plus bread, jams, desserts, and more for your fall beach picnic. This is also one of the best times of year to look for colorful rocks, beach glass, and fossils along the water’s edge. 

Explore the colors of Fall in Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki
Explore the colors of Fall in Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Paddle along the shoreline

Most beaches offer easy access to take your canoe, kayak, or SUP from the parking lot to the shoreline. Several also have launch areas on scenic rivers that empty into the big lake. Shoreline paddles give you gorgeous views of fall foliage along the bluffs and across the dunes.  

Watch for migratory birds on their Lake Michigan flight path 

The migration flight path along Lake Michigan’s shoreline is almost as ancient as the dunes. Fall is a peak time for birdwatching, seeing everything from songbirds and shorebirds to raptors. 

Be captivated by Great Lakes freighters and barges

It’s hard not to be drawn to the St. Joseph River and harbor when the big freighters and barges arrive or depart from St. Joseph. Watching these big ships navigate past the railroad swing bridge is especially enthralling. We hope you will also see the big ships at night easing through the channel by spotlight or their lights reflecting in the still harbor waters — it will take your breath away. Fall is the last season to be awed before the gales of November stop the shipping traffic on Lake Michigan until the next spring. 

Reel in the big ones from our piers, rivers, and the Big Lake

Pier fishing for feisty salmon, trout, and steelhead is a thrill in Southwest Michigan. You can easily access some of our favorite fishing spots from New Buffalo Public Beach, Silver Beach County Park, Tiscornia Beach, and South Haven’s South Beach.

Go surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving

Many people are surprised to learn that you can surf, snorkel and scuba dive off the coast of Lake Michigan. Calmer days on the Big Lake are best for the latter two watersports, but frequent north and south winds make for surfable waves in the fall. You can often spot surfers from the shore at Lions Park, Silver Beach County Park, and Tiscornia Beach — or go out and ride the waves on your board! 

See the best sunsets 

It’s a daily ritual to head to any of our beaches to watch the sun sink below Lake Michigan’s horizon in a swath of peach, yellow, lavender, and scarlet colors brightening the evening sky. Even on overcast evenings, you will still find colors and a peaceful ending to your day on our shore. 

Fall Sunset Southwest Michigan in Dune Grass | St. Joseph MI
Fall Sunset Southwest Michigan in Dune Grass | St. Joseph MI Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Stay over at near-the-beach lodgings

Lodgings in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, and Stevensville are just minutes from our beaches, resort town shopping, dining, fall festivals, and attractions. It’s a great time of year to get the hotel rate and amenities you want, especially on weekdays. 

Book your fall getaway

14 Reasons to Visit South Haven This Summer

South Haven Blog

South Haven is a small community situated comfortably within walking distance of the Lake Michigan shoreline. With a diverse array of lodging & dining options, as well as a legendary history of summer festivals and hospitality to match, South Haven is the perfect place for friends and families to visit and begin new traditions. Here are 14 Reasons folks visit (and revisit) South Haven the most:

1. Sugar Sand & Rocky Beaches
The number one reason why people visit South Haven in the summer is to spend time on the city’s beautiful beaches. Along the Great Lakes you will find different terrains on the shores, from rocks to dunes to soft and silky sand. South Haven’s public beaches (there are seven!) are full of groomed, sugary sand that is perfect for relaxing, building sand castles and enjoying the sunshine.

Photo Credit: @jenninthesun

Photo Credit: @jenninthesun

2. Walkability
You can park anywhere in town and walk from the downtown shopping area to the beach with relative ease. Getting to and from locations is simple in South Haven, and there are several hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals within walking distance to all the excitement of the downtown and nearby beaches. This makes it easy to rent a scooter, a bicycle or a golf cart and have fun around town! It’s easy here!

photo credit: @timlargentsr

Photo Credit: @timlargentsr

3. Variety Of Accommodations
There is a huge variety of places to stay in the city and township. Two locally-owned hotels are located directly downtown, while four chain hotels lie just a mile down from the main strip on Phoenix Street. You’ll also find several bed and breakfasts, an abundant amount of vacation rental homes, unique inns and camping cabins.

The Caboose Inn

Photo Credit: Mark McCulfor

4. Exciting Adventures
Kids will love splashing around at the Friends Good Will Splash Pad, located near South Beach. The Splash Pad is an enchanting and safe place to allow small children to frolic Also, located just 4 miles from downtown, Arvesta Sport Complex contains two wibbit play areas, a cable park for skiing, wakeboarding and kneeboarding (no experience required), waterslides, a drink bar and more!

5. On-Water Experiences
There are so many different options to suit your taste for adventure, relaxation and fun:
• SoHa Surf Shop sets up camp at North and South Beaches with kayak and paddle board rentals.
• The Michigan Maritime Museum hosts a fleet of historic and replica boats, including tall ship Friends Good Will, an experience you can’t miss out on!
• The Sunsetter is docked at the South Marina and is a relaxing cruise that offers views of the lakeshore.
• Elsie J, a renovated 1945 Tugboat, takes day trips and sunset cruises.
Try one, or try all!

6. Pure Michigan Trail Town
In 2019, South Haven was one of the first four communities to be designated as a Pure Michigan Trail Town. Rent a bicycle from Rock n’ Road Cycle and hop on the Kal-Haven and Van Buren Trails for a scenic ride, or a casual stroll. Rent a kayak at Black River Park and paddle up river on the Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail. Visit one of the township’s four nature preserves and hike along dunes, wooded paths and even search for beach glass. There are so many ways to enjoy South Haven’s trails, and each trail has its own unique aspects.

7. Waterfront Bars
If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere to grab a bite or have a drink, look no further than Captain Lou’s, Admiral Jack’s and the Idler Riverboat. All three are situated around South Haven’s harbor and you can very easily walk to and from each bar. Live music is a frequent occurrence on the weekends in the summertime.

Photo Credit: Radiant Landscapes Photography

8. Handcrafted Haven
Three breweries, one craft beer tasting room, three wine tasting rooms, a winery and a cidery all exist within the South Haven zip code. You can find even more if you venture further afield in all directions. There are so many flavors to try!

9. Michigan’s Fruit Belt
Fresh produce is a staple at South Haven’s downtown farm market, which runs every Saturday from mid-May to mid-October and every Wednesday from June-August. There are several surrounding farms offering u-pick strawberries, raspberries, peaches and (of course) blueberries. Summer fruit is a must have, and in South Haven there is PLENTY to go around!

South Haven, aka The Blueberry Capital of the World!

10. Locally-Owned And Quaint Downtown
South Haven’s downtown is full of locally-owned shops and restaurants. You’ll find a variety of stores, from t-shirt shops to jewelry, women’s clothing, home decor, candy, toys, books and so much more. Make it an adventure with in-store experiences like 42N Naturals‘ fragrance and terrarium bar, and Kalamazoo Candle Company‘s candlemaking workshop!

11. Eating Across Downtown
Whether it’s a burger and beer or a martini and chef’s plate, you’ll be able to satisfy your craving at one of the many South Haven restaurants. There are classic American diners, upscale destinations, pizza joints and ethnic options. On the water, the beach, in town, or in the country, there’s a place to eat in nearly every corner of South Haven. With vineyards and craft breweries to tour as well, you can try something new every day. Eat your way through South Haven’s restaurants and maybe you’ll even find your new favorite food spot!

The Reuben Sandwich at The Lodge

12. Sherman Dairy Bar’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Sherman’s has been a local favorite for 63 years and for good reason! Their old-fashioned ice cream is made one batch at a time with rich flavors. You’ll find classic flavors along with fun and unique choices, and of course the midwestern favorite, blue moon!

13. Historic Movie Theatre With Throwback Prices
Rain or shine, a movie at the historic downtown Michigan Theatre is a fun way to spend your time. The prices have not changed since the 90’s so you can see a matinee for only $4, and an evening show for $5.50. You can’t beat that!

14. Sunsets Over Lake Michigan
Cozy up in the sand, gather in front of the lighthouse, or find a spot among the bluffs. Sunsets are a magical sight and they are a great way to wind down from the day. If there is anything we highly recommend, it’s witnessing a stunning, colorful sunset. That’s a South Haven specialty! Click here for our 2023 Sunset Schedule.

photo credit: @timlargentsr

Photo Credit: @timlargentsr