Looking to make the most of your time in Southwest Michigan? A one day road trip from New Buffalo Michigan offers the perfect mix of lake views, local charm, tasty stops, and easy adventure—all in a single day. Whether you’re staying at Copper Top Ridge or just passing through, this relaxed loop up the coast and back delivers everything from sandy beaches and scenic hikes to breweries, boutiques, and sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Here’s your guide to the perfect one-day road trip—starting and ending in New Buffalo, Michigan.
☕ Stop 1: Morning Coffee & Beach Walk in Union Pier
7–8 AM | 5 minutes from New Buffalo
Start your day just a few minutes north in Union Pier, a charming beach town that’s quiet in the mornings. Grab a latte and a pastry from Black Currant Bakehouse or Nani’s Café, then stroll to Townline Beach or McKinley Street Beach for a peaceful start by the water.
🏞 Stop 2: Hike the Dunes at Warren Dunes State Park
8:30–10 AM | 15 minutes from Union Pier
Next up: a must-see Southwest Michigan attraction—Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer. Known for its towering sand dunes, forest trails, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan, this is the perfect place to get your blood flowing and soak in the natural beauty.
Climb Tower Hill, wander through shaded forest paths, or just dip your toes in the lake. It’s one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the region.
🍕 Stop 3: Lunch + Local Beer at Haymarket Brewery (Bridgman)
12–1:30 PM | 10 minutes from the dunes
After your hike, head to Haymarket Taproom in Bridgman for lunch. This local favorite offers wood-fired pizza, hearty sandwiches, and award-winning craft beer—all served in a spacious indoor taproom or their lively outdoor beer garden.
It’s a casual, family-friendly spot that hits the sweet spot between great food and vacation vibe.
🍷 Stop 4: Winery Tasting in Baroda or Stevensville
2–3 PM | 10–15 minutes inland
Continue your journey inland with a wine tasting at one of Southwest Michigan’s iconic wineries. Two great options:
-
Round Barn Winery – Known for its upbeat vibe and combo of wine, beer, and spirits
-
Gravity Winery – A peaceful, modern tasting room with views of the vineyard and private lake
Keep it casual with a flight or glass, and don’t forget to grab a bottle to bring back to Copper Top Ridge.
🛍️ Stop 5: Silver Beach + Downtown St. Joseph
3:30–5 PM | 20 minutes northwest
Head back toward the lake and arrive in St. Joseph, one of Southwest Michigan’s most picturesque beach towns. Stroll the pier to see the St. Joseph Lighthouse, relax on Silver Beach, or ride the Silver Beach Carousel.
Downtown offers a mix of gift shops, art galleries, and ice cream from Kilwins or The Chocolate Café—the perfect way to recharge before heading back.
🌅 Optional Final Stop: Sunset in South Haven
5:30–7:30 PM | 30 minutes north of St. Joe
If you’re up for a longer day, continue to South Haven to cap your trip with dinner and a Lake Michigan sunset. Dine at Taste, Kitchen 527, or Clementine’s, then walk the pier and watch the sun sink behind the lighthouse.
Sunset here is a local tradition—and worth the extra miles if you’ve got the time.
🔁 Return to New Buffalo
7:30–9 PM | 1 hour from South Haven / 40 minutes from St. Joe
After your adventure-filled day, return to Copper Top Ridge. Fire up the hot tub, cozy up by the fire pit, and toast to an unforgettable day on the road.
🚘 Road Trip Essentials to Bring
To make your one-day road trip more comfortable, here are some helpful items to bring along:
-
Beach towels – The same plush, oversized ones we provide at Copper Top Ridge.
-
Reusable water bottles – Stay hydrated all day with durable, insulated bottles.
-
Reef-safe sunscreen – A must-have for beach and dune exposure.
-
Soft-sided cooler – Great for keeping drinks and snacks chilled between stops.
-
A camera or phone with storage
-
Casual change of clothes
-
Appetite for pizza, wine, and good vibes
<small>As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.</small>
🧭 Why This Itinerary Works
This one-day road trip from New Buffalo, Michigan is ideal for travelers looking to explore the best of Lake Michigan’s shoreline in a relaxed, scenic loop. From coffee to cocktails, nature to nightlife, every stop adds a layer of discovery—without ever being too far from your home base.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this itinerary blends fun, food, and fresh air into one unforgettable day.
🏡 Stay with Us at Copper Top Ridge
After your adventure, come home to Copper Top Ridge—your peaceful basecamp just minutes from the start of it all. Relax in the hot tub, sip wine by the fire pit, and plan tomorrow’s next adventure in comfort and style.
Ready to experience the best of Southwest Michigan?
Book your stay now and start your journey.