Ring in the new year with lakefront charm, great food, and a celebration style that fits your pace.
Whether you want a full-on party at the casino, an elegant dinner downtown, or a relaxed evening that
ends in the hot tub at Copper Top Ridge, this guide has you covered for
New Year’s Eve in New Buffalo.

If you’re looking for lively nightlife, check availability at

Four Winds Casino Resort – New Buffalo
.
Rooms at the hotel book early for the New Year’s weekend — call
1-866-494-6371 to reserve and ask about the shuttle service.

Prefer a more private, luxury stay?
Copper Top Ridge offers spacious accommodations just across the street from the casino.
Guests can take advantage of the Four Winds shuttle service
(call 1-866-711-1997 to confirm pickup times) to join the celebration and return safely
for a quiet night at the villa.

1) Choose Your Celebration Style

• Casino countdown: Head to Four Winds Casino – New Buffalo (Events & Tickets) for live music, promotions, and a high-energy midnight celebration.
• Waterfront dining: Book a festive dinner at Bentwood Tavern (seasonal menus, marina views) or browse more options in our downtown guide: Discover Downtown New Buffalo.
• Wine-country evening: Savor a vineyard dinner or tasting flight at Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant, then toast the year ahead back at the cottage.

2) The Casino Countdown (Four Winds)

Looking for the biggest New Year’s party in town? Four Winds rolls out entertainment, dining, and a proper countdown across the resort.

• Tickets & schedules: See the latest shows, dinner specials, and NYE promotions here: Four Winds Event Calendar.
• Pre-party dinner: Book a table at Kankakee Grille for wood-fired dishes and craft drinks before the big countdown.

Pro tip: After midnight, skip the late-night lines and ride the festive glow back to Copper Top Ridge for a hot-tub soak under the stars and a cozy fireside nightcap.

3) Where to Eat on New Year’s Eve

Reservations go fast; plan ahead. A few guest-favorite picks:

• Bentwood Tavern – Refined waterfront dining with a relaxed, celebratory vibe.
• Brewster’s Italian Café (via our downtown guide) – Cozy Italian comfort food perfect for toasts and laughter.
• The Terrace Room – Elegant lakeside atmosphere inside The Harbor Grand (check availability early).

Browse more dinner and cocktail ideas in Discover Downtown New Buffalo and our Cocktails to Sip Under the Pergola guide.

4) After Midnight: Relax, Reflect & Reconnect

When the fireworks fade and the clock strikes twelve, return to Copper Top Ridge for the best part of the night: quiet luxury. Slip into plush robes, pour a sparkling toast, and enjoy a private hot-tub soak beneath the stars. The glow of the fire pit and the peaceful woods around you make for an unforgettable start to the new year.

5) New Year’s Day Brunch & Recovery

Start 2026 with a relaxed brunch and good coffee before heading home. Favorites include:

• David’s Delicatessen – Bagels, espresso, and breakfast sandwiches downtown.
• Blue Plate Café – Cozy café just north of town with hearty pancakes and hashes.
• Brewster’s Brunch – Mimosas and comfort food to ease into the new year.

Still hungry for ideas? Check out our food guides:
Best Pizza in Southwest Michigan and
Best Tacos in Southwest Michigan.

FAQ: New Year’s Eve in New Buffalo

More Local Guides You’ll Love

• Discover Downtown New Buffalo: Shops, Bars & Rooftop Sunset Spots
• Cocktails to Sip Under the Pergola at Copper Top Ridge
• Fall Foliage in Southwest Michigan: Where to See the Best Colors
• Weekend Getaways from Chicago: Relax & Recharge in Harbor Country