South Haven, Michigan sunset — Photo courtesy of Harold Rail
You know how you get all choked up during those Pure Michigan travel commercials? It’s not just clever advertising. Motoring along the state’s western beach towns makes for a dreamy vacation awash in sand dunes, farmers markets and festivals, wineries, cideries and breweries, plus once-in-a-lifetime sunsets.
Launch this Midwestern beach towns road trip in Chicago or anywhere in the loop.
Chicago, Illinois to South Haven, Michigan
2 hours, 122 miles via I-94 E
Since it’s such a quick drive on this first leg of the trip, plot a course to stop somewhere in “Harbor Country,” where you’ll discover small beaches enjoyed by locals and visitors. You can sail off of I-94 at exit 23 to get onto 63 (Red Arrow Highway) for Weko Beach Park in Bridgman.
Adjacent to Warren Dunes State Park, park at Weko ($10 vehicle day pass)