10 Reasons to Visit South Haven this Winter

South Haven offers more than just a summer escape. As winter blankets the landscape, our charming town along Lake Michigan's eastern shore transforms into a cozy retreat for families and travelers alike. Discover ten winter activities to make your South Haven stay unforgettable!

Make the 'rounds on the Rink!

Once the season shifts into Holiday mode, the Huron Street Pavilion transforms into The South Haven Ice Rink! Located within walking distance of warm restaurants and friendly storefronts, visitors can now look forward to an outdoor firepit and gathering space in Dyckman Park, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere and rink tunes

View the Ice Covered Lighthouse and Lake Michigan Ice Circles

During the summer months, travelers flock to South Haven to view the crimson lighthouse, but she does not disappoint in the winter either. Ice begins to form an ever-changing shell around the beacon as soon as the temperature drops and waves crash and clings to the South Haven lighthouse. Bring your camera, snap a photo of this unique seasonal experience, and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing ice circles on Lake Michigan that come and go without warning.

Get Nostalgic at Rocket Arcade

Play all you want on over 65 retro games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s at Rocket Arcade. Purchase a free play or family pass to get the fun started on a blistery winter day. Snack on fun foods and classic sodas while you embrace your inner child for hours on end, then browse through their unique collection of T-shirts, art, and novelties.

Shop Local

Local merchants are meticulously stocking their shelves with handpicked items you're sure to find nowhere else but South Haven! Treat your furry friends to a a luxurious experience at at Decadent Dogs, or dazzle your significant other with a shiny accessory at Johnny’s Lakeshore Jewelry. Get hands-on at 42N Naturals where you can build your own terrarium at the succulent bar and indulge your skin with house-made soaps, lotions, and oils. New to the downtown scene this season is More Polish Pottery, whose seasonal imports are sure to delight!

Eat and Drink Your Way Through South Haven’s Restaurants

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 eateries, pizza joints, and ethnic fare to enjoy. South Haven offers a variety of tasting rooms and craft breweries to explore, where you can try something new every day. Maybe you’ll find your new favorite dining spot.

Cozy Up at a Bed and Breakfast

In South Haven, there are lodging choices to satisfy all visitors, from multi-bedroom homes and cottages for large family gatherings to hotels, motels, and resorts for all combinations of groups, large and small. During the winter, enjoy a romantic stay at one of South Haven’s many Bed and Breakfast Inns. Cozy up with your significant other and let a hospitality professional serve you a house made breakfast like no other. Many of South Haven’s bed and breakfasts are historical landmarks that overlook the harbor where you can watch the Black River ice over and get tucked away with a blanket of freshly fallen snow.

Catch the latest Blockbuster at The Michigan Theatre!

The Michigan Theatre, located on Center Street near the Old Harbor Village downtown is locally-owned and believes in providing affordable pricing and a variety of concession choices that every moviegoer can enjoy. Catch a big-screen cinematic experience with tickets and popcorn as low as $4. Families of all sizes can enjoy a night out at the South Haven Michigan Theatre without breaking the bank!

Tour New and Old Museums

South Haven is rich with culture and opportunities to feed your need for new experiences. The Michigan Maritime Museum is one of the Great Lakes' premiere destinations to experience freshwater maritime heritage as you explore exhibits, both on and off the water. The Michigan Maritime Museum is home to the Friends Good Will tall ship in the summer, but this newly renovated campus is must see when visiting South Haven. If the fine arts is more your speed, check out the South Haven Center for the Arts to immerse yourself in one of their rotating exhibitions or classes. Explore the rich history of South Haven at the South Haven Historical Association or come back when they bring South Haven’s oldest hotel, The Forrest House, back to life as a public museum in downtown South Haven.

Sled by the Riverfront at Coast Guard Hill

Tap into your youth and visit one of South Haven’s best-kept winter secrets. Bring your own sled or borrow one at the sled library on Coast Guard Hill located next to the Great Lakes Research Library at 91 Michigan Avenue. During the winter, the street is closed and barricaded, so you can bundle up and slide down the hill that overlooks Riverfront Park and Lake Michigan.

Enjoy Lake Michigan From Home | 360° Lighthouse Webcam | Beach Cam

When the snow falls, and the wind howls, sometimes you just want to stay in the comfort of your own home - and that’s ok! You can view Lake Michigan in all its splendor from any one of the many live South Haven Beach Cams. To get a closer look, check out the 360 live camera, which sits on the catwalk just a few feet from the ice-covered lighthouse. Viewers can spin the camera remotely from hundreds of miles away and imagine they are on the shores of Lake Michigan in South Haven. Wherever you may find yourself, you never have to miss a South Haven sunset.

Author

Trenton Bulat

Digital Media Manager at Visit South Haven

Send An Email