Ten Things to Do this Fall In and Around South Haven

South Haven during the fall is a wonderful place to explore. Planning your next visit is easier when you know where to go and what to do. Here is a quick list of things to do this fall in South Haven.

1. Find a treasure at Eagle Street Market

If you love vintage, Eagle Street market is a must-stop while visiting South Haven. This antique mall in the heart of downtown South Haven hosts over 60 unique dealers featuring boutique vintage clothing, jewelry, handmade items, imported furniture, collectibles, and more.

Local Tip: Show off your skills on the antique piano.

2. Enjoy a freshly baked pie at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery

Just a short drive north of South Haven sits a hidden gem that comes to life during the fall season. Crane’s is a family-owned, family-run business that has been a treasured travel destination in West Michigan for decades. Nestled in the lush, rolling hills the Crane fruit farm is just minutes from Lake Michigan’s shore. Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery is must stop spot if you enjoy freshly baked pies, ciders, and homemade treats.

Local Tip: Get a slice of apple strudel pie and wash it down with a cider flight.

3. Stroll under a canopy of colors on one of our Pure Michigan Trails

Michigan shows off its true colors in fall and the same can be said in South Haven. South Haven is recognized as a Pure Michigan Trail Town because of its robust and well-maintained trail systems. For a few months in the fall, when nature is at its peak, you can run, walk, or bike down one of South Haven's many trails.

Local Tip: 2.5 miles down the Kal-Haven Trail lies a covered bridge - take the hike and take a picture.

4. Have a pumpkin martini at Clementine’s

Towering over downtown South Haven is Clementine's. This classic American restaurant has been a landmark and staple in the community for nearly 40 years. Locally owned and housed in a former bank, Clementine’s is adorned with nostalgic decor, original brickwork, tin ceilings, and the original bank safe. Navigate your way to the century-old bar with hand-carved embellishments and you will find locals who stop in each fall just to get a taste of Clementine’s seasonal pumpkin martini. If you enjoy all things pumpkin, this is a must-try and only offered for a limited time.

Local tip: Clementine’s prides itself on their hand-dipped and fried onion rings. They measure them by the inch and rumor has it they sold nine miles last year.

5. Navigate your way out of the corn maze at Bumbleberry Acres

Bumbleberry Acres is the perfect place to bring the family for fun on the farm. Not only do they have fresh fruits and vegetables, wagon rides, and a petting zoo, but in the fall the corn field transforms into an experience for all to enjoy. Test your navigation skills while twisting and turning your way out of the cornfield just a few short miles away from the shores of Lake Michigan.

Local Tip: The Bumbleberry corn maze is sometimes haunted in October.

6. Pick your favorite variety of apples at Dutch Farm Market

Escape from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a leisurely stop at the Dutch Farm Market and Orchard, just north of South Haven and easily accessible just off Interstate 196. Discover where the world-renowned Red Haven Peach and all other Haven varieties of peaches were born and choose from a wide variety of mouth-watering apples from McIntosh to Rome.

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

7. Catch a glimpse of the Headless Horseman

Halloween is a spooky time to visit South Haven. From traditional trick or treating a pet parade, and more. However, there is one person who steals the show during this time of year - the headless horseman. Each year he finds his way to downtown South Haven stopping everyone in their tracks. The streets which are often vibrant and bustling suddenly stop to gaze at the mysterious horseman passing by.

Local Tip: The headless horseman has been known to be spotted best at the corner of Phoenix and Center Street near dusk around Halloween.

8. Try the weekly Chef’s mac and cheese at Taste

This is not your traditional mac and cheese! They have that too if you are more of a traditionalist. Ten years ago a young local couple decided to pursue their dream and open a restaurant. Since then locals and guests anxiously await the weekly “Chefs Mac” from Chef Joel. Recipes have included Chile Relleno Mac, Crab Rangoon Mac, Bruschetta Mac, Phillicheesesteak Mac, and a local favorite - the Breakfast Mac.

Local Tip: Chef Joel also offers a hummus of the week which is equally creative and tasty.

9. Find the perfect cozy sweater at Emma’s Boutique

South Haven’s charming downtown has dozens of walkable shops to browse. If you find yourself in South Haven on a crisp fall day make your way to Emma’s Boutique and grab a trendy sweater to keep you warm. This locally owned boutique, located only a few short blocks from Lake Michigan has seasonal clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Local Tip: The hip family who owns Emma’s Boutique also owns SOHA Surf Shop and Shoe Collective- all located downtown South Haven.

10. Catch a fall sunset on Lake Michigan

The autumn weather produces some of the best sunsets in South Haven. The natives referred to South Haven as “Nik-onong” which interprets as beautiful sunsets. Although this was well before our time, the sky still serves as a colorful backdrop to end your day in South Haven.

Local Tip: If you can’t make it to South Haven enjoy the sunset on the live South Haven beach camera.