South Haven is a westside city that is easy to fall in love with. The drive down Phoenix Street takes you from the highway, through the residential area, and drops you right in the middle of the downtown area. The heart of the city includes excellent restaurants and unique shopping, all steps away from Lake Michigan. Just a short stroll brings you to the water, where the beaches are pristine and the views are gorgeous. With an endless amount of activities, South Haven is a great destination for families, couples, and group trips.
We frequently find ourselves in South Haven spending weekends at the race track with my husband. It was a happy accident to find this track came with the added bonus of being a short, ten-minute drive to some of our favorite restaurants in the state and the ability to spend time at the lake during downtimes. We’ve visited as a family, just the two of us, and with friends, and each time has offered a fun and unique experience.
3 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Taste | 402 Phoenix St, 269-637-0010
This is our favorite spot in South Haven. Delicious small plates make it easy to try a lot of different things on their extensive menu.
Clementine’s | 500 Phoenix St, 269-637-4755
The most popular restaurant in town, so be prepared to wait for a table.
Kitchen 527 | 527 Phoenix St, 269-637-7527
Excellent place to get a burger or sandwich. Definitely order the cheese curds!
3 FAVORITE FREE ATTRACTIONS
South Beach | 60 Water St
Ample parking right at the beach, also has a playground and restrooms.
GingerMan Raceway | 61414 Phoenix St, 269-253-4445
Check the event calendar to see what races are happening during your stay. Be sure to drive around the paddock and watch the race from the hill on turn 5/6.
Chancy Lewis Park | 520 S Main St
A cool wooden playground for kids of all ages.
3 FAVORITE PAID ATTRACTIONS
Michigan Maritime Museum | 260 Dickman Ave, 269-637-8078
Learn the maritime history on the Great Lakes in the museum or take a ride on one of their boats on Lake Michigan.
Kayak Kayak | 625 Dunkley St, 616-366-1146
Rent a kayak and paddle down the Black River Heritage Water Trail. They also offer extended rentals and will deliver.
Lake Arvesta Farms | 64 Arvesta Ln, 269-637-6464
This is the place to go if you love water sports. Their aqua park is a playground on water and they will soon have a cable park for water skiing and wakeboarding.
FAVORITE PLACES TO STAY
Comfort Suites | 1755 Phoenix St, 269-639-2014
Convenient location and reasonably priced, even in peak season.
South Haven Jellystone Park | 03403 64th St, 269-637-6153
Accommodates all types of camping from tents to cabins. Dozens of activities available including laser tag and paintball.
AirBnB
Hundreds of options to choose from across all of South Haven.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SWEET TREATS
Sherman Dairy Bar | 1601 Phoenix Ave, 269-637-8251
The scoops here are enormous. More than 30 homemade flavors on their menu.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SOUVENIRS
Rambling Rose | 411 Phoenix St, 269-639-7216
A great variety of gifts for everyone, you’re sure to find something at this shop.
FAVORITE PHOTO OP
South Haven’s Historic Lighthouse | Water St
Beautiful photos any time of day, but be sure to head to the lighthouse to watch the sun set over Lake Michigan.
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Cafe Julia | 561 Huron Street, 269-639-7988
A full coffee shop menu plus delicious pastries and deli sandwiches.
BONUS TIPS TO SOUTH HAVEN
- Approximate travel time: 3 hours.
- South Haven is also home to several excellent wineries and breweries.
- The main part/downtown of South Haven is walkable from the shops and restaurants all the way down to Lake Michigan and the lighthouse.
- There are many farms on the outskirts of South Haven which offer U-Pick produce throughout the year.
- Don’t miss the other museums and art galleries in South Haven including a children’s museum.
