We are of the opinion that Chicago is perhaps the best summer city in the United States. Chicagoans suffer through our long cold winters for those sweet summer months on Lake Michigan. The city has an incredible coastline that offers beach fun and boating all summer long.
But…sometimes, we just want to get away without getting on a plane or driving across the county to sit on the beach (let’s leave that for when it is cold here).
Here is a list of great summer beach locales along Lake Michigan that are within driving distance of Chicago:
Indiana Dunes National Park
Did you know you could visit one of the United States’ 62 National Parks in just about an hour drive from Chicago?
Indiana Dunes became an official National Park in 2019. 15 miles of southern lakeshore complete with 50 miles of trails give visitors plenty to do while visiting. Fishing, boating, and camping are some of the most popular activities to do in this park.
Indiana Dunes National Park is approximately 1 hour from Chicago.
New Buffalo, Michigan
This is probably one of the most popular spots for Chicagoans to escape to in the Summer. New Buffalo is the “Gateway to Michigan” and is located just north of the Indiana border.
New Buffalo is a popular beach and boating destination. It offers great hotels, long-term beach rentals, and tasty restaurants. In fact, you’ve probably seen someone out in about in Chicago in a t-shirt from The Stray Dog Bar and Grill located in downtown New Buffalo.
There are numerous breweries and wineries in the area. Our personal favorites are the Round Barn Tasting Room and Beer Church Brewery. If gambling is your cup of tea, you can head on over to the Four Winds Casino. There are 10 public beaches in New Buffalo and they are some of the best in the state of Michigan.
New Buffalo is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Chicago.
South Haven, Michigan
South Haven is a quaint area that has 7 beaches, a rich maritime history, and an iconic lighthouse. This city will transport you out of the Midwest and make you feel like you are somewhere in New England. Wineries, shopping, restaurants and beautiful sandy dune beaches. What more could you want? You can stroll along the Maritime District Harbor Walk or check out the Michigan Maritime Museum.
South Haven, Michigan is located approximately 2 hours from Chicago.
Holland, Michigan
Set 10 minutes from Lake Michigan, Holland is a picturesque town located on the shore of Lake Macatawa. This charming village is steeped in rich Dutch history and their heritage can be felt through their strong traditions. At the Windmill Island Gardens you can learn about Dutch traditions from costumed tour guides. If you visit in May, you can enjoy the Tulip Time Festival.
Forbes Magazine listed Holland as one of “America’s Prettiest Towns.” Holland State Park is one of the most visited state parks in Michigan. It boasts beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan complete with the scenic Holland Harbor Lighthouse. They also have several popular breweries including the New Holland Brewing Company.
Holland, Michigan is located approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Chicago.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
As fun as Sheboygan is to say as word, it is also a fun weekend trip! Sheboygan is the “Bratwurst Capital of the World” and has also been referred to as the “Malibu of the Midwest.” This midwestern coastal town has some of the best waves on the Great Lakes and is actually a major surfing destination. You can book sailing tours, visit Blind Horse Winery, or sip on some Wisconsin brews at Three Sheep’s Brewing.
The well-known Blue Harbor Resort is located in Sheboygan and is the largest resort on Lake Michigan. If you’re looking for some pampering, you can head over to The American Club and book a spa treatment at the Kohler Waters Spa. There are also amazing golfing opportunities in this area, including the world-famous Whistling Straits golf course, the host of the 2021 Ryder Cup.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin is located approximately 3 hours from Chicago.
Door County, Wisconsin
Growing up in Illinois I often heard someone mutter the phrase “we are going to Door County this weekend!” That was always followed up with the phrase, “oh Door County is so nice.” We took a trip up last year to see the fall leaves turning and you know what? Door County is nice.
This northern Wisconsin peninsula lies between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, and has 300 miles of shoreline. There are plenty of beaches to relax on including Egg Harbor Beach, Sand Bay Beach, and Whitefish Dunes. Head over to Cave Point County Park in Sturgeon Bay to take in the cliffs and caves along Lake Michigan.
Door County is also famous for their orchards, breweries, and wineries. Shopping and restaurants are also a major draw in this popular midwestern vacation destination.
Just a reminder to Chicagoans. When you visit Door County, you’re in Packer Country. Expect to see a lot of green and yellow.
Door County, Wisconsin is located approximately 4 hours from Chicago.
Please let us know in the comments below if you have any secret spots along Lake Michigan you like to escape to!