Marina Grand New Buffalo and where next?

Question

We are looking to book the Marina Grand Hotel for 3 nights after staying in Chicago for 4 nights. We are on a 10 night trip and will be flying back home late afternoon on our last day. Where should we go after New Buffalo? We will have a car and are looking for pretty towns. If we need to do New Buffalo at the end that is fine!

Budget approx $350 dollars per night. Dont need breakfast. Any places really need to be no more than 4-5 hours drive from Chicago.

Answer

After your stay at the Marina Grand Hotel in New Buffalo, you have several great options for charming towns within a 4-5 hour drive from Chicago. Since you'll have a car, you can easily explore some of the beautiful Midwest towns. Here are a few suggestions for your next destination:

Saugatuck, Michigan (2.5 hours from Chicago) – This picturesque town on the shores of Lake Michigan is known for its artsy vibe, charming downtown, and scenic views. The town is full of unique galleries, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants. You can also enjoy scenic walks along the beach or take a boat ride on the Kalamazoo River.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (1.5 hours from Chicago) – A popular resort town with a stunning lakefront, Lake Geneva offers a relaxing atmosphere with options for outdoor activities, boat tours, and exploring historic estates. The town itself is charming, with great shopping, dining, and beautiful lake views. It's a great spot for a leisurely and picturesque visit.
Galena, Illinois (3.5 hours from Chicago) – Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and charming Main Street, Galena is a lovely historic town. It offers great boutique shopping, local art galleries, and scenic views. The area is also perfect for hiking, with many trails offering panoramic views of the countryside.
Michigan City, Indiana (1 hour from New Buffalo) – Just a short drive from New Buffalo, Michigan City offers beautiful beaches, shops, and attractions like the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. You can visit the nearby Indiana Dunes National Park for a day of outdoor exploration.
Madison, Wisconsin (3.5 hours from Chicago) – A charming college town, Madison is known for its beautiful lakes, vibrant cultural scene, and walkable downtown. It’s a great place to explore art museums, farmers' markets, and enjoy local craft beers. The lakeside views and parks also make it an excellent destination for nature lovers.

Depending on how you'd like to spend your final days, these towns offer a variety of options, from lakefront relaxation to exploring historic streets or enjoying nature. If you want to end your trip with a relaxing lake stay, you could also return to New Buffalo for your final night, which would be conveniently close to the airport for your departure.

Marina Grand New Buffalo and where next?

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