Harbor Country

Eight Lake Michigan shore towns 70 miles from Chicago

A cluster of eight small towns along the Lake Michigan shore in southwest Michigan, about 70 miles from Chicago. The white sand beaches are the main draw in summer, but there are also wineries, antique shops, bike paths, and walking trails. The towns -- Union Pier, Three Oaks, Harbert, New Buffalo, and others -- each have their own character, from artsy to outdoorsy. Fall is beautiful for the foliage, and winter brings skiing and snowmobiling.