Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, Union Pier Michigan is one of the most charming and underrated getaway destinations in the Midwest. Known for its gorgeous beaches, boutique dining, laid-back atmosphere, and family-friendly attractions, Union Pier Michigan has quickly become a top choice for weekend escapes, romantic trips, and summer vacations.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants, beaches, things to do, hidden gems, and travel tips to help you plan the perfect visit.

Why Visit Union Pier Michigan?

Located in Southwest Michigan’s Harbor Country, Union Pier Michigan offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. It’s just 70 miles from Chicago, making it incredibly accessible for day trips or weekend retreats.

Highlights Include:

Soft sandy beaches
Award-winning restaurants
Wineries and breweries
Bike trails & nature preserves
Charming shops & galleries
Romantic rental cottages

Union Pier Michigan truly offers something for every traveler.

Best Restaurants in Union Pier Michigan

From farm-to-table dining to beachfront cafes, Union Pier Michigan has a surprisingly vibrant food scene.

1. Red Arrow Roadhouse

A beloved long-running local favorite.
What to try: Smoked ribs, homemade desserts, comfort-food classics.

2. Black Currant Bakehouse

A bakery that blends creativity with artistry.
Known for: Fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, small-batch sweets.

3. Timothy’s Restaurant

Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended dishes: Lake perch, gourmet entrées, seasonal cocktails.

4. Nani’s Chicken & Waffles

A must-visit for brunch lovers.
Try: Fried chicken platters, Belgian waffles, and scratch-made sides.

5. Froehlich’s Kitchen & Pantry

A charming culinary marketplace.
Customer favorites: Fresh breads, artisan meals, and picnic-ready foods.

Nearby Notable Spots (5–10 minutes away)

Greenbush Brewing Co. (Sawyer, MI) – Craft beer & BBQ-style menu
The Stray Dog Bar & Grill (New Buffalo) – Waterfront dining

Top Beaches in Union Pier Michigan

You can’t visit Union Pier Michigan without spending time on its clean, scenic beaches.

1. Townline Beach

A family-friendly public beach with gentle waves and plenty of space.

Highlights:

Soft sand
Shallow swimming area
Sunset views

2. McKinley Beach

A quieter, more secluded beach popular among locals.

Perfect for:

Relaxing
Nature photography
Picnicking

3. Berrien Public Beach (Nearby)

Great for families and larger groups.

Lifeguards during summer
Restrooms & picnic areas

What Makes Union Pier Michigan Beaches Special?

The sand is incredibly soft, the shoreline is clean, and Lake Michigan sunsets are considered among the most beautiful in the Midwest.

Best Attractions & Things to Do in Union Pier Michigan

Union Pier Michigan offers plenty to do whether you love outdoor adventure, culinary experiences, or cultural attractions.

1. Wineries & Breweries

Union Pier sits in the heart of Michigan wine country.

Top Picks:

St. Julian Winery – Tasting room with fruit wines & cocktails
Round Barn Winery & Estate – Wine + beer + live music
Free Run Cellars – Intimate tastings with scenic views

2. Galien River County Park

Just minutes from Union Pier, a great spot for:

Boardwalk trails
Kayaking
Bird watching
Canopy bridge views

3. Union Pier Market & Boutique Shops

Charming, small-town stores offering:

Handmade gifts
Locally crafted foods
Beach accessories
Home décor items

4. Bike & Walking Trails

Union Pier Michigan is packed with scenic pathways ideal for:

Family bike rides
Morning jogs
Nature walks

5. Art Galleries & Local Craft Shops

Discover pottery, paintings, and handmade goods from Michigan artists.

6. Water Activities

On Lake Michigan you can enjoy:

Paddleboarding
Kayaking
Swimming
Fishing

Best Places to Stay in Union Pier Michigan

Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or a family vacation, Union Pier Michigan has great lodging options.

1. Cozy Lakefront Cottages

Perfect for couples or small groups.

2. Boutique Inns & Bed-and-Breakfasts

Local hospitality + comfortable rooms.

3. Vacation Rentals

Ideal for large families or weekend getaways.

Popular Options:

Lakeshore Lodging
Union Pier Summer House
Vacation rental listings via Airbnb / VRBO

Shopping & Local Markets Around Union Pier Michigan

Union Pier is full of small-town charm. Popular stops include:

Union Pier Market – Specialty groceries & wines
Local art shops – Handmade gifts and décor
Farmer’s markets – Fresh produce in summer

Nearby New Buffalo and Sawyer offer additional boutique shopping opportunities.

Events & Festivals Near Union Pier Michigan

Depending on when you visit, you may catch:

Harbor Country Wine Fest
Lake Michigan Summer Concert Series
Holiday craft fairs
Farmers markets (May–October)

These events give visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Travel Tips for Visiting Union Pier Michigan

Make the most of your visit:

Best Time to Visit

Summer: Ideal for beaches
Fall: Perfect for wine trails
Spring: Relaxed, scenic, fewer crowds

Getting Around

Union Pier is walkable, but having a car makes exploring easier.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes
Beach essentials
Camera for sunset shots
Layers for cool evenings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Union Pier Michigan family-friendly?

Yes! The area offers beaches, parks, kid-friendly restaurants, and safe neighborhoods.

2. How far is Union Pier from Chicago?

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

3. Does Union Pier Michigan have public beaches?

Yes — Townline Beach and McKinley Beach are open to the public.

4. What is Union Pier best known for?

Beaches, boutique dining, wineries, and small-town charm.

5. Can you visit Union Pier year-round?

Absolutely. Summer is busiest, but winter offers quiet retreats and cozy cabin stays.

Conclusion: Why Visit Union Pier Michigan?

Whether you’re searching for incredible food, peaceful beaches, or charming Midwestern attractions, Union Pier Michigan offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. With its vibrant dining scene, breathtaking lakeshore, family-friendly activities, and unique small-town vibe, it’s easy to see why so many travelers return year after year.

From beach days to wine tastings and everything in between, Union Pier Michigan is a destination that truly delivers an unforgettable experience.