To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise, we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear.
– Buddha
Maintaining a healthy mind and body is essential. Wellness practices can be woven into daily life wherever you live. However, there is something especially inspiring and healing about being in nature. Southwest Michigan is only 90 minutes from the bustling city of Chicago but truly feels a world away. The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach and New Buffalo are the ultimate places to unwind and connect with the magical outdoors, yourself and/or family and friends.
This is our curated list of recommendations to inspire a wellness weekend in Southwest Michigan!
MOVE YOUR BODY!
EXPLORE FERNWOOD BOTANICAL GARDEN
Stroll through towering trees on the half mile Wilderness Trail which offers access to some of the most undisturbed wilderness in the area!
HIKE THE WARREN DUNES & TURTLE CREEK PRESERVE
Aside from the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, Warren Dunes offers majestic sand dunes that rise 260 feet above the water. From the top, enjoy views of the glistening horizon and vibrant, tree-lined dunes.
Meanwhile, Turtle Creek Preserve is lush and beautiful with not too technical hiking — ideal for a range of ages. Don’t miss the bird watching!
CLIMB GALIEN RIVER COUNTY PARK
Climb the 60 foot tower and take in breathtaking, panoramic views.
WANDER ROBINSON WOODS
The preserve consists of a mature forest while the wetland areas are super cool and support an array of plants and wildlife including several rare plant and animal species!
BEACH WALKS!
So many lovely options. Beaches in Southwest Michigan are always changing! Year-to-year/day-today, new landscapes of wide or narrow shores arise. Check out the ‘explore’ section of The Neighborhood Hotel Field Guide for beach highlights. Walking is a great way to focus and/or let your mind completely pause. New Buffalo kicks off almost 16 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline including nine public beaches!
SWIM!
Embrace the lake (brrrr) or take a quick dip in The Neighborhood Grand Beach’s delightful pool!!
PADDLE W/ THIRD COAST PADDLING
The three-mile, Galien River Marsh Trail is a relaxing journey with a kayak or stand up paddle board. Hourly and daily rentals are available May-September. Reservations aren’t required, but highly recommended to ensure availability
YOGA
Practice yoga in your suite or have a yoga instructor teach a class in the lawn at TNBHD Grand Beach or New Buffalo! Nearby Prana Life Studio is another lovely option.
RELAX
SUNRISE + SUN SET BLISS
Catch a dreamy, New Buffalo Beach sunset and/or sunrise. Meditate, breath, just be.
CAMPFIRE SOLOS/CONNECTIONS @ THE HOTEL
Stare into the golden flame and let your mind be still or wander. Or, talk it out next to the vibrant warmth.
LAWN CHAIR SESSIONS
Take in sunshine and a gentle breeze alone or with a buddy. Nap, chat or simply rest on a comfy chair in nature’s splendor.
NOURISH
You can almost always find various roadside stands offering fresh produce, local honey and other healthy treats throughout the summer and fall. Here are a few of our favorite places that bring joy and satisfaction.
FLAGSHIP SPECIALITY FOODS & MARKET
Flagship is a top-notch seafood market with an impressive selection of fresh, ethically-sourced fish which leads to great food made with quality ingredients.
LUISA’S HARBERT SWEDISH BAKERY
This is a bakery that’s filled with comfort, nostalgia and some of the most delicious baked goods we’ve ever had – it’s great for the soul!
FRESH BLUEBERRY FARMS
Blueberries love the acidic, sandy soil of Michigan paired with the Lake’s moderating effect on temperature—cooler summers and warmer winters! You can usually find about 30 varieties of blueberries between July – September.
Hopefully you enjoy your weekend of wellness in Southwest Michigan and return home feeling rested and rejuvenated!
About The Neighborhood Hotel
The Neighborhood Hotel was founded in 2020 by Jonathan Gordon — a travel enthusiast who enjoys spaces that inspire, comfort and fuel. Each suite is well equipped for short and longterm stays (i.e. kitchens, laundry, etc.). The Neighborhood Hotel transforms old buildings with compelling history into well outfitted apartment style hotels that honor the old while representing the now. The vibe is fresh and fun with rooms that are stocked to support everyone from the homebody to the adventurer. The hotels provide a basecamp for the explorer and a sanctuary for the traveler who needs to recharge, reset or just chill. The suites are simple and clean, punctuated with accents that bring the right amount of pop. The Neighborhood Hotel has locations in Chicago: Lincoln Park, Little Italy, West Loop (2025 opening) and Southwest Michigan: New Buffalo and Grand Beach.
Read about TNBHD in: Architectural Digest, Midwest Living and CN Traveler!
Connect with @the.neighborhood.hotel on Instagram and LinkedIn!
