Most of our guests drive in. Here is roughly how long it takes to get here, depending on traffic.
One heads up for Chicago guests before we start: there is a time zone change on the way. These are rough numbers, so plan a little extra time for traffic and stops.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: How to Pick the Right Lakeshore Town for Your Group
Drive Times to the Lakeshore
1) From Chicago
About two to three hours to South Haven, Saugatuck or Holland.
Heads up: Chicago is on Central time and West Michigan is on Eastern time, so you lose an hour on the way here. My husband and I lived in Chicago before moving back to Michigan, and that lost hour catches people every time.
Plan your departure with the time change in mind, especially if you have a check in time to make. Leaving a little earlier on Friday can also help you miss some of the traffic.
2) From Detroit
About three hours across the state.
Leave a little extra time and you will roll in relaxed.
The drive from Detroit is a straight shot across the state. Pack snacks and make a playlist. Once you are on the west side of the state, the drive gets easy and the lake starts to feel close. A midday stop to stretch your legs makes the whole trip easier, especially with kids.
3) From Grand Rapids
Less than an hour to Holland, Grand Haven or Saugatuck.
Close enough for a last minute weekend. If the forecast looks good on Thursday, you can still make a plan.
Grand Rapids is close enough for a quick weekend or even a day trip. It is an easy drive to Holland, Grand Haven or Saugatuck. A Friday evening drive from Grand Rapids can still put you on the beach by sunset in summer.
READ: What to Pack for a Lake Michigan Weekend
4) From Kalamazoo
About an hour to South Haven or Grand Junction.
An easy drive for a quick getaway, even for just one night.
Kalamazoo is close to South Haven and Grand Junction, which makes it easy to get here on a Friday after work. It is also a nice drive for a quick weekend in the off season.
Leave a little earlier than you think you need to. Arriving relaxed is a good way to start any trip, and the lake will still be there when you get here. Road trip snacks are strongly encouraged. Once you pull in and see the lake, the drive will feel worth it.
Check in times are on each listing. Plan for Friday afternoon traffic in summer. South Haven Cottage, Saugatuck Cabin, Holland Home Retreat and our Grand Junction homes are all easy drives from the cities above.