Union Pier Michigan Vacation | Juniper Holiday and Home

EXPLORE

A Union Pier Vacation

Union Pier, Michigan is a charming beach town and vacation destination situated between the Lake Michigan shore and the Galien River only 5 miles from the Indiana state border. Union Pier, with a collection of neighboring communities like New Buffalo, Lakeside, Sawyer and Harbert, make up what’s known as Harbor Country Michigan. Established by John Gowdy, a settler from New York State, in 1861, Union Pier was initially set up as a sawmill to process timber and ship the material to Chicago. Located only 75 miles outside of Chicago, this area of Harbor Country is nicknamed the “Chicago Hamptons” for it’s abundance of lakeside retreats and city visitors seeking summer vacation memories. Book a nostalgic stay along the shores of Lake Michigan with a Union Pier vacation.

Our Union Pier Collection

SPOTLIGHT

The Appeal of Union Pier

“Chicago Hamptons”

St. Julian Winery & Distillery

Watersports & the Lake

Timothy's

Beautiful Beaches

Round Barn Estate

Find a Union Pier Home

EXCLUSIVELY

Curated for Our Guests

group paddleboarding near union pier michigan

THINGS TO DO

SHOPPING

AP Shop
Harbert Antique Mall
Creative Sage Cottage
Milda’s Corner Market
Sojourn

AREA EVENTS

TRAVEL

To Union Pier

Union Pier is about 75 miles from Downtown Chicago. Take the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-94) east to the Chicago Skyway (I-90), continue east on the Indiana Toll Road, then reconnect with eastbound I-94. If you prefer to skip the toll fees, take the Dan Ryan Expressway to I-94 E to Michigan. Exit 6. As for the weather in Union Pier, “seasonal” is the word. The moderate, enjoyable climate found here in Spring and Fall pair with the warm season of Summer (starting around the first week of June and typically lasting through September). Winter can be a little unpredictable, but paints beautiful landscapes along Lake Michigan’s shorelines.

UNION PIER WEATHER

FAQ'S

Frequently Asked Questions: Union Pier

There is a reason so many guests come back to Union Pier and Southwest Michigan each year, but for anyone who is new to this fabulous destination, you may have some questions… and Juniper has some answers.

How far is Union Pier from Chicago?

70 miles

What's the weather like in Union Pier?

Summer in Union Pier (June to August) is typically warm and humid. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F to the mid-80s°F .

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) in Union Pier are transitional seasons. Spring temperatures start in the 40s°F and gradually warm up to the 60s°F by May. Fall begins with mild temperatures in the 60s°F and gradually cools down to the 40s°F by November.

Winter in Union Pier (December to February) tends to be cold with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s°F to the low 30s°F. Snowfall is common during this season, and the area receives an average of around 30 inches of snow per year.

Is there a casino in the area?

Yes, Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo, MI and Blue Chips Casino in Michigan City, IN.

Does Union Pier have public transportation?

Yes, the Amtrack train runs right into downtown New Buffalo (Station located at 225 North Whittaker St.)

Are there golf courses nearby to Union Pier?

Yes. The Woodlands Course at Whittaker location at: 12578 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, MI 49117. Lost Dunes Golf Course located at: 9300 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman, MI 49106 and Chikaming Country Club located at: 15029 Lakeside Rd, Lakeside, MI 49116

What is the best lodging in Union Pier?

Well, obviously we are partial to the beautifully curated collection of Union Pier homes hosted by Juniper Holiday + Home. Each property exudes the character and charm of it's neighborhood and destination. Great locations and high-end amenities make our homes the best Union Pier lodging for guests of all varieties. Visit our selection of Union Pier vacation rentals to find something truly amazing or try one of our other Southwest Michigan rentals.

About Union Pier, MI

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Berrien County, Union Pier vacations are sought after excursions for locals and long-distance guests alike. It is a small village with a population of about 850 year-round people. The town is known for its charm and small-town laid-back atmosphere, with an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the popular region. You can walk along the waterfront beach or explore nearby landmarks such as the Union Pier Marina and St. Joseph Lighthouse. The downtown area boasts plenty of shops and restaurants to explore and larger neighboring towns such as New Buffalo make the selection even more extensive. Union Pier Michigan is an ideal destination for a tranquil getaway.

In summer, the beaches are a great place for swimming and sunbathing while kids can take advantage of nearby playgrounds. At night, visitors can enjoy live music at local bars or partake in weekly outdoor movies hosted on the beach. During the winter, take a sleigh ride through town or enjoy some of the great skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in nearby areas. Enjoy all that this lakeside village has to offer, year-round…A vacation to Union Pier Michigan – you won’t regret it!

Union Pier Vacation Rentals

Dining – Union Pier

Red Arrow Road House

Opening its doors in 1988 with the focus of feeding locals, vacationers, and passers-by with homemade, exceptional comfort food. They use locally sourced ingredients when available and are set amongst their rustic dining room or outdoor seating areas. They are most famously known for their BBQ Ribs, Lake Superior Whitefish, and Broasted Chicken. Stop in today for a fantastic bite to eat.

Red Arrow Road House
15710 Red Arrow Hwy
Union Pier, MI
Ph.: 269-469-3939
https://www.redarrowroadhouse.com/

Timothy's

This Asian-inspired seafood restaurant is the best around. Chef Timothy Sizer is world-renowned, and his philosophy when it comes to food and his restaurant are "Always use the finest and freshest ingredients possible, nothing less. Create flavors that contrast but, at the same time, complement each other. Combine textures and colors, and pay special attention to the presentation of all. And, finally, take care of my customers; good service is just as important to a restaurant's success as the food it serves." Take your pallet to new heights and try Chef Timothy's fantastic flavors.

Timothy's Restaurant
16409 Red Arrow Hwy
Union Pier, MI
Ph.: 269-469-0900
https://www.timothysrestaurant.com/

Skip's Restaurant & Catering

Skip's has been around and serving the finest hand-carved steaks, prime rib, seafood, ribs, and so much more for over 47 years! If wanting to stay in but not cook, then contact them today to set up catering for you and your whole vacationing party.

Skip's Restaurant & Catering
16710 Lakeshore Rd
New Buffalo, MI
Ph.: 269-469-3341
https://www.skipsrestaurantandcatering.com/

Oink's Dutch Treat

This Family Owned Ice Cream shop has been in operation since 1987. To some who visit the area in summertime, it is a tradition to stop in and grab a sweet treat and some ice cream. Stop by and maybe make this one of your traditions today

Oink's Dutch Treat
227 W Buffalo St
New Buffalo, MI
Ph.: 269-469-3535
https://oinksdutchtreat.com/