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Welcome to

Southwest Michigan

Offering sandy beaches, lush countryside, wineries, and idyllic riverbanks, Southwest Michigan is home to some of the best vacation spots in the state. Frequently referred to as the “Third Coast” or “Harbor Country,” Southwest Michigan is the gateway to the longest freshwater shoreline in the world. Just a short drive from Chicago, the region’s pristine coast and small-town charm have invited city dwellers to unwind and unplug for generations.

What attracts vacationers to Southwest Michigan year-round is its natural beauty and picturesque quality. This is where green orchards stretch across the countryside before giving way to miles of sandy shoreline and stunning sand dunes along Lake Michigan. Breathtaking landscapes, vineyards, championship golf courses, and craft breweries are all part of the make-up of this city escape.

From the scenic beach town of Benton Harbor to the preserved Victorian-era charm of its sister city St. Joseph “the Riviera of the Midwest”, Southwest Michigan provides a rich backdrop of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and history. Along the coast, visit New Buffalo - named among Travel + Leisure’s best places to travel in 2022 - or climb the Warren Dunes near Bridgman after an outing picking blueberries.

Away from the expansive Lake Michigan shore, quaint downtowns across Southwest Michigan are bursting with art galleries, one-of-a-kind mom ‘n pop shops, and farm-to-table restaurants. Southwest Michigan is equally appealing to families, with opportunities to ice-skate year round in Stevensville, delight in the Silver Beach Center & Carousel in St. Joseph, or pick fresh fruit at a local farm. In short, there’s something for everyone on a Southwest Michigan vacation!


Locally Owned & Operated

Southwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan

Casago Franchise Owner

Southwest Michigan is only a 90 minute drive from Chicago, but feels a world away from the hectic life of the Windy City. With sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and a lively arts scene along the coastline, it’s easy to see why this region is a popular getaway.

When planning a trip to the “Third Coast”, you can count on our VueStay Vacations by Casago Southwest Michigan team for a hands-on, local approach. Our deep regional knowledge and professional property management are at the heart of what we do. This ensures guests feel taken care of at every step of their stay, while homeowners can be assured we take care of their homes as if they were our own.

Our full-service approach means something more for both our homeowners and guests. As local experts, we take pride in caring for each home so guests have a top-notch experience. Our proactive communication and elevated hospitality, along with boots-on-the-ground expertise truly sets us apart.

Whether you seek a weekend retreat at a cozy beach cottage, or a longer summer stay, our VueStay Vacations by Casago Southwest Michigan team is ready to help.

Locally Owned & Operated
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Franchise with Casago

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Frequently Asked Questions

Summer is the most popular season across Michigan, when the warm temperatures are perfect for the beach, sailing, and sightseeing. Autumn will appeal to those who prefer a quieter getaway filled with apple picking, colorful leaves, and cooler weather for hiking.

Most people find driving the simplest route to access towns across Southwest Michigan, with I-94 and I-196 both making the trip straightforward. It’s about 1½ to 2 hours from Chicago to the heart of Southwest Michigan - generally considered to be the twin cities of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor.

For those looking to fly to the area, airports with the best proximity to the area and beach towns include Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) or Indiana’s South Bend International Airport (SBN). Rental car options are readily available, and recommended for exploring the area. In addition, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids provides a good option for reaching northern parts of Southwest Michigan.

Spring kicks off with the Blossomtime Festival that celebrates the orchards. In the summer, St. Joseph lights up with concerts and boat parades during the Venetian Festival. Come August, South Haven puts on the National Blueberry Festival, which is always a crowd-pleaser.

Absolutely! Silver Beach in St. Joseph has a carousel and a splash pad, while South Haven’s gentle waves and soft sand make for a safe and fun beach experience.

Yes, this is highly recommended. While it’s easy to stroll in downtown areas, having a car enables you to discover parks, wineries, and different beach towns.

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More questions?

Feel free to send us an email with any and all questions you might have regarding the start of a Casago Franchise!

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