travel

Train

Amtrak

Amtrak Wolverine / Blue Water Line Amtrak runs up to 4 direct trains per day from Chicago Union Station to New Buffalo Station. The ride is about 1 hour 15 minutes and drops you off right in downtown New Buffalo. Tickets typically run $12–$55 depending on how far in advance you book. Book early — prices rise closer to the date. Journey time: ~75 minutes Daily departures: 4 One-way fare: from $12

Train

South Shore Line

South Shore Line The South Shore Line is a commuter rail that runs from Millennium Station in downtown Chicago to South Bend, Indiana. The closest stop to New Buffalo is Michigan City, about 15 miles away. From there, you can grab an Uber or Lyft for a quick 20-minute ride into New Buffalo. Tickets are budget-friendly, and the train runs frequently throughout the day. Check mysouthshoreline.com for current schedules and fares. Journey time: ~1 hour 40 minutes (train) + 20 minutes (Uber) One-way fare: ~$14 (train) + ~$25–35 (Uber) Departures: Multiple throughout the day

Flight

South Bend Airport (SBN) — Closest option

South Bend International Airport is about 30–35 miles from New Buffalo, roughly a 35-minute drive. It’s served by American, Delta, and United, with connections from major hubs. While South Bend is the closest flight option, we recommend booking your flights as soon as possible, as there is a Notre Dame football game that weekend and ticket prices may be inflated.

Flight

Chicago Midway (MDW)

About 70 miles from New Buffalo — slightly closer than O'Hare. Take the Orange Line to Quincy, then walk 7 minutes to Union Station for the Amtrak.

Flight

Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

About 90 miles and roughly 90 minutes by car. Direct flights from nearly everywhere. Rent a car or take the CTA Blue Line downtown to catch the Amtrak from Union Station.

Flight

Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Gerald R. Ford International Airport is about 2 hours northeast of New Buffalo via US-131 South to I-94. A solid option for guests coming from the Midwest or East Coast, with direct flights from many major cities.

Flight

Detroit Metro (DTW)

About 3 hours by car via I-94 West. A bit farther a way, but a good option for guests coming from the East Coast connecting through Detroit.