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And if you’d like help planning your visit – or need a question answered about one of our member businesses or attractions, stop by our visitor’s center at I-94, Exit 29 (Google map), call us at 269.925.6301 or click here. We specialize in starting fun times! See you soon!
Harbor Shores Nature & Fitness Trails
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- Published on Wednesday, 15 May 2013 17:07
- Written by Joshua Nowicki
Harbor Shores is known for its world class golf course, but there is so much more to enjoy. With 12 miles of paved and unpaved trails open to the public, everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a walk, hike, bike ride, etc. through wetlands, past expertly manicured greens and right up to the beach at Jean Klock Park.
Harbor Shores offers several different parking lots along the trail system; maps of the trail system are conveniently located online and at several of the parking locations. Two of the parking locations provide the public with access to the Paw Paw River for boats, canoes and kayaks. If you are interested in exploring the river on the water, Harbor Shores offers a Canoe & Kayak Rental with a private launch on the north bank of the St. Joseph River.
Benton Harbor Arts District
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- Published on Thursday, 18 April 2013 16:40
- Written by Joshua Nowicki
Inspiring art, great food and fun events only minutes from Harbor Shores golf course and Lake Michigan in downtown Benton Harbor's Arts District.
The Arts District is home to a variety of shops, local eateries and art galleries, and it hosts numerous events throughout the year. A great way to get familiar with the Arts District is to attend one of the Art Hops organized by the New Territory Arts Association. Every few months, local businesses, restaurants, and galleries invite the public to celebrate art and local artists. Art Hops are free and family-friendly events which are open to everyone; many of the participating organizations provide light refreshments for guests.
The Allure of the Lighthouse
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- Published on Wednesday, 27 March 2013 15:21
- Written by Joshua Nowicki
There is something special about lighthouses that make them the irresistible superstars of the Great Lakes.
Designed to emit light through a system of lamps and lenses, lighthouses have long been used as an aid to navigation. Over the years, the number of operational lighthouses has declined yet they remain powerful symbols in our lives. Embodying strength, hope and guidance, they preserver and shine strong even during a storm.
The View of Chicago from Southwestern Michigan
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- Published on Thursday, 07 March 2013 17:28
- Written by Joshua Nowicki
Shortly after moving to St. Joseph, Michigan, people began telling me that on occasion you can see the lights of Chicago across the lake. It seemed almost impossible given the distance and the curvature of the earth, but I started looking. For months, I would look out over the lake, at different times of day, searching for the buildings. It was possible to see a glow above the lake where Chicago should be, but nothing other than that.
In October on 2012, I was camping at Warren Dunes State Park and decided to take a night time hike. Upon cresting one of the dunes, I looked out and there it was glowing against the dark sky. It was no where near as large as I had expected, but it was there and it was quite visible.
Explorations of Southwestern Michigan
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- Published on Thursday, 14 February 2013 18:41
- Written by Joshua Nowicki
My name is Joshua Nowicki and I absolutely love Southwestern Michigan.
In the coming weeks and months, I will be sharing my explorations of Southwestern Michigan and telling you about the area's excellent opportunities for entertainment, inspiration and relaxation. I will write about the parks, hiking trails, beaches, wineries, breweries, art, museums, events, etc. that I encounter in my travels in Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties.
Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard is designed for the business and leisure traveler. Our cozy lodge style setting is a great place to relax after a full day. You will be ensured a clean and comfortable stay, in addition to our exceptional facilities and dependable staff.
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