The Chicago Traveler

As I mentioned a couple weeks ago, I make a monthly trip to visit family in southwestern Michigan. The trip usually takes about three hours, and I pass through several small towns along the way. In fact, in that rural area, it is not uncommon for us to visit one town to go grocery shopping, another town for dining out, and yet another to go see a movie! Of course, all the towns are within a few minutes of each other, so driving from town to town is much like driving to different neighborhoods here in Chicago.

One road that we use frequently in that area is Red Arrow Highway. There are several small towns along this historic road that are perfect for Chicagoans who are looking to get away from the city without traveling too far. Here, you'll find oodles of quaint shopping spots, rustic bed-and-breakfasts, and scenic beaches.

My buddy Rich

One of the first towns you'll come across is New Buffalo. If you come through here, you can't leave without visiting Redamak's. The roadside diner claims to serve 'the hamburger that made New Buffalo, Michigan, famous!' Rather than being flame-broiled or grilled, the burgers here are cooked up in a frying pan, and they're served plain (no distractions from flavor) on a sesame-seed bun. These burgers may be simple, but they're darn good, and they're what have kept the restaurant in business for over 60 years.

Most likely, you won't be the only Chicagoan in the area. Many Windy City residents actually own vacation homes along Lake Michigan. You'll probably see them shopping at At Home with Nature in Union Pier. The store is full of custom furniture, decorative mirrors, artwork by local artists, hand-crafted lamps, and unique home d'cor. There are also professional designers on staff to help you achieve whatever look you're going for.

After hours of driving and sightseeing, you're going to need a place to rest. The Lakeside Inn in Lakeside has been in business since 1915 and is a registered historical site. Inside, you'll find furnishings akin to that of the early 20^th century, invoking a homey, kick-back atmosphere. Outside, the 100-foot (30-meter) porch is lined with rocking chairs, where you can enjoy the cool breezes off Lake Michigan. Step off the porch and down the stairs, and you'll be on a secluded private beach. And if you don't want to be too far 'away from it all,' the hotel offers free wireless Internet access.

Continue north along Red Arrow Highway, and you'll come across Harbert, home to the Harbert Swedish Bakery. Over 100 years old, the bakery is the best place for delicious pastries, including Danishes, cinnamon rolls, and 'elephant ears.' An Italian woman recently took over the business, so don't be surprised if you see a few Italian desserts thrown into the mix too. (If you're a literature fan, you might be interested to know that Carl Sandburg lived in Harbert for 15 years.¹)

Finally, if you're looking for something a bit more upscale, head up to Soe Caf' in Sawyer. While the outside give the vibe of a country cottage, inside the building is modern and features a beautiful fireplace, chandeliers, and paintings from local artists. The restaurant offers comfort foods with a contemporary twist, and most (if not all) of the ingredients come from Michigan farmers. Popular items on the menu include the rack of lamb with sweet potatoes and spinach-and-fontina-stuffed pork chops.

Finally, with fall just around the corner, I can definitely say that the countryside is the most beautiful place to see the tree leaves changing colors. Take the opportunity to drive along Red Arrow, and see the reds, oranges, and yellows in all their grandeur.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) richevers, polomex (1, 2)

Redamak's (cash only): 616 E Buffalo St (New Buffalo, MI); 269-469-4522
Spring & Fall
Mon ' Thurs: 12 noon ' 9:30 p.m.
Fri ' Sat: 12 noon ' 10:30 p.m.
Sun: 12 noon ' 10:00 p.m.
Summer
Mon ' Sat: 12 noon ' 10:30 p.m.
Sun: 12 noon ' 10:00 p.m.
(Closed Oct 27 ' Feb 28)
http://www.redamaks.com/ (Warning: turn speakers down)

At Home with Nature: 15998 Red Arrow Hwy (Union Pier, MI); 269-469-9640
http://www.susanfredmanathome.com/

Lakeside Inn: 15251 Lakeshore Rd (Lakeside, MI); 269-469-0600
http://www.lakesideinns.com/

Harbert Swedish Bakery: 13698 Red Arrow Hwy (Harbert, MI); 269-469-1777

Soe Caf' ($$): 12868 Red Arrow Hwy (Sawyer, MI); 269-426-4878
Sun ' Thurs: 12 noon ' 9:00 p.m.
Fri ' Sat: 12 noon ' 10:00 p.m.
http://home.earthlink.net/~chefcharles/

¹ The Village of Harbert, Michigan. (n.d.). Retrieved September 18, 2008, from Harbor Country Web site: http://www.harborcountry.org/harbert/