South Haven
Attractions
Michigan Maritime Museum
Sail into the past onboard the Michigan Maritime Museum’s historic replica tall ship, Friends Good Will. Cruise the Black River on the old-time electric river launch Lindy Lou or other vintage on-water experiences.The museum operates five showpieces, including a center hosting permanent and changing exhibits, a boathouse, the U.S. Life Saving Service building, lightkeeper’s house and the Marialyce Canonie Great Lakes Research Library.
South Haven Center for the Arts
The South Haven Center for the Arts offers exhibits, classes, workshops, concerts and lectures. Its annual Mistletoe Market Christmas Boutique provides a unique holiday shopping experience.
Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum and National Historic Site
The Bailey Museum and National Historic Site showcases the work of the father of modern horticulture, South Haven native Dr. Liberty Hyde Bailey (1858-1954). Bailey’s birth site includes the original 1857 home and carriage house. Sit in the shade of the old black walnut tree to enjoy a lecture and wander wildflower trails.
Michigan Flywheelers Museum
The spit and rumble of antique tractors bring Van Buren County’s agriculture history to life at this museum. The annual Farm History Day and Antique Engine and Tractor Show salute rural traditions with working displays and fun events. June’s Swap Meet and Hammer preserves the art of blacksmithing with live demonstrations.
Historical Association of South Haven
This association came together in 2002, seeing a need to preserve South Haven’s history, by promoting an understanding and appreciation thru programs and publications—collecting and preserving archives of the South Haven area—a walk back through time. In 2012 the association acquired ownership of the South Haven Lighthouse. They are located in the historic former Hartman School, and present local history exhibits.
Michigan Theatre
Classic small town movie theatre showing first run movies at prices you won’t find anywhere else.
Kal-Haven Trail
Enjoy a hike, bike ride, horseback ride, or a leisurely stroll on this 34-mile trail from South Haven to Kalamazoo. Travel through small towns, countryside, beautiful wooded areas, and pass points of historical interest. Towns along the way have food and lodging for trail users. Don’t forget cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Snowmobilers are not required to have trail passes, but must have the Michigan Snowmobile Permit.
