Driving in
For most couples, driving is the simplest option. New Buffalo and the Harbor Country towns are roughly 75 minutes from downtown Chicago, about three hours from Detroit, and just over three hours from Milwaukee (including the drive around the bottom of the lake). Traffic on I-94 near the Indiana–Illinois line is the main variable, so aim to travel outside Friday-afternoon and Sunday-evening rush windows if you can.
Flying in
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) — the most flight options; roughly 90 minutes to two hours by car to Harbor Country.
- South Bend International (SBN) — the closest airport, about 40 minutes away, with regional connections.
- Gerald R. Ford International in Grand Rapids (GRR) — convenient for venues further north, around 90 minutes to two hours.
Taking the train
Amtrak’s Wolverine and Blue Water lines stop in New Buffalo, Niles, and other towns along the route between Chicago and Michigan. It’s a scenic, low-stress option for guests who’d rather not drive — though you’ll want a car or rideshare plan for getting from the station to your venue, since local transit is limited.
Helping out-of-town guests
- Send drive times and the nearest airport in your invitation or on a simple wedding website so guests can plan early.
- Encourage carpooling — rideshare availability thins out quickly in the smaller towns.
- Block a few rooms at one inn or hotel so guests stay close together and to the venue.
- Share a rough weekend schedule so people know whether to come for the day or stay overnight.