# A Romantic Weekend in Southwest Michigan *By James Hills — Updated December 2020* Just a couple hours east of Chicago and almost the same distance from Detroit lies a wonder area just waiting for couples planning a romantic weekend. South West Michigan is a destination that continues to impress both Heather and I. Initially, it was the wine trail and the beach that drew us, but now we have grown to love exploring the little coastal towns like Saugatuck, Douglas, and St. Joseph. This past weekend, we stayed at the [Northern Lights in Saguatuck, MI](https://liveatthelights.com/), a rental condo complex that while not "down town" was perfectly located with easy access to everything we wanted. The place was relatively new, had plenty of room (two king size beds) for two couples and a full kitchen should you want to make dinner at home. It even had a gas fireplace to add to the night-time ambiance. ## Wine Trail South West Michigan has more than a [dozen wineries](https://www.lakemichiganshorewinetrail.com/) that range from small family businesses to large corporate operations, as well as ones that offer far more than simply wine tasting. For instance, when we visit our two favorites - Karma Vista and Lemon Creek, it is common for the owner to be there (or a member of the family). However, larger operations like Round Barn Winery and Tabor Hill are clearly staffed by employees and lack the personal touch that only a small business can provide. ### Romantic Destinations That Are Perfect For A Second Marriage Proposal Discover perfect second proposal venues from luxury resorts to historic castles, offering intimate settings for couples to renew their love story. ManTripping [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/D5cyLlswddDC2JuvKWQXAg.2069) ### We're Not Really Strangers Couples Edition Card Game for Date Nights A 150-card conversation game for two, made for memorable date nights and game nights, ages 15 and up. Amazon (affiliate) $20.00[Check Price on Amazon](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/D5cyLlswddDC2JuvKWQXAg.2074) ### Niagara Falls Canada Helicopter Tour See Niagara Falls from above on a 10-minute helicopter tour with multilingual commentary, ideal for travelers seeking a scenic aerial adventure. Viator (affiliate) $152.84[See Current Price](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/D5cyLlswddDC2JuvKWQXAg.643) Promoted by FlowAds ## Craft Beer (and Distilling) On this recent trip, we were shocked to see the growth of craft distilleries. Both New Holland Brewing and Round Barn now have whiskey and rum in addition to their beer and wine selections. Since both of us have grown to be whiskey fans it was a unique experience tasting the differences between "Michigan" bourbon at Round Barn and our favorite spirits from Kentucky. ## Sunsets on the Beach ## Man Gear Pick of the Month September's Pick Amazon (affiliate) ### LiberNovo Maxis Electric Big and Tall Ergonomic Office Chair, Graphite 52cm Why we picked it: a grill you can actually carry to the campsite, the tailgate or the cabin without borrowing a truck. Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one. $1,393.00 [Check The Price](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/OLmXzxaFv2paSS5C55SiEA.2350) [August's Pick Powerful Propane Torch Gun, Adjustable Flame Thrower Gun, Kitchen Torch with Detachable Design, Flamethrower Blow Torch for BBQ, Searing Steak, Welding, Camping Charcoal Lighter(Tank Not Included) $42.99](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/OLmXzxaFv2paSS5C55SiEA.2397) [July's Pick OYASUMI Funny BBQ Man Hot Dog Holders, 4 PCS Reusable Stainless Steel Sausage Stands, Portable Hot Dog Roasters, Barbecue Grill Accessories for Camping & Party Gifts $7.98](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/OLmXzxaFv2paSS5C55SiEA.2396) Promoted by FlowAds   While it is nice to walk on the beach, sometimes it is nice to check out history and take a nice walk without getting sand in your feet. In St. Joseph, you can walk all the way out on the jetty to where the lighthouse is. 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