Coloma Travel Guide

Discover Coloma, Michigan, USA with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your visit with information on top attractions, hiking/biking routes, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Coloma

Located in West Michigan, Coloma is a hidden gem of the Midwest. This small town is filled with natural beauty, friendly locals, and interesting historical sites. Whether you’re here for a weekend trip or an extended stay, Coloma has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Coloma

Take a look at some of the top attractions in Coloma:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The North Berrien Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Coloma area, with exhibits on local industry, farming, and more.
  • The ​Hagar House​: A beautiful specimen of Gothic Revival style architecture in the region, this building was built in 1875 and is now used as a community center.
  • Van Buren State Park: A former homestead turned state park, the site boasts a museum chronicling the park’s origins, a lighthouse, a visitor center with exhibits, hiking and biking trails, and a sandy beach.

Natural Attractions of Coloma: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Paw Paw River: Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, or fishing, the Paw Paw River is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Coloma Township Park: With a playground, basketball court, and picnic tables, this beautiful park offers a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  • Saddle Lake: Known for its clear waters, this lake is a great place to go swimming or fishing. The lake is also surrounded by well-maintained walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coloma

  • Kal-Haven Trail State Park: This 35-mile trail stretching from Kalamazoo to South Haven is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists alike. It boasts beautiful scenery, including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
  • Van Buren Trail State Park: This 14-mile trail passes through the Paw Paw and Black River floodplains and offers visitors incredible views of Michigan’s nature.

Best Things to Do in Coloma: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking the Paw Paw River: Experience the natural beauty of the Paw Paw River by kayaking or canoeing.
  • Visiting Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant: Savor award-winning wines along with a gourmet meal in this beautiful winery.
  • Fruit Picking: The Coloma area is known for its fresh, juicy fruit, making it the perfect spot for fruit picking, especially in summer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coloma

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the ​North Berrien Historical Museum​ and the Palmer House Museum.
Day 2 Go kayaking or canoeing on Paw Paw River.
Day 3 Take a Tour to ​Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant​ and enjoy American cuisine with award-winning wines.
Day 4 Plan a hike or cycling tour along the ​Kal-Haven Trail State Park​.
Day 5 Enjoy paddleboards and yoga sessions along the Silver Beach County Park.
Day 6 Visit the local farms for fruit picking and snap some Instagram-worthy pictures.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy your last day by taking walking tours of the town and visiting shops to grab some souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Coloma

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting Coloma, there are several mouth-watering meals you need to try.

  • Michigan Cherry Salad at The Garden Griddle: Mixed greens, pecans, gorgonzola cheese, and a sweet cherry vinaigrette make this dish a must-try for salad lovers.

  • 24 oz Porterhouse Steak at The Sarett Nature Center: Enjoy a divine and succulent Porterhouse steak, perfectly broiled and seasoned with butter and spices.

  • Lake Perch at Charlie’s Piggin’ N’ Grinnin’: Charlie’s Piggin’ N’ Grinnin’ standout fish dish features golden-fried Lake Perch fillets.

Local Beverages

Coloma and Southwest Michigan are renowned for their distinctive, delicious wines. Whether you’re a wine lover, or a beer aficionado, there’s something here for you. Be sure to check these places out:

  • Lemon Creek Winery: Known for producing award-winning wines, the Lemon Creek Winery is a must-visit spot for wine lovers.
  • The Livery: Beer lovers will enjoy sampling a range of local brews at The Livery.

Where to Stay in Coloma: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, Coloma has plenty of comfortable and affordable accommodation options to suit every budget and style preference.

  • The Inn at Harbor Shores: This lakeshore resort brings the relaxation of a beachfront vacation to the middle of the city. It features special suites with full kitchens, living rooms, and balconies, facing the beautiful marina.
  • Comfort Suites Benton Harbor: Comfort Suites is perfect for travelers looking for quality accommodation at an affordable price. The hotel features In-room amenities including refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.

What to Buy in Coloma: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Fruit Preserves and Jams at Jollay Orchards: Jollay Orchards, a family-owned fruit farm, makes jams, jellies, and fruit preserves. Pick your favorite fruits and bring home some delicious preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Coloma

The midwestern culture of hospitality and respect for their neighbors is deeply-rooted in Coloma. The people are welcoming and friendly, making it easy to feel comfortable and at home quickly. In the mornings, you will be welcomed with the beautiful chirping of local birds, which are abundant in this area.

Best Time to Visit Coloma

The best time to visit Coloma is during the summer months when the days are longer and warmer and visitors can take full advantage of the area’s recreational opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coloma

Do:

  • Visit local parks and gardens.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Take a walk to see some of the town’s historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural beauty spots.
  • Disrespect the locals and their culture and customs.
  • Not plan in advance, as Colomna can be crowded during the high season.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coloma

Coloma is an incredibly safe place to visit, but caution is still advisable. Be sure to lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight when touring the town.

Health in Coloma

When traveling to Coloma, you should take the same precautions that you would in any other town. Be sure to stay hydrated and get enough sleep to avoid falling ill. In case of any emergency, local hospitals and medical facilities are available.

Getting to Coloma: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coloma

The nearest airports to Coloma are the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids. From the latter, it takes around 2 hours to reach Coloma.

Bus Stations Near Coloma

The nearest bus station to Coloma is located in St. Joseph, about 7 miles from the town center.

Other Options

If you’re driving, Coloma is easily accessible via I-196. If you’re opting to take the train, the nearest Amtrak station is located in Niles, which is about 20 miles from Coloma.

How to Get Around in Coloma

The best way to explore Coloma is by car, as many of the attractions are spread out across the town. Public transportation is not the most convenient, so an alternative is to rent a bike and cycle around town.

Where to Go Next from Coloma: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Joseph: A beautiful and charming town on the shore of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph is known for its sandy beaches, historic lighthouse, and boutique shopping experiences.

  • Kalamazoo: This vibrant college town is home to several breweries, museums, and music venues.

Conclusion

Coloma is a perfect getaway for those seeking natural beauty, local charm, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, relax on Lake Michigan’s shores or sample some delicious local food and wine, Coloma has it all. Plan your trip today for a visit you’ll never forget!