Known as the “Gateway to Michigan,” New Buffalo has much to offer, including a fabulous public beach, lake and riverside parks, a public boat launch, a transient marina, and a gigantic harbor boasting the largest number of slips on the Western coastline – over 1,100, in fact!
Climate & Weather
New Buffalo is truly a year-round gathering spot, with plenty to do. From beaches and boutiques to gaming and snow sports, there’s always something happening, including our many festivals and entertainment! The lakefront park is a perfect place to watch sailboats and sunsets, see wild gulls, geese, and ducks, or just enjoy some family fun time.
Community Resources
Information and links to New Buffalo area community resources.
Time Zone
With the rest of Michigan, New Buffalo moves to Eastern Daylight Time from April through October each year, jumping ahead one hour (“spring forward”) the second Sunday in March, and moving back one hour (“fall back”) on the first Sunday in November.
Sales Taxes
Michigan’s sales tax rate is 6 percent. Food and prescription drugs are exempt. A 5-percent lodging assessment is levied on overnight room rentals in the region.
Operator, Directory Assistance
Operator assisted calls can be made by dialing 0 + area code + seven-digit phone number. Directory assistance is available by calling 0 + area code + 555-1212. Toll-free numbers use the prefixes 800, 888, 877 or 222.
Public Safety
Emergency assistance is available by calling 911. Maritime assistance is available by calling the United States Coast Guard Station in nearby Michigan City at (219) 879-8371. For a complete list of emergency numbers, visit our Emergency Services page.
Accessibility
There are several beaches, outdoor recreation areas, art centers and more that are accessible in New Buffalo. Mobi-mats create a pathway to the area’s popular beaches, many of the local trails are paved for easy accessibility, and there are ample opportunities to participate in art programs. For more detailed information please visit Disability Network Northern Michigan.
Drinking
The legal drinking age in Michigan is 21. Taverns must cease serving alcohol at 2 a.m. and must close by 2:30 a.m.
Smoking
The legal smoking age in Michigan is 18. All state offices and many public and private businesses — including most restaurants — prohibit smoking.
Travel to Canada
For United States and Canadian Citizens, either a passport, passport card, Nexus card (frequent visitors from U.S. to Canada) or an enhanced drivers license is required to cross the border. Travelers crossing back into Canada after 24 hours away can bring back $200 worth of duty-free goods — up from just $50. And if you stay longer than 48 hours, you can enjoy an $800 duty-free allowance on goods.
Travelers may take their dogs and cats to Canada if they have a certificate issued by a licensed Canadian or U.S. veterinarian showing that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies during the previous 36 months. Puppies and kittens under 3 months of age, and seeing-eye dogs, may be taken to Canada without certification or other restrictions.
