When life gets stressful, there’s something soothing about hopping in the car and embarking on a scenic drive. Whether you’re simply exploring your neighborhood or venturing to a particular destination, driving time can be deeply calming. One gorgeous highway route here in Michigan promises to deliver lakeside views and plenty of serenity, so keep it in mind for your next jaunt. Gas up the car and let’s cruise the Red Arrow Highway for one of the most scenic drives in Michigan. Be sure to pack lots of snacks for this scenic road trip adventure. 

Note: The Red Arrow Highway technically ends in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Through the towns of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, it is marked as Business Loop 94. Eventually, it will return as Red Arrow Highway on the Northern side of Benton Harbor.

Red Arrow Highway extends for approximately 21 miles between New Buffalo and St. Joseph.
Google Maps
This gorgeous route takes drivers along the stunning coast of Lake Michigan and provides loads of natural wonder to appreciate in any season, though it’s especially beautiful during the fall and summer months.
Google Maps
No matter when you choose to enjoy this peaceful roadway, you’ll find plenty to appreciate. Red Arrow Highway extends through a handful of quaint waterfront towns and all sorts of outdoor splendor.
Red Arrow Highway
Google Reviews/Alexandrine Frappier
Whether you’re a beach fanatic, an art enthusiast, or a fan of local vineyards, you’ll find the perfect place to make a pit stop along the highway. You could spend all day creating memories along this path.
Google Reviews/Round Barn Tasting Room - Union Pier

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We recommend beginning your journey in New Buffalo and making the trip north toward St. Joseph. Unique communities along the way include Union Pier and the delightful vacation town of Lakeside.
TripAdvisor/management
Stretch your legs with a stop at wonderful Weko Beach in Bridgman, which offers rugged Lake Michigan access and an on-site campground for extended visits. This spot is a genuine hidden gem.
TripAdvisor/Peggy F.
Other stunning locales include Warren Dunes State Park, Grand Mere State Park, wine tasting rooms at Tabor Hill and Lazy Ballerina Winery, and a seemingly endless array of other exciting spots.
TripAdvisor/DrP921
Whether you’re seeking a straightforward drive with loads of natural beauty or searching for pit stops to round out the experience, one thing is certain: Red Arrow Highway offers a gateway to Michigan fun.
Google Maps

Check out this aerial YouTube video by SW Michigan Real Estate with some pretty views of the scenic highway.

Have you and your family made this 21-mile drive during previous visits to Southwest Michigan? What were some of your favorite stops along the route? We’re always eager to hear from our readers, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments or recommend another incredible scenic drive in the Great Lakes State by filling out our official nomination form.

Seeking another fantastic and family-friendly destination? Read about this unique town in Michigan.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

SCENIC DRIVES IN MICHIGAN & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | August 25, 2023

Aside from the Red Arrow Highway scenic drive, what are some more scenic drives in Michigan?
While Red Arrow Highway is one of the best scenic drives in Michigan, here are some more scenic roads that you will love. 

  • River Road National Scenic Byway
  • Tunnel of Trees (M-119)
  • Whitefish Bay National Forest Scenic Byway
  • M-22 from Arcadia to Frankfort
  • US-2 between St. Ignace and Escanaba
  • US-23 along the Sunrise Coast
  • Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
  • M-28 from Marquette to Munising
  • Lake Michigan Shoreline Drive
  • Cut River Bridge


Check out this article to learn more about these scenic roads in Michigan. 

What are some natural wonders in Michigan?
When it comes to natural wonders in Michigan, there are lots that belong on your list. Here are 10 natural wonders in Michigan that are a must-visit:

  • Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Arbor Township
  • Kitch-iti-kipi, Manistique
  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising
  • Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer
  • Isle Royale National Park, Lake Superior
  • Turnip Rock, Port Austin
  • Porcupine Mountains, Ontonagon County
  • The Manitou Islands, Leland
  • Black Rocks, Marquette


Don’t forget to read our previous article providing more information on these natural wonders in Michigan.

What are some road trip ideas in Michigan?
If you’re searching for road trip ideas in Michigan, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are the best road trip ideas in Michigan that we recommend:

  • Waterfalls Road Trip
  • Covered Bridge Road Trip
  • Most Abandoned Places
  • Landmarks & Natural Wonders Road Trip
  • Ghost Towns Road Trip
  • Lighthouse Road Trip
  • Sunrise Coast Road Trip
  • Haunted Michigan Tour
  • Small Towns Road Trip
  • Restaurant Road Trip


Be sure to read our previous article to learn more about these road trip ideas in Michigan. 

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Featured Addresses
Red Arrow Highway, Red Arrow Hwy, Stevensville, MI, USA