Benton Harbor is a former swampland turned village in 1860. The land here has soil rich in nutrients that helped drive a great market of fruits and vegetables. The Benton Harbor fruit market was the largest cash-to-grower non-citrus fruit market in the world in the 1930s. Today, this agricultural heritage is celebrated in the Blossomtime Festival, the oldest multi-community festival in Michigan. Take a breath of Michigan’s air as you stroll through Jean Klock Park on Lake Michigan or through downtown and their Arts District. Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes of North America and is full of opportunities for you to enjoy lakeside activities and the great outdoors.
When you head into town, immerse yourself in creativity at the Arts District lined with glasswork and art studios. Enjoy a variety of shopping and dining options as well before you head out to the number of museums that outline Benton Harbor’s history. The Morton House Museum is the home of Benton Harbor history. It is the oldest building in Benton Harbor and was built in 1849 by pioneer Eleazar Morton and his son Henry Morton, one of the founders of the city of Benton Harbor. Tour the home to learn about the city’s development from its start as a shipping and manufacturing center to the town it is today.
With beautiful homes from the 1800s and a vibrant downtown, it’s no wonder people are heading to Benton Harbor. When you book with Choice Hotels near Benton Harbor, you can enjoy affordable rates and everything you need to relax and rest up for another day in this growing city. Book now!