On behalf of the citizens of Benton Harbor, I would like to welcome you to the “New Benton Harbor.” Whether you are a first time visitor or here to reacquaint yourself to the area, I know that you will enjoy your time in our city.

Benton Harbor has a population of approximately 12,000 and is located in Southwest Michigan on interstate I-94. We are 164 miles from Detroit and 90 miles from Chicago. Benton Harbor is also the home of Whirlpool Corporation Headquarters.

To us, Benton Harbor is the “Heart of Southwest Michigan” as we nestle along beautiful Lake Michigan in the County of Berrien. Our excellent location on the Midwest coast makes it a prime market for industry, business, and tourism. Its substantial and wide variety of agriculture has established locally grown crops as major attractions for tourists and food processors. Strategically located on the Chicago/Detroit, Grand Rapids/Indianapolis vectors, we are served by major interstate highways, airports, rail transportation, and shipping; both deep draft and river barge. Scenic natural beauty and 50 miles of shoreline make us a choice destination for tourists, artists, and naturalists.

The "new" Benton Harbor is revitalizing. New development, housing and attractions spurring as you read. One of our many attractive amenities is the lake front beach Jean Klock Park (JKP), located in the City of Benton Harbor. JKP is Lake Michigan at its best, with natural dunes and a pavilion for entertainment and boardwalk. One of the highlights of the area is the yearly Blossomtime Festival and Parade held the first Saturday in May, to which all are welcome.

For more on the "New Benton Harbor Harbor," come and visit..the Heart of Southwest Michigan.

Wilce L. Cooke, Mayor
City of Benton Harbor