The South Haven Van Buren County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and Paw Paw Downtown Development Authority (DDA) are partnering on tourism efforts for the village of Paw Paw. The initiative, “Destination Paw Paw”, boosts tourism by highlighting lodging, events, and attractions throughout the community.
“We’ve seen an increase in tourism to Paw Paw over the last several years, with more visitors experiencing what makes this community so special,” said Jennifer Sistrunk, South Haven Van Buren County CVB executive director. “We’re excited to capitalize on this momentum with strategic marketing efforts that showcase this great destination.”
Over 5.3 million travelers visited Paw Paw in 2023. More than 31,000 people attended concerts at the Warner Vineyards amphitheater last year, marking a 43% increase since 2021. Other popular tourist destinations include The Lucky Wolf and the Lake Summer Concert Series at Lakefront Amphitheater. The Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival, held annually in September, continues to be a highlight for locals and tourists alike.
The village of Paw Paw has also become a top destination for foodies. The town is home to St. Julian, Michigan’s longest-running winery, and La Cantina, a family-owned Italian restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine since 1936.
“Visitors love this community for its wine, beer, spirits, restaurants, and music scene,” said Sistrunk. “Summer is a great time to discover all that Paw Paw has to offer.”
Paw Paw resides within the South Haven Van Buren County CVB’s district, and as part of their collaboration, the CVB and DDA jointly funded a new marketing manager position for Destination Paw Paw. The marketing manager will create marketing initiatives to promote the community and enhance Paw Paw’s visibility and appeal to prospective visitors. The organizations also recently partnered to install new wayfinding signs throughout downtown Paw Paw.
