Destination Dowagiac 2026

Then, in May 2024, tragedy struck. As a heavy storm rolled through, fire engulfed the historic wooden structure. Neighbors described the scene as a ball of fire. The blaze burned for many hours and the loss of the 1928 landmark stirred deep emotion throughout the community. For decades, memories had been embedded in those floors. Amid the heartbreak, some hope was found as much of the original skate floor was saved. The Schaus family immediately committed to rebuilding on the same spot. Now, two years later, progress is steadily underway. Plans include using salvaged flooring for a practice rink, with a brand-new main rink taking shape beside it. The goal is to reopen by the end of this summer. Ramona has weathered many changes. Through it all, she has remained a place where generations learned to dance, learned to skate, and made memories. And soon, those wheels will roll again.

Since 1948, Driftwood Summer Shop on Round Lake has been a must-stop for sweatshirts, souvenirs, flip-flops, and ice cream. For generations of vacationers and cottage owners, a trip to Sister Lakes simply isn’t complete without walking through Driftwood’s doors. Built by Carl and Lucille Timmons in 1948, Driftwood was family-owned and operated for 35 years before Steve and Lorie Van Antwerp took the reins in 1983, stewarding the shop for another remarkable 35 years. In 2019, they passed the torch to their niece and her husband, Allison and Daniel LaFond, ensuring the legacy would stay in the family. It’s a beach supply stop. A gift boutique filled with jewelry, lake-themed décor, and cozy hoodies. A game arcade where neon lights glow and laughter echoes. And thanks to thoughtful expansion by the LaFonds, it now also features a full craft coffee menu using locally roasted beans from Forte Coffee. More than seven decades after it first opened, Driftwood remains a legendary and thriving resort-community anchor in a place where summer still feels the way it should.

10 – SISTER LAKES