Lake Michigan's influence reaches this southwestern Michigan city of 11,000, where fruit orchards and manufacturing both shaped local history. The St. Joseph River flows through downtown, occasionally flooding low-lying areas during spring snowmelt. Four-season weather includes humid summers in the mid-80s and snowy winters averaging 65 inches from lake-effect storms. Niles sits 60 miles east of Chicago, close enough for economic influence but maintaining small-town character. The surrounding countryside features vineyards and agricultural land. Fall brings intense color to the area's deciduous forests, while spring can remain chilly into May.
