Day Trip Dreams In St. Joseph
Summer is the perfect time to explore all of the great things to do in St Joseph Michigan!
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After a few false starts, it looks like summer is here to stay, which means that I’m craving sunshine, water (either to drink or to swim in), and ice cream. Temps are in the mid to upper 70s daily and have even gotten up above 90, and the sun is high in the sky. I could stay at home and do the same old same old. But that’s not what summer is for. I need adventure and so do you! Are the words “Michigan day trip” running through your mind yet?
While Awesome Mitten’s staff is gallivanting about on #MittenTrip summer getaways in Michigan, I headed to picturesque Saint Joseph Michigan, a historic little town on a bluff overlooking the Big Lake (that’s Lake Michigan), which offers lots of great options for completing my Michigan summer bucket list.
About St. Joseph Michigan
With a rich history going back to the 17th century, a sprawling, sandy beach for the sun-worshippers and numerous restaurants, boutique shops, ice cream parlors, paddleboard rentals, and walking paths for the shoppers, foodies, and exercise enthusiasts, the Riviera of the Midwest is a must-visit Michigan destination.
Maybe unlike many other Michigan destinations, however, one of the great things about this town is that, once you park your car, you don’t have to drive it until you’re ready to head home. Everything is within walking distance, from the Lake Michigan beachfront to the downtown!
Where is Saint Joseph, Michigan?
Ideally located just four miles north of I-94 and a popular tourist destination about an hour and a half from Grand Rapids and Chicago alike, St. Joseph is a “short drive” destination depending on your starting point.
Things to Do in St. Joseph Michigan
Whirlpool Compass Fountain
Across the river from Benton Harbor, home to the world headquarters of Whirlpool Corporation, kids of all ages splash around in a giant splash pad equipped with ground sprays and mega water cannons situated just steps away from the beachfront.
Outdoor Activities in Saint Joseph Michigan
Rent a single, tandem, or group bike from Scooter Joe’s Wheel and Water Rentals and traverse the many trails along the shore and throughout the old beach neighborhoods where you’ll take in the historic homes dating back to the early 1800s dotted amid newer homes and expansive landscapes.
If you are looking for more water time, spend $60 for a full-day paddleboard rental from Outpost Sports and target your core as you balance and paddle in the Lake Michigan waves.
Best Restaurants in St. Joseph Michigan
For breakfast in St Joe, stop at Thornton’s. With its country, blue-and-white interior, stuffed scrambles, and dinner plate-size pancakes, locals and tourists alike enjoy the atmosphere and downhome cooking before walking Main Street.
Is it lunchtime yet? Grab a slice of pizza pie at Silver Beach Pizza or a burger at The Buck while enjoying the water views along the horizon.
The dinner options are endless – from upscale to relaxed, try RyeBelles with a rooftop deck or Bistro on the Boulevard.
Where to Grab a Sweet Treat in St Joe
Craving something sweet?
Cool down with a treat from Yo Bubbs, a frozen yogurt joint with all the fixin’s, or Mimi’s Gourmet Cupcakes with flavors like chocolate salted caramel pretzel, cookies & cream, and strawberry lemonade.
The creamy flavors of Kilwins ice cream in a waffle cone will cool your palate.
Better yet, hit up the Chocolate Café, a chocolate and coffee bar with chocolates, ice cream, coffee, and by the slice goodness for sale. My favorite is the 7-layer chocolate cake served dripping with chocolate fudge and a glass of milk. Plus, stop in at night for live music and entertainment throughout the summer months.
More Things to Do in Saint Joseph
Are you an art fan? Visit Krasl Art Center or let your kids explore at the Curious Kids’ Museum. Little ones also enjoy the mini-arcade and Silver Beach Carousel.
Pick up locally grown fruit from the farmers market on Saturday mornings from June through September or search for that special something at Antiques on the Bluff on alternate Sundays from May to October.
There’s plenty to do, see, eat, and enjoy in St. Joseph. Convinced yet? Trust me– you won’t be disappointed. Did you try the 7-layer chocolate cake? What’s your favorite spot in the city?