St. Joseph, MI Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + See, Where to Eat + Drink + Where to Stay
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan — St. Joseph, Michigan is known for its beautiful scenery and small-town feel. Visitors can enjoy beaches, a lively downtown, and outdoor activities. Relax at Silver Beach, explore historic areas with Victorian homes and lighthouses, and wander through downtown's shops and eateries. St. Joseph offers various outdoor activities, events, and friendly vibes, making it a great destination to explore.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
St. Joseph, Michigan offers natural beauty, cultural attractions, arts, and great food. Visit the Box Factory for the Arts to see local artists' work. Enjoy diverse dining options from fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine. Experience lively events like the BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass Festival and the St. Joseph Ice Festival showcasing music, food, and culture throughout the year in this lakeside city.
Things to Do in St. Joseph, Michigan
St. Joseph, Michigan has some of the most pristine beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan, and in the United States, making it a must-visit destination for both beach lovers. Walkable from downtown St. Joseph, Silver Beach is one of Southwest Michigan's most popular beaches, standing out as a crown jewel with its soft sand, clear water, and panoramic views of the lake. If you're lounging under the warm sun, taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline — Silver Beach offers the perfect setting for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
Families will appreciate the beach's family-friendly amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Beyond Silver Beach, St. Joseph is home to several other stunning stretches of Michigan coastline waiting to be explored.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
Tiscornia Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a quieter retreat amidst nature's beauty. Meanwhile, Lions Park Beach provides opportunities for fishing and boating, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of adventure on the water. With its pristine beaches, breathtaking vistas, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation — St. Joseph, Michigan invites you to explore the natural beauty of its shores and create unforgettable memories along the picturesque Lake Michigan coastline.
St. Joseph, Michigan's downtown is a bustling hub of activity, serving up a charming blend of historic architecture, eclectic shops, and enticing chef-driven bistros. Meandering through the streets of downtown St. Joseph feels like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved buildings and quaint storefronts that exude a timeless appeal. From trendy boutiques and art galleries, to antique shops and specialty stores, there's no shortage of treasures waiting to be discovered around every corner.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
If you’re looking for outdoor recreational opportunities — St. Joseph, Michigan is a gateway to adventure amidst the city's stunning natural surroundings. With its prime location along the shores of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy. Tiscornia Park is a popular destination for hiking and nature walks, boasting scenic trails that wind through lush woodlands and offer breathtaking views of the lake and lighthouse. You can also take advantage of the park's picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a leisurely day in the great outdoors. For those looking to experience the thrill of the open water, St. Joseph, Michigan offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
Charter a boat on Lake Michigan and head off on a fishing excursion to reel in the day's catch, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan at your own pace. Meanwhile, Lions Park Beach provides the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball, offering a picturesque backdrop for a day of fun in the sun. With its abundance of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces, St. Joseph, Michigan invites you to enjoy nature's beauty and discover the endless possibilities for outdoor recreation that await along its scenic shores.
Where to Eat in St. Joseph, Michigan
Helmed by Executive Chef Cheryl Bernacchi — Bistro on The Boulevard in St. Joseph, Michigan brings you a menu that executes elevated, seasonal, modern American cuisine by celebrating the bounties of Southwest Michigan and its local farmers and producers.
Image: The Bistro on The Boulevard in St. Joseph, Michigan
Favorite dishes at Bistro on The Boulevard include Roasted Chicken with Jidori airline breast, sugar snap peas, scallions, Brussels sprout petals, asparagus, potato gnocchi, wild mushrooms, Trillium cheese, and morel mushroom jus; Hamachi with sushi-grade seared hamachi, cucumber, sweet pepper, scallions, cilantro, bok choy, radicchio, and aji panca vinaigrette; Elk with herb marinated chops, roasted fingerlings, haricot vert, spinach and fava bean medley, cauliflower mousse, port wine cherry demi-glacé; as well as Halibut with chili-honey glaze, Israeli couscous, sautéed spinach, and charred lime beurre blanc.
For breakfast and brunch savor the Bistro Brunch Board with pancakes, cherrywood smoked bacon, jammy eggs, fresh fruit, smoked salmon, cured egg yolk, and petite bagels, or Stuffed French Toast with fresh blueberries, lemon cream, cinnamon streusel, and maple pearls. The Bistro on The Boulevard is an unforgettable experience that delights the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
What to See in St. Joseph, Michigan
Tiscornia Park is a popular destination for hiking and nature walks, boasting scenic trails that wind through lush woodlands and offer breathtaking views of the lake and lighthouse. You can also take advantage of the park's picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a leisurely day in the great outdoors. For those looking to experience the thrill of the open water, St. Joseph, Michigan offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports.
Image Courtesy: Michigan Beachtowns
St. Joseph, Michigan hosts various events celebrating its culture and community throughout the year. From beach concerts to holiday festivities, the city attracts visitors with exciting activities. A standout event is the annual BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass Festival, offering delicious food, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy, showcasing the essence of St. Joseph, Michigan.
Image Courtesy: Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
During winter, St. Joseph Ice Festival turns the city into a magical wonderland with stunning ice sculptures. Visitors can enjoy intricate art pieces, ice carving shows, and festive vibes. Explore downtown St. Joseph, Michigan adorned with lights, decorations, and holiday music. Witness the beauty of ice sculptures and savor treats from local vendors at this delightful winter celebration.
Where to Drink in St. Joseph, Michigan
Enjoy upscale American cuisine with delicious meals made from locally grown ingredients at The Bistro on The Boulevard — a New American restaurant focusing on seasonal, contemporary cuisine that highlights Michigan producers. In addition to their cocktail program, The Bistro is a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence recipient for featuring the largest wine list in the area. Seasonal house cocktails created by their bar team include some of these tantalizing favorites.
Image: The Bistro on The Boulevard in St. Joseph, Michigan
For your artisanal cocktail fix at The Bistro on The Boulevard, we recommend trying not one, but three of their signature cocktails, the Gardner’s Retreat — concocted with Three Olives cucumber vodka, strawberry purée and fresh-squeezed lime, the Michigan Mule with Three Olives cherry vodka, ginger beer, cherry juice, and fresh-squeezed lime, or the Dreamsicle on the Boulevard with RumChata, Stoli vanilla, fresh-squeezed orange Juice, and Monin vanilla.
Where to Stay in St. Joseph, Michigan
Located in St. Joseph, Michigan — The Boulevard Inn is a stylish boutique hotel near Lake Michigan known for its hospitality and elegance. With a mix of modern comfort and historic charm, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with beautiful lake views, comfy beds, and upscale amenities for a relaxing stay. Whether you're planning a romantic trip, family vacation, or weekend getaway with friends, The Boulevard Inn has accommodations to meet your needs and preferences.
The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan offers cozy rooms and a top-rated restaurant, Bistro on the Boulevard. The restaurant serves delicious dishes made with local ingredients in a welcoming setting. Guests can dine outside on the terrace or inside the elegant dining room. Experience exceptional dining, luxurious rooms, and outstanding service. Book now for the best rates.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with any companies in question before planning your trip.
