Things To Do
in St. Joseph

St. Joseph is a city located in northwestern Missouri along the Missouri River. It is known for its rich history as a major trading post on the frontier in the 19th century. Today, St. Joseph is a vibrant community with a mix of historic architecture, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational activities.

The city is also home to Missouri Western State University and has a growing arts and culinary scene.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Relaxing at St. Joseph
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the picturesque Silver Beach. Don’t forget to grab a coffee from a local café to kickstart your relaxing beach day.

afternoon
:

After a morning on the beach, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby Tiscornia Park. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun or playing frisbee on the park's expansive lawn.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Saint Joseph Lighthouse for stunning views. Conclude your day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant with a view of the water.

day 2
Exploring Local History
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Curious Kids' Museum, perfect for families and history buffs alike. Explore interactive exhibits that engage both young and old.

afternoon
:

Head over to the St. Joseph Museum to learn about the area's history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the quaint downtown eateries.

evening
:

Take a calming evening walk through the historic district, admiring the architecture. Dine at a cozy restaurant that highlights local flavors.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical background with various museums and landmarks.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
  • Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
  • Access to outdoor recreational activities and parks.
  • Growing local economy with opportunities in various sectors.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may experience higher crime rates.
  • Weather can be harsh, especially in winter months.
  • Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
  • Job market can be competitive in certain fields.

Best Activities in St. Joseph

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

St. Joseph Sculpture Walk

Enjoy a self-guided tour of over 30 large-scale sculptures located throughout downtown St. Joseph.

Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art

Explore the outdoor sculpture garden and enjoy art exhibitions within the museum's campus.

Krug Park

Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the beautiful setting of this historic park with lush vegetation and walking trails.

Pony Express Monument

Visit the monument commemorating the historic Pony Express and enjoy the outdoor setting of the area.

Tours

Uncover the best of St. Joseph with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in St. Joseph

Visit one of these nice places.

Silver Beach

Offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph lighthouse, perfect for sunset photos

Whirlpool Compass Fountain

A popular spot to capture the fountain and the waterfront with the city skyline in the background

Tiscornia Park

Scenic location overlooking Lake Michigan and the pier, great for capturing the beauty of the shoreline

Food in St. Joseph

St. Joseph, located in the United States, offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects the city's rich history and cultural influences. The local cuisine features a blend of traditional American dishes with a touch of international flavors, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

St. Joseph Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barbecue ribs

Tender and flavorful ribs slow-cooked to perfection, often served with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread. Must-try at Q39 or Jack Stack Barbecue.

Must-Try!

Kansas City-style BBQ

Sample the local take on barbecue with its signature tomato and molasses-based sauce, available at Woodyard Bar-B-Que or Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que.

Burnt ends

Indulge in the juicy, charred ends of smoked brisket or pork, a delicacy at local spots like Arthur Bryant's Barbeque or LC's Bar-B-Q.

Biscuits and gravy

Savor the comforting dish of flaky biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy, a breakfast staple at The Classic Cup or Succotash.

Kansas City strip steak

Experience the premium cut of steak cooked to perfection, available at The Majestic or Anton's Taproom.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

City Market

Visit this historic market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a variety of street food vendors offering dishes from around the world.

Food Truck Friday

Enjoy a vibrant gathering of food trucks showcasing diverse cuisines, held weekly at different locations across the city.

The Bite

Explore this food park featuring a rotating selection of food trucks and pop-up vendors, offering an eclectic mix of gourmet street food.

Strawberry Hill Farmers Market

Discover this community market offering locally grown produce, handmade products, and tasty street food offerings.

Night Market

Experience an evening of international flavors and live music at this monthly market, where local vendors showcase their diverse culinary creations.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and significant snowfall common from December through February. Summers are generally warm to hot, with temperatures frequently reaching the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C), accompanied by humidity. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, marked by mild temperatures and varying levels of precipitation. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight peak during the summer months. Thunderstorms can occur during the warmer months, often bringing heavy rain and occasional severe weather. Overall, the climate is characterized by a mix of severe winters and warm, humid summers, which contribute to the region's changing natural landscape throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In St. Joseph, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially during conversations.

Punctuality

Being punctual is considered respectful in St. Joseph. Arriving on time for meetings and appointments is appreciated.

Polite greetings

Using polite greetings such as 'please', 'thank you', and 'excuse me' is a common cultural norm in St. Joseph and is considered respectful behavior.

Safety

In general, safety in various cities across the United States can often be assessed through crime rates, local law enforcement practices, community initiatives, and overall public perceptions. For residents and visitors in St. Joseph, which is located in Missouri, crime rates can give a good indicator of safety levels. As with many cities, there are areas that may experience higher crime rates, particularly related to property crimes or certain violent crimes. Local law enforcement agencies typically engage in community outreach and crime prevention programs to enhance safety. Community involvement can also play a significant role in safety. Programs that promote neighborhood watch groups or community policing can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation between residents and law enforcement, contributing to a safer environment. To stay safe, it’s advisable for individuals to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night, and engage with local community resources like neighborhood associations for up-to-date information on safety initiatives and concerns. Overall, while St. Joseph, like any city, has its safety challenges, community engagement and local policing efforts can help to mitigate risks and promote a safer living and visiting environment.

Tipping in St. Joseph

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in St. Joseph, United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxis, and hotel staff.

Payment

Payment in St. Joseph, United States is primarily done using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are increasingly becoming popular. Additionally, mobile payment apps like Venmo and Cash App are also commonly used for peer-to-peer transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit St. Joseph, with blooming flowers, moderate temperatures, and various outdoor events and activities.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather, perfect for enjoying the city's beaches, parks, and outdoor festivals.

Fall

Fall reveals beautiful foliage, and the weather is still pleasant, making it a great time for nature walks and sightseeing.

Winter

Winter can be cold in St. Joseph, but the city still has its charm with holiday events, cozy cafes, and beautiful winter scenery.

St. Joseph at Night

Nestled along the Missouri River, the nightlife in St. Joseph offers a blend of historic charm and modern excitement. Music enthusiasts can explore a variety of venues featuring live performances, ranging from local bands to regional acts. Cozy pubs and breweries serve up craft beers and delicious food, ideal for a casual evening out. For those seeking a more energetic atmosphere, dance clubs and bars provide lively spots to enjoy the night. Additionally, the city's historic downtown adds an extra layer of allure, with beautifully preserved buildings enhancing the experience, making every night out in St. Joseph uniquely memorable.

Hiking in St. Joseph

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

St. Joseph Lighthouse Park

A scenic location with trails that offer beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River. Perfect for a leisurely hike along the waterfront.

Avon Park

A tranquil park with walking trails, picnic areas, and natural landscapes, providing an enjoyable hiking experience while exploring the local flora.

Warren Dunes State Park

Located a short drive from St. Joseph, this state park features towering sand dunes, wooded trails, and stunning views of Lake Michigan, making it an ideal hiking destination.

Berrien Hills Golf Club Trail

A 2-mile loop trail that is popular among local hikers, offering a mix of wooded paths and open areas with gentle elevation changes.

Love Creek County Park

With over 7 miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, this park offers a peaceful retreat in nature and opportunities for birdwatching and observing wildlife.

Aiports

How to reach St. Joseph by plane.

Kansas City International Airport (MCI)

Located approximately 45 miles southwest of St. Joseph, this is the largest airport in the region, offering a variety of domestic and international flights.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

About 500 miles northeast of St. Joseph, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for international and domestic flights.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Located roughly 600 miles west of St. Joseph, Denver International Airport is a major gateway for international travel in the Rocky Mountain region.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Situated around 500 miles south of St. Joseph, DFW is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, offering extensive international flight options.

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Located about 400 miles north of St. Joseph, MSP serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, taking into account factors like the presence of sidewalks, crosswalks, the density of destinations, traffic conditions, and overall safety. In St. Joseph, Missouri, walkability varies across different neighborhoods. The downtown area is more pedestrian-friendly, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions within a compact space, making it easy for residents and visitors to stroll around. Sidewalks are generally available, and the proximity of amenities encourages walking as a means of transportation. However, some suburban and rural areas may not be as walkable due to wider roadways, limited pedestrian infrastructure, and greater distances between residential areas and commercial businesses. This can lead to a reliance on cars for daily activities. Efforts to improve walkability, such as adding more sidewalks and crosswalks, as well as developing mixed-use spaces, can enhance the overall pedestrian experience in the region. Overall, while certain parts of St. Joseph support walking, there are challenges in areas where urban planning favored automobile travel over pedestrian access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Predominantly non-Hispanic White population.

African American

Significant population of African American residents.

Hispanic or Latino

Diverse Hispanic or Latino community, including various backgrounds.

Asian

Smaller but growing population of Asian residents.

Two or More Races

Population identifying with two or more races.

Native American

Small population of Native American residents.

Pacific Islander

Very small population of Pacific Islander residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

American football is very popular in St. Joseph, with local high school teams drawing significant community support and engagement.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following in St. Joseph, with both high school and recreational leagues promoting the sport throughout the community.

Soccer

Soccer has been growing in popularity in St. Joseph, with various youth leagues and adult recreational teams making it accessible for all ages.

Baseball

Baseball is a traditional American pastime and remains popular in St. Joseph, with local leagues and youth programs being widely supported.

Rugby

Rugby is gaining traction in St. Joseph, with local clubs providing opportunities for both playing and spectating.

Traffic

Traffic in this city typically experiences a moderate flow, with congestion often peaking during morning and evening rush hours. The main routes, including major highways and local roads, can become busy as commuters travel to and from work. Events, construction projects, and seasonal tourism can also contribute to fluctuations in traffic patterns. Public transportation options are available but limited, which means many residents rely on personal vehicles. Parking can be found in various areas, with some spots more challenging to access during busy times or local events. Overall, while the traffic may not be as intense as in larger metropolitan areas, drivers should remain aware of peak times and potential delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Joseph.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants and cafes in St. Joseph offer diverse and creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options such as plant-based burgers, fresh salads, and innovative vegetable-based entrees.

Gluten-free Friendly

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at various dining establishments, featuring gluten-free pasta dishes, pizzas with gluten-free crust, and other suitable options.

Allergen Awareness

Local eateries prioritize allergen awareness and are often willing to accommodate special dietary needs, including nut-free and dairy-free alternatives, upon request.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the area is supported by a range of facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialists offering a variety of services. The primary healthcare institution is Mosaic Life Care, which provides comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized treatments. Local clinics and healthcare providers contribute to the overall health system by offering family medicine, pediatrics, and preventive care services. There are also specialized clinics that focus on areas such as mental health, women's health, and rehabilitative services. The community has access to various health programs aimed at promoting wellness and preventive care. Local health departments often provide resources for vaccinations, health education, and screenings. Overall, the healthcare landscape focuses on accessibility, with efforts to cater to both uninsured and underinsured populations through various programs and community partnerships.

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