St. Joseph

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with St. Joseph's hidden gems and unique experiences!

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.

day 3
Wine Tasting Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your day with a tour of local vineyards in nearby Lake Michigan Shore Wine Country. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the vineyards to prepare for the tastings.

afternoon
:

Visit a couple of wineries to sample their exquisite wines and enjoy the scenic views of rolling vineyards. Pack a picnic or buy snacks from local shops.

evening
:

Head back to St. Joseph for a relaxed dinner featuring local cuisine paired with your favorite wine from the day. Consider a sunset view from one of the beachfront restaurants.

day 4
Outdoor Recreation
morning
:

Get your day started with a bike ride along the scenic Lake Michigan shore. Rent a bike from one of the local shops and explore the area's trails.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a lakeside café, then continue your exploration with hiking trails nearby. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the peaceful sounds of the outdoors.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a relaxing evening by the fire pit at your accommodation or a local venue. Try a casual dinner featuring fire-grilled dishes.

day 5
Art and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Krasl Art Center to appreciate local and national artworks. Participate in a hands-on art class for a creative start to your day.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café featuring art-inspired menu items. Spend the afternoon exploring local galleries and perhaps stop by shops for unique finds.

evening
:

Attend a live performance at a local theater for an enchanting evening. Wrap it up with dinner at a restaurant that celebrates local talent with themed nights.

day 6
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a local cooking class to learn about traditional Midwestern dishes. Gather fresh ingredients from the local farmer’s market to use in your class.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the meal you prepared from the class and savor the flavors of your own creation. Take the afternoon to explore local coffee shops for dessert and artisan treats.

evening
:

Dine at a notable restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings. Engage with the chef or staff to learn more about the local food scene.

day 7
Water Sports Extravaganza
morning
:

Start with an exciting morning of jet skiing or paddleboarding on Lake Michigan. Rent equipment from local operators and enjoy the thrill of the water.

afternoon
:

After some water fun, take a break for lunch at a beachside restaurant. Try out other activities like kayaking or beach volleyball in the afternoon.

evening
:

Finish up with a sunset cruise on the lake for stunning views. Select a casual seafood spot for dinner to share stories of the day’s adventures.

day 8
Pet-Friendly Adventures
morning
:

Take your furry friend for a morning stroll at the local dog park. Enjoy the fresh air while letting your pet socialize with others.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a pet-friendly café where you can enjoy a meal with your pet. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby trail with your four-legged companion.

evening
:

Head to a pet-friendly beach for an evening walk as the sun sets over the water. End the day with a cozy dinner at an outdoor patio that welcomes pets.

day 9
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off with a visit to the amusement park for thrilling rides and attractions. Grab breakfast items before diving into all the fun activities.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at the park’s food court, choosing from various family-friendly options. Continue the excitement with games and more rides in the afternoon.

evening
:

Wrap up your thrilling day with a movie night at the park or a local drive-in theater. Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby.

day 10
Sailing and Sunset
morning
:

Start the day with a sailing lesson or guided tour on Lake Michigan. Experience the wind and waves as you learn the basics of sailing.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy on board or return to shore for a local bite. Spend the afternoon exploring the waterfront, including shops and attractions.

evening
:

Conclude your sailing adventure with a sunset view from the water. Opt for dinner at a lakeside restaurant with outdoor seating for a memorable evening.

Discover St. Joseph

Read more in our St. Joseph 2024 Travel Guide.

St. Joseph Travel Guide