10 Fun Family Activities In St. Joseph, Michigan

family things to do in st joseph michigan

St. Joseph, Michigan is a charming lakeside town that offers a wide range of exciting family activities. Whether you're interested in exploring the great outdoors, discovering new foods, or spending quality time with your loved ones, this town has got you covered. From the beach to the downtown area, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure that the whole family can enjoy. In this article, we've rounded up ten of the most entertaining family-friendly activities that you can experience in St. Joseph, Michigan. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready to make unforgettable memories!

Activity Description
Silver Beach County Park Features a large beach, picnic areas, playgrounds, water sports rentals, and a carousel
St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse Explore the history of the lighthouse and take in the views of Lake Michigan
Curious Kids Museum Offers hands-on exhibits and play areas for kids of all ages
Shadowland on Silver Beach Family-friendly arcade and entertainment center featuring laser tag, mini golf, and more
Whirlpool Compass Fountain Interactive water fountain in the center of downtown St. Joseph
Krasl Art Center Art museum with rotating exhibits and programs, including family-friendly workshops
Tiscornia Beach Smaller beach located in a residential neighborhood with a playground and picnic areas
St. Joseph Riverwalk Scenic path along the St. Joseph River with benches and picnic areas
Box Factory for the Arts Community arts center with art exhibits, classes, and events
St. Joseph Municipal Bandshell Outdoor amphitheater with free concerts and performances during the summer

quartzmountain

Visit Silver Beach

Visit
Source: Boulevard Inn & Bistro
Characteristic Description
NameSilver Beach
TypeBeach in St. Joseph, Michigan
Rating / Review count4.7 / 658

St. Joseph, Michigan is a quaint beach town located in Southwest Michigan. One of the must-visit places in this town is the beautiful Silver Beach. It is the perfect spot for families looking for a fun-filled day under the sun.

Silver Beach is located at the mouth of the St. Joseph River and overlooks Lake Michigan. The beach boasts a wide range of activities for all ages. Children can enjoy building sandcastles, while adults can soak up the sun on one of the many lounge chairs available. The crystal clear waters of the lake provide a perfect place for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for more adventure, Silver Beach offers a variety of water sports. Jet skis, pontoon boats, and sailboats are available for rent. The beach also has a splash pad for kids to play in, beach volleyball courts, and a mini-golf course. Visitors can also rent bicycles and ride on the picturesque trails along the lakefront.

Aside from the beach, Silver Beach also has a beautiful park, which offers picnic areas, a playground, and a small water park. The park is surrounded by lush greenery, which makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

If you’re interested in learning about the history of the area, the Silver Beach Carousel is worth a visit. The carousel is housed in a beautiful pavilion and has been beautifully restored to its original grandeur. It’s a great place for families to enjoy a classic ride, and also learn about the history of the area.

Visiting Silver Beach is not complete without trying some amazing food. The beach has several food stands and restaurants that serve delicious food. You can enjoy homemade ice cream and freshly squeezed lemonade at one of the beach stands or taste some delicious seafood at one of the restaurants overlooking the lake.

In conclusion, Silver Beach in St. Joseph, Michigan, is the perfect place for families looking for a fun-filled day under the sun. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the beach has something for everyone. With its beautiful views, wide range of activities and delicious food, a visit to Silver Beach is a must when in St. Joseph.

quartzmountain

Take
Source: Holland Sentinel
Characteristic Description
NameSilver Beach Carousel
TypeAmusement park ride in St. Joseph, Michigan
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.7 / 1,010
Address333 Broad St, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(269) 932-1141
HoursTuesday - Closed
Wednesday - Closed
Thursday - Closed
Friday - Closed
Saturday - opens at 12 and closes at 8 PM
Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 8 PM
Monday - Closed
Profiles

Looking for a fun family activity in St. Joseph, Michigan? Look no further than the Silver Beach Carousel! This beautifully restored carousel is sure to delight children and adults alike.

In addition to its stunning design and intricate hand-carved animals, the Silver Beach Carousel offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other carousels - the opportunity to choose your own ride. Rather than just hopping on any available horse, riders can select the animal of their choice from a variety of options, ranging from a regal lion to a whimsical dragonfly.

The carousel is located within the Silver Beach Center, which has plenty of additional attractions to keep your family entertained before or after your ride. You can take a stroll along the beach, play a round of mini golf, or explore the Curious Kids' Museum.

If you're visiting St. Joseph during the summer months, be sure to take advantage of the carousel's extended hours. It's open until 8pm daily, giving you plenty of time to ride to your heart's content.

In addition to being a fun activity for families, the Silver Beach Carousel is also a beloved community gathering place. It's often used as a venue for birthdays, weddings, and other special events, and it's not uncommon to see locals hanging out there on a sunny afternoon.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, the Silver Beach Carousel is a must-visit attraction in St. Joseph, Michigan. So gather up the family, select your favorite animal, and take a ride you won't soon forget!

quartzmountain

Tour the Curious Kids' Museum

Tour
Source: WNDU

If you are looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your family in St. Joseph, Michigan, a visit to the Curious Kids Museum should be at the top of your list. This museum provides a wide range of hands-on exhibits and activities guaranteed to keep kids of all ages entertained and engaged.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Curious Kids Museum is a popular destination for families visiting the area. With over 100 exhibits spread across two floors, the museum offers a unique and interactive approach to learning. Kids can explore and discover everything from science and technology to art and culture.

One of the most popular exhibits is the "Bubble Room," where children can create giant soap bubbles, play with bubble wands, and even enter a bubble filled with fog. The "Body Works" exhibit allows kids to learn about the human body through interactive displays, including a skeleton that kids can assemble themselves. Meanwhile, in the "Toys & Treasures" exhibit, kids can step back in time and explore vintage toys and games.

Perhaps one of the most unique features of the museum is the "Science in Motion" exhibit, which allows visitors to launch hot air balloons, test wind turbines, experiment with friction, and even design their own roller coasters. This exhibit is an excellent way to help kids develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

The museum also provides special events and workshops throughout the year. Visitors can attend science camps, art workshops, and even special events like "Family Nights" and "Sleepovers at the Museum." And for those interested in more science-related activities, the nearby Curious Kids' Discovery Zone is the perfect place to explore science experiments and outdoor activities.

Overall, the Curious Kids Museum is an excellent destination for families looking to spend quality time together in St. Joseph. With its hands-on exhibits, interactive activities, and special events, this museum offers something for everyone. So if you are looking for a fun and educational activity for your family, be sure to plan a visit to the Curious Kids Museum.

quartzmountain

Explore the Krasl Art Center

Explore
Source: Southwest Michigan
Characteristic Description
NameKrasl Art Center
TypeArt gallery in St. Joseph, Michigan
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.5 / 232
Address707 Lake Blvd, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(269) 983-0271
HoursTuesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Wednesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 8 PM
Thursday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 8 PM
Friday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Saturday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Monday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles           

If you're looking for a family friendly cultural experience in St. Joseph, Michigan, the Krasl Art Center is definitely worth a visit. The Krasl Art Center is located just a short walk from the downtown St. Joseph area, making it easy to reach if you're in the area.

The Krasl Art Center is a non-profit organization that is committed to making the arts accessible for everyone. Their mission is to "inspire meaningful change and strengthen community through the visual arts". The center was founded in 1961 and has been a hub for the arts in St. Joseph ever since.

One of the highlights of the Krasl Art Center is their rotating exhibitions. These exhibitions showcase a variety of artists, styles, and mediums, so there's always something new to see. The exhibitions vary in size and scope, but they all offer a glimpse into the current state of the art world.

In addition to the exhibitions, the Krasl Art Center also offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year. These programs are designed for people of all ages and skill levels, so whether you're a seasoned artist or just getting started, there's something for you.

For families with young children, the Krasl Art Center offers a variety of children's programs, including art camps, classes, and workshops. These programs are designed to help children develop their creativity, learn new skills, and have fun in the process.

One of the unique aspects of the Krasl Art Center is their Sculpture Walk. This outdoor art exhibit features more than 25 sculptures by a variety of artists. The sculptures are located throughout the downtown St. Joseph area, making it easy to take a self-guided tour and enjoy the art while exploring the city.

Overall, the Krasl Art Center is a great place to explore and appreciate the arts. With exhibitions, programs, and events for people of all ages, it's a perfect destination for families looking for a cultural experience in St. Joseph, Michigan.

12 Fun Things to Do in Lenoir City, TN

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Go on a hike at Tiscornia Beach

Go
Source: Midwest Nomad Family
Characteristic Description
NameTiscornia Park - St. Joseph
TypePark in St. Joseph, Michigan
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.7 / 1,467
Address80 Ridgeway St, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(269) 983-6341
HoursTuesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Wednesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Thursday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Friday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Saturday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Sunday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM
Monday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM

St. Joseph, Michigan is a picturesque city located right on the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers a range of fun activities for visitors, whether they're single, couples, or families. There are so many things to see and do in this beautiful city that it can be difficult to decide what to do first. One fun activity you might want to consider is going on a hike at Tiscornia Beach.

Tiscornia Beach is located within the Tiscornia Park which is a great spot for a family get-together. The beach offers a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and it's surrounded by woods, hills, trails, and bramble. You'll get some exercise, breathe in fresh air, and if you're lucky, spot some wildlife during your hike.

The Tiscornia Beach hiking trail is in the park is about 1.6 miles long, and it winds through dense forest, sandy dunes, and offers incredible views of the lake. Walking on the trail is moderate to easy, and it's suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Along the trail, you'll see a wide variety of trees, plants, and animals that are native to the area. You might spot birds like hawks, falcons, gulls, or waterfowl, and if you're lucky, a deer may be grazing nearby. The trail is well-marked, and there are several scenic viewpoints where you can take a break, relax, and take in the beauty around you.

If you're looking for a more challenging hike, there are many off-trail options in the dunes and woods around Tiscornia Beach. Whatever trail you choose, make sure you stay safe and respect the environment. Leave no trace and pack out your garbage to keep this pristine area beautiful for future generations.

Tiscornia Beach is a beautiful spot to enjoy the great outdoors and create awesome family memories while in St. Joseph, Michigan. It's a great hike for nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. So, the next time you're in St. Joseph, make sure to add Tiscornia Beach hike to your to-do list.

quartzmountain

Play a round of mini-golf at Harbor Shores

Play
Source: Norwalk Cove Marina

If you're looking for fun, family-friendly activities in St. Joseph, Michigan, look no further than Harbor Shores. One of the highlights of this resort community is its championship golf course, but you don't have to be a pro to enjoy what's on offer. In fact, one of the most accessible and enjoyable options at Harbor Shores is mini-golf.

Playing a round of mini-golf can be a great way to spend a few hours with your family, friends, or even on a date. And at Harbor Shores, the course is designed to be both fun and challenging, with 18 holes winding through a variety of natural and man-made obstacles. The course also features replicas of some of St. Joseph's most famous landmarks, such as the lighthouse and Silver Beach Carousel. So not only will you have a great time putting around the course, you'll also get a chance to soak up some local history and culture.

One of the best things about mini-golf at Harbor Shores is that it's affordable. Rates are just $9 per person, making it an affordable activity for families and groups of all sizes. And if you're planning to spend more than just a few hours at Harbor Shores, you can take advantage of package deals that include accommodations, golf, dining, and more.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do at Harbor Shores besides mini-golf. You can hit the links on the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, go for a swim in the pool, or take a stroll along the beach. There are also several dining options on site, where you can grab a bite to eat before or after your mini-golf adventure.

Overall, if you're looking for a fun, affordable, and family-friendly activity in St. Joseph, Michigan, be sure to try out mini-golf at Harbor Shores. With its beautiful setting, challenging course, and historical landmarks, it's definitely not your average mini-golf experience.

quartzmountain

Visit the St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse

Visit
Source: Detroit News
Characteristic Description
NameSt Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse
TypeHistorical landmark in St. Joseph, Michigan
Rating / Review count4.8 / 478
AddressSt Joseph, MI 49085
HoursTuesday - Closed
Wednesday - opens at 7 and closes at 9 PM
Thursday - Closed
Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2 PM
Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2 PM
Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 4 PM
Monday - Closed

If you're looking for a family-friendly activity in St. Joseph, Michigan, the St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse is a great option. This historic lighthouse, built in 1907, is a local landmark that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

To start your visit, make your way to the Silver Beach County Park. The lighthouse is located at the end of the pier that extends from the south end of the park. The pier itself is a beautiful walk that offers stunning views of the lake on both sides. Keep in mind that it can be quite windy out on the pier, so dress appropriately.

Once you reach the lighthouse, you can take guided tours of the interior. The tours are run by the Heritage Museum and Cultural Center and last about 30 minutes. During the tour, you'll learn about the history of the lighthouse, the role it played in the community, and the life of lighthouse keepers in the early 20th century. You'll also get to climb to the top of the lighthouse and see the incredible view from the lantern room.

While the lighthouse itself is the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. The Silver Beach County Park features a playground, picnic areas, and a beach that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, so you can easily make a day of your visit to St. Joseph.

Overall, visiting the St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse is an excellent family activity that's both educational and fun. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just enjoying the beautiful scenery, this lighthouse is definitely worth a visit.

quartzmountain

Take a boat tour with Sunset Coast Paddle Sports

Take
Source: funstpete.com
Characteristic Description
NameSouthwest Michigan Cycleboat
TypeBoat rental service in St. Joseph, Michigan
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4 / 8
Address800 Whitwam Dr, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(833) 752-9253
HoursTuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

St. Joseph, Michigan is a beautiful location to visit with your family. With stunning views of Lake Michigan and a plethora of activities to do, it is the perfect place for a family getaway. A family-friendly activity that you should check out during your visit is taking a boat tour with Sunset Coast Paddle Sports.

Sunset Coast Paddle Sports offers a variety of boat tours that are perfect for families. From sunset tours to lighthouse tours, you will find something that suits your family's interests. Their tours provide a unique way to explore the St. Joseph area while enjoying the outdoors.

One of the popular boat tours is their sunset tour. This tour is perfect for families who want to relax and take in the stunning scenery of Lake Michigan. The tour begins in the early evening and lasts for two hours. During this time, you will get to see the beautiful sunset over Lake Michigan. The tour is led by experienced and friendly guides who will ensure that your family has an enjoyable experience.

Another unique boat tour that Sunset Coast Paddle Sports offers is their lighthouse tour. This tour is perfect for families who are interested in history and want to learn more about the lighthouses in the St. Joseph area. You will get to see four different lighthouses during the tour, including the St. Joseph North and South Pier Lights, the St. Joseph North Pier Outer Light, and the Michigan City East Pierhead Light. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who will provide interesting facts and stories about each of the lighthouses.

Sunset Coast Paddle Sports also offers custom boat tours for families who want to tailor their tour to their interests. They can create a personalized tour that includes activities such as fishing, swimming, or even a picnic on the beach.

Taking a boat tour with Sunset Coast Paddle Sports is a fun and unique way to experience St. Joseph, Michigan. It is the perfect activity for families who want to spend time together while exploring the beautiful scenery of the area. Booking a boat tour is easy, and the guides at Sunset Coast Paddle Sports are always happy to answer any questions and provide recommendations for other family-friendly activities to do in the St. Joseph area. So, pack a picnic and bring the family for a day of scenic adventure on the waters around St. Joseph, Michigan.

quartzmountain

Attend a concert or movie at the Shadowland Pavilion

Attend
Source: Wikipedia
Characteristic Description
NameShadowland Pavilion
TypeEvent venue in St. Joseph, Michigan
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.8 / 38
Address101 Broad St, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(269) 983-7111 ext. 8435

St. Joseph, Michigan is an idyllic town situated on the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its gorgeous beaches, rich history, and quaint downtown area, St. Joseph makes for the perfect family vacation destination. If you're looking for something fun to do with the family in St. Joseph, we recommend attending a concert or movie at the Shadowland Pavilion.

Located on the St. Joseph River, the Shadowland Pavilion is an open-air venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, movies, and festivals. The pavilion is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great way to enjoy some live music or a movie outdoors in the summertime.

One of the best things about the Shadowland Pavilion is its location. Situated right on the banks of the St. Joseph River, the pavilion offers stunning views of the water, and a peaceful setting for a night out with the family. You'll love the atmosphere of this outdoor venue, which is perfect for picnicking and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Throughout the summer months, the Shadowland Pavilion hosts a variety of cultural events and music concerts, featuring everything from classical music to rock and roll. You can expect to see concerts from local and national acts, as well as performances from theater groups, dancers, and other performers.

If you're looking for a more laid-back evening, the pavilion also offers movie nights, featuring family-friendly films that everyone is sure to love. Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn, and settle in for an evening under the stars.

Overall, attending a concert or movie at the Shadowland Pavilion is a must-do activity for families visiting St. Joseph, Michigan. With its breathtaking location, diverse range of events, and family-friendly atmosphere, the pavilion offers something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your loved ones, head to the Shadowland Pavilion and make some unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!

13 Fun Things to Do in Green River, Utah

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Enjoy a sweet treat at Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream

Enjoy
Source: Kilwins |
Characteristic Description
NameKilwins St. Joseph
TypeIce cream shop
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.7 / 996
Address217 State St #1126, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone(269) 982-1330
HoursTuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM
Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

St. Joseph, Michigan is a lovely tourist destination located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. It is a charming city that is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, amazing restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. St. Joseph is a place where everyone feels right at home, and one of the most beloved spots in the town is Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream.

Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream is a family-operated business that has been serving the best homemade ice cream and chocolates for over 70 years. The store is located in the heart of downtown St. Joseph, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. If you're looking for a sweet treat that will make your day memorable, Kilwins should be at the top of your list.

The shop offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, ranging from traditional vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry to unique flavors like key lime pie, caramel sea salt, and mint chocolate chip. Every scoop of ice cream is made fresh on-site and served in a cone or cup of your choice. If you're not in the mood for ice cream, Kilwins also offers assorted chocolate truffles, chocolate-covered pretzels, fudge, and other treats.

One of the best things about Kilwins is that they use the finest ingredients to make their products. They use fresh cream and pure cane sugar for their ice cream, and the chocolates are made with high-quality Belgian chocolate that is sourced from the best cocoa-producing regions in the world. This attention to detail shows in the taste of their products and keeps customers coming back for more.

Kilwins offers a great atmosphere that is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. The store is designed to look like a vintage candy shop, with bright colors, fun displays, and friendly staff members. The shop also has a few tables and chairs where customers can sit and enjoy their treats while taking in the sights and sounds of downtown St. Joseph.

In conclusion, if you're in St. Joseph, Michigan, and looking for a sweet treat, Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream is the place to go. Their homemade ice cream and chocolates are second to none, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling through the area. Make Kilwins your next stop and enjoy a delicious treat that will leave you wanting more.

Frequently asked questions

- The Silver Beach Carousel, the Curious Kids' Museum, and the St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse are all great options for families to visit.

- Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Silver Beach County Park, which includes a beach, playgrounds, and trails. There are also opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating.

- There are several options, such as Schu's Grill & Bar, which serves American and Mediterranean food and has a kids' menu. Also, Clementine's Too is a popular spot for ice cream and casual dining.

- Yes! The city offers several holiday-themed events, including the Reindog Parade, the Festival of Trees, and the Lighted Christmas Parade. Also, there are plenty of opportunities for ice skating and snowshoeing.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

2 Comments

EZ

Ezekiel Hooper

My family and I recently took a trip to St. Joseph, Michigan, and we were pleasantly surprised by the variety of family-friendly activities available. One of our favorite things to do was walking along the St. Joseph Riverwalk. The views of the river and the lighthouse were absolutely stunning, and it was a great way to spend some quality time together as a family. We also enjoyed visiting the Curious Kids’ Museum, which had interactive exhibits that kept our kids entertained for hours. Another highlight of our trip was visiting the Chocolate Garden, a local chocolate shop that offers a variety of handmade treats. We couldn't resist stocking up on some delicious goodies to take home with us. St. Joseph is definitely a destination that caters to families and provides memorable experiences for everyone.
AL

Alexandre Nicholson

My family and I recently visited St. Joseph, Michigan, and we had the best time exploring the family-friendly activities in the area. One of our favorite things to do was spending a day at Silver Beach County Park. The beach was clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space for the kids to play. We also enjoyed visiting the Silver Beach Carousel and taking a ride on the beautifully restored hand-carved horses. St. Joseph also has a great selection of family-friendly restaurants. We loved trying the local seafood and enjoying a meal together as a family. Overall, St. Joseph is a wonderful destination for families looking for fun and memorable experiences.

Leave a comment