Must-Visit Places for Families in St. Joseph, MI

From a vast beach and spray fountain to unique pizzas and quality art, the small town of St. Joseph in Michigan has it all. To start you off on your adventures, we’ve put together a list of some family-friendly places that locals love and visitors enjoy coming back to.

1. Silver Beach

Let’s start off this post with something Michigan families love to do together…going to the beach. Silver Beach in St. Joseph is a family-friendly area with lots of amenities like restrooms, a playground, as well as lifeguards. Because the area is so vast, when it’s not tourist season, you could have the entire beach to yourself. Wherever you decide to lay out your picnic basket, just know you’ll have an amazing view of the surroundings.

2. Krasl’s Art Center

Do you and your significant other enjoy experiencing high quality art exhibitions? The Krasl Art Center hosts public displays of works of art throughout the year. And while you’re looking at the artwork, the kids can head over to the recyclable creation craft area and write stuff on the wall with a pencil. Remember to also take advantage of The Shop at the center to buy one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family. If you’re still around on the second weekend in July, check out the nationally recognized Krasl Art Fair at the beautiful Lake Bluff Park on Lake Boulevard in downtown St. Joseph.

3. Whirlpool Compass Fountain

Now, here’s a place you just have to experience for yourself. The Whirlpool Compass has a huge interactive spray fountain that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. The fountain rotates through a variety of water pressures, starting with small sprays from the cannons lining the perimeter, and culminating in a large display of water art. You can sit at the benches circling the area as you simultaneously cool off and watch the kids run around chasing the water jets.

4. Curious Kids Museum

On the bluff near downtown St. Joseph, you’ll come across the 100 hands-on exhibits as well as activities for young kids at the Curious Kids Museum. Each exhibit is interactive, engaging visitors’ interest while at the same time dispelling the notion of “magic.” The whole family will have a great time learning science and technology principles through multiple life-like examples.

5. Silver Beach Pizza

Silver Beach Pizza is a must-visit for every family. Their unique pizza offerings bring a whole new meaning to the iconic triangle slices. It’s also pretty easy to order one from their booth if you’re in a rush, or get a table in one of their multiple dining rooms that have superb views of Lake Michigan. As an added bonus, the kids will also enjoy watching the trains rolling through the Amtrak station in the distance.

6. Watermark Brewery

We know what you’re thinking—take the kids to a brewery? It’s just not done. Well, the Watermark Brewery doesn’t just craft some of the best beers in Southwest Michigan, it also does a great job catering to kids. With a large room that supports social distancing, as well as the local food trucks on the premise and varieties of sodas on the menu, you’ll have a safe family meal as the adults sample some delicious brews.

7. Mimi’s Cupcakes

If you have a sweet tooth or are craving some delicious desserts, Mimi’s Cupcakes is the place to go. The family-owned bakery has over 70 different made-from-scratch cupcakes and frosting. Head over to their store in downtown St. Joe or catch up with the cupcake truck out near the beach—you won’t regret it.

8. Kelley’s Bowl

Kelley’s Bowl is a great place to keep your kids entertained with low-intensity sports. You’ll have access to 30 bowling lanes, a contemporary food menu, full bar, as well as a vibrant arcade. Even if your bowling skills aren’t up to par, you can choose to host memorable birthdays and other special occasions in this top-notch facility.

9. Silver Beach Carousel

Our list would be incomplete if we didn’t include one of our favorite places that literally goes round and round. With its life-like horses and spinning machine, the Silver Beach Carousel is the place of numerous childhood memories for locals. What’s more? Visitors to this hand-carved loop have the option of dressing up in the provided props. From adults wearing fur hats to kids pretending to be horses, this magnificent carousel is a great place to have some child-like fun.

10. Berrien Dental 

Teeth are strong but not unbreakable. Families in St. Joseph, as well as its surrounding areas, love the compassionate and knowledgeable care of Berrien Dental. We understand that going to the dentist may not be one of your favorite things to do, and that’s why our dentists make maximum use of your visits to provide a one-of-a-kind dental experience that makes you feel welcome and cared for.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, feel free to schedule an appointment with us for all your family’s dental needs.