Visiting St. Joseph, Michigan with Kids

When we vacation, we tend to gravitate toward the coasts. I’m a beach girl at heart. This year we decided to mix it up a little and ventured to the Michigan beaches. The shoreline offers beach after beach filled with beauty and adventure. I heard so many raving reviews, I was anxious to experience it for myself. So, we packed up the car and we went. Then I started seeking a place to stay. Oops! St. Joseph Michigan is just 6 short hours {thanks to movies in the car} from St. Louis, so we booked at room at the Fairfield Inn in Watervliet, Michigan. It was just a 15 minute drive to St. Joseph.

There are plenty of things to do in St. Joseph, Michigan with kids to keep you busy for a day or two. It’s a great pass through point, or even place to grab lunch and stretch your legs as you continue up the shoreline.

We decided to spend a few hours exploring the area, starting with the Silver Beach Carousel. It’s incredibly inexpensive {just $5 for 3} and there are a few other activities, games and cars to pose in as well. If you have toddlers, you don’t want to miss the live model of the historic amusement park in the gift for a quarter. Ani and Isla’s eyes watched in amazement. If you have a little more time, you might want to check out the Curious Kids Museum as well.

Hungry? Get a hot and ready pizza to go from Silver Beach Pizza in the former Amtrak depot and avoid the 3+ hour wait and take it to one of the many picnic tables, park benches or grassy areas. You can also place a carryout order by phone {only} 269-983-4743. I have to say, it was pretty solid pizza!

The girls loved the playground on Silver Beach. It’s the first time I’ve actually seen a playground on the beach and they had a blast sliding into the sand. Is there a better place to swing into the sunset than lakeside?

The fountains also offer a great place for kids to cool off and run off energy.

There are plenty of swings and rocking chairs throughout the area to relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset. The only downside to St. Joseph seemed to be the lack of care for littering. The sidewalks, beach and parks were littered with cigarettes and trash. Otherwise it was a great place to spend an evening with the family!

Have you been to St. Joseph, Michigan with kids? If so, leave your recommendations below!