St. Joseph, Michigan

The jewel of St. Joseph has to be Silver Beach County Park. Located right downtown at Broad and Lake streets, it boasts over 1,500 feet of public swimming area. Visitors can access the South Pier, where you can view the St. Joseph lighthouse. Other features include playgrounds, restrooms, accessible walkways, concession stand and volleyball courts.

Pets (leashed) are welcome on the sidewalks, but not on the beach or in the water. There is parking at the beach for a fee, and both cards and cash are accepted. The park is open all year from dawn to dusk.

On your way into the park, don’t miss the Whirlpool Compass Fountain and the one-of-a-kind Silver Beach Carousel. This colorful attraction was brought to Silver Beach in 1910, and the 44 hand carved horses were some of the most beautiful ever created. Unfortunately, in 1973, the carousel was sold and left St. Joseph. Residents missed this iconic structure and went about raising money to create another carousel. They enlisted the carvers of The Carousel Works in Ohio to build the million dollar carousel. Using hand-carving practices from the early 1900s, the new carousel arrived in St. Joseph and opened to the public in January of 2010. It takes only one $4 token to ride the Carousel, and can be purchased at the Brass Ring Gift Shop.

Tiscornia Beach Park comprises 16 acres and is located across the St. Joseph River from Silver Beach Park. Catch a sunset–or a fish on the walkway that leads to the North Pier Lighthouse. A bit quieter than Silver Beach, Tiscornia is perfect for families–offering restrooms and a picnic pavilion.

Just south of Silver Beach is Lions Park Beach. Amenities include restrooms, playground, volleyball courts and three shelters for rent. You can even hold your wedding on the beach with prior arrangements.