Saint Joseph is called the Riviera of the Midwest, which reflects the popularity of this quaint beach town in Southwest Michigan. It sits on the mouth of the St. Joseph River, in the heart of the Southwest Michigan Shore Wine Trail. Head to a St. Joseph bed and breakfast and enjoy outdoor recreation on Lake Michigan, sandy beaches and dense woods at Grand Mere State Park, and an energetic coastal community.

Saint Joseph sits atop a bluff, which affords terrific views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River. This vibrant town has picturesque brick streets lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and eateries. Park the car at a bed and breakfast and enjoy strolling through this little town with camera in hand.

Innkeepers of bed and breakfasts will attest to the fact that this town is always hopping. Music wafts through the air during Brown Bag Lunch Concerts, Flagstar Friday Night Concerts, and Thursday evenings on State Street. Fresh produce calls out to be bought and consumed at the Saturday Farmers Markets June through October. And it is fun to browse outdoor antique stalls during Sunday Antiques on the Bluff.

The Krasl Art Center is perhaps the heart of the strong arts community in St. Joseph. It features four galleries of rotating monthly exhibitions, and an impressive permanent collection of contemporary sculpture outside and around town. It offers classes, workshops, open studio time, periodic concerts and receptions, but is perhaps best known for the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff each July, which draws an impressive array of well-respected artists.

Be sure to book a room in your favorite bed and breakfast during the popular Venetian Festival in July, which is Southwest Michigan’s largest community event. There is a lovely lighted boat parade, incredible sand sculpture, entertainment, and fireworks.

There is a lot to do in and around in this charming town on the bluff. Stay at a St. Joseph bed and breakfast regularly, and do it all.