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Tours & Attractions
What an amazing place! Here, you can ride in a miniature train pulled by a 100 -year-old steam engine. Sail on a replica War of 1812 tall ship. Climb to the top of a lighthouse. Or challenge your teens to laser tag. This page directs you to hours of fun.
Makers Trail
Just follow the Makers Trail. What a welcome you’ll receive at each stop along the way in Berrien County as we pop wine corks, tap beer kegs and whiskey barrels, and pour flights for you and your friends. Drink in our makers’ art and bring home your favorites.
For Foodies
Southwest Michigan grows a cornucopia of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Explore this section to find nearby farms and markets to gather up your favorite just-picked, flavor-rich foods. Or a myriad of restaurants and sweets shops — many proudly serving locally raised ingredients. There’s a table ready for you.
Outdoor Recreation
Southwest Michigan is a four-season paradise with Lake Michigan and a countryside peppered with scenic rivers, inland lakes and verdant hills.
Creative Connections
Some places naturally inspire us. Southwest Michigan is one of them. The vibrancy and beauty of Lake Michigan, the serenity of our countryside and the rich stories of our past fill this land with creative inspiration. That’s why some of the region’s finest artists, writers, musicians, history-makers and performers call this home.
Shopping
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift, looking for the latest fashions, decorating your home or office — Southwest Michigan’s boutiques, galleries and shops are filled with must-have ideas.
Itineraries
Few places in America offer the gorgeous scenery, farm-fresh deliciousness and hours upon hours of affordable, family fun you'll find in Southwest Michigan.
Parks and Nature
We’ll show you where to climb towering dunes, mountain bike on twisty trails, hunt for crinoids and beach glass and picnic as the sun dips below a vibrantly-hued horizon.

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Top Free Fall Activities in Southwest Michigan

Related Member: Box Factory for the Arts, The Heritage Museum and Cultural Center, Siegfried H. Horn Museum, Krasl Art Center, North Berrien Historical Museum, Weko Beach Campground, Jean Klock Park, Silver Beach County Park, Galien River County Park, Andrews Trails

From the gorgeous fall colors to the bountiful harvest that fills our Lake Michigan coast, fall is one of the best times to travel to Southwest Michigan. It is also a more affordable and calmer time of year to visit since our busy summer season has come to an end. You will find plenty of free activities in and around St. Joseph that are perfect for anyone on a budget. Here are the top free things to do in Southwest Michigan this fall:

  1. Go on a fall color tour. Our jewel-toned landscape is one of the top reasons to visit Southwest Michigan this fall. Check out our Fall Color Guide for the best route suggestions.
  2. GalienRiverHike at Galien River County Park. Take in the colorful view of changing leaves as you walk the 300’ canopy walk that leads out to a 60’ high platform overlooking the marshland and Galien River. Or follow the boardwalk that leads to the fishing platform down by the water. 
  3. Walk along the beach. Lake Michigan is beautiful in the fall! Silver Beach, Jean Klock Park, New Buffalo City Beach and Weko Beach stop collecting parking fees after Labor Day weekend. Here’s your chance to visit these popular beaches for free and not have to fight the crowd for a parking spot. 
  4. Explore the arts. Krasl Art Center and the Box Factory for the Arts offer visitors the chance to see their art exhibitions at no cost. Plus, now through April you can play Creative Pursuit and get rewarded for visiting our local galleries, museums, and performances.
  5. BeachSunsetWatch the sunset over Lake Michigan. While this is free any time of year, the view is priceless no matter how many times you’ve seen it. Lookout Park in St. Joseph is a great viewing spot.
  6. Bring your kayak and paddle our rivers and lakes! Fall is one of the best times to be on the water. No bugs swarming you, mild temperatures and beautiful fall colors all around you. View our paddling guide to find your favorite route.
  7. North Berrien MuseumLearn about the history and culture of Southwest Michigan at one of our museums. There are a variety of museums in our area that tell about our past and house fun interactive exhibits. The North Berrien Historical Museum and the Siegfried H. Horn Museum are free to the public.
  8. Bike thrilling trails beneath the fall foliage. The gorgeous fall colors and technical features at Andrews University Trails will excite any cyclist. And with no admission fee, you can visit several times during your stay. Book your room now to plan your visit before the leaves fall.

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