Discover Why St. Joseph is One of Michigan’s Most Romantic Destinations

A few years ago, the Detroit Free Press named St. Joseph "Michigan’s Most Romantic City," and this charming town continues to live up to its title. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a wedding or a honeymoon, St. Joseph warmly invites couples to create unforgettable memories. Here's how to celebrate your love in this picturesque lakeside town:

Romantic getaways by Lake Michigan

Two area hoteliers offer romantic packages that help you say “I love you”.

Romance on the Boulevard, Sweet Dreams, and seasonal packages like Winter Getaway, Valentine's and the Magical Ice Festival are available at The Boulevard Inn & Bistro. This all-suite hotel and modern American cuisine restaurant are on a picturesque bluff overlooking Lake Michigan and within steps of St. Joseph’s vibrant downtown.

Lake Michigan Romance, Rise & Dine, Stay and Play, or Michigan Beercation add-ons and seasonal packages like “Valentine’s Day: A Night of Romance,” are available at The Inn at Harbor Shores. Alongside the inner harbor of the St. Joseph River, The Inn is just 1/4 mile to Lake Michigan and just minutes from the championship Jack Nicklaus signature golf course on this resort’s campus. All guest rooms feature a sliding glass door leading to a private balcony where you can look up and count the stars at night. There is also an onsite marina with easy access to Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River if you arrive in your boat. It's the premier lake resort in Southwest Michigan.

While you stay at the Inn, indulge as a couple in the full-service spa during the morning or afternoon. Seasonally borrow or rent bicycles, a swan or paddleboat, relax in the pool or reserve your spots on the Harbor Hopper cycleboat that docks at the Inn. 

Throughout the day, dine at Plank’s Tavern on the Water overlooking the harbor or seasonally at The Grille along the golf course. In warm weather, choose a table on the tavern’s deck or sip drinks while listening and dancing to live music at the vibrant dockside bar. You can also enjoy the intimacy of conversations over coffee or tea in the mornings and wine in the evenings at the Rise & Vine coffee/wine shop. You will sleep well each night.

Savor dining with spectacular views

There are other romantic places to indulge in delicious meals. Restaurants like Clementine’s Too, Grande Mere Inn, and Schu’s Grill & Bar offer not only delectable menus but also views of Lake Michigan. If you’re willing to venture a bit further, you can enjoy chef-crafted dishes in unique settings such as Ghost Isle Brewery, open seasonally, where the wetlands create a serene backdrop; Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant, overlooking lush or snow-blanketed vineyards or River St. Joe, a farmstead brewery on the beautiful certified organic Flatwater Farms.

For even more romantic dining and beverage options, explore Southwest Michigan’s Makers Trail. Along this trail, you can sample handcrafted beers, ciders, wines, spirits and cocktails in cozy local tasting rooms and share meaningful conversations. During the winter, several makers delight couples with private igloos, fire pits, indoor fireplaces and soothing, live acoustic music.

Or find a secluded spot along Southwest Michigan’s many lakes and rivers to spread a blanket and a picnic basket of favorite foods and beverages from local delis or restaurants. And don’t overlook having a winter picnic — bundle up and snuggle close along Lake Bluff Park. 

Stroll along singing-sand beaches

St. Joseph is home to some of America’s most idyllic freshwater beaches, offering soft golden sand that sings beneath your footsteps, the glistening waters of Lake Michigan, and historic lighthouses. These beaches are perfect for leisurely walking the shore and sitting together wrapped in a blanket while listening to the waves. Popular beaches near downtown include Silver Beach County Park, Lions Park Beach, Tiscornia Park and Jean Klock Park.

Each beach offers a unique charm, but the sunsets are truly unforgettable. The sky blazes with brilliant hues, creating a romantic moment you’ll treasure forever. St. Joseph’s beaches are equally captivating in the winter when natural ice formations transform the shoreline into a magical landscape.

Find gifts from the heart

St. Joseph makes every moment special, whether you’re staying for a weekend escape or just slipping away for a single day. Downtown, you’ll find unique boutiques and art galleries where you can shop for heartfelt gifts, keepsakes, stylish fashions,  jewelry and one-of-a-kind artwork to commemorate your visit. For additional creative discoveries, consider a short drive to the nearby Benton Harbor Arts District, where local artists showcase and sell inspiring works in their studios.

Enjoy peaceful moments on scenic trails and the ice

Reconnect with nature and each other by exploring the many trails around St. Joseph. The John & Dede Howard Family Recreational Trail and the Harbor Shores Nature and Fitness Trail System in nearby Benton Harbor are both excellent choices, offering stunning four-season views of Lake Michigan as well as the St. Joseph and Paw Paw Rivers.

For a truly unique experience, head to Mt. Tabor Trails in Buchanan. This picturesque trail winds through vineyards, woods, and fields, connecting Tabor Hill Winery and Round Barn Estate. As you hike, you can sip craft wine, beer or spirits.

In the winter, you can link arms as you glide and figure eight across indoor and outdoor ice rinks in or near St. Joseph. This is your time. 

Relax with a spa day

Treat yourselves to a luxurious spa experience at The Spa at Harbor Shores. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and personalized treatments, this spa is the perfect place to unwind and recharge together. Other notable options in the area offering exceptional services include Affinity Salon & Spa, Revive Spa and The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa. Whether a soothing massage or a rejuvenating facial, this indulgence will add relaxation and heartwarming memories to your visit.

Deepen your love with live music, captivating shows, and creative classes

As you plan your romantic getaway, immerse yourselves in the vibrant arts and entertainment scene of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor. Year-round, The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College features concerts and theatrical performances, while Shadowland Pavilion at Silver Beach offers summer live music with breathtaking lake views. For a more intimate setting, the Livery Microbrewery pairs craft beer with live music and the GhostLight Theatre delivers engaging summer stock plays and performances. Don’t forget to check the event calendar to make your trip even more memorable.

Another romance sparker is taking a cooking class together at The Culinary Cottage in downtown St. Joseph, a painting class at nearby JLN Studio in Stevensville, a glass-blowing art or jewelry-making class at Benton Harbor’s Water Street Glassworks, or a contemplative retreat or gardening workshop at Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve in Niles.

Fall in love with St. Joseph

Like a box of chocolates, this is just a sampling of the ways to deepen your best friendship in and around the romantic city of St. Joseph. No matter what you do, the two of you will love it here. Book your romantic stay, soon.

Romance & Culture Itinerary