Downtown St. Joseph Parking | Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council
A wide shot from the bluff in downtown St. Joseph, overlooking Lake Michigan with a panoramic view of the carousel, Whirlpool Compass Fountain, and the water beyond.

A photo of parked cars along the bluff in downtown St. Joseph, MIWhen you visit St. Joseph from May 15 through September 15, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., you will find pay-to-park spaces downtown. These select spots help keep parking available so more people can enjoy all the great things happening in the heart of the city.

But don’t worry —there are plenty of FREE parking options just a short walk from favorite shops, beaches, attractions and events. Whether you’re spending the whole day or just stopping by for a few hours, use this handy map and guide to find the perfect parking spot for your visit and how to pay if needed.


2025 Downtown Parking Guide

Downtown St. Joseph Parking Map.

For updates, visit the St. Joseph Downtown Parking Program page.

Free Parking East of Main Street 

Please check the signage. Some free on-street and lot spaces are limited to three hours maximum. 

Free spaces are near —

Also, the Berrien County Courthouse west parking lot, on the corner of Main and Port Streets, is free on weekday evenings after 6 p.m.and weekends. 

Limited Free Parking West of Main Street

Find three-hour maximum FREE parking on Main Street’s westside across from City Hall, between Broad and Elm Streets, and in front of the St. Joseph Today Visitor Center on State Street.

Paid Parking Fees West of Main Street

On-Street Parking

  • $2 per hour; maximum three hours
  • $6 maximum 

All-Day Parking Lots

  • $1 per day
  • $12 maximum 

How to Pay for Parking

There are two ways to pay your parking fee:

1. Save Time! Pay Via Mobile App

The city’s passport mobile app is a hassle-free option. It saves your pay information and license plates. When you enter the parking space, open the app, go to your vehicle’s license plate and enter the zone number.

A person using their phone to pay for parking via a mobile app, with a parked car visible in the background.

To download the free app, visit the Apple or Google Play store.

2. Pay Via a Nearby Pay Station      

On each block downtown, you will see a pay station. Enter your license plate number and the parking space zone number, then insert your credit or debit card. These pay stations do not accept cash.

A photo of a parking pay station for in-person payment, with instructions and a digital screen visible on the front

Going to a St. Joseph City Park or Beach? Pay a Separate Parking Fee.

Kids playing on the playground at Lions Park Beach during sunset, with the sky glowing in warm hues and Lake Michigan in the background.The downtown paid parking program is different from our City parks’ paid parking. You will need a separate parking pass from April 1 to October 31 to park at:

You can purchase a parking pass from the kiosk at each site. Hourly, daily or annual passes are available — pick what works best for you. Find complete details at Park Parking Passes.

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