St Joseph’s scenic location on the shore of Lake Michigan has made it a popular destination for watersports fans, while its picturesque downtown is noted for its quirky antique stores and art galleries. The city started life as trading post at the mouth of the St Joseph River, which formed a vital link between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi; while neighboring Benton Harbor went on to grow as a shipping port, St Joseph prospered as a fashionable rural retreat, and St Joseph vacation rentals are still in constant demand with travelers seeking a break from the big-city buzz.
The Silver Beach Carousel is a much-loved St Joseph landmark. The last remaining structure from the long-gone amusement park, this carefully preserved ride features gaily painted hand-carved menagerie animals and traditional chariots. The carousel house and adjacent museum display memorabilia from the amusement park, which opened on Silver Beach in 1892. The little ones will love a ride on the colorful horses, while historic photographs on the rounding boards will bring back many happy memories of childhoods past. The carousel is an easy stroll from downtown St Joseph vacation rentals, so the whole family can enjoy a trip back in time.
The fertile plains around St Joseph provide ideal conditions for growing vines and hops, resulting in thriving wineries and craft breweries. Many local companies offer guided tours of some of the region’s finest producers, with an opportunity to sightsee en route. Visitors can also ride through the countryside on a vintage trolley, or take a leisurely stroll along historic downtown streets to well-stocked tasting rooms. Boat trips on Lake Michigan offer an alternative view of St Joseph, with numerous options including romantic sunset cruises, private fishing charters, and sailboat hire.
The humid continental climate of Lake Michigan brings hot, dry summers and cool, snowy winters. The extreme humidity that affects the state’s biggest conurbations in high summer is alleviated by refreshing breezes. June through August typically hit the low 80s, but evenings are pleasantly cool, so it’s the perfect season to book St Joseph vacation rentals with a barbecue and enjoy alfresco dining under the stars. Winter breaks offer the chance to enjoy the bright lights of downtown when dusk falls—join in the holiday fun at Thanksgiving or snap up bargain St Joseph vacation rentals in February.
A scenic drive 15 miles south of St Joseph takes you to Warren Dunes State Park. This 3-mile stretch along Lake Michigan features an unusual dune formation that rises high above the shoreline, providing panoramic vistas across the lake. A network of trails offers the chance to spot indigenous wildlife, while the clear night skies create ideal conditions for stargazing. The park’s rustic campgrounds are popular for freewheeling beach breaks and are said to have inspired the first dune buggies, originally used to transport picnics to and from the waterside.
The beaches of St. Joseph are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Silver Beach County Park, a wide beach with activities like volleyball and fishing, and Tiscornia Park, a scenic lakeshore beach with a pier, a historic lighthouse, and picnic areas. You'll also like Jean Klock Park, a lakefront park with a beach, playground, and amenities.
The nearest airport is in South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN), located 29.5 mi (47.4 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.), which is 48.2 mi (77.6 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, you can make your way to St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Station.
Families with kids will have endless options for fun and adventure in St. Joseph. Vacation rentals can be found near places like Curious Kids Museum Discovery Zone, a children’s museum with hands-on exhibits and outdoor activities, and the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, a large splash pad with water jets located in a county park. There’s also Silver Beach Amusement Park, an amusement park with thrill rides, carnival games, and food vendors.
The heart wants what it wants, and right now it's longing for a vacation. It's time to pack your suitcase and head to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Saint Joseph: For even more great options, check out our top vacation rentals in Saint Joseph.
Studio apartments may be small, but they pack a mighty punch when it comes to convenience and location. Plonk your bags down at one of these popular studio apartments in or near Saint Joseph:
Yes, you'll find a range of short-term rentals in and near Saint Joseph. And the best news is, Vrbo has something for every style and budget — from sprawling homes big enough for all the family to luxurious cottages for an intimate weekend away. Here's an example of what's available here:
With its beautiful beaches and natural beauty charm, Lincoln Park is a wonderful destination to stay for a weekend break. You'll find it just 60 miles to the west of Saint Joseph. A major attraction here is North Avenue Beach, offering magnificent views of natural beauty. Go for a seaside stroll or just sit back and relax on the white sand.
Big groups mean a whole lot of fun. They also mean finding a place that'll comfortably fit your crew. Browse our large group vacation rentals in or around Saint Joseph and spend time with your favorite people under one roof:
No matter if your idea of the perfect escape is up in the mountains or down by the sea, you'll have so much more fun if you share it with your favorite people. Consider one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Saint Joseph and bring the entire crew along: If you're looking for family-friendly attractions around the area, you won't have to go far. Washington Park Zoo, Merrifield Pool and John G. Shedd Aquarium promise lots of fun for both adults and kids.
Idyllic romantic getaways, business trips or solo adventures — a single-bedroom vacation rental suits all sorts of occasions. One of these options in or near Saint Joseph is sure to be just the thing:
At Vrbo, we've got rental properties in or near Saint Joseph to suit just about everyone. Here are a couple of two-bedroom options to get you started:
You could easily fit a small crowd into the three-bedroom gems available on Vrbo. If you're traveling with family or friends, consider these options in or near Saint Joseph:
Gather up a few sticks and get set to roast some marshmallows! But a fire pit won't just come in handy for s'mores — it'll also keep you comfy in winter when temperatures range between 25 ºF and 30 ºF in Saint Joseph. Enjoy the outdoors no matter the time of year at these vacation rentals with fire pits: