Top Rated Attracties in St. Joseph

Delighting young and old, the Silver Beach Carousel is a whirling wonder of bright colors, twinkling lights, music and laughter that will transport you to a magical land of joy and surprise. Mounted upon the carousel are 48 figures and two chariots, each hand-carved and unique. The marvelous figures include several horses, an ostrich, a panda, a praying mantis, a flamingo and many other fantastic, unusual and mythical creatures. See if you can spot the horses that are replicas of the original carousel's figures amongst the newer designs. As hard is as may be, be sure to pull your eyes away from these majestic works of art for a few moments and take a gander at the historic photographs that adorn the top of the carousel. Through these photographs and themed figures like the MSU and Coloma horses, the carousel chronicles the region's history and heritage. While the Silver Beach Carousel is certainly an artistic triumph, it is first and foremost a place where moments of simple joy and wonder transform into treasured memories that you will cherish for many years to come.

Located next to the Silver Beach Carousel, the Whirlpool Compass Fountain is a fun installation for kids of all ages. Featuring multiple water cannons and jets that send synchronized water sprays into the air, the fountain is an exciting attraction for the entire family. On a hot summer afternoon at the beach, cool off at the misty fountain and splash around as the cannons go off. Surrounded by colorful shops, ice cream parlors, and restaurants, Whirlpool Compass Fountain makes for a fun respite from the summer heat in St. Joseph.

Located close to other notable buildings like the city library, the Heritage Museum and Culture Center, Trinity Lutheran Church and St. Peters Church, Krasl Art Center is a valuable addition to the cultural hub in the small town of St. Joseph. With frequently updated art and sculpture exhibitions and art and heritage tours being given everyday, the center is a very popular spot, both for locals as well as for tourists. The center also holds regular art classes and camps for all ages. The gallery hosts an annual art fair every autumn. With 38 permanent sculptures, public galleries, art making studios, a black and white wet darkroom and a gift shop, this is definitely a landmark you should visit when in the area.

Located close to the Silver Beach, Curious Kids' Museum is one big playground for inquisitive little minds to learn about science and technology in a fun way. From playing a doctor or newsreader in one of their themed rooms to experimenting with music and electricity, the hands-on exhibits at the museum educate and thrill in equal measure. Besides this, the museum also organizes numerous educational programs as well as field trips. Nearby, the Curious Kids' Discovery Zone has its own set of thrilling exhibits and activities for young adults. Check website for more.

Something of a hidden gem, visitors lucky enough to discover this little park will enjoy warm sand dunes, cool water and a relatively quiet beach, perfect for kicking off your shoes, putting on your shades and just relaxing with the sound of the waves to lull you into a quiet doze. The blue waters are relatively calm, making it the perfect choice for a family day out, swimming and enjoying the summer months. North Pier is accessible from the beach and the beach features facilities like rest rooms and a picnic zone. Kids will enjoy exploring the North Pier Lighthouse just a short walk away from the park.

Stumble upon the local history of St. Joseph-Benton Harbor area at The Heritage Museum and Cultural Center, situated within The Priscilla U. Byrns Center. The Heritage Museum along with exhibitions, conducts lectures and cultural programs based on Fort Miami, built by La Salle. The archive of artifacts at Heritage Museum offers in-depth understanding of the "twin cities" of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph. The Heritage Museum and Cultural Center is located beautifully on the Main Street, and makes a picture perfect location to host your dream wedding. The center also has facilities to host private meetings and conferences.