This City On The Shores Of Lake Michigan Is A Budget Getaway With Vintage Shops & Trolleys

Standing on the shore with sand in your hair after a long beach day, admiring a century-old lighthouse while the sun sets behind the arrow-straight horizon and the waves create a gentle rhythmic soundtrack to the scene, it would be easy to forget you're in the Midwest. With countless sandy beaches and dozens of quaint beach towns dotting its 1,640-mile shoreline, Lake Michigan offers a dreamy beach getaway — there's also some premier state park camping situated between two lakes.

Bordering four states and the only one of the Great Lakes entirely within the United States, Lake Michigan destinations such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are rightfully held in high regard. But there's much more to explore, even more sand dune spots to experience, and many lake towns worthy of a weekend getaway. Just two hours from Chicago is one such place: The charming Michigan beach town of St. Joseph. At the southern end of what is called "The Riviera of the Midwest," this idyllic town is famous for its beachfront and twin piers that reach out into Lake Michigan.

These days, it's making waves with its historic trolley. From Independence Day until Labor Day, it runs Thursday through Monday every hour. Completely free of charge, the trolley makes four stops, conveniently dropping visitors off near attractions, shopping, dining, lodging, parking, and more. With plenty of free family activities and affordable accommodation options, St. Joseph is a budget getaway that's a short road trip from many large Midwest cities. Its beach, vintage shops, social district, and Curious Kids' Museum offer a memorable vacation for all types of travelers.

The best time to visit St. Joseph is from late May through September, and a must-visit is Silver Beach. It's walkable from downtown St. Joseph, but it's also one of the free trolley stops if you're lugging all the beach-day essentials. Part of a large county park, this wide, sandy beach features picnic tables, kayak and paddleboard rentals, beach volleyball, and the Wally & Gertz concession stand if you get hungry for some cheese fries and ice cream. It's the perfect spot for families.

The water is warm, lifeguards are on duty from early June to mid-August, and there are more child-friendly attractions nearby, including the Curious Kids' Discovery Zone. The old school Silver Beach Carousel is also close and great for kids and adults alike with its hand-carved figures. Beyond the beach, on hot summer days, visitors can get relief while throwing a Frisbee around in the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, the largest splash pad in the region.

At the north end of the beach is the mouth of the St. Joseph River, and on each side of the river's mouth are piers that stretch out into the lake. From Silver Beach, visitors can walk onto the South Pier, which is a great spot for watching freighters or casting a fishing line. On the other side is the North Pier and the two iconic St. Joseph Lighthouses, accessible from Tiscornia Park across the river. The black-and-white outer lighthouse and the red-and-white inner lighthouse are emblems of Southwest Michigan and guided tours are offered in the summer. A trip to St. Joseph isn't complete without walking the pier and taking a lighthouse picture, although they might look best in winter.

Skin nicely sun-kissed after a fine day at Silver Beach, visitors can hop back on the trolley for a free ride downtown. The fourth stop is at the corner of Lake Boulevard and Ship Street, the heart of St. Joseph. Downtown is dotted with boutique shops and vintage stores where you can find antique furniture, retro clothing, and classic souvenirs. To add to your vintage wardrobe, there's Urban Found or 1232 Broad St Mercantile, which is also a gift shop. For a modern, curated selection of clothing and accessories, there's DK Boutique, Lee & Birch, and Lana's Boutique.

While popping in and out of shops, you could stop by one of the many downtown cafes or bakeries. For coffee, gifts, or lunch, all under one roof, The Market (on Main Street) is a must-stop. An indoor farmer's market that runs year-round, it's the perfect spot for a meal and some rest while touring St. Joseph. Wine enthusiasts know that Michigan is a top wine-producing state, with over 150 wineries. The Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail is a collaboration of 15 Michigan wineries, and two of those destinations are in St. Joseph. The Baroda Founders Tasting Room and the White Pine Winery are both located downtown and participate in the St. Joseph Social District. Perfect for tapas-style restaurant-hopping or catering to the different tastes of a group, adults can stroll within the social district while sampling tacos, subs, stir-fry, burgers, pizza, craft beverages, and cocktails. It's the perfect casual evening on the town after a sunny beach day in St. Joseph — just be sure to wrap it up before 9 p.m. if you want to take one last free ride on the historic trolley.