Experience St. Joe

St. Joseph, located in the southwest corner of Michigan has always been a special place on the Lake, and it now boasts the distinction of being the "Most Romantic City in Michigan." Columnist Susan Ager of the Detroit Free Press bestowed this honor on the small town. After visiting some of the best places to visit in Michigan, she gave St. Joseph, affectionately known as "St. Joe," the thumbs up sign for honeymooners and other vacationers. Many others have compared the silky sands of the beaches to the best beaches in Florida! Sunsets are a specialty here, for the downtown area is actually perched above the Lake on a bluff, and you can gaze down on the Lake from Bluff Park or descend the hill and walk right into the Lake as the sun hits that blue horizon.

But long before the sun sets, visitors will want to explore the old fashioned little town. Clothing stores, knick-knack shops and antique stores line the three-block area. There is an old fashioned dime store, places to eat, and places to get your hair and nails done. Outdoor art displays change every year and every season, with pint-sized painted sail boats, tug boats and canoes dotted here along the side walk for the summer of 2008. Other, more permanent outdoor art lines the bluff, the arboretum and the lakefront.

But more than just picturesque, several downtown shops offer much more than a pleasant shopping experience. They actually provide the experience itself! Be prepared to walk away with something you or your child has created, while at the same time creating precious memories.

Hug N' Stuff and Gotta Go Pottery is located at 516 Broad Street and owned by Stephanie Hedstrom. The two shops are combined and are in a perfect spot right around the corner from Curious Kids' Museum. This kid friendly family place is what the welcoming staff calls "Therapeutic." On one side you can build your own stuffed animal or doll sure to be your new favorite. Your child can choose from 34 different types, and also wish upon a star and put it inside, get a birth certificate and take an oath to take care of it forever and ever. Then the clothes! Hedstrom suggest to families with loved ones oversees, you can add a message on a recorded chip, dress the animal in the appropriate uniform for the branch of service, and ship as a one of a kind gift. On the other side of this new store is a paint your own pottery workshop. Pieces will be ready within a week, and they have unique ideas for birthday parties, mom's groups, and baby and wedding showers.

Another shop that can arrange parties and special events is Just Bead It. All the beading supplies you'll ever need can be found at 312 State Street. Shop for a wide variety of beads starting from five cents, or buy designer fashions already assembled. But, what is unique about this shop is that you can put your jewelry together right there! A slight fee is charges and varies with the quality of components that you choose. Or, get together with friends and rent the back room. Groups of 4 or more have this option of scheduling a party and every teen, or bride's maid, or best friend can design and make a one of a kind necklace.

Cooking classes and demonstrations are being served up around the corner at Perennial Accents, located at 220 State Street. Everything for the gourmet cook, as well as tasteful home and garden décor can be found here. Got the kids in tow? Don't worry, there is a small play area provide so Mom and Dad can browse without worrying if Junior is going to knock something off the shelf. Cooking classes are offered by area chefs and range from ultra modern vegetarian snacks to an old fashioned afternoon tea. And, every Saturday during growing season, Chef Ali will be demonstrating what to do with those fine fruits and vegetables that are for sale just a block away at the weekly farmer's market! If you can't make it to one of the classes, don't worry. Small appliances can be demonstrated in the shop, or, once you get it home and you are not sure what to do next, just give Vickie, Sheila or Linda a call, and they will walk you through it step by step!

Located midway between Detroit and Chicago on I-94, St. Joe is easy to find. When you get here the parking is free and the people are friendly. So, what are you waiting for? The St. Joe experience is not to be missed!