When Craft Calls …
Peat’s Cider Social
It all started as an unlikely joke between husband-and-wife team Dan and Leah Peat. But with the help of friends Josh and Tiffany Cosner, it soon became a reality. Now, Peat’s is a focal point of great craft beverages and amazing community. Together, the Peat’s Cider Social team have “poured themselves into creating a space where people can drink Michigan-made hard cider, the way it was meant to be enjoyed — with local ingredients, surrounded by your people.”
Lemon Creek Winery
Lemon Creek Winery is open daily during fruit season, meaning you can experience a picturesque landscape, exceptional wine and fresh produce any day during the week.
Watermark Brewing Co.
Watermark Brewing Co. is a cornerstone in Southwest Michigan. Named the No. 1 beer garden in the United States by USA Today 10Best, Watermark creates ever-evolving craft beers and cultivates an incredible community. Guests can enjoy a welcoming taproom or step out into the lush garden and indulge in a rotating selection of food trucks.
The Livery Brewery
The Livery Brewery is located in a historic building that has been transformed into a warm destination, bustling with character. A visit here is sure to uncover good food, good music and great craft beverages.
Winery Itinerary
A day along the Lake Michigan Shore — five stops from Baroda through Berrien Springs to St. Joseph.
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12 p.m. — Round Barn Winery
Slow down and take your time at Round Barn Winery. Enjoy a selection of handcrafted wines, live music and incredible vineyard views. When you’re ready, indulge in house-brewed beer and delicious food.
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1 p.m. — Dablon Vineyards & Winery
Explore artisan wines in an elegant tasting room and beautiful outdoor terrace. Dablon Vineyards & Winery’s goal is to “marry European varietals with our unique terroir in Southwest Michigan to make a variety of extraordinary wines.”
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3 p.m. — Domaine Berrien Cellars
Delight the senses with crafted wine — grown and prepared on-site. Created in the heart of the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, each wine is unique. Each sip will inspire.
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5 p.m. — Lazy Ballerina Winery
Where passion and good wine meet relaxation. Have fun and experience unique tastings and great community at Southwest Michigan’s first women-owned winery.
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6 p.m. — White Pine Winery
The charm of St. Joseph extends to the warm hospitality and stunning craft of White Pine Winery. From aromatic whites to delicious reds, you can get a taste of Southwest Michigan right here.
Peaches
Peaches are a staple at Hildebrand Fruit Farms and in a variety of syrups, infusions and liqueurs.
Grapes
Besides enjoying them in local wines, one of the most well-known places to purchase grapes in Southwest Michigan is at Piggott’s Farm Market & Bakery.
Strawberries
Strawberry is a classic craft beverage flavor due to its sweet versatility and can be found at Mick Klug Farms annually in early summer.
Rye
Granor Farm distills rye into its very own distinct spirits and produces fresh produce for the surrounding community.
St. Joseph Local Events
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Winter Beer Fest January
Warm yourself with a taste of Southwest Michigan’s local and regional breweries. Sample the annual festival for a night or stay for the weekend with other craft novices and enthusiasts.
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Ice Fest February
There is always something new to explore during the annual Ice Fest. Celebrate the winter season with professional ice carvings, a scavenger hunt and plenty more events throughout the weekend.
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Farmers Market May–October
Find an array of fresh products for every taste. At St. Joseph’s Farmers Market, you can find locally grown produce, organic food and drink or fresh-cut flowers all in one place.
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Camping at Weko Beach May–October
Camp with a view among 42 acres of wooded dunes. Vibrant sunsets and lively concerts create an experience that boasts the beauty of Southwest Michigan.
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Chalk the Block August
Step into a gallery of distinct, momentary art. View pieces from regional, national and international artists — and pick your favorites before the event is over.
Makers Trail
With more than 50 craft breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries—and countless thoughtfully crafted beverages—the Makers Trail is home to discovery. Every glass is distinct. Every beverage tells a story.
Alex’s Veggies
Alex’s Veggies provides a vibrant experience and delicious, locally grown produce. Bite into something fresh or source the perfect jam from this sustainable farm stand. Discover the locally grown difference.
Granor Farm
On the shores of Lake Michigan, a farm can be found by the name of Granor. There, fresh ingredients are harvested from the soil and used to educate, cook and craft brilliant wines with home-grown flavors.
Sustainable and delectable fresh produce and baked goods will leave you craving for your next journey through.
Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail
“Every glass is a journey and every bottle tells a story.”
Located on the 42nd parallel, the region is home to 90% of Michigan’s vineyards. Wineries along this trail are dedicated to using locally grown grapes to craft award-winning flavors.
Fun Fact
Dowagiac is the birthplace of fishing lures: James Heddon created the first artificial fishing lure in 1902 in Dowagiac, creating a massive, quality fishing tackle industry that put the town on the map.
Fun Fact
Berrien County is located in the Michigan “fruit belt.”
Fun Fact
The Benton Harbor Fruit Market originated in 1860 and is an official state historic site.
Fun Fact
There are more than 60 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, five rivers and 300 inland lakes.
Fun Fact
Many consider the apple fritter Michigan’s most popular doughnut (a delightful, hand-crafted treat made from local ingredients) — you can savor it at Red Coach Donuts!
Fun Fact
The sand along the beaches in St. Joseph “sings,” or emits, a squeaking or musical sound when walked on, caused by friction between dry sand grains.