A celebration was held this morning formally marking the launch of the new Shop & Shore Trolley in St. Joseph. Organizers call it the easiest way to explore St. Joseph this summer. And yes, it’s free, air-conditioned, ADA-accessible, and easily recognizable.
The trolley runs approximately every hour with a one-hour break from 2-3 p.m. Each one-hour loop will start at 211 Hilltop Road in St. Joseph and make three downtown stops near attractions, shopping, dining, lodging and parking. The final loop begins at 8 p.m. and returns to the Hilltop parking lot by 9 p.m.
The trolley is presented by Visit Southwest Michigan and their ‘Parking Sponsor,’ Clark Logic.
“This free trolley service makes it fun and easy to explore the shops, restaurants and beautiful sights this charming city has to offer. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, browsing unique boutiques or enjoying a scenic ride, the Shop & Shore Trolley is your convenient connection to everything.”
Organizers say the trolley service runs until Labor Day.
Stop 1
FREE All-Day Parking Lot 211 Hilltop Road, East Entrance, St. Joseph Sponsored by Clark Logic
Nearby Attractions: Lodging, restaurants, grocery stores
Stop 2
FREE All-Day Parking Lot Corner of Church and Pleasant Streets By the St. Joseph Fire Station
Nearby Attractions: Box Factory for the Arts, The Market, Pleasant Street Plaza, Silver Harbor Brewing Company, restaurants, Union + Social event venue
Stop 3
Beachside Near Lake and Broad Streets Below the bluff
Nearby Attractions: Silver Beach, Whirlpool Compass Fountain, Silver Beach Carousel, Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone, Shadowland on Silver Beach, Amtrak Station, Silver Beach Pizza, South Pier Boardwalk
Stop 4
Downtown Corner of Lake Boulevard and Ship Street Near the Maids of the Mist Fountain
Nearby Attractions: Lake Bluff Park, downtown boutiques, restaurants, food trucks, winery tasting rooms, Curious Kids’ Museum, Krasl Art Center
Shop & Shore Trolley FAQs
Q: Is the trolley pet-friendly?
A: Only service animals are permitted on the trolley.
Q: Is food and drink allowed on the trolley?
A: Yes, food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed on the trolley.
Q: Is alcohol permitted on the trolley?
A: No, alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the trolley.
Q: Can I bring my bicycle on the trolley?
A: No, bicycles are not permitted on the trolley.
Q: Is smoking or vaping allowed on the trolley?
A: No, smoking and vaping are prohibited.
Q: Does the trolley offer additional drop-off or pick-up locations?
A: The trolley operates on a fixed route and does not offer additional drop-off or pick-up services. See the stops above.
Q: Are reservations required for the trolley?
A: No reservations needed. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: Where can I pick up lost and found items from the trolley?
A: Lost and found items can be picked up during on the hour during trolley operating times at the 211 Hilltop Road, East Entrance, parking lot near the railroad tracks.
