Visit Bridgman Berrien Michigan and the surrounding area to see the top sights. Discover the beautiful city of Bridgman in the US state of Michigan! Experience Warren Dunes State Park beach or South Beach County Park. Enjoy food in local restaurants such as The Blue Fish or Bridgman Bakery & Deli. Don't miss the traditional "Cherry Festival" in July!
What makes Bridgman sights so special is the unique mix of ancient railway history and the quiet noise of Lake Michigan, which you hardly hear when you just walk past Main Street. The city was founded in 1855 by the Scottish entrepreneur John Bridgman, and at that time it served as an important hub for the ship and railway lines that held the Southwest Michigan together. I have the feeling that every stone here breathes a bit of this ambitious pioneering spirit – at least if you are not just distracted by the modern residential blocks that water the image a little.
If you come from Chicago by car, just follow I‐94 to exit 2 and let the wide fields of Berrien County calm down before you turn into the small but proud city. For those who prefer to travel by train, the Amtrak stop in St. Joseph stops a few miles away, and a short taxi ride takes you directly to the center. I must admit that I cannot fully understand the whole hype about the “art at the port” – the true flair lies for me in the small cafés where Barista has more to tell about the local history than any guide. And yes, if you ask where you get a cool drink in the evening, just look behind the corner of the old post, there is a pub that has more character than some tourist magnet. In short, Bridgman is a place where history and present are handy without feeling to read in a brochure.
This guide invites you to make a small trip to Bridgman with me, where I want to share my favorite places – and a few of my slightly cynical comments – with you.
Top of my list Bridgman Harbor. I saw an old fishing boat there for the first time in summer 2019, which had more rust than paint, and I thought: “Here it smells like real sea air, not after artificial tourist fragrance.” The port is located directly on the Lake-Michigan coast, so if you arrive by car, just park at the end of the Harbor-Street – this is usually a Klack, except on the rare Saturday afternoons when the locals pick up their boats from the water. A short walk along the Holzpier-Planken gives you a view of the fishing boats, a few sails and the unsightly panorama of the lake.
A short detour leads you to St. Joseph Riverthat sounds majestic through the city. I once rented a kayak because I thought it was romantic – and then I was followed by a swarm duck who apparently had the same goal. The river is wide enough to cross in most places, and the bridges (especially the old iron bridge on the Main Street) offer great photo motifs. If you have some time, stroll along the Riverwalk; he is well maintained and leads you past a few small cafés that serve surprisingly good coffee.
For history freaks there is Bridgeport Museum. I have to admit, I was skeptical because small city museums often have more dust than fabric. But here you will find a well sorted collection of artifacts from the time Bridgman was an important railway node. Especially the old locomotive standing in the backyard has impressed me – and the sign also explains why the city got its name after the first railway contractor. Parking is practically right in front of the museum, but be warned: the sign “Only for visitors” is more of a suggestion.
Another highlight is the historical centre. The main road is lined with old shop fronts, which today serve as antique shops, art galleries and a few hip bakeries. I once found a handmade wooden toy that reminded me of my childhood – no joke, the part was a real treasure. The atmosphere is relaxed, and if you're lucky, you'll catch a local street musician playing old blues melodies. Parking is a bit trickier here, because the narrow alleys barely offer space for more than one car; a short walk from the main parking area is usually the better option.
If you are looking for something unique, you should St. Joseph River Bridge (also known as the ‘Old Bridge’). I once made a picnic while a fisherman threw out his net – that was the most authentic experience I ever had in a small town. The bridge is a popular spot for sunsets because from there you can see the sky above the lake in all colors. A little hint: the railing is a bit shaky, so take care of your children.
And because I must not forget the Bridgman Attractions of course also include the annual city festival in August, which takes place at the Town Hall Square. I heard the local band “Lakefront Jammers” there for the first time – loud, but with a certain charm that only small cities can have. The festival attracts visitors from the surrounding area, and then parking becomes a small adventure: a few meters from the main road there is a temporary field parking space where you can park your car between tractors and hayballs.
Find more vacation destinations near Bridgman Berrien Michigan using our map.
Villages, towns, districts, places and Vacation destinations you should visit.
©copyright by POI-Travel.de
info@poi-travel.de
