Summer Getaway Trip in St. Clair, Michigan
Getaway trips are a perfect way to relax, reset and feel refreshed again. Whether you are on a solo journey, adulting or you’re taking the entire family, we’ve got trip ideas for everyone. Our series of quick trip ideas will highlight the beautiful shoreline communities of Michigan’s Thumbcoast. First in the series, an adult getaway in charming St. Clair, located about 1 hour north of Detroit along the St. Clair River.
A Getaway from the Everyday
Overnight options in St. Clair include waterfront hotels with views of passing freighters, a bed & breakfast and a campground at the harbor. For a complete list of all the area accommodations, click the button below.
Photo, Blue Water Inn
Day 1 – Arrival
Lunch Time
Murphy Inn is a historic boarding house from 1836 with Irish cuisine. Our menu picks are:
- Maurice Salad
- Dinty Moore Sandwich made with Wigley’s Corn Beef
- Pint of Guinness
Culture Walk
Work off your lunch and take a self-guided public art tour from the St. Clair Art Association. On the tour you’ll see Wally the 10′ mosaic art fish out of water, murals and more.
Dinner Time
Landry’s River Crab restaurant has a fantastic waterside patio for dining al fresco. Our menu picks are:
- Pomegranate Martini
- Martha’s Vineyard Salad
- Mussels A La Muer
- Slow Roasted Prime Rib
- Vanilla Bean Crème Brule
Entertainment
Rockin’ in the Plaza is a free outdoor concert series. The park has over 160 bands lined up to perform throughout the spring and summer. Sit back in a comfy, fireside Adirondack chair & listen to music.
Nightcap
War Water Brewery & Distillery is a hometown craft brewer & a local favorite. Our summer drink pick is: Slim Shandy Strawberry Lemonade.
A well-spent day brings happy sleep!
Day 2
Breakfast
T.A.P. Cafe has an outdoor patio overlooking the St. Clair Boardwalk with all the delicious wake-up and start the day smells. Our menu picks are:
- Dirty Chai Tea with Espresso
- Pom-Passion Fruit Smoothie Bowl with Coconut, Almonds & Blueberry
- Morning Florentine Crepe
Kayaking
The St. Clair Boat Harbor rents kayaks and canoes from an ADA compliant launch. Meander the winding Pine River Water Trail on this easy, slow-moving river. The entire route is 8.4 miles, or just go as far as you like and head back.
Lunch Time
You’ve probably worked up an appetite, so head over to Pepper Joe’s next. This waterfront restaurant has a large patio and is walkable from the kayak launch. Our menu picks are:
- On tap, Atwater Dirty Blonde
- California Cobb Salad
- Chicken Fajita Wrap with Balsamic Glazed Chips
Afternoon Nap
Don’t you just love naps after lunch? Now’s the perfect time to take a nap and we’ve got the perfect spot too! Palmer Park has lots of space, shade or sun depending on your preference and a nice breeze. If you plan ahead, grab your picnic blanket or a chair and start your best snooze ever.
Artisan Market
Le Marche an Artisan Experience has over 40 vendors at one indoor marketplace. They are located at the south end of the Riverview Plaza. Find seasonal goodies, fun gifts and Michigan-made products.
More to Love in St. Clair
The fun doesn’t stop here! See all the shopping, dining and things to do in St. Clair. We’re also including buttons to other articles in our getaway series below.
Over 350 Thumbcoast TikTok Videos
Article by Katie Stepp, Marketing Manager, Blue Water Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
