What To Do In Saugatuck Michigan And The Best Hotels To Stay At
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A local's recommendations for the best things to do in downtown Saugatuck, Michigan and what bed and breakfast and hotels you should book.
When to visit Saugatuck Michigan
Saugatuck is the busiest in the summer when tourists come from all over to visit. I love visiting any time of year and these photos were taken in early September so it was still busy. In the summer you’ll be able to swim at Oval Beach or drive 15 minutes north to Holland for the incredible beaches there.
If you’re looking for a less busy time to visit try the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Visit in the winter for the BEST deals on very expensive and popular hotels and bed and breakfasts. Saugatuck is dead in the winter and you’ll have the place to yourself, it’s wonderful!
Weather in Saugatuck, MI
Winter - The most underrated time to visit and by far the cheapest. Some businesses, hotels, and restaurants may be closed but there are still plenty of places to walk, dine, and stay at. Be prepared with a thick coat, waterproof boots, and all the winter accessories because it can get cold.
Spring - Spring weather can be very unpredictable and can be a mix of rain, sun, or even snow. But our Michigan flowers are in bloom which is lovely!
Summer - If you’re hoping to swim in Lake Michigan or go boating, visit in July or August when the lake is warmest. Summer weather in Saugatuck is dreamy and perfect, don’t forget the sunscreen!
Fall - The most charming time to visit Saugatuck is in the fall in my opinion. Michigan autumn is incredible and I love walking in Saugatuck State Park and watching the leaves change. There is also an amazing Halloween parade!
Saugatuck, MI gay community, LGBT friendly, and senior travelers
Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan are the most gay-friendly small towns in Michigan. The LGBTQ+ community is welcomed and celebrated here!
There is also a thriving senior community in Saugatuck which is an old resort town! No matter your age or sexuality, Saugatuck is a great place to travel.
What to do in Saugatuck, Michigan
For nature lovers, Saugatuck State Park is a must-hike. The hike starts in a hilly forest and ends on the shores of Lake Michigan. As a local, it’s one of my favorite places to hike in Michigan. If you’re looking for a private swim, have your bathing suit on under your hiking clothes and hike to the beach. There won’t be many people swimming and it’s a very secluded experience, especially if you go around sunset. Make sure you don’t go too late because you will have to hike back, I normally go two hours before sunset.
I may be a bit biased as a person that lives in Holland, but I think the Holland beaches are better than Oval Beach. Saugatuck beaches can be so crowded and I prefer to visit Tunnel Park in Holland at sunset which is more low-key.
The Felt Mansion is a gorgeous manor that was a former monastery and is loaded with history. You can tour the mansion and walk the grounds, there’s also a disc golf course. Be aware that this is a popular place to get married so avoid Saturdays in the summer.
Saugatuck, Michigan downtown
Saugatuck has probably the cutest downtown in Michigan, there are so many adorable and quirky shops and attractions.
Saugatuck Chain Ferry and Boat Rentals
The Kalamazoo River runs right through Saugatuck and there is a historic chain ferry that runs across it. You can ride the ferry, for a small fee, and it’s a unique experience everyone needs to try at least once.
You can rent boats in Saugatuck and there is a Retro Boat Rental Boat House where you can take a cute and colorful boat out on the water. You can also go on a duck boat ride or dune ride in Saugatuck.
Saugatuck MI shopping
I can not express to you how wonderful the shopping is in Saugatuck. If you love handcrafted art and boutique stores, you’re going to really enjoy shopping here.
My favorite shops
Butler’s Pantry has great home and kitchenware items, plus homemade cookies in the back
Swell Times sells vintage and retro home decor and knick knacks
The Retro Saugatuck Drug Store & Soda Fountain
My Oma and Opa would take me to this drugstore all the time as a kid, children will love picking out candy and little toys here. There’s also nice home decor and even an old-fashioned soda fountain in the back where you can order food and desserts.
Saugatuck Michigan Restaurants
The Red Dock Cafe - The most unique place you can eat is in Douglas (Right next to Saugatuck) it is literally on the water, like floating/on a dock. It’s truly the coolest experience. They closed recently and the Saugatuck community was so upset that they reopened, thank goodness!
The BARge has a really cool outdoor rooftop bar with a great view of the river
Bowdies Chophouse has incredible steak and cocktails
The Rose Garden is a perfect place to rest and eat an ice cream while you’re walking around downtown.
Saugatuck MI hotels and bed and breakfast
These are the best places to book a hotel or bed and breakfast stay. P.S. Saugatuck has the cutest retro motels, give them a try too!
The Hotel Saugatuck - My favorite romantic winter stay with in-room jacuzzi
Captain’s Quarters Motel - Retro motel
Belvedere Inn & Restaurant - Bed and breakfast
Starlite Resort - Retro motel
Judson Heath Colonial Inn - Bed and breakfast
You can’t go wrong with a visit to Saugatuck, it’s truly a magical resort town that everyone should visit. While you’re in Michigan, check out these other awesome locations!
