Saugatuck Itinerary: Spend the Perfect Summer Weekend in Saugatuck

If you’re looking for the perfect Michigan summer getaway, Saugatuck deserves a spot at the top of your list. This was our first time visiting Saugatuck during the summer on a weekend as a family, and it completely exceeded our expectations. See some of our recommendations below or jump to our exact itinerary. Visiting in fall? See our fall weekend in Saugatuck.

From beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and a charming downtown filled with local shops and restaurants to family-friendly parks, waterfront views, and endless outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do in Saugatuck/Douglas.

Driving a retroboat in Saugatuck, Michigan — Retroboat Rentals

Art prints in Saugatuck, Michigan — Retroboat Rentals

The art scene in Douglas, Michigan — Visit all of the arts

Rootbeer float at the barrel in Douglas, Michigan — Visit all of the arts

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family vacation, or a romantic trip to Michigan’s west coast, Saugatuck offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and small-town charm. After spending a few days exploring everything this vibrant beach town has to offer, we were already planning our next visit. Keep reading for our complete guide to the best things to do in Saugatuck, Michigan, plus tips for making the most of your summer trip.

W H E R E T O S T A Y

We have actually stayed at multiple places. From AirBnB, to the Best Western, but there is always great deals through Expedia , which is where you can also get rewards for where you stay, and apply those credits at future travel places. The Wickwood Inn is one of our favorite- it has the cute homey vibe to it (and it’s in town).

T H I N G S T O D O

During the summer, there is so much to do for everyone in the family. While you can spend your time shopping and walking around downtown, you can also head out on the Retro Boat Rentals, bring a good read to the beach, ride the only chain ferry left in America, or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Star of Saugatuck. Whether you travel with family, as a couple, alone, or with your dog, there is something to do for everyone.

W H A T T O E A T

Our favorite list to make. Every time we go, we eat more and more.

Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions : Dine inside/outside or grab a quick pastry through their window- If traveling with kids, there are no high chairs

Lady Bird : This is going to be your brunch and dinner plans for something that feels at home and fancy at the same time. Trust me when I tell you to try the espresso martini

Ida’s Red Cottage: Since 1986, this has been a breakfast and lunch staple. You can dine inside or outside and feel like you are sitting at your grandma’s table for a home cooked meal

Uncommon Coffee Roasters: We always stop and pick up roasting beans and grab a fun crafted coffee while walking through town. It’s always busy, but there is a reason. The fun and friendly atmosphere makes you want to stay a while.

Pumpernickels : All day food and fun- their cinnamon roll changed our life!

Root Beer Barrel: Family favorite: This historical root beer stand is the perfect stop going to and from the beach for your snacks, ice cream, and of course your root beer float!

I N C L U S I V I T Y

One of the beautiful things about Saugatuck is that no matter who you are, you will feel welcome. Tracing back to 1910 when the Ox-Bow School of Art drew in individuals who were creative and outcasts. In 1950, Saugatuck gained recognition as being a LGBTQ+ safe haven. The city is full of color giving everyone a place to feel welcome and loved. The city celebrates through the month of June, but also recognizes family and LGBTQ+ members year around.

Steal the Itinerary

We put this itinerary together based on our own summer weekend in Saugatuck with our family. We wanted to fit in the beach, downtown, good food and a few activities without making the weekend feel rushed. Having a little one with us also meant we prioritized places that were easy to get to and activities that worked well for our family.

Friday- Arrive + Check out Downtown Saugatuck

Afternoon

Check into your hotel/AirBnb
Walk Downtown Saugatuck
Shop through the stores
Early dinner at Pumpernickels

Evening

Star of Saugatuck sunset cruise
Ice Cream stop downtown at Kilwins
Walk around downtown and enjoy the lights and any activities

Saturday- Beach + Adventure

Morning

Breakfast at Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions
Head to Oval Beach : There is a fee per car, it has posted hours of sun up to sun down for most of summer. The parking is right on the beach, so we didn’t have to carry all our sons stuff. We were able to walk to and from the car with ease.

Afternoon

Grab some lunch at Douglas Root Beer Barrel (and some ice cream)
Have a Retro Boat rental to cruise the Kalamazoo
Take the Chain Ferry (iconic since it is the only one left in the US)

Evening

Dinner at Coast 236 (its a little more formal – the corn risotto does not disappoint)
Sunset exploring the art of Saugatuck

Sunday

Breakfast at Lady Bird
Finish up your shopping
Lunch at the Butler on the patio before heading out
If you have time to squeeze one more BIG adventure in, stop at Saugatuck Dune Rides for a 40 minute ride through the sand dunes- which honestly put our kid to sleep in the car ride home.

Watch us in Saugatuck in Fall ^

Don’t Forget Travel insurance!

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