This Tiny Michigan Beach Town is The Best Place for Old-Fashioned Summer Fun
Retro boat rides and glamping on a working blueberry farm await!
Is there anything more wonderful than an impromptu summer getaway? Whether you’re off in search of great antiquing destinations or the most colorful places in the U.S., it’s always a good idea to add a small town or two to the itinerary. And if you’re looking for a place that offers fun on the farm and on the water, look no further than Saugatuck, Michigan. First established in 1868 and originally known as Kalamazoo Village, this former lumber port turned lively lakeside resort town on Michigan’s Sunset Coast is situated just over two hours from Chicago, but feels like it’s worlds away.
There are fun things to do in Saugatuck, Michigan, for every kind of visitor. Those on the hunt for old-fashioned entertainment will enjoy the $2 ferry rides and zipping down Kalamazoo River in a retro boat rental. Moreso in search of fresh food and drink? There are plenty of places for delicious desserts and hard ciders made with Michigan fruit. If it’s not a summer vacation without dipping your toes into the water, you’ll be delighted to know that Oval Beach is frequently touted as one of the best, and accommodation options range from one of the largest LGBTQIA+ resorts in the country to a freshly revamped waterside motor lodge.
So if you’re searching for a new small town to visit this summer, you can end your quest right here. Our Saugatuck, MI travel guide includes the best restaurants, boutiques, hotels and more, plus lots of great things to see and do. Happy travels!
Java Nice Day
Hot summer mornings call for cold-brew drinks (including Caramel Snowballs!) from Uncommon Coffee Roasters.
Take to the Lakes
Saugatuck boasts plenty of ways to cool off. Wade into Lake Michigan from Oval Beach, frequently touted as one of the best in the country, or feel the wind in your hair with a ride down Kalamazoo River on a 1959 Bell Boy Banshee from Retro Boat Rentals (pictured).
Hit the Shops
Along Butler Street, American Spoon offers inventive pantry essentials made from Michigan-grown ingredients. One block up at Sea Bags, the roomy totes are sewn with upcycled boat sails. Head to The Brass Anchor for nautical clothing and home decor, and don't forget to pop into Endora for a colorful mix of global finds.
Have Lunch Your Way
Many Appalachians moved to Michigan in the 1950s for jobs in the auto industry. Enjoy the flavors of the migration at fried chicken joint The Southerner, or plan to picnic with gourmet goodies from Isabel's Market + Eatery. Brunch lovers won't want to miss the decadent egg and pancake options at Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions, or, if you're feeling especially indulgent, you can skip the main course entirely in favor of a pie flight (four for $7!) from Crane's Pie Pantry.
Sip Local
At Virtue Cider, former Goose Island brewmaster Gregory Hall makes his peach- and cherry-infused hard apple ciders (pictured) with Michigan fruit. Woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. in Fennville serves saisons and lagers on a 58-acre fruit farm.
Step Back in Time
Historical sites include the Kalamazoo River Lighthouse replica (pictured) and the Saugatuck Chain Ferry. In use since 1838, it's the last hand-crank ferry in operation in the U.S. One-way rides are just $2!
Stay and Play
Recently revamped motor lodge Lake Shore Resort makes the most of its waterfront locale with kayaks for guests and yoga on the deck, while larger groups can hunker down in Company + Cottage home rentals. The Dunes Resort is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ resorts in the country, and, in nearby South Haven, The Fields of Michigan offers upscale glamping on a working blueberry farm.
Nominate Your Favorite Small Town!
Where should we mosey to next? Tell us at countryliving@hearst.com, or start planning your next getaway with our small town guides:
• The Best Small Towns in the U.S.
• 30+ Small Towns to Visit This Summer
Watch Next
40 of the Cutest Main Streets in the U.S.
34 of the Best Small Towns in Texas
Is This the Best Small Town in the Midwest?
40 of the Best Small Towns in California
