Saugatuck is small enough to see in a day and good enough that you will want to come back. That is a rare combination. It has dunes, a beautiful beach, a river full of boats and a downtown you can walk end to end.
If I had one day to show someone the town, this is how I would spend it, start to finish. Wear comfortable shoes, because there are stairs involved.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: Douglas: Saugatuck's Quieter Neighbor
My Perfect Saugatuck Day
1) Uncommon Coffee Roasters
Start with coffee from Uncommon Coffee Roasters, Saugatuck's own roaster. Get it to go and wander a bit.
This is the fuel you need for what comes next.
If it is a nice morning, take your coffee down to the river and watch the boats.
2) Mt. Baldhead
Take the chain ferry or drive around, then climb the stairs of Mt. Baldhead for the view over the lake and town.
If you have never ridden the chain ferry, do it. It is part of the fun.
Go early, before it gets hot, and take your time on the way up.
3) Oval Beach
From the top, walk down the other side of the dune to Oval Beach. Spend the late morning on the sand.
Oval Beach is seasonal, so plan this part for the warmer months.
Bring a towel and sunscreen in your bag so you are ready when you get there.
4) Pumpernickel's
Head back into town and grab lunch at Pumpernickel's, the classic downtown deli.
Sit for a bit. You have earned it after those stairs.
If the weather is nice, take your sandwich outside and eat by the water.
READ: How Saugatuck Became the Art Coast
5) Star of Saugatuck
Spend the afternoon on a cruise on the river aboard the Star of Saugatuck, in season. It is a relaxed way to see the town from the water.
Check the schedule and book ahead on busy weekends.
Sit back, watch the shoreline go by and give your legs a rest after the morning climb.
6) Bowdie's Chophouse
End with dinner at Bowdie's Chophouse. Reservations are recommended, so make one before your day starts.
Dress up a little if you feel like it. It is a nice way to close the day.
It is a perfect way to end a full day in town.
Coffee, a dune climb, the beach, lunch, a river cruise and a steak dinner. That is a full, happy day, and you still did not see everything.
Saugatuck Cabin and Fennville River View are both a short drive from downtown. Come stay with us and plan your own perfect day.
More favorites in my Saugatuck area guide.