Nestled alongside the jap shore of Lake Michigan, the charming city of Saugatuck is the kind of place Norman Rockwell would have favorited. Tourism is the primary trade on this neighborhood of roughly 1000 everlasting residents. Lined with retailers, artwork galleries, eclectic boutiques, cafes, and supper golf equipment, Saugatuck is the right spot to whereas away a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Quaint retailers in downtown Saugatuck, Michigan
Household Pleasant Spots in Saugatuck, Michigan
The Kalamazoo River passes by Saugatuck because it makes its approach to the Nice Lakes basin. Maritime actions like boat excursions and constitution fishing are fashionable right here. We suggest the Star of Saugatuck an genuine sternwheeler paddleboat for households; excursions carry company up and down the river and thru Kalamazoo Lake (excursions run between late Could and early October).
Boats moored within the Saugatuck Harbor
The Kalamazoo River is pure barrier between downtown and Lake Michigan; in the summertime months the quickest approach to get attain the seaside is a journey on the Chain Ferry. The one remaining hand cranked chain ferry of its variety remaining in the USA, individuals, canine, bicycles, and strollers are welcome to cross. Ferry rides run each 10-Quarter-hour; passengers 11 and older pay $3, passengers 10 and below pay $1, and kids 2 and below are free.
Wicks Park and the Sautatuck Chain Ferry
When you journey the Chain Ferry, we recommend a pre- or put up picnic lunch at Wicks Park (east aspect of the river) or Mount Baldhead Park (west aspect of the river). Mount Baldhead Park has a shaded playground space and shares a car parking zone with each the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical past Museum and the Pump Home Museum–a great spot for households on a multigenerational highway journey.
Wood staircase at Mount Baldhead Park
The primary attraction at Mount Baldhead Park is a large 303 step wood staircase that leads guests to a 250-foot remark deck on the Mount Baldhead sand dune.
Views of the Kalamazoo River from the Mount Baldhead remark deck
From the highest, take pleasure in views of the Kalamazoo River and/or observe the sandy path one other mile to Oval Seashore and Lake Michigan. When you make this trek, carry water (you’ll discover wood benches at intervals on the staircase in addition to on the prime of the dune).
Views of Lake Michigan from Oval seaside
Oval Seashore may also be accessed by car. When you go for this route (carrying all of 12 months gear up and over a sand dune and on a mile hike just isn’t for everybody), know the seaside car parking zone will be packed in good climate. This detour will carry you thru the equally cute and quaint sister metropolis of Douglas. We opted for this journey and located Exterior Espresso (a intelligent cafe good for households) and the favored Root Beer Barrel concession stand each open throughout our go to within the early fall.
Whimsical seating space at Exterior Espresso in Douglas
Nonetheless you spend your day in Saugatuck, Michigan, we hope you make some enjoyable household reminiscences. Completely happy Trails!
