New Beginnings & Big Milestones on the Art Coast® in 2026
Part of what makes Saugatuck/Douglas so fun to revisit is that there’s always something new waiting to be discovered: a new restaurant, a new boutique, or a longtime local favorite entering an exciting new chapter. And in 2026, several beloved businesses and traditions are also celebrating milestone anniversaries. Here’s what’s new, noteworthy, and worth adding to your next Art Coast getaway.
Featuring craft cocktails, elevated casual fare, and big waterfront views, Marker 14 is set to become your go-to spot for sunset dinners and long summer afternoons along the Kalamazoo River. Named after the navigational buoy directly outside the property, the restaurant blends the laid-back lakeshore vibes Saugatuck is known for with polished details and front-row views of passing boats. Whether you stop in for a leisurely lunch or for happy hour on the patio, Marker 14 is poised to become a new favorite hangout.
Cruisin’ Tikis brings tropical vacation vibes to the Kalamazoo River with laid-back sightseeing cruises aboard a one-of-a-kind floating tiki bar. Available as both private and public tours, the experience includes a captain, Bluetooth sound system, and a cooler stocked with ice—just bring your favorite drinks and snacks. Perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties, date nights, or simply an excuse to spend more time on the water, it’s an easygoing summer experience with plenty of personality.
A historic building with many past lives has become one of the area’s newest places to stay. Over the decades, Park House Inn has operated as a restaurant, antique store, boarding house, summer hotel, and private home. Now thoughtfully restored as an eight-room inn, the property offers scratch-made breakfasts, espresso drinks featuring coffee from nearby Uncommon Roasters, and a stay that feels luxurious without ever feeling stuffy.
A familiar Art Coast landmark is entering a beautiful new era. Formerly known as the Belvedere Inn & Restaurant, the reimagined Belvedere Estate and Gardens now operates exclusively as a wedding and event venue under The Grant Collection. While longtime visitors will still recognize the property’s historic charm and lush gardens, this next chapter focuses entirely on unforgettable celebrations in one of the area’s most romantic settings.
Fennville’s New Downtown Gathering Space
Downtown Fennville now has an exciting new family-friendly gathering space featuring a splash pad, an amphitheater, and an outdoor fireplace as part of its City Square Park project. This welcoming community hub creates even more reasons to spend time exploring Fennville’s growing downtown scene.
An exciting extension of the popular women’s store, the James Boutique, Roman James brings elevated menswear to downtown Douglas. Focusing on timeless essentials, modern classics, and personalized styling services, the knowledgeable staff and curated selections are here to make the art of dressing well feel effortless.
From the owners of Postcards from Paradise comes The Beach Boutique, a bright and colorful new shop filled with swimwear, athletic wear, casual apparel, and accessories for the whole family. Alongside beach-ready style and recognizable brands, you’ll also find fragrances designed to transport you to the Amalfi Coast and other faraway escapes.
Bringing a touch of French Art de Vivre to downtown Saugatuck, this thoughtfully curated boutique features vintage mirrors, textiles, small tables, and collected home accents that feel storied, layered, and effortlessly European. If you love bringing home pieces with character and charm, prepare to spend some time here.
Bespoke fashion takes center stage at b.-VAIN Couture ll in downtown Douglas. This couture studio and full-service atelier specializes in custom garments designed with artistry, craftsmanship, and personal expression in mind. The shop also offers professional alteration services, making it the perfect stop whether you’re refining a favorite piece or searching for something one-of-a-kind for a special occasion.
From the owner of Endora Bohemian, The Long Weekend is a love letter to Southwest Michigan style. This warm and welcoming shop blends cozy hoodies, vintage workwear, paper goods, handmade objects, and easygoing lifestyle finds inspired by slow weekends along the lakeshore.
Douglas is getting a refreshing new treat stop with Barking Dogs Italian Ice. Their all-natural Italian ice is dairy-free, gluten-free, dye-free, nut-free, and made without high fructose corn syrup, making it an easy choice for warm summer days. Grab a cup and prepare to become a regular, but don’t forget to bring cash.
SaugaTaco is also expanding its footprint this summer with a new concession stand at Oval Beach. Instead of packing a cooler or leaving the shoreline to grab lunch, beachgoers can now order wraps, burritos, and other favorites directly from the SaugaTaco kitchen and have everything delivered—without ever having to brush the sand off your toes.
Milestones Worth Celebrating
50 Years of the Fall Gallery Stroll
The Fall Gallery Stroll marks its 50th year this fall—a huge moment for one of the Art Coast’s most beloved traditions. For five decades, the stroll has invited visitors to wander from gallery to gallery, meet artists, and experience the creative energy that helped shape Saugatuck/Douglas into the Art Coast of Michigan.
Rosemont Inn Turns 125
Rosemont Inn celebrates an incredible 125 years of hospitality this June, as well as five years under current ownership. Located just steps from Lake Michigan, the inn continues to offer a casual lakeside retreat centered on comfort, relaxation, and the slower pace that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Clearbrook Golf Club Turns 100
Clearbrook Golf Club officially begins its second century of golf in West Michigan in 2026. Since its opening in 1926, the course has welcomed generations of golfers to its scenic fairways and rolling greens. This momentous milestone year also marks 42 years under its current ownership.
Pleasant Hill Farm Marks 50 Years
Pleasant Hill Farm celebrates 50 years of organic farming in 2026. One of the first certified organic blueberry farms in the State of Michigan, the farm has spent decades remaining deeply committed to sustainable agriculture in Southwest Michigan. Along the way, they’ve planted miles of hedgerows and acres of wildflowers, creating a landscape that’s as thoughtful as it is beautiful.
The Dunes Resort Turns 45
The Dunes turns 45 this year, marking decades as the Midwest’s largest LGBTQ+ resort and one of the most iconic gathering places on the Art Coast. From legendary tea dances and late-night cabaret performances to poolside parties and drag shows, The Dunes has helped generations of LGBTQ+ visitors find community, connection, and a place where they can fully be themselves.
Saugatuck-Douglas History Center Celebrates 40 Years
For four decades, the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center has preserved the stories, voices, and history that define this coastal community. Through exhibits, archives, and storytelling, the organization continues to bring the past to life in meaningful ways.
Mill Pond Realty and Vacation Rentals Celebrates 35 Years
For 35 years, Mill Pond Realty and Vacation Rentals has helped visitors find their perfect home away from home along the Art Coast. From cozy cottages to larger group getaways, they’ve long played a role in helping guests experience Saugatuck/Douglas like a local.