A Romantic Long Winter Weekend In The Art Coast®
Winter in Saugatuck/Douglas has its own brand of romance—quiet streets dusted with snow, cozy fireplaces glowing, and intimate experiences designed for two. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply craving a mid-winter retreat, this three-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of relaxation, indulgence, and dreamy moments. So make a point this year of slowing down, warming up, and reconnecting with your significant other in Michigan’s most charming winter escape.
Day 1
Arrive by late afternoon and begin your romantic getaway by checking into one of our many idyllic properties—we’re talking crackling fires, thoughtful hospitality, and cozy spaces made for unwinding together. Explore a list of charming inns, B&Bs, and vacation rentals with warm, welcoming fireplaces here.
Once you’re unpacked, head to our walkable downtown areas to explore our many inspiring art galleries, like LaFontsee Galleries, Amwazi Contemporary Art, Button Gallery, LebenArt Studios & Gallery, Capizzo Studio Gallery, and J. Petter Galleries. Along the way, stop in our boutiques and specialty shops and pick up something special to take home and commemorate your stay. Winter here is a beautiful time to browse—peaceful, unhurried, and full of surprises waiting behind every door.
As the light starts to wane, retreat to a private igloo at The Cottage (reservations can be made here). Settle into your heated dome for exquisite craft cocktails, shareable appetizers, and a cozy, intimate experience that feels tailor-made for a holiday celebrating love.
Finish your first evening with dinner at Ladybird or The Singapore Room, two inviting spots known for thoughtful menus and warm ambiance. This is your time to slow down and reconnect before heading back to your room to bask in the glow of the fire.
Day 2
Enjoy breakfast at your B&B or treat yourselves to one of these recommended places to fuel the day ahead (please check our business hours listing to see what’s open). Then bundle up and embrace the beauty of the season with a scenic winter hike. Explore the peaceful trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park or the Saugatuck Natural Area. If the snow is deep, rent snowshoes from Landsharks and make it a true winter adventure.
Nothing will warm you up afterward quite like a wine tasting at one (or more) of our four local wineries: Modales, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, Michigan Wine Co., and Crane’s Winery. For a more elevated experience, book a guided tasting at Modales or Fenn Valley. Be prepared to purchase a few bottles to enjoy back in your room!
After a late lunch (we recommend The Southerner, Wally’s Bar & Grill, The Butler, El Jaripeo, or Root Café), unwind with a couple’s massage at Bella Vita Spa to melt away any remaining winter tension.
Don’t forget to make time for a sweet stop. Grab a hot cocoa or a warm chai from Respite Cappuccino Court or Uncommon Coffee Roasters, and a shared dessert from Retro Bakery or from The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry. After all, February was made for treats.
End the day with an exceptional, elevated dining experience at one of our many restaurants that feature seasonal ingredients and an intimate ambiance. Here are our recommendations for the most romantic restaurants in the Art Coast. And if your visit is happening during Valentine’s weekend, know that you’ll need to book a reservation in advance.
Day 3
After a late brunch, ease into the day with a hands-on experience that lets you connect in a new way. Maybe you’ll learn new techniques in a private cooking class with Chef Jim LaPerriere of Distinctive Dining or explore French-inspired flavors through a Lulu Cadieux cooking workshop. If you’re in the mood to move, a private ballroom dance lesson is a fun way to laugh and connect. Or lean into your creative side by making a kokedama at Puddingstone for a sweet little keepsake from your weekend together that will continue to grow.
Then, get some warm drinks for the road. Pick up a latte or hot chocolate from Brew Sisters or Uncommon Too before your next winter adventure—a winter sleigh ride you’ll never forget. Few experiences say “romance” quite like dashing through the snow in a horse-drawn open sleigh. Arrange a private 40-minute sleigh ride through the woods with Wild West Ranch, or opt for a private horseback ride at Rise & Ride Ranch for a different magical, storybook moment.
Finish out your weekend with a decadent dinner at one of the other romantic restaurants you were dying to try.
Have a bit more time? Extend your stay and add to your adventure with the following activities.
A Winter Walk at Oval Beach
Even in February, Lake Michigan has a way of making simple moments feel special. Head to the shoreline to look for rare natural wonders like “ice volcanoes” and sculpted ice spheres formed by winter winds and waves.
Skate On An Ice Ribbon
Use Saugatuck/Douglas as your charming home base and take a short 20-minute drive to the Holland Ice Park, featuring a refrigerated skating pond, a 700-foot skating ribbon, and a dedicated curling sheet.
Hunt For Treasures
Spend a leisurely afternoon antiquing together for vintage décor and collectibles at Saugatuck Antique Pavilion, Featherstone Antique Mall, and Lost and Found Lakeshore, in search of hidden gems to bring home.
