Every tradition starts somewhere, so who says you can’t begin forging some new ones this year? Instead of spending your Thanksgiving staring at the same four walls, why not take a short road trip and embrace the simple joys of a holiday spent in a charming coastal town. A change of scenery and less stress are sure to spark some new things to be grateful for this November.

Thanksgiving is first and foremost about giving thanks and enjoying family and loved ones. If you’re limiting your air travel this year but still want to get away, The Art Coast of Michigan is a manageable drive from Chicago, Detroit, and Indianapolis. Whether you’re celebrating only with your significant other or are gathering with a large group of friends, we can help you celebrate the season of appreciation in a relaxed setting and with a specially curated feast.

Gather with your loved ones and make some lasting holiday memories in one of our cozy cottages or luxury lakefront rentals. Mill Pond Vacation Rentals, Jaqua Realtors Vacation Places and Rentals, Bella Vita Vacation Rentals, Quaint Cottages, and Relax Rentals offer unique properties throughout the Saugatuck/Douglas area. Here, you can still roast and carve your own turkey but avoid all the stress that comes with cooking everything from scratch.

Local eateries such as the Farmhouse Deli & Pantry in Douglas, Pennyroyal Café and Provisions and The Southerner in Saugatuck, and the Chicken Scratch Farm & Bakery in Fennville are accepting prepaid orders for fresh turkeys, and prepared sides, appetizers, and desserts that will really leave you feeling thankful. Orders fill up fast, so don’t wait too long to reserve your meal. And be sure to pre-order a pie for pick-up from Crane’s Pie Pantry. Whether you’re team pumpkin all the way or can’t get enough of dark chocolate pecan during the holidays, Crane’s will satisfy your craving with an array of delectable made-from-scratch pies. And when it comes time to make a toast, be sure to fill your glass with some local award-winning handcrafted wines from Modales Winery, Michigan Wine Co., or Fenn Valley Vineyards.  If you’re looking for some other varietals, make your way over to J. Petter Wine Gallery or Saugatuck Wine Cellars to pick up a bottle.

If a quaint bed and breakfast or historic inn is more of the vibe you’re after, and you’d prefer to be completely hands-off with your Thanksgiving feast, consider a stay at J. Paul's Restaurant at The Kirby Hotel or the Belvedere Inn and Restaurant. Both these charming venues will be serving up memorable Thanksgiving meals you’ll be sure to appreciate. And just when you think you’ve had your fill, the Belvedere will also be serving their guests a late evening snack featuring their famous turkey sandwiches and desserts.

The fun doesn’t end once the meal is done, so stick around for the weekend. Work off those extra calories from your Thanksgiving feast with some holiday shopping during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Our walkable downtown areas are lined with twinkling lights that will have you feeling festive and inspired. Enjoy a nostalgic start to the Christmas season with our Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 26, at 5 pm at Wicks Park Gazebo. Saint Nick will lead the festivities with a countdown for the holiday tree to be lit in unison with the Star on Mt. Baldhead. There will be plenty of caroling and free hot chocolate and cookies to fill you with cheer.