Refresh your summer social feed with some inspiring shots from the Art Coast of Michigan. From stunning coastlines to iconic landmarks, you’ll easily find an intriguing backdrop for that perfect summer shot.

Here are our top 8 picks for Instagram-worthy locations. And don’t forget to #SaugatuckDouglas and #ArtCoastofMichigan!

1. Smile! You’re In Saugatuck Mural

Painted in 2020, this vibrant mural makes the perfect colorful backdrop for a pic to commemorate your time in the Art Coast. Located along the riverfront on Water Street in downtown Saugatuck, the mural lives on the Dockside Market Place building, home to the Coppercraft Distillery Tasting Room. Grab a bite and sip after your photo op.

2. On A Retro Boat

Snap a selfie on board a vintage vessel from Retro Boat Rentals before navigating it down the Kalamazoo River. Their fleet of rare, classic fiberglass runabout boats features hip retro colors, flashy fins, and cool chrome details that will liven up any photo. Enjoy cocktails afterward at their Old Boat House waterfront patio. 

3. In Front Of The Chain Ferry

For a true one-of-a-kind backdrop, take a picture in front of the Diane—the only remaining hand-cranked Chain Ferry of its kind remaining in the United States. Originally built in 1838 to transport horses across the Kalamazoo River, this chain ferry requires about 200 cranks to get across the river to the opposite shore.

4. On A Dune Ride

Capture the thrill on camera of an off-road, open-roof ride over Lake Michigan sand dunes. The Saugatuck Dune Rides provides a 40-minute adventure with plenty of scenic photo ops and some interesting historical information, such as the tale of the lost town of Singapore, Michigan's version of Pompeii.

5. By The Root Beer Barrel

Nab a nostalgic pic with a visit to Douglas’s 17-foot tall Root Beer Barrel, a beloved beachgoer hangout since 1952. A classic example of kitschy American roadside architecture, this restored concession stand located near Oval Beach proudly serves hot dogs and root beer on tap all summer long.

6. On Top Of Mt. Baldhead

While not an actual mountain, the view from atop this extra-large dune never disappoints and makes for some spectacular photos. Getting the best picture will require some physical exertion—a climb up 302 stairs! There you'll find a scenic overlook of the Kalamazoo River that separates the towns of Saugatuck and Douglas and a closer view of the iconic Mount Baldhead Radar Tower, a Cold War relic dating back to the 1950s. 

7. Sunset On Oval Beach

Celebrated around the world for its beautiful sweep of shoreline and backdrop of rolling dunes, Oval Beach is picture-worthy any time of the year, at any hour of the day. But nothing compares to a sunset there during the summer months. Climb the dunes to get a panoramic birds-eye view, or stay close to the water while you capture the sky at its most vibrant.

8. With The Rainbow 

The Art Coast of Michigan is known for its welcoming and inclusive culture, and our rainbow crosswalks and sidewalks share our pride all year long. Show off your pride and support for the LGBTQ community by snapping a selfie on one of these walkways. If you're in downtown Douglas, the rainbow crosswalk crosses Center Street next to Beery Field. In Saugatuck, you can find a rainbow crosswalk across Butler Street towards Saugatuck City Hall and a rainbow sidewalk near Scooters Café & Pizzeria on Culver Street.