Every Dog Has Its Day

There’s no need to board your furry family members while you vacation with us—Saugatuck/Douglas is an extremely pet-friendly town.

Explore the Water

Rent a Donut Boat from Retro Boat Rentals. Donut Boats are electric and easy to drive. They are perfect for a day of swimming at the cove, and, best of all, they’re pet-friendly. Grab some food and beverages from The Old Boat House to bring on board, and then treat Fido to a fun, water-filled experience. Or, if you’re part of a large group, private a charter on The Flying Dutchman, a 25-passenger catamaran pontoon, allows furry friends to join. The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, the country’s only remaining hand-cranked chain ferry, will also welcome your well-behaved leashed pup to join you on a journey across the Kalamazoo River.

Go On A Beverage Tour

Indulge in some craft beverages and visit one (or more!) of our incredible wineries, craft breweries, and cideries. Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery, Fenn Valley Vineyards, Michigan Wine Co., Modales, Virtue Cider, The Mitten Brewing Company, and Waypost Brewing Co. all welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs in their outdoor seating areas.

Hit the Trails

Stretch those paws and treat your pooch to some spectacular outdoor scenery at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. The park encompasses 2.5 miles of secluded Lake Michigan shoreline and 1,000 acres of steep slopes, rolling hills, and freshwater coastal dunes that are more than 200 feet tall. Dogs on a 6-foot leash are allowed on the trails and the beach but must be under an owner’s immediate control.

Run Free

Your four-legged best friend will love frolicking through the fields off-leash at Tails N Trails Dog Park, a fully-fenced 5-acre park with grass, sand, and trees for shade. There is also a separate fenced-in area for small dogs. This dog park offers doggie waste bags, a water spigot, a picnic table, and a gazebo to relax in. 

Putter Around

Saugatuck Mini Golf is a pet-friendly attraction where your on-leash pup can join you as you putt the 18-hole course. Beautiful landscaping featuring flowers, rocks, and lush botanicals lines each putting area. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, and there is also an outdoor seating area where you can relax.

Get A Souvenir

And when it’s time to head home, don’t forget to stop at Lakeshore Pet Boutique in Douglas or LUXE Saugatuck to pick up a special chew toy or sweet treat and gourmet snack to commemorate your visit.  

Should you need to occupy your dog for the day while you do some adventuring on your own, inquire in advance at Camp Saugapup or nearby Dogs Bay Country Club for doggie daycare availability.

For a list of the restaurants where you can dine with your pup, check out our article here.

Did you like this post? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you links to posts like this every month.


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

More to Explore