Plan Your Next Reading Retreat on the Art Coast^®

So, what should be on the itinerary for a bibliophile? Slowing down, turning pages, and staying awhile in Saugatuck/Douglas. Pack a bag full of books, or rely on the experts at the Book Nook of Saugatuck or at the Saugatuck/Douglas District Library to help you find your next page turner. Get really ‘lit’erary by setting the scene with a novel set right here, like Viola Shipman’s The Edge of Summer, in which a Southern seamstress heads to the Art Coast to find answers about her mother’s past. (Keep your eyes peeled for no shortage of Saugatuck/Douglas references, like the Ox-Bow School of Art and the Chain Ferry). 

Also by Viola Shipman, The Summer Cottage explores one woman’s journey to recover from a broken marriage by renovating her family’s summer house in Saugatuck/Douglas into a charming bed-and-breakfast. Spoiler alert: Sunshine and sandcastles are good for the soul. Author Randy Overbeck’s The Haunted Shores combines a murder mystery, a ghost story, and a dangerous romance–all against a backdrop of Saugatuck/Douglas. Four books in this series just might lead you to extend your trip. 

Nonfiction fans will love The Saugatuck-Douglas History Center’s series of local history books on Saugatuck and Douglas. “In 1997, the History Center embarked upon an ambitious program to document local history by producing books written, edited, and designed by volunteers,” explains the History Center. “Through 2011, a new book was released nearly every year – most by either Kit Lane, former co-owner of the Commercial Record, or James Schmiechen, emeritus professor of history at Central Michigan University.”

Discover more about everything from the towns’ development and architecture to their cultural landmarks and notable names. The 15 books are available to purchase at The History Center and also at the Saugatuck Antique Pavilion. 

What To Do While You’re Here

In the Art Coast, the serene backdrop of winter sets the scene for a peaceful retreat. Snuggle up with a bestseller next to a roaring fire at one of these local haunts or get into the spirit by pairing your book with a warming cocktail. The Southerner’s ‘Seasonal Believer’ with Plymouth Navy Strength Gin, Carpano Classico, Armaro Montenegro, Oloroso Sherry, orange bitters, and cinnamon should do the trick. Or try Bowdie’s Chop House’s Side Car with Pierre Ferrand Cognac, Grand Marnier, spiced ginger syrup, fresh lemon, and orange bitters. Looking for a sober alternative? Head over to Spice & Tea Merchants for a wide selection of teas to brew and sip on as you read.

Between books, luxuriate in the peace and quiet of winter along the lakeshore by exploring the tranquil woods and snow-covered dunes of the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Get inspired by the art scene, or indulge in farm-to-table cuisine. Here, a three-day winter itinerary offers more ideas for a relaxing stay. 

While solo travelers appreciate the quieter months of winter, book clubbers look to spring for the ideal group getaway. No need for rental cars or Uber XLs, both Saugatuck and Douglas are highly walkable for getting steps in between arcs. Let the sun and the lake breeze refresh you by snagging a bench at Coghlin Park or Wicks Park for chapters 30+. 

Discuss the latest cliff hanger over a glass of cabernet at one of Southwest Michigan’s award-winning wineries. Visit one of Saugatuck/Douglas’ must-hit stores, or rent bikes and pedal along one of the region’s beloved paths, like the Blue Star or Beeline Trails. Who knows, the towns’ creative roots may just inspire you to write your own novel. 

No matter the season or the to-dos, the key, of course, is to let the adventure unfold on the page. Time to book your trip.