Family Getaway

Family-Friendly Fun in the Art Coast

With so many exhilarating outdoor adventures and fun-filled indoor experiences, we’ve got plenty to keep little ones to older teens busy and active. Hike our miles of trails and roam the dunes at sunset. Climb aboard a giant paddlewheel boat or get lost in a corn maze. No matter the season, Saugatuck/Douglas has something to delight both young and old.

4-Day Summer Adventure

Day 1

Jump on an open-roof Saugatuck Dune Ride for an exhilarating and fun-filled tour over Lake Michigan’s “living” sand dunes. Then go for a hiking adventure at the Saugatuck Dunes State Park where you’ll encounter miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, coastal dunes, and forested areas. Plan a stop at the Root Beer Barrel and then play a round at the Saugatuck Mini Golf.

Day 2

Climb aboard the Chain Ferry to cross the river and then head up 302 steps to the top of Mt. Baldhead to get a bird’s eye view of the Kalamazoo River, downtown area, and Lake Michigan. Kids will love running down the sand dune on the west side, bringing you to Oval Beach, a great place to dip your toes in the water and build a sandcastle. Spend your evening relaxing and listening to the free live music happening all over the Art Coast during the summer months.

A view of downtown Saugatuck from the height of Mt. Baldhead. — Mt. Baldhead

An aerial view of the lake and people relaxing under umbrellas at Oval Beach. — Oval Beach

Day 3

Take a cruise aboard the Star of Saugatuck paddlewheel boat down the Kalamazoo River and along Lake Michigan where stunning views can be enjoyed on the open upper deck or the enclosed lower deck. Visit the Saugatuck Pump House Museum and catch an exhibit. Later, travel back in time with a self-guided tour of the Felt Estate. Completed in 1928, the Felt Estate recalls a lavish period in history with an extravagant 25-room Mansion, a Carriage House, a historic Chapel, and expansive grounds.

The Felt Mansion during sunset. — Felt Mansion

Day 4

Rent a donut boat from Retro Boat Rentals, where dogs are welcome to join, and explore the Kalamazoo River and harbor on your own. Get creative and make mementos from your trip at Express Yourself Art Barn, where you can paint pottery, make mosaics, and more. Grab dinner from Alley’s Diner where you can also spend a fun-filled evening bowling. Or take in a summer performance at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.

Family standing on a dock outside of The Old Boat House at the Donut Boats. — Donut Boats at Retro Boat Rentals

A woman and her daughter selecting a piece at Express Yourself Art Barn. — Express Yourself Art Barn

Extend Your Stay

Go for a Bike Ride

Rent bikes from Big Lake Outfitters or In The Elements Rental and explore our bike-friendly towns using the Blue Star Trail or Beach to Bayou Trail.

Visit Artists’ Studios

Inspire some creativity with a visit to an artist’s studio like Dawn Stafford’s Peachbelt Studio & Gallery, James Brandess’ Studios and Gallery, and Khnemu Studio on Fernwood Farm, where you can see original works in progress.

See the Animals

Spend time at Virtue Cider, situated on an idyllic working farm home to heritage breed animals such as chickens and Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs. Or stop by Evergreen Lane Creamery and interact with their herd of LaMancha goats, filled with personality and mischief.