Solo Travel: Why the Art Coast^® is Easy on Your Own

First things first: find a place to call your own. After all, when you’re traveling solo, the only person you have to please is yourself. And with such a wide variety of accommodations, finding a stay on the Art Coast that suits your personal style is easy.

Prefer a boutique inn downtown in the heart of the action? Check. What about a peaceful and quiet vacation rental off the beaten path? Check. Or would you rather stay at a waterfront hotel with no shortage of amenities? Check. There’s room for everyone in Saugatuck/Douglas. Ready to find your perfect stay? Explore lodging options here.

Now for the best part: deciding how to spend your time. Feel like trying something new? Revisiting an old favorite? Doing absolutely nothing for a while? It’s entirely up to you. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Create Your Own Fragrance

Commemorate your trip with a custom scent from Marie’s Green Apothecary. They’ll guide you through an intimate scent-blending process (cinnamon is always a winner this time of year), and you’ll take home a custom, personalized 15 mL perfume that’ll trigger memories of solo travel every time it’s spritzed.

Indulge in a Coffee Flight…

Drink your coffee unhurriedly at Uncommon Coffee Roasters and savor every drop. Book their Coffee Flight & Institute Tour to sample a variety of coffee that’s freshly roasted and brewed just for you and learn how everything works, from roasting to cold brew to packaging. Take home a bag (or two!) to continue to sip the flavors of Saugatuck once you’re home. 

…or in a Wine Tasting

Pony up to the bar, and sip some wine in solitude. The Fennville AVA is one of only five areas in Michigan designated as a wine-growing region. At Modales, Michigan Wine Co., Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, and Crane’s Winery, taste crisp whites, bold reds, or dabble in something sparkling. And don’t forget to leave a little room in your suitcase for a few favorite bottles to enjoy back home.

Take a Hike

Take advantage of a few of the Art Coast’s most popular natural attractions–minus the summer crowds. Climb the 303 steps to the top of Mt. Baldhead for stunning foliage views. Walk 13 miles of trails through Saugatuck Dunes State Park and practice the Japanese art of “forest bathing.” After Labor Day, parking at the award-winning Oval Beach is free. Pack a picnic, and enjoy the crashing waves and cool breeze. 

Become a Chef for a Day

Create a feast for your senses at Lulu Cadieux, where their immersive, hands-on cooking workshops teach you how to be a better chef, yes, but also let you unwind in a beautiful chef’s kitchen with a delicious meal. Think Moroccan cuisine, handmade pasta, farm-to-table dishes, and more. 

Read a Book

How does taking the day to enjoy a page-turner sound? The experts at The Book Nook in Saugatuck can give you a personalized recommendation, whether you’re ready to snuggle up with a romance or itching to flip through the newest thriller. 

Get a Head Start on Holiday Shopping

There’s no better feeling than being ahead with holiday shopping. Stroll through downtown Saugatuck and Douglas, where independently owned boutiques and specialty shops offer everything from stylish clothing and accessories to unique home décor, handcrafted goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts. You might even find a little something for yourself along the way. Need some inspiration? Browse our complete shopping directory to discover all the local stores worth exploring.

Take in the Art

Home to over 20 galleries and artist studios (a complete list is here), Saugatuck/Douglas is the perfect place to find incredible artwork. You’ll discover everything from painting, sculpture, and photography to glass, ceramics, jewelry, and mixed media, with work by both nationally recognized artists and emerging talent. And there’s plenty of art to discover beyond the galleries, too. Check out our self-guided public art walking tour here to explore works displayed throughout the area.