Top 8 Ways To Celebrate Dad In The Art Coast^®

1. Hit the Links

If your dad likes to swing a club, head over to The Ravines Golf Club, West Michigan’s only Arnold Palmer Signature Design Championship Golf Course. This sweeping 18-hole, 7,070-yard, par 72 course features immense and visually stunning natural vistas. Another must-visit course is the Clearbrook Golf Club. This mature 6556-yard, par-72 course features intriguing holes to test every club in your bag. And if the larger courses feel too intimidating, there’s always Saugatuck Mini Golf, which offers a lovely natural-style setting with fabulous water features and 18 fun, challenging holes.

2. Take to the Trails

Spend the day at Saugatuck Dunes State Park and explore the miles of beautiful hiking trails that wind through the dunes and forest. Your father will love the opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Michigan. If hiking isn’t his thing, biking is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of our region and pack in some exercise as well. Bikes can be rented from Big Lake Outfitters, Blue Star Barns and In The Elements Rental. For a list of bike routes and trails, click here.

3. Just Add Water

Help Dad catch the big one with a charter boat fishing excursion. Half-day and full-day sportfishing expeditions in Lake Michigan can be chartered through MIRYHA Charters, Best Chance Too Charters, and Big Lake Outfitters. For some thrilling fun, rent jet skis from Makin’ Waves Boat Rentals and race across the waters of Kalamazoo Lake. Or, if you’re looking to explore the water together under your own power, paddle your way through the beautiful Kalamazoo River while enjoying the stunning scenery and wildlife. Rent kayaks from Big Lake Outfitters, Third Coast Paddling, or In the Elements Rental, and get ready to treat your pop to a thrilling adventure. And for a more relaxing way to experience our waterways— the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan—hop aboard the historic Star of Saugatuck paddlewheel ship for a tour like no other. You can also book a sunset cruise on a pontoon boat with the Flying Dutchman Adventure Co. and bring aboard your favorite beverages. 

4. Belly Up To The Bar

Cement your standing as your father’s favorite child by treating his taste buds to a delicious craft beer tour experience. The Art Coast is home to three craft breweries, each offering distinctly different flavor profiles for their beers. Be the designated driver and try out Saugatuck Brewing Company, Waypost Brewing Co., and the Mitten Brewing Company. Want to take the experience up a notch and join in on the sampling? Charter a beverage tour through Coastal Tours, Untapped Sights & Tours, or Singapore Shuttles for worry-free transportation between breweries. 

5. Eat Your Heart Out

This small coastal getaway features some big and bold flavors, and you’ll want to make sure your father gets his fill. Please his palate at Bowdie’s Chophouse for a decadent and delicious steak dinner. This elegant restaurant offers top-quality cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list, making it the perfect place to treat your dad to a special meal. If more casual grub set against waterfront views seems more his speed, be sure to hit The Butler and try their famous Butler Burger, a local favorite for the past 60 years. Or treat Dad to dinner at The Southerner, a delightful eatery overlooking the Kalamazoo River that serves the best-fried chicken and biscuits in the region.

6. Start Your Engines

If your dad’s a classic car lover, plan a visit to Saugatuck’s Investment Classics Cars & Memorabilia, where finely restored automobiles from the 1950s to the 2000s, including vintage Thunderbirds, Mercedes, Jaguars, and Porsches are on display along with an eclectic collection of vintage memorabilia. Or arrange for a ride in an antique pre-war era open Ford Model A car with Antique Joy Rides for a relaxing way to tour the area. Your personal chauffeur will drive you through downtown Saugatuck and Douglas, on the quiet back roads by the Felt Mansion, and along the high bluffs of Lake Michigan with its stunning views. If a more fast-paced adventure is more your dad’s thing, jump on an open-roof dune buggy with the Saugatuck Dune Rides for an exhilarating and fun-filled tour over Lake Michigan’s “living” sand dunes. On Father’s Day, June 16, 2024, from 1 pm – 5 pm, there will be a free Car Show with live music, games, roasted chicken from the grill, and plenty of vintage cars to ogle at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery.

7. Hit Some Pins

Treat your father to a fun-filled outing with bowling at Alley’s Pizza at Lakeview Lanes. Spend quality time together as you lace up your bowling shoes and engage in a friendly competition full of strikes, spares, and laughter. Along with its eight bowling lanes, Alley’s also serves up some delicious thin-crust pizza and offers a full bar with craft beer, wine, and specialty cocktails for dad to enjoy. 

8. Get A Taste of the Good Life

Delight your dad in the ultimate Father’s Day indulgence with a perfect pairing of fine cigars and spirits. First, take him to Stogie’s and dive into a world of relaxation and sophistication as you explore their vast selection of cigars from around the globe. Their friendly and knowledgeable team will introduce you to the finer points of cigar enjoyment, whether you are a cigar aficionado or simply curious about cigar culture. Afterward, head over to New Holland Spirits Tasting Room or The Cottage at Wicks Park for some bourbon tasting.