23 Unique & Fun Things to do in Saugatuck (Michigan)

Are you planning a trip to Michigan? You’ll be excited by all the amazing things to do in Saugatuck.

Although Saugatuck is a very moderately populated area, as part of its land is covered by the shoreline and water of lake Michigan, it’s an amazing and conducive place for visitors and tourists both from within or outside the states.

By way of history, Saugatuck, Michigan, was home to the famous Big pavilion, a large dance hall that fascinated bands and visitors from across the state.

Besides, It was a noted art colony and tourist destination in the Arts and crafts movement in the late 19th century.

Some of Saugatuck’s most famous attractions include the Dune state park, the Center for the Arts, and the Habor Natural Area.

This is where visitors and tourists can have an exciting experience in a Picnic, trail hiking, lots of entertainment, and other fun-filled activities.

Indeed, Saugatuck is a fun and exciting vacation destination for all and sundry.

Here are some reasons you should consider Saugatuck for your next vacation.

Things to do in Saugatuck, Michigan

1. Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Are you wondering what to do in Saugatuck? You can consider a visit to Saugatuck Dunes State Park.

Established in 1977, Saugatuck Dunes State park has since been a public recreation area covering 1,000 acres on the shore of lake Michigan.

A large portion of the state park features 25km of hiking trails; also found in the park are sand dunes covered with trees and grasses, and the rest of the park is covered by the beachfront.

When you visit the state park, you will indeed discover the wonderful work of art created and maintained by mother nature, as there are many beautiful species of trees and plants, beaches, and dunes.

Dunes State park is likewise a place for a Picnic where families and groups of people can come together to enjoy the hiking trails leading to the dunes and beach.

Beautiful is the sight of the forest within the park and people usually have unending excitement as they work on the soft sand of the dunes and enjoy the cool breeze coming from the breach.

Lastly, for lovers of swimming, the shore of lake Michigan is an awesome place to be and enjoy the lasting experience from the clear and blue-looking beach.

Address: 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423

2. Saugatuck Center for the Arts

For all lovers of Arts and entertainment.

Saugatuck Center for the Arts is a destination for experiencing the joy of professional theater, music concerts, and life-changing education for children.

This Arts Center is located on west Michigan’s lakeshore, and it’s a place for exciting theater productions and music concerts for all entertainment lovers.

It’s also a place that houses various cute shops for different delicacies that give the perfect user experience.

The theater is nice sized with comfortable seats, great sound, and superb production that consistently generate a wow reaction from their visitors.

When you visit this Center, you will be surprised at the arrangement of the Farmers’ market, with a wide variety of vendors waiting to give mouthwatering treats.

Also, the artistic garden is always there, adorned with unique plants.

Lastly, the art gallery is present, where all sorts of artistic paintings and sculptures are displayed for all lovers of art.

Address: 400 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

3. Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area

Another fun thing to do in Saugatuck is to stop by the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area.

Established over a decade ago, this area, located on 173 Acres of land, has been a historic site of the original mouth of the Kalamazoo River.

However, it became open to the public as a city park in December 2011.

Notably, this area has interdunal wetlands, open dunes, and the Kalamazoo River shoreline, among others which make the site a Natural Area.

Being a shoreline on lake Michigan, this area features activities such as fishing, Hiking, wildlife viewing, and lots more.

It’s likewise an excellent place for a picnic with a lovely serene environment and a variety of ecosystems.

In addition to the natural Scenic area, there are also lovely amenities like a parking lot and restroom to ease visitors.

Lastly, you can enjoy your time here as you engage in all the fun-filled activities in the Natural area, well protected and manicured.

Address: Oval Dr, Saugatuck, MI 49453

4. Saugatuck Dune Rides

If you are looking for cool things to do asides from hiking and swimming in lake Michigan when you’re in Saugatuck, Dune rides can be more than amazing.

Saugatuck Dune Rides could possibly make the sight of natural scenery an amazing view.

While engaging in this pleasurable ride, you can surely enjoy the 40 minutes of the adventurous and entertaining tour.

Not to mention, the driver and knowledgeable tour guide keep everyone engaged with information about the development, history, and ecology of the dunes.

Dune ride is fun, safe, and for all ages.

Lastly, the host driver coordinating the tour will surely keep you entertained with commentary filled with jokes and puns.

Address: 6495 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck, MI 49453

5. Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises

Isn’t it amazing that there are lots of activities to engage in while you have your next vacation in Saugatuck?

And yes, a Boat cruise is among the fun-filled experience you can catch live.

A place to catch a pleasurable boat cruise is the Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises.

For love birds, family, friends, and business partners. Boarding any of the big paddle wheel boats that come in different colors to enjoy a boat cruise on the great lake Michigan with a spectacular scenic cruise and viewing the many gigantic building located around the vicinity.

On the boat, a nice treat awaits you as sorts of wine, and frozen drink is to be served.

What an awesome and scenic cruise on lake Michigan. You’ll love it.

Address: 716 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

6. Locked 460 Escape Rooms

If you are a fan of games, then you should consider visiting the Locked 460 Escape rooms.

Locked 460 is Grand Rapid hottest new activity to engage the mind.

Besides, Escape rooms are the new fad for friends, family, corporate team building, or a fun night date.

How does it work?

Teams of 2-8 people with age range groups for kids and adults will have 60 minutes to solve clues and puzzles to escape a locked room.

The escape room location has several different rooms with different styles and themes.

The waiting room is there to give what to expect in the storyline, game elements, and puzzle challenge.

Part of the rooms are Apartment 460, Lou’s garage, wanted, and the western room with top-tier puzzles.

The gamemaster and crew are present to help by giving well-placed hints to get you to overcome the course you need.

Just like a video game, you need to start from the simplest room to catch all the exciting fun to experience.

Address: 2035 28th St SE ste i, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

7. Saugatuck-Douglas History Museum

If you are looking for free things to do while in Saugatuck, this local museum is a nice place to add to your travel diary.

Saugatuck-Douglas History Museum is a place to visit to learn about the history of Saugatuck from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

There you will meet the stories of people who had lived through the wild weekends that shut the town down and also the origins of the radar tower sitting on mount Baldhead.

It is set up in a nice-looking area with beautiful gardens overlooking the Kalamazoo river.

The museum houses incredible exhibits with lovely shops to browse.

A lovely place to visit anytime you are in Saugatuck, and you will indeed have fun as the Saugatuck-Douglas History museum is one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

Address: 735 Park St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

8. Amazwi Contemporary Art

Are you a lover of Artwork for design and beautification? Then Amazwi Contemporary Art is a place to visit.

Established in 2004, this fantastic African gallery has been voicing and amplifying the contemporary work of Art and artifact of Africans throughout North America.

It’s a place that showcases the awesome work of different painters, sculptors, and craft people from different parts of Africa continent.

Located in the heart of Saugatuck is this beautiful, quaint place to visit while in the area. You’ll indeed enjoy the natural beauty of Africa through art and craft.

In addition, it’s the best place for different kinds of paintings, sculptures, and jewelry of African origin, beautifully arranged for both kids and adults.

Interestingly, the great collection comes at affordable prices, well packaged, and with ease of shipping to different parts of the united states.

Address: 249 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

9. Saugatuck Chain Ferry

If you are looking for a nice place to enjoy an awesome ride on the Kalamazoo river, Saugatuck Chain Ferry is there to explore.

Historically, it was first operated in 1857 by 19-year-old Darius Billings. Opened to replace the bridge damaged by flood and Passing ships.

It connects downtown Saugatuck to mount Baldhead park and Oval beach.

Furthermore, the ferry – a ship without an engine moves by turning a crank being connected to a chain.

It’s the last hand-cranked chain ferry in the united states.

For starters, chain ferry will give a magical and exciting experience and hilarious adventure.

Impressively, it’s operated by trained operators and departs each dock every 10 – 15 minutes based on demand.

The crossing, which is about 100 yards, takes you from the heart of Saugatuck’s downtown across the Kalamazoo river to mount Baldhead and Oval beach.

The chains having a 26 passengers capacity have a considerable amount of slack built into them.

However, in order to sink below the surface as the ferry moves away, other vessels are allowed to pass without becoming trapped.

Lastly, it costs just 2 dollars for the trip, and it can take 15 minutes to enjoy the awesome ride.

Address: 528 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

Planning a road trip to other cities in Michigan? Why not check out our list of things to do in Warren, Petoskey, and South Haven?

10. Tail N Trails Dog Park

If you are a lover of dogs or you own one, a Dog park is a place for you to catch unlimited fun with these man’s best friends.

Being of the free places to visit in Saugatuck, the  6 acres park is a safe and off-leash play for owners and their dogs.

While dog owners enjoy chatting with each other and walking around the park, dogs roam freely and exercise.

It is open for a group tour with a spacious car park and a fenced-in area. Also, there’s a shelter for humans.

Take it or leave it; this is the best place to learn more about dogs.

Different breeds are brought by different owners to socialize and run circles in the fenced-in area consistently over a period of hours.

The dog park is pretty big, with plenty of space for dogs. The setup is super cool, with lovely walking trails.

Besides, it’s free, and you definitely need to visit if you are with your furry friend.

Address: 6359 134th Ave, Saugatuck, MI 49453

11. Mount Baldhead Park

Another nice park to catch all the stupendous fun in Saugatuck is Mount Baldhead Park.

Hiking the mount with over 307 stairs to have a fantastic view of the city while at the very top is sensational.

Surrounded by dunes and different types of vegetation, the path of the park can lead to the comely Oval beach climbing down the dune.

Mount Baldhead park is a free place to hang out with adequate restrooms. The climb is divided into sets of 20, with a spot to stop each set.

You may need some sort of workout to stay fit and burn some calories; mount baldhead is an ideal place to offer such a workout climbing up and down the mount.

Lastly, having a scenic view of the city, dunes, and Oval beach is pleasant and enjoyable.

Address: 769 Park St., Saugatuck, MI, 49453

12. Fenn Valley Vineyards

Established in 1973, Fenn Valley Vineyards is of the coolest place to visit in Saugatuck.

This winery cellar is owned and operated by the Welsch family with the goal of producing world-class wines from grapes grown along the shore of lake Michigan.

As such, the winery makes and sells unique varieties of wine that will suit even the most sagacious palate.

This winery always has a wide range of wine in stock.

Visitors can taste at least seven different wines and ciders in the tasting room before making their decision on which one to buy.

Furthermore, Fenn valley vineyards provide visitors with diverse ways to enjoy and have fun.

From “Sip and Shop” tours to “Winemaker’s Dinner” and other popular events, there’s always something fun happening at Funny Valley Vineyards.

Likewise, its offers tours where visitors learn about the production facilities, from the farmer to the final process the wines pass through.

Lastly, the tasting room is very big and clean. Also, the outdoor setting is lovely, with a live band playing to grace your visit with an unforgettable experience.

Address: 6130 122nd Ave, Fennville, MI 49408

13. Dorr E. Felt Mansion

Constructed in 1927, this historic mansion is one of the most interesting places to visit while you are in Saugatuck.

Known for its Neo-classical architectural design on 3 acres of land.

It is a lovely historic landmark that had been so well restored and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

The mansion – a three-story, gable-roof, rectangular plan brick building with the ground so clean and well kept.

Today, Dorr E. Felt Mansion can be explored through a guided tour into the different rooms available in the building.

The comptometer – the first successfully built key-driven mechanical calculator is also there to see.

Moreover, the mansion can be one of your favorite haunts when you visit and become thrilled by all the experiences of being in a fantastic building.

Likewise, the mansion is awesomely decorated in and out, giving it a stunning look.

In addition to touring the mansion, the ground gardens, as well as the chapel, is also spectacular sights to see.

Lastly, this beautiful place is available and frequently used for wedding ceremonies, Hollywood production, and night concert.

Address: 6597 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423

14. Windmill Island Gardens

Situated outside Saugatuck, the Windmill Island Garden is an exciting place to visit.

This tourist attraction offers a seasons park featuring tulip gardens, a 250 years old windmill, a carousel, and dutch- costumed guides.

It’s more than exciting to view the beautiful flowers and tulips bloom.

Of note, the enthusiastic staff are ready to engage and teach about dutch culture and the grinding process of the windmill.

The gardens are well-manicured and look gorgeous. Kids will surely enjoy the carousel, which runs every 30 minutes.

There is a gift shop with samples of over 30 kinds of authentic Dutch cheeses and lots of other treats.

There are tons of cool and beautiful things to see, along with over one mile of trails to walk around while enjoying the scenic park.

Overall, It is a nice place to visit to appreciate mother nature and history.

Address: 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423

15. Oval Beach

One of the coolest things to do in Saugatuck, Oval beach, is the heart of family fun.

This beach offers an all-encompassing experience of camping, amusement, and beach swimming all in one place.

If you are looking for a place in Saugatuck where the whole family can enjoy, add Oval Beach to your shortlist.

A top public beach around with good rock picking, climbing the dunes to mount Baldhead. It’s a perfect place to watch the sunset.

Swimming is enjoyable with the perfect depth of the beach. One of lake Michigan’s nicest beaches with ample parking and modern bathroom facilities.

Oval beach is indeed a wonderful place to relax.

16. The Butler

If you are looking for a place to have a good treat in terms of eateries in Saugatuck, be sure to check out The Butler.

One of the most romantic things to do when in Saugatuck, The Butler is a classy restaurant with a cozy environment and a great view of water on the dock.

The restaurant’s intimate treat makes the location a perfect date and fun-catching destination. The patio atmosphere, comfortable dining room, extended outdoor space, and Bar gives the restaurant a rich, fantastic climate.

Known for its dynamic menu selection, The Butler serves terrific dishes that are truly far from normal.

When speaking of the delicacies in the Butler, the most popular include Pizza, brisket sandwiches, crab stuffed mushroom, and burgers.

In addition to a welcoming atmosphere and tasty dishes, The Butler has friendly and hard-working staff that are also nice and welcoming to give the visitor’s king’s treats.

While enjoying the environment for dinner, you’ll surely be thrilled with live music and TVs for games to spice up the dining experience. It will surely be worth the price.

Address: 40 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

17. West Michigan Cycleboat

Interesting things to do in Saugatuck are not hard to come by, and West Michigan Cycleboat is no exception.

One of the best places to enjoy a boat ride, dine and wine with friends and family is the West Michigan Cycle boat.

West Michigan Cycleboat gives its visitors the unique opportunity to throw their own private party right on the water. From public tours to private parties, you’ll see west Michigan like never before.

The cycleboat – a 12-passenger pedal-powered charter boat. All passengers are coast guard inspected, and dock facilities are top-notch.

There are also bar bikes. While in the Cycleboat, this friendly and accommodating captain and crew take the ride with you.

Whether a public tour or a private party, you can board with your cooler and ice to enjoy wine and beverages while having a scenic view.

Lastly, a Bluetooth sound device to connect and enjoy your playlist is readily available while having a bachelorette party, birthday, tour and time out with friends. If you are considering it, don’t wait!

Address: 220 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

18. Bowdies Chop House

Bowdies Chop House is a stunning place to plan a dinner date while in Saugatuck, Michigan.

If you are looking for a place to have the best eats in town, here is the place.

Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, every day of the week is a good time to visit Bowdies Chop House.

Frequently, this restaurant is known for its elegant menu selections, calm ambiance, and wonderful drinks.

The lunch and dinner menus are perfectly Made for sharing, which makes this spot for a date and social gathering.

Some of the Bowdies Chop House popular lunch and dinner selections include tomahawk streaks, lobster max, cheese, mushroom, escargot, and lots more.

In addition to the wonderful menu selections, the restaurant has excellent menus featuring many options of cocktails and drinks.

These awesome lunch and dinner menus, joint together with the fantastic drink selection, guarantee an incredible experience.

Address: 230 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

19. Coghlin Park

Among many cool Suagatuck attractions is Coghlin park.

Located on 0.5 acres with 200′ Kalamazoo River frontage. The park is primarily an open space that is utilized for weddings and various festivals.

Coghlin Park is also a cool place for outdoor activities and relaxation. With lots of fixed picnic tables for seating, it’s an ideal place to experience the scenic view of greens and boats moving along their course on the lake.

It’s a great spot beautified with amazing decorations of beautiful sculptures of little boats full of flowers on waves.

It’s also a place for all kinds of things, from tieing your boat up for free when slips are available to playing games with your kids. Also, the lovely sight of ducks and geese makes it a tremendous chilling spot.

Lastly, you can experience a wonderful evening at Coghlin park while sitting by the waterside fishing and watching the sun go set.

If this is sometimes called a ‘cloud area,’ then you might think of those mountain peaks as ‘islands.’

Address: 60 Griffith St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

20. Coral Gable

While in Saugatuck, another cool place to enjoy a nice treat is the Coral Gable Restaurant.

Coral Gable Resort spot for American fare, features waterfront decks along with piano and pool bars.

Open every day of the week; this spot is a cool place to enjoy a nice treat around the waterfront with available great appetizers and drinks.

You’ll be sure to check all the boxes for excellence – food, service, venue, and price.

What’s more, Coral Gable host different live bands and comedy night that will further enhance your fun experience

Furthermore, it provides visitors with diverse ways to enjoy their drinks with a well-decorated patio, pool bar, channel for chatting with other patrons, and, lastly, awesome piano play.

You will never get disappointed by the fantastic staff, ever ready to welcome you and render a smooth service to all visitors without wasting much time.

Address: 220 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

21. Kilwins Chocolates

If you are wondering where to enjoy delicious fudge and ice cream while in Saugatuck, Michigan, Kilwins Chocolates is the answer to the many searches.

Being a milestone among locals and tourists alike, Kilwins has been in the downtown for more than 26 years.

Kilwins is a quality confectioner featuring hand-crafted chocolate, Mackinac island-style fudge, and original recipe ice cream.

The confection are made in the storefront window, and everyone can enjoy watching as the fudge and caramel are made the old-fashioned way.

Open every day of the week, and you’ll be sure to get a nice treat and warm welcome from the staff.

Among many of the delicious, freshly made fudge, chocolate, and ice cream include the candy Apple, Caramel Corn, Brittle, Waffle Cones, Caramel Apple, and many more items made right in the store and dipped in creamy Milk, Dark, and White Chocolate. You’ll love it!

Address: 152 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

22. Ravines Golf Club

If you are a lover of Golf, a fantastic place in Saugatuck you will need to check out is the Ravines Golf Club.

Ravines Golf Club is a golf course envisioned and built by the king, Arnold Palmer.

An exception to the ordinary, Ravines Golf Club offers exceptional playing conditions at an extraordinary value.

With tons of activities in one central location, visiting Ravines Golf Club is an easy decision to make.

Known for its visually stunning and serene environment, a practice green area that indeed resembles what to see on the playing course itself.

Ravines Golf club boasts a freshly designed pro shop and grill room situated in Arnie’s cottage. As you arrive at the park, the attendants are there with nice carts with USB ports to handle your clubs.

Asides from the golf course, the Golf club is also one of the most beautiful wedding ceremonies and reception venues. The perfect location and gorgeously appointed rooms are stunning.

Lastly, the ceremony site is set amidst bushes of fragrant flowers with perfectly manicured lenses and within a very short walking distance from the clubhouse and reception hall.

Address: 3520 Palmer Dr, Saugatuck, MI 49453

23. Mermaid Bar and Grill

If you are looking for a cool place to enjoy the grill and nice drinks in Saugatuck, Mermaid bar and Grill is at your beck and call.

Mermaid Bar and Grill is s family-owned, full-service restaurant in Saugatuck, serving fresh fish and other favorites.

For starters, Mermaid Bar and Grill offers a nice experience on the dockside with patio seating and overlooks the Kalamazoo River.

The staffs and management are well experienced and offer excellent customer service to all visitors.

It’s a welcoming place with a comfortable space for both individuals and families.

While in Mermaid Bar and Grill, you can shop for drinks, different seafood, and sandwiches on the patio seatings with a view of passing boats.

Also, you can take away cool winery. If you are considering visiting, don’t wait.

One of the coolest restaurants right there in Saugatuck, which is a must-visit and open all days of the week.

Start Planning Your Trip Today

Indeed, Saugatuck is a place loaded with so many amazing things to do.

This city has been for many years a favorite spot for locals and visitors around the world – a beautiful lakeshore destination with a wide variety of tourist attractions.

From historical sites to towering dunes to pristine beaches, to excellent parks, boat cruises, Art galleries, and lots more.

Saugatuck, Michigan, is one of the country’s best cities for breathtaking family fun.

Whether you will be visiting for a day or two, a few weeks, or even a month, there are many more exciting attractions you can take on.

Walking around the city is a story from a picturesque book. So pack your bags, and get on the way to all these recommended destinations. It will always be worth the time.