17 Super Fun Things to do for a Weekend in Saugatuck

Are you looking for some super fun things to do for a weekend in Saugatuck, Michigan? Check out the list below to learn about some amazing places.

Planning a trip to Saugatuck Michigan is super exciting! If you’re anything like me, you’re here because you love to research and plan your trip ahead of time. As a Michigander and avid visitor of Saugatuck, I am giving you a list of 17 super fun things to do for a weekend in Saugatuck.

You are going to learn about places to visit like The Butler, Saugatuck Dune Rides, Oval Beach, and more. After learning about these places, you are going to be ready for your next Michigan travel adventure!

This post is my list of 17 super fun things to do for a weekend in Saugatuck.

Restaurants

1. One of the longest standing establishments in Saugatuck, Coral Gables is a must visit. On the menu they offer classic bar and grill food like burgers, sandwiches, and fresh seafood including lake perch. If you’re visiting by boat, you can register for a docking slip to bring your boat into their private marina for the ultimate experience. At night, the interior transforms into a fun dance scene, with a dance floor and DJ.

2. The other most famous restaurant is The Butler.  Known for their “Butler burger”, this would be the place to go if that’s what you’re craving. Personally, I think they have the best onion rings around! The outdoor patio overlooks the Kalamazoo River and offers stunning views throughout the day and especially at sunset.

3. My personal favorite restaurant is The BARge. The outdoor patio overlooks the Kalamazoon River where you can watch the large yachts come in from Lake Michigan.Their menu offers a lot of seafood options, like lake perch, Alaskan salmon, and blackened mahi. I love the drunken mussels!

4. If you’re looking for something to enjoy in the morning, check out Tree of Life Juice for the best smoothies, cold pressed juices, and acai bowls. I’ve actually tried recreating the snickerdoodle pro smoothie at home, but theirs is better! 

5. Another breakfast option is Grow Cafe & Bistro. Offering a delicious brunch menu, I highly recommend their avocado toast! It’s a small cafe with indoor and outdoor seating, but it fills up quickly. 

6. A short drive from downtown is Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions. Their outdoor patio is beautifully surrounded by trees and flowers, like a sweet secret garden escape. It is a farm to table restaurant, using locally sourced ingredients for their delectable made from scratch meals. They can get busy, so I recommend making a reservation in advance.

Best Beaches and Parks

7. Oval Beach, named by Conde Naste as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it is a must see. If you plan to drive there, the vehicle entrance fee is $10. Another option is to take the Saugatuck Chain Ferry across for $2 per person, and walk a short half mile along Perryman Street to get to the beach. 

8. Saugatuck Dunes State Park is another great option. This park offers both hiking and relaxing on the beach. Opt to take a long hike through the dunes, or choose the shorter path to head straight to the beach for some fun in the sun. I love this beach because there is some elevation that allows you to find a quiet spot within the dunes while enjoying the views of Lake Michigan.

9. Mount Baldhead is great if you’re looking for a bit of a workout. Here you can go for a one mile hike and climb 302 stairs!  This park gives you incredible views of Saugatuck, nearby Douglas, and Lake Michigan.

Water and Sand Activities 

10. The iconic Saugatuck Chain Ferry. Crossing the Kalamazoo River at only $2 per person, it’s a fun activity to see Saugatuck Michigan from a unique vantage point.

11. Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruise. I highly recommend their sunset cruise. The cruise takes you along the Kalamazoo River as it opens up into Lake Michigan. It’s a great way to see wild birds, the stunning landscape along the lake, and admire the beautiful coastal homes.

12. Check out Retro Boat Rentals if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Saugatuck Michigan. They offer several different boats for rent including classic boats, donut boats, and pontoons.

13. Saugatuck Dune Rides is one of a few dune rides remaining in the country. It’s a great activity for the whole family! The buggy drives you through, above, and below the sand dunes, allowing you to see the different vegetation of each environment. You’ll also learn about the history of the historic town of Singapore and its ultimate demise caused by the sand dunes.

Where to Stay 

14. Lake Shore Resort is located only a few miles outside of Saugatuck Michigan and has been featured in several magazines. It offers spectacular views of Lake Michigan via the shoreline, pool area, and lake bluff viewing decks, as well as the private rooms. Each room looks more like a luxury apartment! They offer complimentary bikes to explore downtown Saugatuck and have kayaks available to paddle along the shore to admire the dunes, shoreline, and glamorous lakefront homes.

15. Always check out VRBO and Airbnb for local rentals. If you’re looking to rent a vacation home, I highly recommend beginning your search at least 6 months prior to your trip date. These places sell out quickly!

16. A bed and breakfast is a great way to enjoy the charming atmosphere of Saugatuck. Check out this directory to explore Bed and Breakfast options.

17. Bayside Inn is located on Saugatuck Harbor, offering beautiful rooms and waterfront suites. What was once a boat house, it has been beautifully transformed into a bed and breakfast. Each room includes a private bathroom, patio and/or balcony with some rooms offering fireplaces.

Overall, Saugatuck is the perfect town to visit, especially in the summer and fall and can easily be visited for a day trip or weekend getaway.

If you’re looking for another fun city to visit in Michigan, check out nearby Grand Rapids! My 33 of the top things to do in Grand Rapids post suggests a variety of activities!

This post is all about 17 super fun things to do for a weekend in Saugatuck.