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The Hotel Saugatuck Blog

Music in the Vineyard

Ahhh...fall is upon us in Western Michigan! Trees are exploding in autumn colors of reds, yellows and oranges. Pumpkins, apples, grapes and fall-harvest crops are abundant. And cooler temperatures mean sweater weather and the perfect climate for spending time outdoors exploring all that Lake Michigan's coastline has to offer.

Beer Flight

There’s nothing quite like sipping on a refreshing draft beer on a hot summer day. From wheat beer to IPAs, from stouts to seasonals, breweries here in West Michigan have a beer for every palate. Bottoms up! There are plenty of tasting opportunities within minutes of The Hotel Saugatuck, where you can find a style of beer that suits your mood and taste. Every day is a great day for a beer by the lake! Take a self-guided craft brew tour of the Saugatuck-Douglas area with a stop at these four breweries.

Mount Baldhead Challenge

They call it the race that will change your life. The Mount Baldhead Challenge is the ultimate multi-terrain race that begins and ends at our famous Oval Beach here in Saugatuck. After a year off in 2020, the race is back again on Sept. 11, 2021 – bigger, badder and better than ever!

The Southerner fried chicken

Though Saugatuck is known for its world-famous beaches and dunes and a thriving art scene, its dense culinary landscape should not be taken for granted. Summertime is the right time to grab dinner and drinks on a restaurant patio that overlooks Saugatuck's scenic waterways. This lakeside town is home to dozens of delicious, one-of-a-kind waterfront restaurants that make it the perfect destination for foodies from all over. Come for the food, stay for the view!

Sidewalk sale

Apparel, jewelry, accessories, art, antiques and home decor are just some of what bargain-hunters will find marked down during this year’s Saugatuck Sidewalk Sale. This much-anticipated annual event is slated for Thursday, Aug. 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Saugatuck along iconic Butler Street. During this one-day shopping extravaganza, local shopkeepers will line the streets with colorful canopies to display their amazing discounts and deals. Plus, catch live entertainment as you stroll from shop to shop.

Dune rides

With all that Lake Michigan, its dazzling waters and impressive sand dunes have to offer, there is no shortage of opportunities for outdoor adventure. In the summertime, we love to stroll along the beach, splash in the lake's fresh water, and get our hearts pumping with a good hike. But on your next trip to Saugatuck-Douglas, why not try something a little out of the ordinary? Here are a few of our favorite one-of-a-kind adventures that you'll only find here in our little slice of heaven on earth.

Art Fair

If you're coming to Saugatuck this summer to enjoy the beaches, trails and outdoor adventures, be sure to also carve out time to enjoy the rich cultural offerings of the Art Coast of Michigan. Its artistic roots were planted a century ago, when Ox-Bow began as a haven for artists and grew into the school of art and artists’ residency it is today.

Oval Beach

Did you know that when you stay with us at The Hotel Saugatuck you are visiting one of Michigan's premiere beach towns? It's true. With miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the Saugatuck-Douglas area has stretches of sand that will appeal to every type of beach-goer. Sugar-sand beaches and sparkling water that meet the horizon will have you wanting to soak in the summer sun and splash in the waves. Or maybe you'd prefer a peaceful walk along a tucked-away beach away from crowds of tourists. Whatever your ideal beach day is, it can begin right here!

Sailing on Desire

At The Hotel Saugatuck, we enjoy providing our guests with access to fun activities and unique adventures when they come to stay with us. We also are committed to supporting our fellow local businesses that take care of each other in this small community. That's why we're excited to enter a new partnership that is beneficial to us, our guests and the partnered business – a real win-win all around!

Farmers Market Produce

Farmers markets on Michigan's west coast are exciting places that bring together local farmers, artisans and communities. Shopping at these seasonal markets is one of the best ways to eat homegrown and homemade foods while supporting the regional economy. Here in Saugatuck, the Market at SCA is a true treasure for locavores, with a bustling, lively atmosphere.

Star of Saugatuck

Imagine taking in some of the most stunning views the Great Lakes have to offer while sipping on exceptional wines. If this sounds like the perfect outing for you and your special someone, then you'll want to take advantage of a Wine on the Water adventure. It's an ideal way to spend time together, savor tempting adult beverages, and get up-close access to breathtaking Lake Michigan.

Uncork a bottle of Michigan Wine

Any time is a good time to enjoy Michigan-produced wines and hard ciders. But if you need another reason to grab a bottle of your favorite libation made from fruit grown along the shores of Lake Michigan, this is for you: Saturday, April 10 is Open Local Wine Day. To participate, uncork your favorite Michigan wine or hard cider and post pictures to your social media using the hashtag #openlocalwine. Be sure to share why you picked that wine and where you purchased it. We recommend stopping by these local wineries, all located in Fennville, just a 15-minute drive from The Hotel Saugatuck.

Cross Country Skiing

Michigan’s stunning landscape was made for snow sports, and you'll find some of the most exciting, diverse cross-country and downhill skiing terrains not far from The Hotel Saugatuck. So pack your gear for a winter weekend getaway and hit the trails and slopes with your favorite snow bunny.