Saugatuck, Michigan Travel Guide
Our first road trip as a family of four took us to Saugatuck, Michigan! Some might call us crazy for attempting a 7+ hour drive with a two-year-old and a nine-month-old…and they’d be right. Between the endless snack breaks, many, many stops with our potty-trained toddler and me nearly dislocating my shoulder trying to reach the backseat every five seconds, it was a road trip to remember. But once we made it, every mile was worth it.
For those who live in Chicago, it’s just a quick 2-hour getaway. For us driving from Des Moines, it was a haul, but the kind of trip that instantly makes you forget the struggle once you arrive. Imagine a charming lakeside town, full of so many shops, good food and some of the best beaches I’ve seen for a lake (although Lake Michigan could practically be an ocean). Take a look at where we stayed, ate and played.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN
Saugatuck isn’t overly commercialized, but it’s definitely a hot spot for those in the know, which means rentals and the few hotels here fill up fast. I spent weeks searching for a place that checked all the boxes: kid-friendly, close to the beach and town, and most importantly… had a pool (because parents know a pool is non-negotiable).
That search landed us at Old Pike Cottages, and I can’t recommend them enough. These cozy cottages sit right on the water, complete with docks if you’re bringing a boat. It’s just a five-minute walk into town, perfectly sized for our family, and had all the charm you’d want from a lakeside stay. You can book your stay at the Old Pike Cottages here.
To browse other options in the area, use the booking finder below.
WHAT TO DO IN SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN
The biggest draw in Saugatuck is, of course, the beaches. But if you’re traveling with kids, there’s plenty of other things to do. From charming shops and unique kid-friendly activities, Saugatuck has something for everyone.
+ OVAL BEACH
Oval Beach is probably the most famous beach in Saugatuck. It’s wide, has soft sand, super clean and easy to access – the parking lot to the beach is just a few steps away. It’s great for kids because the shoreline is shallow and calm, so they can splash around without you stressing the whole time.
+ SAND DUNES STATE PARK
This one’s more of an adventure, but so beautiful if you can manage it. You park at the main lot and it’s about a half mile hike before you pop out onto a huge, uncrowded stretch of Lake Michigan beach. If you have older children, it’s definitely worth it but probably not the best spot if you’ve got small kids in tow and a wagon full of stuff. Oval Beach is way easier for that.
+ SAUGATUCK CHAIN FERRY
The Saugatuck Chain Ferry is a little hand-cranked ferry that’s been running since the 1800s and it takes you across the river into downtown Saugatuck. Kids love it because it feels like a mini ride, and honestly, it’s just one of those quirky things you can only do here.
+ CRITTER BARN
An easy win with little ones and a short drive from town. The Critter Barn is great if you have more than a few days to spend in Saugatuck. It’s a hands-on environment, so they actually get to pet and feed the animals. Think goats, chickens, bunnies, even a donkey or two. Totally worth it to see them get so excited.
+ POOL TIME
If you’re staying in one of the Old Pike Cottages or have a rental with a pool, it’s the perfect break from the beach especially for our boys. Much more relaxed and contained. Ours felt like the reset button in between all the exploring.
+ VIRTUE CIDER
A cidery on this gorgeous farm just outside of town. It has big open fields, cider flights for the adults and plenty of space for kids to run around while you sip. Super laid-back and the perfect afternoon spot.
+ SHOPPING IN TOWN
Downtown Saugatuck is really walkable and packed with fun little shops. For kids, the Teeny Tiny Toy Store is exactly what it sounds like, a small but magical stop full of toys. The Book Nook is cozy and worth a browse. I especially loved Brass Anchor (clothing/home goods with a nautical vibe) and Brick & Ivy (super cute modern pieces).
WHERE TO EAT IN SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN
One thing that surprised me in Saugatuck, Michigan was how good the food was and the many options they had. These were all of our favorites that we ate while there. And trust me, you’ll be visiting Charlies Round the Corner every night just like we were.
+ THE southerner
+ THE BUTLER
+ ISABEL’S MARKET & EATERY
+ CHARLIES ROUND THE CORNER
+ UNCOMMON COFFEE ROASTERS
+ PUMPERNICKEL’S
+ GRILLED CHEESE SHACK
+ ROOT BEER BARREL
Our trip to Saugatuck made me so much more open to road trips with the kids! And, I hope your visit does the same and is just as full of unforgettable memories. If you ever have questions or need travel advice, reach out on Instagram!
happy travels, liz stanford
Disclosure: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you purchase something using these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. However, I only link these companies because I have used them or truly recommend them based on their quality and the experience I had.
