If you’re craving a little big-city energy during your Saugatuck stay, Grand Rapids, Michigan makes for the perfect day trip. Located just 45 minutes inland, Grand Rapids is one of the most vibrant and fast-growing cities in the Midwest—known for its thriving art scene, incredible restaurants, and reputation as Beer City USA.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the creative pulse of the city. Colorful murals wrap entire buildings, breweries pour award-winning ales, and museums like the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum offer inspiration around every corner. Whether you’re into history, craft beer, food, or fine art, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Grand Rapids, MI that make it a fun and refreshing contrast to Saugatuck’s lakeshore serenity.
Best of all? You can take it all in and be back to catch sunset on the dunes.
Grand Rapids is the kind of place where you can follow your curiosity all day long. Start your morning with artisan coffee and a walk along the Grand River. Spend the afternoon touring one of the city’s many art spaces or exploring Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, a stunning blend of nature and world-class sculpture. Then dig into dinner at one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants—many of which showcase locally grown ingredients and bold global flavors.
No visit would be complete without exploring the Grand Rapids brewery scene. With more than 40 breweries in the metro area, including heavy-hitters like Founders Brewing Co. and Brewery Vivant, there’s a reason this city earned its Beer City USA nickname.
For those who want to linger a little longer, Grand Rapids offers great places to stay, from boutique hotels downtown to cozy Airbnbs in neighborhoods like Heritage Hill and Eastown. It’s a city that’s easy to navigate, rich in personality, and full of experiences that leave a lasting impression.
And when you’re ready to return to the calm of Saugatuck? You’re less than an hour away.
— Erin K., Grand Rapids Local
Saugatuck, Michigan: the heartbeat of the Midwest’s LGBTQ+ community. You might not expect this small town to be the epicenter of inclusivity and fun, but
Saugatuck is more than just a charming lakeside town—it’s a beacon of inclusivity and warmth for LGBTQ+ travelers. Known for its vibrant community and welcoming
Get ready for an artistic journey you won’t forget. Saugatuck, Michigan, a hub of creativity and inclusivity, hosts some of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ art
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