
How Saugatuck Became the Midwest’s Go-To LGBTQ+ Getaway
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
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck, MI is one of the Midwest’s most beloved beach towns—an artsy, walkable, and endlessly charming escape just 2.5 hours from Chicago and under an hour from Grand Rapids. Known as the Art Coast of Michigan, Saugatuck blends creativity, nature, and culture in a way that feels both elevated and effortless.
Downtown Saugatuck is a delight to explore on foot, filled with art galleries, indie boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and waterfront cafes. Just minutes away, you’ll find Oval Beach, one of the top-rated beaches in the country, plus the towering dunes and scenic hiking trails of Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Want to get on the water? Hop aboard a retro paddlewheel cruise, rent a kayak, or ride the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry across the Kalamazoo River.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a day trip full of shopping and sightseeing, there’s no shortage of things to do in Saugatuck. From beach days and boat rides to gallery strolls and unforgettable meals, this is a destination that feels like a true escape—yet welcoming enough to feel like home.
Saugatuck is the kind of place where you’ll want to wander without a plan—and end the day with your feet in the sand, a drink in hand, and art in your heart.
Start your day with coffee and a walk along Butler Street, where galleries, gift shops, and cafés open their doors to locals and visitors alike. Spend the afternoon hiking at Saugatuck Dunes State Park, lounging at Oval Beach, or exploring the river by kayak or pontoon. Don’t miss a ride on the Chain Ferry—a quirky, hand-cranked tradition that’s pure Saugatuck.
For those who love to shop, the downtown district is filled with everything from high-end fashion and artisan goods to ice cream shops and bookstores. Art lovers will find inspiration around every corner, with more than a dozen galleries and rotating exhibits at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.
When it’s time to eat, the options are as diverse as the town itself—waterfront dining, chef-owned restaurants, cozy taverns, and outdoor patios that come alive at golden hour. And when the sun sets, the fun continues with live music, local theater, or a quiet glass of wine under the stars.
Whether you’re here for the day or staying all week, Saugatuck delivers the perfect blend of relaxation, creativity, and lakeshore adventure.
“I always catch the sunset at Oval Beach, then grab cocktails at Borrowed Time before heading to dinner. It’s the perfect end to a Saugatuck day.”
— Lucas M., Grand Rapids
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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Your local guide to the best of Saugatuck, Douglas, and beyond. From hidden gems to must-see events, we help visitors and locals experience the charm, creativity, and community that define Michigan’s Art Coast.
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