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March 28, 2025 • 24 mins
🎙️ Episode 171: Exploring Saugatuck-Douglas, Michigan – The Art Coast for Families Welcome back to The Family Vacationer! After a brief hiatus, Rob and Traci are diving back into family travel by spotlighting one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets—Saugatuck-Douglas. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, this charming destination is known for its vibrant art scene, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm perfect for family getaways. Our guest this week is Lisa Mize Executive Director of the Saugatuck-Douglas Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. She gives us an insider’s look at: 🌊 Top Attractions
  • Oval Beach – A stunning, award-winning beach that feels like a hidden slice of nature
  • Saugatuck Dune Rides – Thrilling, educational, and hilarious dune tours
  • Saugatuck Center for the Arts – Family-friendly exhibits, theater, and outdoor concerts
  • Express Yourself Art Barn – Hands-on art activities for kids
🎉 Family-Friendly Events
  • Venetian Festival – Lighted boat parade & fireworks
  • 4th of July Parade – Small-town celebration with pie-eating contests
  • Fall Fest at Crane’s Cider Mill – Apple picking, cider, and donuts galore
🚶‍♂️ Hidden Gems & Outdoor Fun
  • Crow’s Nest Trail – A scenic, lesser-known hike with breathtaking views
  • Mount Baldhead Stairs – 302 steps of energy-burning fun that lead to the beach
  • Fishing charters, retro boats, kayaking, and paddleboarding
🍔 Where to Eat
  • Crane’s Pie Pantry – Don’t miss the pie flights
  • Phil’s Bar & Grill & Wick’s Park Bar & Grill – Casual, family-friendly favorites
  • The Southerner – Fried chicken and biscuits worth the trip
  • The Root Beer Barrel – An iconic, vintage hot dog & root beer stand
🏡 Where to Stay
  • Hop & Vine Inn – Great for multi-family stays with group amenities
  • Dolly Brook Resort – Charming family cottages
  • Old Pike Cottages & The Beachway Resort – Close to downtown with pools and river access
📅 Best Time to Visit? Lisa recommends September—warm weather, fewer crowds, and everything still open! 👉 Planning Tip: First thing when you arrive? Go see Lake Michigan. Then stop by the visitor center or check out Saugatuck.com to plan your stay. 🔗 Resources & Links:
  • Saugatuck-Douglas CVB: Saugatuck.com
  • Follow us on Instagram @TheFamilyVacationer
  • Subscribe to hear upcoming episodes on Hawaii, the Keys, Traveling on a budget, Beach vs Mountains Vacations and more!

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