Visit Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Great Lakes Region of Saugatuck

The wanderlust in all of us is longing for the next frontier, or in this case, the perfect get-a-way weekend with a friend, but to a new destination. When MJ Meenen learned of the varied offerings located near Detroit, Michigan, she packed her bags and headed West…Northwest to be exact from her hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. Read more about the beauty of the Great Lakes Region of Saugatuck and her adventures.

MJ Answers the Question…Why go to Michigan?

Time for a summer “gal pal” road trip! My friend and I wanted a place that offered the right mix of natural beauty, cool dining choices, inspiring art, and great shopping. In our trip to Ann Arbor and the Great Lakes region of Saugatuck, we found all that and more.

Saugatuck, Michigan Suggested by Pack Up + Go

When speaking to the Pittsburgh entrepreneur, travel guru and coach to women business owners Lilian Ralston, I asked for advice on a cute town to visit. After describing our criteria and wish list, she pretty quickly suggested Saugatuck, Michigan. It sounded like it checked all the boxes for my friend and me, so off we went! Click here to learn more about Pack Up + Go.

Traveling from Pittsburgh, the first stop was Detroit. The trip was a little over four hours, and prior to going to the airport, I checked out the Detroit Institute of Arts. It is simply magnificent. The design and collection are top-notch. There I was inspired by a Mary Cassatt (with Pittsburgh roots) painting that I had never seen before, and I was overall super impressed with the facility, art, staff, and volunteers. Seriously -go!

Ann Arbor on the way to Lake Michigan

Ann Arbor was our brief stop to and from our Great Lake destination. This provided a chance to sample some interesting stores (ex. Cherry Republic, where you can find inventive cherry delights, including the Hot Cherry Salsa) and a wonderful dining experience at The Earle. On a Wednesday evening, we were surprised to see the bustling town—long after the college students had gone home—alive with energy and ample outdoor dining. We ended our trip at another Ann Arbor pit stop on the University of Michigan campus, enjoying Jason Isbell in the famous Hill Auditorium.

Left – The Earle, Ann Arbor, MI Right – Warm Up Band to Jason Isbell

The Main Draw in Michigan: Saugatuck

Appearing on many lists of “prettiest towns in Michigan,” Saugatuck was recommended by a local travel expert. After a bit of research, we concluded sure—why not try it out? (Ann Arbor to Saugatuck is 2.5 hours.)

Upon arrival in Saugatuck, you quickly feel the vacay vibe. The downtown area offers scenic views, a variety of shops, and an upbeat atmosphere. Our first stop was a craft cocktail place—where we sampled inventive and delicious combos at New Holland Spirits. As we sipped our two drinks, one with citrus and the other with espresso, we mapped out our next steps while sitting outside and chatting with other friendly travelers.

Cocktails in Downtown Saugatuck at New Holland Spirits

Saugatauk is for Families, Seniors, Gal Pals, and More…

Saugatuck offers something for all ages and interests. We saw young families, seniors, gal pals, and more. With many trails of varying difficulty and water activities, you can’t go wrong. There is a “famous” 303-step walk to catch some wonderful views in Mt. Baldhead Park. There are resting benches along the way—no one is timing you, so why not go for it? The views are pretty wonderful, and I met some super nice people on the stairs. We also did a wonderful short hike to the beach on Saugatuck State Park-The Beach Trail. After a brief and easy hike on a sandy trail, a magnificent beach vista and beach is your reward. Just so pretty. You can find trail guides available all over town—choose one that works for you.

Mt. Baldhead Park Famous Stairway and Beach

Saugatuck Sunset Cruise

Another fun thing is to do a sunset cruise. The views were peaceful, and the sunset super colorful. The main beach in Saugatuck is Oval Beach-the dunes are lovely. There is a $10 fee to park, and it is popular all day for sun, playing, and watching sunsets. Bring a chair and stay awhile.

The shopping scene was vast in Saugatuck, with an emphasis on all kinds of art and, of course, lots of clothing, dining, and ice cream. We enjoyed wandering and discovered some great art, notecards, jewelry, and plenty of places for a good bite to eat. Choose some of the side roads too, away from the center of town, for a few unique places. They tend to be larger and a tad less touristy. A favorite shop for slightly higher-end stuff was Good Goods, with a great selection of nice jewelry.

Woosah Coffee and Root Beer Barrel

Two spots that the locals and tourists enjoy are Woosah Coffee shop in Douglas, where you can enjoy your coffee on a swing or at a picnic table. It also has a sweet gift shop. As you swing and sip, you see an unusual structure across the street–one that resembles a big barrel–named the Root Beer Barrel. We read that the town saved it from demolition, and now they enjoy root beer, hot dogs, and games on the property at this kitschy destination.

Woosh Coffee, on a swing or a picnic table, in Douglas.

The Sister Towns to Saugatuck—Douglas and Holland

While talking with local merchants, we asked for advice on the other nearby towns. Douglas was described as small but cute. Both true. Holland was characterized as “twenty minutes away” and certainly worth a visit. Again, both true.

We spent a fun day in Holland, beginning with the farmer’s market on 8^th Street, checking out unique vendors. My friend sampled some delicious peanut butter which she ended up having shipped to Boston because she liked it so much. We then moved on to the main shopping area, and my goodness, so many stores with wonderful home goods and clothing. The stores were described as “higher end” than Saugatuck, and every merchant wanted to tell us about the tulip festival that each year draws throngs of tourists every May. The sales staff went above and beyond with their cheerful assistance, including one woman who offered to walk outside with us and take some photos of our new purchases. She was so lighthearted and seemed immersed in her role as a welcoming presence. Also worth checking out is the Holland Bowl Mill retail store, with beautiful handmade wooden bowls–they boast they are the world’s largest wood bowl production facility. To re-fuel our energy, we found a great microbrewery–it’s a strong recommend. We truly enjoyed Big Lakes Brewing, where we found a delicious meal and friendly service in a classic, industrial microbrew setting. High recommendation for the “stoner fries” and burgers. We also sampled some wonderful blueberry delights at a great place called Bowerman’s on 8^th.

Left – Shopping Smiles, Middle – Big Lake Brewing, Right – Bowerman’s on 8th

Where to Stay in Saugatuck

With a range of options, we chose a two-bedroom Airbnb on the “cove”. It was a quick ride into town and a nice place. My personal rule is to look for the “superhosts” as they are well-vetted and held to high standards. Our place had laundry, a grill, and beach chairs that we were welcome to use.

Should you go to Michigan?

I would recommend the Mitten State—look at a map, and you’ll understand the reference. (That took us a while.) If you’re from Western PA, you’ve probably taken note of Lake Erie and the recent transformations. Why not enjoy another Great Lake to add to your travel memories? We are glad we did.