5 Places to Visit with Kids in Sauagatuck, Michigan – LittleGuide Detroit

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a day trip, enjoy Michigan at its best in Saugatuck, one of the state’s most popular lakeshore towns.

Vacation trips are fun, but they can add up. If you want to feel like you’re on vacation but want to sleep in your own bed, put Saugatuck on your list. We left the house midday and Saugatuck after sunset and enjoyed the perfect family day. Follow our itinerary and have fun!

A Michigan State Parks Pass is required to enter Saugatuck Dunes State Park (most Michigan drivers have them and must renew their license plates each year). Park the car and get ready to hike through the beautiful forest. The Becah Trail is 0.7 miles from the parking lot to the beach. Bring a cart or prepare your kids for a walk – they’ll have so much to do they shouldn’t mind. The sandy shore of Lake Michigan is picture-perfect and adventurous kids/adults can climb up and slide down the dunes. If your family likes disc golf, there’s an impressive course. There are no indoor restrooms, but there are portable toilets.

Address: 6575 138th Ave., Saugatuck Dunes

If the beaches don’t bring you back to Saugatuck, The Southerner will. The Low Country’s menu gets top marks. Be prepared to wait for a table, but it’s worth it. It’s easy, too, because the outdoor picnic tables offer space to wait and the outdoor bar allows parents to indulge while hanging out outside. Inside, the quaint restaurant offers a fantastic menu that will satisfy kids and adults alike. Order the chicken dish and pick out a few sides. The blue crab and langostino calas on the appetizer menu will have us back sooner rather than later.

Address: 880 Holland Street, Saugatuck

Enjoy your meal and let the kids run around at the new playground in Schultz Park. The obstacle course is perfect for kids who love to climb, there is also a gazebo and pickleball courts.

Address: 301 Riverview Dr, Douglas

If you’re craving a snack or a sweet treat, stop at the Douglas Root Beer Barrel on your way to the beach to watch the sunset. The iconic landmark serves hot dogs and floats at reasonable prices. Grab a seat outside and enjoy the ease of summer.

Address: 501 W Center St, Douglas

Oval Beach is a city beach with easy access. Pay $15 to park and sit on the shore to watch the sun disappear below the horizon. Oval Beach offers towering sand dunes to explore, the waves of Lake Michigan, and a perfect view of the boats passing by. There are also indoor plumbing and outdoor showers. There’s no better place to end your day in Saugatuck.

Address: Perryman St. & Oval Beach Drive, Saugatuck