🎙️ 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!
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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