From our creative community filled with art galleries and shops to our geographic position on Lake Michigan’s shorefront, our towns have been acclaimed as one of the best places for a mother-daughter getaway by Better Homes & Gardens Magazine.

There are lots of ways to spend time with mom in Saugatuck/Douglas. Take an inside look at local artists galleries, studios and gardens with the annual Artz and Gardenz tour, or make Saugatuck/Douglas your home base to enjoy Tulip Time, taking place just 10 minutes north in Holland.  Enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch with a view of the gardens at The Belevedere Inn, or, spend the days strolling the streets of our downtowns, shopping all of our local boutiques and art galleries.

Lynda Ferguson from Metro Detroit has visited Saugatuck/Douglas with her daughter for years, usually visiting in the Spring and Fall seasons.

“We fell in love with the area on our first visit, and couldn’t wait to go back. It’s absolutely our kind of town. Everyone is SO friendly, and we especially appreciate that Saugatuck is pet-friendly as well. We have visited many, many times with our dogs, and love how welcoming each business has been. The whole vibe is so laid back and relaxed. It’s honestly one of the only places I can truly forget all worries and just enjoy myself.”

Lynda said some of their favorite activities in Saugatuck/Douglas include the classics: heading to Oval beach for a sunset, taking a dune ride, cruising the Kalamazoo River on the Star of Saugatuck and hiking at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. But they also enjoy the downtime, as well.

“One of our favorite things to do is go to Wick’s Park, spread out a blanket, set up the lawn chairs and spend the day relaxing by watching all the boats go by, waving to everyone on the Star of Saugatuck, and just enjoy the beautiful view,” she said.

When they decide to hit the town, it’s no surprise that food and shopping are their go-to activities. And, of course, a beach-town staple — ice cream.

“We are absolutely addicted to the veggie burgers at Wick’s Park Grille, and always pick up some for a picnic lunch or dinner. The variety of quaint shops in town are always fun to explore. Believe me when I say there have been many times that we’ve barely had enough room in the car for all of our ‘finds.’ Saugatuck has the best Kilwins! Nothing better on a warm summer night than sitting on a bench in town with a Kilwins ice cream cone.”

And at the end of the day, what keeps Lynda and her daughter coming back to Saugatuck/Douglas is our community.

“Really, we just love the people, love the atmosphere, love the vibe, love the town. Can’t wait to visit again!! I always feel like we’re enveloped in a big hug when we pull into town, and always have a tear in my eye when it’s time to leave. We live on the East side of Michigan (Metro Detroit area), but I always say ‘the West side, is the best side.’”

Book your mother-daughter getaway today! For booking options and special deals, visit Saugatuck.com/stay or call the SDACVB Welcome center at 269-857-1701.