Villages Of Saugatuck And Douglas

About Villages Of Saugatuck And Douglas

The Villages of Saugatuck and Douglas, twin cities in Allegan County, Michigan, are a captivating duo along Lake Michigan’s shores, renowned as the “Art Coast of Michigan” for their vibrant cultural scene and natural beauty. With a combined population of around 2,813 as of recent data, Saugatuck (pop. 1,435) and Douglas (pop. 1,378 in 2020) are nestled amidst lush woods and soaring sand dunes along the Kalamazoo River, which flows into Lake Michigan. Originally lumber towns in the mid-1800s, they evolved into resort destinations and art meccas, earning accolades like being among the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Dozen Distinctive Destinations” and Midwest Living Magazine’s top 100 Midwest vacation spots. Their charm lies in their 19th-century architecture, thriving art scene, and inclusive history, welcoming diverse visitors for over a century.

The real estate market in Saugatuck and Douglas is diverse, offering everything from historic cottages to modern lakefront homes, with prices ranging from $300,000 to $2 million. Waterfront properties along Lake Michigan or the Kalamazoo River are highly sought after, often featuring large decks, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-concept layouts to maximize views of the water and dunes. Neighborhoods like Beachmont on Lakeshore Drive in Douglas and Summer Grove on Wiley Road offer proximity to the lake, while downtown areas feature charming bungalows near art galleries and shops. The market appeals to buyers seeking a creative, waterfront lifestyle, with many properties serving as vacation homes or rentals due to the area’s tourism draw.

Living in Saugatuck and Douglas offers unique advantages, blending natural splendor with cultural richness. The villages are home to world-renowned Oval Beach, one of Condé Nast Traveler’s “Top 25 Beaches in the World,” offering miles of sugar sand for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset watching. Their location, just a few hours from Chicago, makes them a popular escape, while the Kalamazoo River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The area’s artistic vibe, rooted in the Ox-Bow School established by the Art Institute of Chicago over 100 years ago, attracts artists and creatives, with dozens of working painters, sculptors, and ceramicists calling the area home, fostering a vibrant community for residents.

The features and amenities in Saugatuck and Douglas are a delightful mix of natural and cultural offerings. Downtown Saugatuck boasts dockside shopping, galleries, and restaurants, while Douglas’ Center Street features historic buildings, art galleries, and the Saugatuck Brewing Company. Outdoor activities abound, from hiking the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area to golfing at The Ravines or Clearbrook Golf Club. The villages host festivals, outdoor concerts, and farm experiences like Evergreen Lane Farm & Creamery, where visitors can savor artisan cheeses and meet farm animals. Accommodations range from quaint inns to vacation rentals, many with access to the six pristine beaches, while the food scene includes nationally recognized restaurants, craft breweries, cideries, and wineries, making Saugatuck and Douglas a year-round destination for art, nature, and leisure.