Named the “Art Coast of Michigan,” the Saugatuck/Douglas area is known for their world-class art galleries, artist studios, and museums. Here are a few destinations not to miss.
OX-BOW SCHOOL OF ART AND ARTIST’S RESIDENCES
The world-renowned Ox-Bow School of Art and Artist’s Residencies should be on every art-lovers Not-to-Miss list, if simply for the grounds. Open year round, the Ox-Bow campus is comprised of 115-acres of dunes, forests, and trails, all centered around the historical Ox-Bow Inn, which was built in 1873. More than thirty brightly colored artist studios and residential cabins surround the Inn––and you’re free to visit them any time.
The public can register for a workshop, enjoy a culinary masterpiece, take up residence in one of the historic cabins, and enjoy Friday Night Open Studios and summer concerts on the grounds. Whatever stage of career or art-enthusiast you are, visiting Ox-Bow is sure to inspire your inner genius.
SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is amazing. Plain and simple. There are constant exhibits, theater productions, concerts, workshops, and lectures for adults, as well as children’s camps and classes. Take any pick of medium or subject matter, whether you want to dabble a little, seek out formal education, or learn about artist’s work, the Center for the Arts has you covered.
J. PETER GALLERIES
With over 1500 works of fine art on display by over 140 artists, J.Peter Galleries is one of the largest, oldest art galleries in the area. Enjoy a glass of wine while you make the rounds, in addition to the artisan cheeses and hand-poured chocolates you can find at the boutique wine bar.
ROAN & BLACK
ROAN & BLACK is probably our favorite contemporary art gallery in West Michigan. I could visit the grounds every day and never get bored of walking the galleries and gardens. The gallery represents both emerging and established artists & sculptors from across the country, and caters to first-time buyers and seasoned collectors alike. You can find some gorgeous Roan & Black pieces in Lakewood Lux’s own Lakeshore Woods Lodge.
SHOPS INSPIRED BY THE ARTS
In addition to these high-end art destinations, Saugatuck is home to numerous unique shops selling charming crafts and accessories. If you’re looking for recommendations for home decorations, jewelry, clothing, garden accessories or custom-designed projects from local artists, look no further:
- American Spoon for the tasting table alone. This store works directly with a group of Michigan farmers and foragers to gather unique varieties of fruit for small-batch preserves, compotes, nut butters, condiments and salsas.
- Lulu Cadieux is an extremely unique boutique, gourmet market, restaurant, and design studio all in one. Shop, dine-in or take away small-batch chef selections, or even take a cooking class.
- The Pink Patio for nautical home decor, birding, and garden accessories.
- Kindel and Co. for men’s clothing, grooming, and accessories, home goods and jewelry (and just a fun destination)
- Open Thursday–Sunday, Totu Boutique sells European-inspired women’s fashion (and has the nicest owners in the universe).
- There’s no better time than the present to prepare for Christmas! Tuck’s Christmas Store is open year round has every ornament, nutcracker, candle, and charm you could image. It’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir to remember your vacation by.
Come discover for yourself the creative culture at the heart of The Art Coast of Michigan. The open-minded appreciation of life and art is one of top reasons I love Saugatuck as much as I do. Stay at one our Lakewood Lux properties, and you can be sure to stumble upon a few paintings, sculptures, ceramics or crafts purchased from local and national artists we found in Saugatuck.
