Family-Friendly Saugatuck Activities Guide
Your guide to an easy, fun, and memorable family vacation in Saugatuck!
There’s something special about summertime in Saugatuck — especially when it’s spent with the people you love most. From sunny afternoons at the beach to evenings gathered around the fire pit, the lakeshore is full of simple moments that quickly become lifelong memories. Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventures, sweet treats downtown, relaxing by the pool, or exploring everything our charming little town has to offer, Saugatuck is the perfect place to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy time together. To help you plan your next getaway, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite family-friendly activities near Old Pike Cottages!
Beach Visits
No family vacation on the lakeshore is complete without a beach day! Two of our favorite family-friendly beaches in the area are West Side County Park and Oval Beach. West Side County Park (located in nearby Fennville) is a great option for families thanks to its free parking, nearby bathrooms, playground area, and quieter atmosphere — perfect for kids to run and play. If you’re looking for soft sand and easy beach access, Oval Beach is always a favorite. With concessions, beautiful shoreline views, and no stairs to reach the beach, it’s an easy and relaxing spot to spend the afternoon together.
Saugatuck Dune Rides
One of West Michigan’s most iconic attractions, the Saugatuck Dune Rides is fun for the entire family! This exciting 40-minute ride takes guests through the beautiful lakeshore dunes while sharing local history, wildlife, and stories about the lost town of Singapore. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and entertainment — and a must-do activity during your stay in Saugatuck.
Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruise or Retro Boats Rentals
One of the best ways to experience the lakeshore is from the water itself. Families can hop aboard the Star of Saugatuck for a relaxing old-fashioned paddleboat cruise complete with scenic views, refreshments, and guided narration along the Kalamazoo River. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Retro Boats Rentals offers classic fiberglass runabout boats that let you captain your own family adventure along the river and harbor.
Saugatuck Mini Golf or Alley’s Pizza & Bowling
Looking for some classic family fun? Saugatuck Mini Golf is a laid-back and family-friendly 18-hole mini golf course that’s perfect for all ages. Another great rainy day or evening option is Alley's Classic American Diner & Bowl, where families can enjoy bowling, arcade games, pizza, and a fun casual atmosphere all in one spot.
Explore Downtown
Sometimes the best vacation memories are made simply wandering through town together. Downtown Saugatuck is full of family-friendly spots to explore, including The Teeny Tiny Toy Store, The Sweet Shop for old-fashioned candy and ice cream, and Kilwins for their famous fudge and ice cream treats. Families can stroll along the waterfront docks to admire the boats, enjoy weekly live music at Wicks Park, or let the kids burn off energy at the playground located in Village Square downtown.
Art Barn
Get creative during your vacation with a visit to Express Yourself Art Barn. This fun and welcoming activity allows families to paint pottery, create crafts, and make one-of-a-kind souvenirs together. With supplies and guidance provided, it’s a relaxing and memorable activity for guests of all ages.
Pool, games, bonfire & smores at OPC
Some of the best family memories are made right here at Old Pike Cottages. Spend the afternoon swimming in our heated pool, challenge each other to cornhole or yard games, or unwind by the fire pit roasting s’mores together after a long day of exploring. Between the lakeside views, outdoor spaces, and relaxing atmosphere, Old Pike is the perfect home base for spending quality time together and enjoying the simple moments that make summer vacations so special.
Bonus Tip: Check out these restaurants that we consider some of the best for family-friendly dining in Saugatuck!:
The Butler
The Southerner
Wick’s Park Bar & Grille
Happystance Dinette
SaugaTaco
Family vacations are all about slowing down, spending time together, and making memories that last long after summer ends. Whether your days are filled with beach trips, boat rides, mini golf competitions, ice cream walks downtown, or relaxing evenings back at the cottages, Saugatuck offers something for every age to enjoy. We hope this guide helps inspire your next lakeshore getaway — and we’d love to welcome your family to Old Pike Cottages for a summer full of fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
