By Pam and George Singleton

A few weeks ago we spent a wonderful and entertaining time in Saugatuck, Michigan during the Waterfront Film Festival. Although the festival doesn’t roll around again until June 8-11, 2006, you might want to visit the area in the weeks ahead. You’ll have fun this year and when it’s time to go the festival next year, you’ll know your way around the town.

There are many fun reasons to visit Saugatuck this summer. An easy 2 ½ hour drive from Chicago, Saugatuck, Michigan works for a one-night weekend stay if you leave early Saturday morning and return Sunday evening. A Friday and Saturday night stay is best, of course, as it leaves more time to explore.

Whether leisurely strolling the tree-lined streets, stopping to browse the art galleries or other shops, or sitting in the gazebo in the park or on one of the benches along the lake walk, there’s a feeling of relaxation and good times that await you in Saugatuck. With wine tasting at places like Fenn Valley and a variety of dining options, from the causal Billie’s Boathouse right by the water and the nearby Beechwood Inn with its signature perch dish for only $12.99, or more upscale eating, there’s something for everyone. Restaurants Toulouse and Everyday People (both feature very reasonable prices for the quality and quantity of food) and Chaps (great but pricey) all offer sophisticated ambiance. Great shops and fine art galleries, featuring paintings, sculpture and hand carvings, are just outside the doors.

You can stay in one of the many B&B’s in Saugatuck or if a regular motel/hotel is more to your liking, Holland is only 15 minutes away. Marriott’s Residence Inn is a great value at about $100 a night to include a full kitchen and breakfast with scrambled eggs that you’d be proud to serve out of town guests. Not to be missed is Crane’s Apple Orchard with its fresh apple pies and very casual food in an old mill setting.

Saugatuck is fine for either a quick romantic getaway or for a family looking for fresh air with the pleasure of being in a waterfront resort town; much like the East Coast. The area boasts uncrowded, sandy beaches, with activities for the kids such as dune buggy rides or if you are feeling really adventurous with the kids, there is nearby camping.