Saugatuck, Artist's Haven - Michigan Jewel

At the base of Mt. Baldhead's 247 steps - sjacobsfabian 2008

Saugatuck, MI has long been a favorite destination of ours. It's home to Ox-Bow, school of art, one of the delicious goals that exists on my list of things-to-do. I believe that my sister and brother-in-laws, Howie and Susie, first told us about this awesome place. Though I've yet to see the school, the city has our hearts in it's hands.

My man and I immediately think of going there when we want a take in a few romantic days. Been going there for years now and have done a variety of B and Bs and hotels, including Americinn and Ship and Shore (ugh). Last year we stayed at the Ivy Inn. Smack dab in the da middle o' town. On our anniversary weekend we usually see Saugatuck's Venetian Night and take in the craft show and galleries. Needless to say, finding parking there is like finding a jump ring in my shag carpeting. Fuggedaboudit! Ivy Inn is ideal and it's host was charming and the location can't be beat but the rooms are tiny. Some things just don't belong on our list of sacrifices to make. No sirree, Bob! (or whatever your name is...) Bigger is almost always better.

Enter Hidden Garden Cottages. Heaven can be found in the middle of town. Parking? No prob. Wonderful hosts, yummy accommodations and romantic influences abound. I hesitate to mention the place, for fear it'll always be booked up. The Tuscany Cottage (yes, a cottage) comes complete with a HUGE spa tub, poster bed, a kitchenette chock full of goodies, romantic music and movies. It just oozes sweetness. As the name intimates, it's decor is of an Italian bent - tastefully architectural with welcoming arms. Plus, almost everything is within walking distance. HGC really does offer privacy. It's a hidden jewel in the middle of a gem of a town. I especially love the journal entries written by all the lovers that came before us. Hey! Pun not intended! Tsk, tsk! We waited longer than usual to go on our yearly getaway. But the wait was well worth it.

I hope we'll always be able to make our pilgrimage to Saugatuck/Douglas' art galleries and teasing aromas that drift out of their restaurants. Among our favorite foodie places? Marro's, the Butler and we just discovered Everyday People. Magnifique!

We never leave without visiting artist, James Brandis' gallery. The art is wonderful but he really should consider marketing the menagerie of portraits that line the studio walls. His subjects of preference are usually nature vignettes and nautical scenes. But, it's the city resident's likenesses we love best. Unfortunately, the poster he had printed of those portraits (Faces of Saugatuck) is seemingly unavailable anywhere besides in his shop. Worth going to see (and buy). He supposedly said he'd do a painting of everyone from Saugatuck and those images keep him company, awaiting our return. His gallery isn't even listed on the Saugatuck.com website. Even though the site is a wonderful representation of Saugatuck/Douglas offerings, it's incomplete. No James Brandis gallery included, no complete list...

As for other special S/D attractions... You'll find Amsterdam (located on Bluestar Highway), in the specialty galleries section on that website. It's THE best collection of antiques, pottery and oddities that I know of. ANYWHERE! Bar none. Saugutuck is also the dune beach-swimmer and boater-recreation Mecca of Lake Michigan's eastern shores. The seasoned golfer will be happy to know that there's golfing available as well. Venetian Night celebrations encompass a dreamy, yet stimulating setting. With cutting-edge fireworks, who wouldn't love to sit by the water, people-watching while listening to the Butler's live band playing familiar tunes? And whether you ride in the quaint Saugutuck Chain Ferry, enter the old-fashioned band shell (Wick's Park Gazebo) or see the public restroom, you won't be disappointed. Yes, I said "restroom"! It's covered in a painting that replicates Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by George Seurat. The city is even dotted with phenomenal sculptures at every turn. Eye candy EVERYWHERE, people!!!

Thanks to my partner for life, for committing to celebrate "us" with our yearly Saugatuck, traditional trek. My world is all the sweeter for it. As for everyone else, if you're new at the art of romance or wear wrinkles hard-earned during years of sweet loving, consider the trip. We know you'll be hooked. Speaking of hooked... fishing on rented pontoons is fun too. Okay, okay... Just remember, if you visit, be sure to let me know what you loved best. Warning! Romance is in the air. Every so often life throws us a hint. When we listen, it can have euphoric results. The art of charm and the charm of gathered art awaits you in Saugatuck.