Saugatuck mi gay resort

Butler Street– On Butler Street, you find shops that are as unique as the town itself. Schruer and his partner run a Bed and Breakfast here.

In his spare time, Schreur has been working on a project with the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society to tell the story of how the gay community came to be.

It’s a great spot to chill, chat, and drink a cold one. 

Annual Events and Festivals in Saugatuck/Douglas

Like many small towns, Saugatuck/Douglas likes to celebrate the things they’re famous for through their annual events and festivals. Originally known as Kalamazoo Village, the towns were significant ports and lumbering centers on the Kalamazoo River.

But that doesn’t mean everyone got along.

“Around two in the morning, when the bars would let out, there was a little hot dog stand on the corner, about a block or block and half away, and quite often there would be confrontations between gay persons and what I would refer to as maybe some redneck trouble makers,” Jennings says.

The Blue Tempo burned down in 1969.

The atmosphere is upbeat yet intimate, perfect for both a quiet dinner or gathering with friends. It’s easy to spend a day exploring these shops, where you can find everything from local art to souvenirs.

You had to be a straight person, or at least appear to be that way and then if you’re fortunate enough to find something like Saugatuck,” Jennings says, “It just felt warming and accepting.”

It was very different than the religious and conservative communities of Zeeland and Holland, just north of town. Hidden Gardens Cottages and Suites is set among beautiful gardens, making it feel like a secret spot just waiting to be discovered.

With its comfortable cabins and rooms, barbecue and picnic areas, it’s a great choice for a laid-back, beachy vacation, and lakeside fun at its finest.

The Kirby Hotel– Historic charm and modern luxury collide at the Kirby Hotel, offering a chic and comfortable stay. They are a slice of paradise where everyone is celebrated.

We’re showcasing one interesting thing about different towns across the state. Jonathan Schreur, the B&B owner, grew up there and says Saugatuck-Douglas was referred to as “sin city.”

Schruer says back when Carl Jennings was bartending at The Blue Tempo, there was actually a law that said that you could not serve alcohol to homosexuals.

“We were lumped in with prostitutes and vagrants,” Schruer says.

Jennings says The Blue Tempo ignored the law and the police chief didn’t enforce it.

 

“Friday nights have been dubbed, not by me but by a lot of our guests, they dub it as Fri-GAY nights,” Balmer says.

In a room of about 50 people, about a dozen guys are gathered in the middle, hugging and greeting one another.

One of those men is Bobby Carlson. With the towns’ compact, walkable streets lined with all kinds of shops, galleries, and cafes, Suagatuck/Douglas caters to all of your whims.

The combination of natural beauty, welcoming community, and a laid-back vibe, creates more than just a vacation destination, it’s a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It also includes pasta, wings, salads, sandwiches, and more, all available for takeout or free delivery.

Things To Do & See In Saugatuck/Douglas

Saugatuck/Douglas are artsy towns, with galleries and studios where you can admire or purchase local art.

Over time, the towns’ focus shifted from industry to tourism and the arts. Local art takes center stage in small galleries, and specialty stores have everything from artisanal foods to handcrafted jewelry. Affectionately known as “Provincetown of the Midwest,” they share the same inclusive vibe, natural scenery, arts culture, and active queer community.

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Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners.