Summer and fall on the Art Coast of Michigan is something spectacular.
The sun stays out late over Lake Michigan, the blueberries are ripe for the picking, and the lakeside towns are humming with energy.
At Glenn Meadow Bed & Breakfast, we love being the quiet retreat you return to after a busy day of exploring. Nestled on our peaceful 115-acre property, you are exactly 10 miles north of the sandy beaches of South Haven and 10 miles south of the artistic streets of Saugatuck. You get the absolute best of both worlds.
Whether you are staying in the Garden Suite or enjoying a quiet morning soak in Auntie’s Room, soaking tub here’s your curated guide to the perfect summer days in our vibrant region.
Soak Up the Sun on the Shoreline
Summer is all about the water, and our unique location means you have world-class beaches in both directions.
- South Haven’s North & South Beaches: Head south to walk the iconic pier, view the historic lighthouse, and set up an umbrella on wide, soft sands.
- Saugatuck Dunes State Park: Head north for a different kind of coastal beauty. A hike through rolling, wooded dunes opens up to a stunning, secluded stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Experience Local Events
Summer brings some of the region’s favorite annual traditions to life.
- Light Up the Lake (South Haven): If you are visiting around the Fourth of July, the fireworks over the South Haven pier are a must-see. Grab a spot on the beach early to watch the colors reflect over the water.
- Saugatuck Summer Theater & Galleries: Saugatuck is famous for its art scene. Spend a July afternoon hopping between the downtown galleries or catching a live performance at the Mason Street Warehouse.
Taste the Summer Harvest
Summer is peak harvest season in West Michigan, and the flavors are everywhere you look.
- U-Pick Blueberries: This region is famous for its highbush blueberries. Several family farms just minutes from Glenn Meadow offer incredible U-Pick experiences in mid-to-late July.
- Farm-to-Table Mornings: You don’t have to go far for a fresh taste of the season. Every morning at Glenn Meadow starts with a farm-fresh breakfast featuring fresh eggs, produce from our on-site gardens, and ingredients sourced from our neighboring farms.
Events in the Area
2026 Highlights
- Light Up the Lake Fireworks (South Haven) | July 3
- Saugatuck Fourth of July Fireworks | July 3
- Chamber Music Festival (Saugatuck) | Select dates throughout July & August
- Saugatuck Venetian Fest | July 24-25
- National Blueberry Festival & Craft Fair (South Haven) | August 6-9
- South Haven Salute to Veterans – August 15
- Rock the Boat Concert – Michigan Maritime Museum (South Haven) | August 21
- Michigan Flywheelers Antique Engine & Tractor Show | Sept. 5-9
- Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival | Sept. 11-13
- South Haven Jazz Festival | Sept. 18-19
- South Haven Oktoberfest | Sept. 28
- Saugatuck-Douglas Oktoberfest | Oct. 10
- Blue Coast Artists Fall Tour | Oct. TBA
- Cranberry Harvest Days | Oct. TBA
- Saugatuck Food & Wine Festival | Nov. 5-7
- Saugatuck Christmas Tree Lighting | Nov. 27
- Holiday in the Park | Nov. 29
- Mistletoe Market | Nov. 21-Dec. 13
- Vox GR Choral Ensemble | Dec. 15
- South Haven New Year’s Event | Dec. 31
- Ice Breaker Festival | Jan. 20-Feb. 1
More South Haven Area Attractions
Outdoor Recreation & Sports
- Kal-Haven Trail State Park – A beautiful 33-mile multi-use trail stretching from South Haven to Kalamazoo. Perfect for a shaded bike ride or a morning run.
- Hawks Head Golf and Resort – A premier 18-hole championship golf course designed by Arthur Hills, featuring world-class links and an upscale on-site restaurant.
On-The-Water Adventures
- Fresh Coast Sailing – Take to the water for a customized, private sailing charter on Lake Michigan. Perfect for daytime cruises or unforgettable sunset excursions.
- Maritime Museum Friends Good Will – step aboard history and learn what is was like for early sailors on the Great Lakes.
Family Fun & Indoor Entertainment
- The Mitten Children’s Museum – A wonderful interactive space for families, offering hands-on, play-based learning stations inspired by the state of Michigan.
- Rocket Arcade – A nostalgic throwback arcade featuring classic, fully restored retro video games and pinball machines. Fun for kids and grown-up kids alike!
- South Haven Ice Rink – Located downtown beneath a pavilion, this seasonal rink brings winter magic to life with open skating and skate rentals.
Trip Planning
- Visit South Haven (Visitors Bureau) – The ultimate resource for area maps, dining guides, and up-to-the-minute local events happening during your stay.
- Saugatuck Douglas Visitor Bureau – The Art Coast of Michigan is the perfect place for revelry or relaxation. Start planning your ultimate escape
Unwind Away From the Crowds
The secret to a perfect vacation is balance. After a day of upscale shopping in Saugatuck or boating on the Black River in South Haven, you can escape the tourist crowds and retreat to the meadow.
End your evening with a cup of coffee or local wine by our pond, watch the fireflies across our 115 acres of fields, or say hello to our neighboring farm animals.
Your perfect summer escape is waiting right here in the middle of it all.
South Haven offers a diverse range of activities, from outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to family fun and romantic getaways. Discover charming lighthouses, explore sandy (icy) beaches, immerse yourself in local history, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of this coastal town.
And while you’re thinking about it, book your off-season stay at Glenn Meadow B&B today or call Tracey at 269-767-4194 for availability.
Tags: South Haven MI B&B, Saugatuck Michigan lodging, Glenn Meadow Bed and Breakfast, West Michigan vacation rentals, where to stay South Haven, South Haven Lighthouse, Saugatuck Dunes State Park, Michigan Maritime Museum, Kal-Haven Trail biking, Fresh Coast Sailing charters, July events South Haven, Saugatuck Venetian Fest, Michigan Blueberry Festival, South Haven winter Ice Breaker, off-season things to do West Michigan
