Historical Bed and Breakfast Overlooking Kalamazoo Lake
The Twin Gables Inn of Saugatuck, Michigan, has lived many lives. Built in the 1850s, the property originally functioned as a lumber mill. By the 1920s, it evolved into a vacation spot for members of Al Capone's notorious gang. These days, a multigenerational family of innkeepers operates the charming B&B, surrounded by vine-covered gardens adjacent to Kalamazoo Lake. Here, you’ll find a peaceful setting and a laid-back vibe, especially within the romantic small town of Saugatuck.
For guests staying at the inn, each morning kicks off with a three-course gourmet breakfast on the sun porch overlooking the lake. Many dishes are prepared using fresh fruit from local orchards. Afterward, you can mingle with other guests in the homey common room, which is furnished with a wood-burning fireplace, overstuffed chairs, oriental rugs, and a baby grand piano. There's a sense of tranquility outside, where you'll find shade trees, a waterfall pond, and trellises draped with vines.
The gardens can be seen from many of the distinctively decorated guest rooms at the inn, whereas others face the lake. On the first floor of the main house is the Cabernet room, which has a gas fireplace and a four-poster king bed. In the Vintner's loft, you can make drinks at a wet bar and soak in a whirlpool tub.
Saugatuck, Michigan: Scenic Lakeside Town with Thriving Artistic Community
The small town of Saugatuck straddles Kalamazoo Lake, which feeds into Lake Michigan. Budget Travel named Saugatuck among the Coolest Small Towns in America thanks in part to its old-fashioned feel. You can reach the popular Oval Beach by crossing the Kalamazoo River on a circa-1838 ferry.
Art galleries and museums abound in Saugatuck and the neighboring village of Douglas, earning the area another title—the Art Coast of Michigan. Stop by the downtown galleries to look at collections of work by local and national artists. About 5 miles north, you'll find the Saugatuck Dunes State Park, which runs nearly 3 miles along the shore and features dunes more than 200 feet tall. The park also features four trails that are well suited for cross-country skiing.
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