Nestled among a landscape of trees along the Kalamazoo River, the vintage harbor village of Saugatuck sits serenely on the shores of Lake Michigan. A progressive haven that has historically provided a summer getaway for Chicagoans and other big city dwellers, this small arts town offers visitors a break from hectic 21st century life. Visitors can wander along gallery-filled streets while checking out Victorian homes built by lumber barons, many of which are now bed and breakfast establishments.
Although the town boasts plenty of historic charm, the Art Coast of Michigan isn't stuck back in time. The cultural scene here rivals that of much larger cities and is contemporary and cutting edge. Originally a lumber town and port, Saugatuck began to entice artists and tourists late in the 19th century, first with its Old Pavilion, a large dance hall that attracted great bands, and then with its dozens of art galleries, arts festivals, and performing arts venues. At the annual Heritage Festival art enthusiasts can check out the Clothesline Art Show exhibition, while at the Red Barn Playhouse, Broadway fans have plenty of yearly performances to choose from.
Recreational opportunities abound here as well, including sun bathing and swimming at Oval Beach on Lake Michigan, which has garnered praise from MTV and was rated by Conde Naste's Traveler Magazine as one of the 25 best shorelines in the world. A couple of winding waterways, including the Kalamazoo River, offer fishing and boating opportunities, and a variety of scenic city parks dot the riverside. Wilder terrain can be found at Saugatuck Dunes State Park and Allegan State Game Area.
A tourist haven, this town's primary source of revenue is generated by dozens of bed and breakfast, restaurants, and, of course, the art galleries. The town swells from 1,000 to 3,000 each summer. Still, residents find they can make a living year round here as well. And they do quite well: the average household incomes are in the top quarter of the country. In addition to a solid economy and above-average cultural scene, the educational opportunities for people of all ages are excellent. Nearby Holland sports two colleges, one of which offers online classes; Saugatuck has a top rated middle school; and high school students regularly score well on the ACTs.
Whether it's the arts you're after, a vibrant, gorgeous landscape, or just a cozy, simple life in small town America, Saugatuck has it all.
At A Glance
Population: 1,169 (County: 113,175)
Cost of Living: 5-15% above the national average
Housing Costs: $335,000 (County: $162,000)
Lizzy Scully
Managing Editor
http://www.FindYourspot.com, the Internet's best source of relocation information.
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