The school was established in 1914 after artists, clued in by early tourists, migrated to the site in search of inspiration and sanctuary. Late in the summer, the area's restaurants create their culinary best at the annual Taste of Saugatuck. For those who prefer shopping as an activity, Saugatuck and Douglas offer a charming mix of 19th century architecture and 20th century merchandise. There are clothing, gift, and antique shops galore. Area businesses run the gamut, from Tucks, a year-round Christmas store with one of the nation's largest selections of holiday collectibles, to Spring Renewal, a holistic wellness and natural health care center.
Hungry visitors have no problem finding a restaurant to suit their tastes.
The area is home to nearly two dozen eating establishments, serving American, French, English and Italian foods. Ice cream, pastry, and fudge shops satisfy the proverbial sweet tooth. Tourists are treated to the same diversity when it comes to bed down for the night. They can choose from among motels, resorts, cottages, suites, and bed and breakfast inns. Charter fishing, hiking, and biking are activities that start in the spring and end in the fall.