Home  /  North America  /  Saugatuck  / Community Pride in Saugatuck/Douglas

Community Pride in
Saugatuck/Douglas 2027

More than 140 LGBT-friendly businesses and host a colorful and fun pride week at the beginning of June.

  • Event Dates

    From: Awaiting dates
    To: Awaiting dates

  • Key Highlights

    • Tea Dance
    • Pride Parade
    • Pride in the Park
    • Hottest City Boys
    • Drag Bowling Party
    • Rocky Horror Picture Show

Community Pride in Saugatuck Douglas 2027

A heavenly slice of Midwest idyll, the arts-focused towns of Saugatuck and nearby Douglas are nestled on Michigan's stunning west coast (think swooping dunes and pretty harbours). Collectively these small-town charmers boast more than 140 LGBT-friendly businesses and host a colourful and fun pride week at the beginning of June.

  • Are you visiting for Pride in June? The event fills up the charming towns of Saugatuck in advance, so book your hotel early

The Saugatuck Pride Program

  • Next Edition: Awaiting dates, typically the first weekend in June.
  • Join the hottest city boys on a summer pride escape just a 3-hour drive from Chicago and Detroit.
  • Events typically include a Drag Bowling Party and a weekend of circuit events at The Dunes including the legendary Sunday Tea Dance.
  • For a unique stay close to all the tea dances at the Blue Star Motel, rated “Excellent” by guests with a hot tub, spacious rooms and delicious breakfast options.

Community Pride, Car Parade & Pride in the Park

  • Awaiting dates –  The Douglas Pride Parade starts at 10:30am at Saugatuck High School, Promenade to Beery Field in Douglas at 11:15am.
  • Pride in the Park runs from noon 'till late afternoon with a series of headline acts and shows.
  • For the best view and vibes, grab a spot near Beery Field along Center St.
  • Stay at The Belvedere Inn (boutique, close to town), rated “Wonderful” by guests with charming original features, comfortable rooms and exceptional service.

Pride Kick Off T Dance

  • Awaiting dates  – Events kick off with the Sunday T Dance at The Dunes, which forms part of a week-long series of Pride events.

Star of Saugatuck evening boat cruise

  • Awaiting dates – Typically Tuesday –  Join a Special Edition of the Saugatuck cruise for a relaxing ride on the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan.  Boat departs at 6:00 PM. Duration of the cruise is about 90 minutes long with delicious food served along with a range of drinks.

Gay Saugatuck and Douglas

  • Originally a lumber town and port, Saugatuck, along with the adjacent city of Douglas, became a noted art colony and tourist destination in the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century.
  • The correct pronunciation of Saugatuck is Saw-gu-tuck,  meaning mouth of the river. Although Saugatuck-Douglas sits in what’s known to be the Bible belt of the state, it’s also home to one of Americas larges gay vacation destinations.
  • Head to Oval Beach, a popular beach known for its sweeping shoreline around Lake Michigan and the backdrop of dunes.
  • Go further an explore the dunes. Take the Saugatuck Dune Ride, an exciting and entertaining 40-minute ride among the dunes.

Recommended Hotels in Saugatuck

Here are the Hotels we recommend that keep you close to all the action,

Hampton InnThe Belvedere InnHome2 SuitesBlue Star Motel

Gay Map of SAUGATUCK

Address: 3656 63rd Street, Saugatuck, Michigan 49453

  • The Belvedere Inn in Saugatuck is an elegant boutique hotel with historic charm, lush gardens, and a fine dining restaurant.
  • Its romantic setting makes it popular with LGBTQ+ couples looking for a stylish getaway.
  • Guests praise the attentive service, gourmet meals, and peaceful atmosphere.
  • A refined and welcoming choice just minutes from Saugatuck’s inclusive art and nightlife scene. Website

Address: 3140 West Shore Drive, Holland, Michigan 49424

  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Holland is a convenient base for visiting Saugatuck’s beaches and gay-friendly nightlife.
  • The spacious suites with kitchens make it easy for groups or couples to settle in for a weekend.
  • Guests appreciate the heated indoor pool, free breakfast, and welcoming staff.
  • Pet-friendly and inclusive, it’s a solid choice for LGBTQ+ travelers exploring the Lake Michigan coast. Website

Address: 12427 Felch Street, Holland, Michigan 49424

  • Hampton Inn Holland is a short drive from Saugatuck’s gay-friendly beaches, bars, and art scene.
  • The hotel offers clean, modern rooms with perks like an indoor pool, arcade, and free breakfast.
  • Staff are welcoming, and the property is pet-friendly, making it easy for LGBTQ+ couples or groups.
  • It’s a reliable base for exploring the inclusive culture of the Lake Michigan coast. Website

Address: 167 South Blue Star Highway, Douglas, Michigan 49406

  • Blue Star Motel in Douglas offers retro charm with modern comfort, just minutes from Saugatuck’s gay-friendly beaches and nightlife.
  • Each room has its own entrance and access to a shared patio with a fire pit and grill.
  • Guests love the cozy feel, spotless rooms, and welcoming staff.
  • A relaxed and affordable base for LGBTQ+ travelers exploring the inclusive Saugatuck–Douglas area. Website

Address: 333 South Blue Star Highway, Douglas, Michigan 49406

  • The Dunes Resort is one of the largest LGBTQ+ resorts in the Midwest, known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Guests come for the pool parties, drag shows, DJ nights, and legendary Tea Dances.
  • Multiple bars and venues keep the energy high from day to night.
  • It’s the go-to spot in Saugatuck for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking fun, community, and nonstop entertainment.
  • Open: Daily 9am-2am
  • Facebook

Address: 127 Hoffman Street, Saugatuck, Michigan 49453

  • Uncommon Coffee Roasters is a staple of Saugatuck’s inclusive community, welcoming locals and LGBTQ+ travelers alike.
  • Known for its ethically sourced beans and creative drinks, it’s a favorite spot to relax with friends or meet new ones.
  • The café’s cozy indoor space and sunny patio make it a social hub year-round.
  • A perfect stop for coffee lovers exploring Saugatuck’s gay-friendly scene.
  • Open: Daily 7am-6pm
  • Facebook

Address: 22 East Center Street, Douglas, Michigan 49406

  • Borrowed Time in Douglas is a cozy wine bar and small-plates spot that’s a favorite with LGBTQ+ visitors to the Saugatuck area.
  • Its inventive menu, rotating wine list, and friendly staff create a warm, welcoming vibe.
  • The Loft dining experience adds a touch of intimacy with curated prix fixe dinners.
  • A perfect spot for date night or gathering with friends in Saugatuck’s inclusive scene.
  • Open: Daily 4pm-10pm weekends from 2pm, Closed Tuesdays
  • Facebook

Address: 6054 124th Avenue, Fennville, Michigan 49408

  • Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery is a must-visit near Saugatuck, offering farm-fresh pies, cider donuts, and hearty comfort food in a rustic, welcoming space.
  • LGBTQ+ travelers will find the atmosphere relaxed and inclusive, with friendly service and plenty of charm.
  • The hard cider and fruit wine tastings are a highlight, pairing perfectly with dessert.
  • A cozy stop that blends Michigan farm tradition with community warmth.
  • Open: Daily 9am-6pm
  • Facebook

Address: 215 Butler Street, Saugatuck, Michigan 49453

  • Phil’s Bar & Grille is a lively downtown Saugatuck spot where LGBTQ+ visitors feel right at home.
  • The mix of scratch-made comfort food, creative specials, and a fun bar vibe makes it a favorite for both locals and travelers.
  • It’s often busy, adding to the energy and social atmosphere.
  • A great place to eat, drink, and connect in Saugatuck’s inclusive community.
  • Open: Daily 4pm-9.30pm Weekends from 11.30am-10pm
  • Facebook

Address: 2170 62nd St, Fennville, Michigan 49408

  • Virtue Cider in Fennville, just outside Saugatuck, is a farm-based cidery known for its dry, European-style hard ciders.
  • LGBTQ+ visitors will find a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere with orchard tours, greenhouse tastings, and trails to explore.
  • The setting is scenic, with animals and orchards adding to the charm.
  • A welcoming stop that blends sustainability, craftsmanship, and community spirit.
  • Open: Daily 12pm-7pm
  • Facebook

Video guide to Saugatuck

Visiting Saugatuck? Wondering where to go? We've got you covered with a full itinerary in this beautiful Michigan town.

The Belvedere Inn

Recommended Hotels in Saugatuck By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels Saugatuck that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars

Hampton Inn Holland
3 Star – Central Location

Hampton Inn Holland
Booking.com
  • 3 Star – Free Breakfast, High-Speed Internet
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • Coffee maker, work desk, cable TV
  • Offers free breakfast, high-speed internet, rooms with coffee makers, work desks, cable TV, indoor pool, and sports facilities.

The Belvedere Inn
Treat your Self, Cozy

The Belvedere Inn & Restaurant
Booking.com
  • Treat Yourself, Cozy – Bar, Garden, Terrace
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • Seating area, free WiFi, private parking
  • Features a bar, garden, terrace, restaurant, 24-hour front desk, room service, free WiFi, & parking.

Home2 Suites
3 Star – Great Amenities

Home2 Suites
Booking.com
  • 3 Star – Free WiFi, Indoor Swimming Pool
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • Indoor pool, fitness center
  • Offers free WiFi, located near Nelis’ Dutch Village, with an indoor pool, fitness center, and daily buffet breakfast.

Blue Star Motel
Good Location

Blue Star Motel
Booking.com
  • Good Location – Lovely Garden, Free WiFi
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • Offers a hot tub, free WiFi
  • Located in Douglas, features a garden, free WiFi, a hot tub, close to Holland and Saugatuck, with nearby airport access.

Other Events in May

St. Pete Pride

St. Pete Pride

From: May. 29.2026 - To: Jun. 28.2026
The St Pete Pride Festival draws around 100,000 visitors to downtown St. Petersburg's Historic Grand Central District.
Bangkok Pride Month

Bangkok Pride Month

From: May. 31.2026 - To: Jun. 28.2026
Bangkok, one of the world's most gay-friendly and welcoming cities, celebrates Pride all month long with a series of parties, events and the return of a colourful parade through the city's streets
St Maarten Carnival

St Maarten Carnival

From: Apr. 15.2027 - To: May. 03.2027
Celebrate Carnival in the Caribbean in St Maarten and enjoy colourful parades, spectacular pageants, Calypso competitions, energetic bands concerts and delicious carnival cuisine
The Kentucky Derby Festival & Thunder Over Louisville

The Kentucky Derby Festival & Thunder Over Louisville

From: Apr. 17.2027 - To: May. 01.2027
The Kentucky Derby Festival is one of the premiere events of its kind in the world and a proud five-time winner of the International Festivals Award.
Stuttgart Spring Festival

Stuttgart Spring Festival

From: Apr. 17.2027 - To: May. 09.2027
As the winter chill gives way to the warmth of spring, Stuttgart, the heart of Baden-Württemberg, awakens with an exuberant celebration like no other, The Stuttgart Spring Festival