Travel
Flight
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
GRR is the closest major airport and is about a 35-45 minute drive from Saugatuck. This is probably the easiest option overall and the one most likely to preserve your sanity after TSA.
Flight
(SBN) South Bend International Airport
SBN is about a little over an hour away and is especially convenient since Elizabeth’s family lives nearby. It is also home to direct flights from DC on Breeze Airways or Delta, which we love. If you think you are above flying Breeze... this probs isn't the wedding for you...
Flight
Chicago Midway or O'Hare
You can also fly into Chicago through O’Hare or Midway. Chicago is about 2.5 from Saugatuck depending on traffic, construction, weather, vibes, and whether Illinois has decided to emotionally challenge drivers that day. This is a great option if you want more flight availability or wish to begin the weekend with a brief character building road trip or city adventure. Before Southwest emotionally scarred Erin with their policy changes, she had frequented this flight route a few times. No matter which airport you choose, we promise the beaches, sunsets, and drinks at the end will be worth it. Probably.
Train
Amtrak Pere Marquette train
Shockingly… America does have this option sometimes. Guests flying into or living in Chicago can take the Amtrak Pere Marquette train from Chicago Union Station directly to nearby Holland, Michigan, which is about 15 to 20 minutes from Saugatuck. The train station is located downtown at Chicago Union Station, meaning: • From O’Hare you can take the CTA Blue Line into downtown • From Midway you can take the CTA Orange Line • Then hop on the train and live out your coastal Midwest main character fantasy From Holland Station, you can Uber or drive into Saugatuck pretty easily. The train ride itself is scenic, relaxing, and significantly less emotionally damaging than driving through Chicago traffic after a flight.
Travel Note
Can I take a boat across Lake Michigan?
Somehow… yes. There is an actual high speed ferry that crosses Lake Michigan between Milwaukee and Muskegon. It takes about 2.5 hours & we don't know of a single guest this would benefit but still needed to include it. This is for anyone wanting to dramatically arrive at our wedding by crossing one of the largest lakes in the world like a wealthy 1800s industrialist. Bonus: you can even bring your car onto the ferry. Downside: Lake Michigan occasionally remembers she is basically an inland ocean and some people do get seasick. Godspeed.
Travel Note
Lodging & Hotels
Think of your trip to Saugatuck as a choose-your-own-adventure! Whether you're dreaming of a cozy bed & breakfast within walking distance of downtown, a standard hotel, or an Airbnb for your crew, there are plenty of great options nearby. Please note that Airbnb and vacation rental lodging in the Saugatuck/Douglas area tends to book quickly during the summer months, so we recommend reserving your stay early if you plan to go that route. Here are some great options outlined: 1. Stay in Downtown Saugatuck If you're hoping to immerse yourself in the charm of Saugatuck, these boutique inns are full of character and just a short walk to shops, restaurants, and the waterfront: -Wickwood Inn -The Hotel Saugatuck -Maplewood Hotel -Judson Heath Colonial Inn -Twin Oaks Inn -Serendipity Bed & Breakfast 2. Hotels Nearby Looking for more traditional accommodations? Holland offers many familiar hotel options just 15–20 minutes from Saugatuck, with additional restaurants and shopping nearby. The following are only 15 min from our wedding venue, but there are many more options: AmericInn by Wyndham, Baymont by Wyndham, & Residence Inn by Marriott in Holland. South Haven also has several hotel choices. 3. Airbnb or Vacation Rentals If traveling with family or friends, renting a home can be a great way to enjoy the lakeshore together. Saugatuck, Douglas, and Holland all have wonderful vacation rentals ranging from cozy cottages to large homes perfect for groups.