“Winter is for good food and talk beside the fire in this magical snow globe world.”
~ George R. R. Martin
Winter Is The Best Time For Romantic Getaways In Michigan At Wickwood
The season of our White Winter Wonderland and crystal clear nights with billions of stars. A season of cross country skiing, snow sculptures, skating and sliding down dunes on old cardboard boxes. Huge snowflakes blanket from lake effect snow as we scurry from Tastings at Petter , Virtue Cider, Fenn Valley, Crane’s, and Wine Sellers. to dancing the night away at Salt of the Earth, Saugatuck Brewing, Coral Gables, The What Not, or Sand Bar over Valentine’s Weekend. Romance is in the air and it’s contagious.
Cozy gooey Panini’s, bread pudding, warm homemade Sticky Buns and oozing Caramelized Onion Dip warm the cockles of our hearts after the always wonderful Fat Tuesday Parade. There’s the smell of pine, art gallery stroll, Maureen McGovern at the SCA, reading by the fireside, lingering massages, seed catalogues, hot chocolate, warm Popovers and talking uninterrupted late into the night. We have the perfect room for you; reserve your romantic winter getaway at Wickwood today.
We’ve created a getaway guide with some local favorites, suggested stops and insider secrets to help you love life like a local. Use our tips as you will, but let your imagination be your guide!
Live Like A Local & Love Our Villages | Winter Wonderland
The fact that we’re open year round in Saugatuck gives us the chance to experience the wonders of each season. Yes, we are lauded for our pristine beaches. Swimming in our freshwater is truly a joy. But, reserving a room at Wickwood in January or February means you are in for something truly special.
There’s no better place to relax, unwind, reconnect and be pampered.
Pull up a chair by a roaring fireplace. Hit the trails at the Saugatuck Dunes State Park on snow shoes or cross country skis. Let all your worries melt away during a LaStone massage. Stretch yourself at Satya Yoga. Brew a batch of your own beer at Saugatuck Brewing. Stroll through our more than 30 art galleries. Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting at Petter Wine Gallery. Walk in to any of our favorite area restaurants like Bowdies, The Southerner, EPC, and Phil’s. Explore the specialty shops of downtown Holland . . . their sidewalks are magically clear of snow or ice.
Or, never leave the Inn. Read. Play a game of backgammon. Have an in room massage. Share the cheer during evening Sips & Small Plates. Warm yourself by the roaring fireplace. Delight in a freshly baked brownie bite. Schedule a private Pilates session. Taste the flavors of our farm to table gourmet champagne brunch.
No matter how you spend your time in Saugatuck, your Winter getaway to Wickwood will make magic. 
Friday
12:00 p.m.
1. Let the Relaxation Begin | Gallery Hop
American Style Magazine rates Saugatuck “One of the top five art towns in America.” Begin your winter wonderland weekend off with a little gallery hopping.
On your way into town, stop off at Roan & Black. Conveniently located on Blue Star Highway, Roan & Black represents emerging and established artists and sculptors from across the U.S.
In downtown Douglas the knowledgeable and friendly staff, and its superb collection of more than 60 artists, has made Water Street Gallery an area standout for years.
Stroll through downtown Saugatuck and make stops at Mixed Media, Armstrong DeGraaf, Amazwi, Good Goods, and Volmod.
1:30 p.m.
2. Make It A Marquee Event | Leisurely Lunch
The notes on the marquee let you know a little something special happening in town today. Once inside, Phil’s helps you appreciate how special Saugatuck is in the middle of winter. Pull up a seat at the bar and settle in. Try a Breakfast Stout from Founders or another local brew. Order the Fish Tacos with the Ahi Tuna or the Nutty Salad — one of our favorites.
2:30 p.m.
3. Take a Sneak Peak at Butler Street
You won’t have to walk far. Within the block, there’s lots to see.
If you noticed the art work on the walls at Phil’s, you’ll recognize the beloved layers created at James Brandess Studios & Gallery. Add a little splash of sass to your wardrobe. Renuar, one of 3 boutiques owned by Chantal, features a fun collection of designer labels. Stop in at Wine Sellers of Saugatuck and have Michael help you pick out a bottle the perfect bottle to enjoy in room later on.
3:30 p.m.
4. Begin to Experience the Difference of Life at Wickwood
Everything here exudes warmth. Your greeting from the Innkeeper. The smell of freshly baked brownie bites emerging from the kitchen. Cozy chairs surrounding the roaring fire. Take your time settling in. Look at the fine art. Pick out a book. Peruse the board games. Breathe in the ease of it all.
4:00 p.m.
5. Feel the Stress Melt Away | In Room — Fully Customized — Massage
Allow our talented and well-trained massage therapists work their magic. Chose your preferred style of massage. Select your essential oils. This time yours. Feel layers of tension disappear while any stiffness leaves your body. Visit our Packages to explore all of your options.
5:00 p.m.
6. Remain In Your Blissful State | Do Absolutely Nothing
Soak in all that you just experienced. Sip water or juice. Open up a bottle of wine. Lounge in the luxurious robes. Talk. Laugh. Read. Rest. Whatever catches your fancy. Enjoy the gift of time.
6:00 p.m.
7. Meander Down To The Dining Room | Sips & Small Plates Await
Life at Wickwood keeps getting better. Enjoy a taste of complimentary wine. Your first bite of Roasted Red Pepper with Chipotle Dip warms you up. You fix a plate of Potted Pimento Cheddar Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Sopressata, Spicy Green Beans and Spiced Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower and snuggle in by the fire. You go back for some Flatbread and Crostini. This is what being pampered feels like.
7:30 p.m.
8. Stroll Through Saugatuck | Enjoy A Cocktail
No need to get in your car. Just step outside our doors and choose where you want to enjoy a cocktail. Return to Phil’s and be welcomed like a local. Try the heated “porch” at Wally’s. Enjoy the water views at The Butler or The Southerner.
8:30 p.m.
9. Top Restaurant To Visit In 2016 | Dinner At Bowdies Chophouse
Grand Rapids food critic, George Aquino, named Bowdies the restaurant of the year to visit in 2016. “This restaurant epitomizes what we look for in a good restaurant in West Michigan. Chef Chris Doebler’s dishes linger in your memory like your first love, and my visits this year prove that Bowdies is no fluke. While their steaks are excellent, its Half Roasted Chicken may be the main reason you return.”
We’re proud to welcome Bowdies to the culinary scene in downtown Saugatuck. 
Saturday
10. Wake Naturally | Rest Easy
Skip the alarm clock. Wake whenever. Enjoy a cup of locally roasted Simpatico coffee. Grab a newspaper. You’re on vacation.
9:30 a.m.
11. Wickwood’s Signature | Gourmet Champagne Brunch
You’ve read and heard about the Brunch at Wickwood. You can’t wait to experience it. start with the Four Citrus Salad with Honey Mint Sauce. Perfect with the Champagne. Next, the Caramelized Onion and Bacon Strata, a piece of Spicy Cranberry Cake, and a little Glazed Country Ham. Nothing disappoints. Everything delights.
11:00 a.m.
12. Enjoy Pristine Scenery | Hit the Trails | Stroll Along the Beach
Conditions are sure to be perfect for something in our glorious outdoors: cross country skiing at the Saugatuck Dunes State Park, snow shoeing at Shore Acres Township Park, hiking through the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, or simply strolling on Oval Beach. You decide what’s right for the day. Need some equipment? No problem. For just $14, you can rent top of the line skis (including boots and poles) or snow shoes (including poles) at Landshark’s. Equipment isn’t due until 11:00 a.m. the next day, so there’s lots of time to enjoy. While you’re in the shop, check out their outstanding collection of apparel, shoes and accessories. You may just end up with an entirely new outfit to keep you cozy and stylish while out on the trails.
1:30 p.m.
13. You’ve Worked Up An Appetite | Lunch At A Locals’ Favorite
Known for their fried chicken, made-from-scratch biscuits, and other amazing sides, The Southerner is sure to satisfy. Saugatuck is thrilled to welcome James Beard nominated chef Matthew Millar, and his talented staff, to town. With great water views and a casual, friendly atmosphere, The Southerner always makes us feel good. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, try a biscuit sandwich with Benton’s Bacon, egg, and cheese. Thinking more about lunch? How about the Whitefish Sandwich or Grass fed Beef Burger? Enjoy a freshly squeezed juice or a handcrafted cocktail if you like.
2:45 p.m.
14. Sip the Good Stuff | Life’s Short . . . Taste the Best
We love the good tastes in life, so we’re excited about two of the most recent additions to our area. Head first to Fennville and visit Greg Hall (formerly of Goose Island Brewing) and his newest venture — Virtue Cider. Partnering with local farms, using heirloom apples, this Michigan based craft cider company is changing the flavor of fermentation. Sample your way through their current offerings and then have a pint of your favorite. We like The Mitten forkeeping us warm this time of year.
Next, Petter Wine Gallery (PWG). We’ve been fans of the fine art here for years, and we love that now you can taste boutique wines while taking in the art. Allow us to schedule your Private Tasting. Two hours where the experts at PWG guide your through boutique vineyards from near and far. You’re sure to enjoy the sophisticated fun of this special place.
5:00 p.m.
15. Lounge | Lose Track of Time
One of the highest compliments we are given is when people proclaim that they never want to leave the Inn. In fact, many of our guests do just that. They park their car and don’t set foot outside our doors for the duration of their stay. We understand why. Take this time to sink in. Relax by the roaring fire. Grab a book. Play a game of gin or backgammon. Or lounge in your room. Life is different at Wickwood.
6:00 p.m.
16. What Will You Taste Tonight | Everything Bursts With Flavor
The Roasted Butternut Squash Soup catches your eye tonight. You try both the Caramelized Onion and the Artichoke & Asparagus Dip. You can’t determine your favorite. You snack on meats, cheeses and olives. You wonder why every night cannot begin like this?
7:15 p.m.
17. Where Locals Meet & Eat | Gorgeous Scenery & Great Value
Enjoy the warmth and cheer inside The Grill at Clearbrook Golf Club. Offering generous drinks, casual dining and reasonably priced food.
8:30 p.m.
18. There’s Magic in the Air | Live Music & Dancing
Unfortunately, you may only have time to hit one, but here are two of our favorites for late night magic: Saugatuck Brewing Company or The What Not Inn. Either way, be sure to wear your dancing shoes! 
Sunday
9:00 a.m.
19. You Love Sleeping In | And Being Served Gourmet Brunch
The level of relaxation is something you could get accustomed to. And, you love that you have another opportunity to enjoy Brunch at Wickwood. Today’s Fruits, Frittata, Bread Pudding, Bismarcks and Warm Orange Marmalade Cake make you happy.
10:00 a.m.
20. Time To Make the Morning Last | Let Yourself Linger at Wickwood
Sip some more coffee. Read the morning paper. Savor this time of complete relaxation.
12:00 p.m.
21. Be The Brewmaster | Create Your Own Batch of Craft Brew
It’s time to create the ultimate souvenir — your own batch of microbrew. Saugatuck Brewing Company has everything you need: recipes, ingredients, professional equipment and expertise. You pick the style of beer, design a custom label, and brew enough to fill 72 twenty-two ounce bottles. Perfect for your next big party, a Summer BBQ, or simply to sip . . . whenever you need a little taste of Saugatuck. All this effort may make you hungry. No worries! Everything here is made in house, and we’re partial to the Crispy Shrimp Po’ Boy.
4:15 p.m.
22. There’s Still Time | Stretch Your Legs | Or Take Care of Unfinished Shopping
Saugatuck can be a difficult place to leave. Ask any of the hundreds of people who came here once on vacation and now live here full time. You still have time. Enjoy a stroll on our award winning Oval Beach and soak up the fresh air alongside our sweetwater. Or, maybe there’s a piece of art that’s still on your mind from Brandess, Water Street or Roan & Black. Go ahead and take another look.
5:00 p.m.
23. When It’s Time To Leave | You Hate To Go | So Don’t?
You’ve had the perfect Winter getaway. Why not make one more stop just to simplify your transition back at home? The Farmhouse Pantry has everything you need to bring home a tasty dinner: freshly prepared soups, salads, sandwiches and an entree or two. For dessert, we like the Ginger Molasses cookies. Once you see all of the goodness in this place, you may just want to sit right down and enjoy your feast. We like their recent addition of a casual sitting area.
Or, make the moment last. On your way out of town, stop in for an amazing meal and live music at Salt of the Earth in downtown Fennville. We love the long, dark bar and always want to begin with the Farmer’s Greens. From there, move on to a wood fired pizza, grilled hanger steak, or pan seared sea scallops. Be sure and find out what specials are being offered. Often these end up being our favorites of the night!