The historic Douglas Root Beer Barrel is Reason #751 why you’re going to LOVE a getaway to Wickwood Inn in historic downtown Saugatuck. This is the kind of community that goes to work to bring back The Barrel!
It’s official … after years of anticipation and a complete restoration, The Barrel has re-opened for business!
“The egg creams of Avenue A in New York and the root beer float … are among the high points of American gastronomic inventiveness.”
~ Mark Kurlansky
“The Douglas Root Beer Barrel Drive In (“the Barrel”) opened in 1952, serving generations of summer visitors foot-long hot dogs and root beer in frosted mugs. Tourists and locals alike flocked to this whimsical road-side attraction.
After closing in the mid-1970s, the Barrel slowly fell into disrepair. By 2011, the dilapidated structure was slated for demolition until a group of local citizens purchased the barrel for $1.00 and began a restoration project.
The Barrel was disassembled and transported to a workshop at the Old School House in Douglas. After more than 600 hours of volunteer labor, the 125 wood staves looked better than ever. A new ring and a steel support structure were fabricated by students in the Saugatuck High School Industrial Arts Program.”
~ Friends Of The Barrel
The restored and reconstructed Barrel is now open for business at the corner of Center and Ferry street in Douglas, right on the way to Oval Beach!
Mick White’s Barrel menu is perfect! Open from noon until sunset, you can get a Classic Dog, Chili Dog, and Gourmet of the Day Dog. There are also sides and barreled root beer! He will also have a Barrel Brownie and Root Beer Float for dessert.
“A hot dog at the game beats roast beef at the Ritz.”
~ Humphrey Bogart
Thanks 13 On Your Side for the great coverage of opening day.
In its original heyday, The Barrel was the place for people to meet on their way to the Oval or Baldy. Now, you can once again say, “Meet me at the Barrel!”
We love the lengths people go to in this town to make life special.
Reserve your Wickwood Inn getaway today and get a taste of the good life. We’ll see you at the barrel!