July 2, 2025

This Chic Saugatuck Inn Is the Midwest’s Best-Kept Design Secret

Interior view of the Wickwood Innl — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

If you're up for a road trip from Chicago—and trust us, you should be—set your sights on Saugatuck, Michigan. This charming lakeside town has everything: fabulous restaurants, cozy wineries, and one of the best antique malls in the country. The perfect home base to explore it all? The historic Wickwood Inn, where warm Midwestern hospitality meets impeccable design and plush comfort.

Designed by the award-winning Soucie Horner Design Collective as its first hotel project, this boutique property elevates the traditional bed-and-breakfast experience. With just 11 rooms, the Wickwood Inn aims to be your home away from home—and that welcoming spirit begins even before you arrive.

Entrance of historic Wickwood bed-and-breakfast. — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

Ahead of check-in (which runs daily from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.), the Wickwood team sends guests a text message with a digital guidebook filled with property details and local recommendations. Need help along the way—whether from a delayed flight or a missed turn? Text the team, and they’ll respond promptly.

Upon arrival, a team member will greet you and offer a brief tour of the property. There’s no formal lobby here; instead, you’ll step into a 1937 house originally built as a family home for Saugatuck’s then-mayor, Frank Wicks. In 1981, it became the town’s first bed-and-breakfast—and it’s been setting the standard ever since.

Cozy living room and dining area at Wickwood Inn — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

Step inside and turn right to find a bright living room and cozy library, where snacks are served throughout the day. A few steps further leads to the communal dining room, where breakfast is served daily. Executive Chef Rose Duong curates a rotating menu—we recommend the avocado toast with egg and any version of pancakes, from lemon ricotta to seasonal blueberry. On warm mornings, enjoy your meal on the patio or in the sunroom, where screen doors let in the perfect breeze.

Luxurious guest room with elegant decor at Wickwood Inn — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

Rooms span two floors, each appointed with plush Vispring mattresses, hand-embroidered SHIIR rugs, handcrafted Matouk linens and towels, and carefully sourced antiques like wardrobes, bedside tables, and lamps.

Art-filled interior and scenic outdoor views near Wickwood Inn. — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

The art throughout the Wickwood Inn is equally curated. Collected over decades, the pieces reflect the inn’s character, nodding to Michigan’s lakeside charm, classic Americana, French masters, and traditional Chinese works. The vibrant aesthetic mirrors the creative pulse of Saugatuck’s many local galleries, which are well worth a visit.

Nature lovers will find adventure just steps away. Take the country’s last operational chain ferry across the river, then climb the 303 wooden steps of Mount Baldhead for panoramic views of town and shoreline. Afterward, stroll down to Oval Beach to explore its protected dunes and expansive sands.

Handmade pastas and desserts at Wickwood Inn — Courtesy of the Wickwood Inn

When it’s time to eat, head to one of Saugatuck’s standout restaurants. We’re partial to Lady Bird for its handmade pastas and desserts, or Pennyroyal Cafe and Provisions, an all-day spot with fresh salads, inventive pastries, and excellent sandwiches enjoyed al fresco.

After a full day of exploring, head back to Wickwood Inn—relaxed, full, and likely already dreaming about your next visit.

Fast Facts

Location: Saugatuck, Michigan, USA

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: Your wealthy friend’s Michigan lakeside home, complete with gourmet food

Room Count: 11 rooms and suites

Starting Rate: Rooms start at $349/night

Food + Drink: Daily breakfast is absolutely not to be missed, and neither are the freshly baked cookies, banana bread, and other treats available throughout the day. At 5:00 p.m., social hour takes place, featuring local cheese, charcuterie, and wine.

Amenities: Farm-to-table breakfast, social hour, private parking, in-house masseuse, private sailing excursions, concierge

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: It’s hard to say enough good things about breakfast at Wickwood—it’s worth waking up for (and served from 8 to 10 am).

5 Nearby Attractions: Mount Baldhead Park, Oval Beach, Dune Gallery, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Wicks Park

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? After doing one of Saugatuck’s many hikes, take a stroll to Lady Bird for a late dinner (the sun sets after 9 pm in the summer)

Closest Airport: Gerald R. Ford International Airport