3 day itinerary for Traverse City, Holland And Saugatuck Michigan

Itinerary

A road trip from Elgin, IL to Traverse City, Holland, and Saugatuck, MI sounds like a fantastic adventure! Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of local flavor. Buckle up!

## Day 1: Elgin, IL to Traverse City, MI

Morning:

• Departure from Elgin: Start your day early, around 7 AM, to make the most of your trip. Grab a coffee and a breakfast pastry from a local café to fuel your journey.
• Drive to Traverse City: The drive is about 5 hours, so enjoy the scenic views as you head north. You might want to take a quick break in Grand Rapids for a stretch and maybe a snack.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Traverse City: Arrive around noon and head to The Filling Station for some delicious sandwiches and a great atmosphere. It’s a former train depot, so it has a unique charm!
• Explore Downtown Traverse City: After lunch, take a stroll through the downtown area. Check out local shops, art galleries, and the beautiful waterfront along Grand Traverse Bay.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Brewery: Traverse City is known for its craft beer scene. Head to Brewery Terra Firma for some tasty food and local brews.
• Sunset at the Beach: After dinner, take a short drive to Clinch Park Beach to catch a stunning sunset over the bay. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel.

Overnight: Stay at a cozy hotel or a charming Airbnb in Traverse City.

## Day 2: Traverse City to Holland, MI

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Morsels for some delightful pastries and coffee.
• Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes: Before heading to Holland, take a detour to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Climb the dunes for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Traverse City, but totally worth it!

Afternoon:

• Drive to Holland: After your dune adventure, head to Holland, which is about a 2-hour drive.
• Lunch in Holland: Once you arrive, grab lunch at New Holland Brewing Company. Their food is as good as their beer, and the atmosphere is lively!

Evening:

• Explore Holland: Visit the Holland State Park and take a walk along the beach. If time allows, check out the iconic Big Red Lighthouse.
• Dinner: For dinner, try The Curragh, an Irish pub with a cozy vibe and hearty meals.
• Evening Stroll: If you’re up for it, take a stroll through downtown Holland, especially if there are any local events or festivals happening.

Overnight: Stay in Holland at a local inn or hotel.

## Day 3: Holland to Saugatuck, MI and Back to Elgin, IL

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at DeBoer Bakkerij, a local favorite known for its pastries and breakfast options.
• Head to Saugatuck: After breakfast, it’s just a short 15-minute drive to Saugatuck.

Afternoon:

• Explore Saugatuck: Spend your morning wandering through the charming streets of Saugatuck. Check out the local shops, art galleries, and the beautiful waterfront. Don’t miss the Saugatuck Dunes State Park for a hike or a walk along the beach.
• Lunch: Grab lunch at The Butler for some delicious sandwiches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Evening:

• Return to Elgin: After a fun day in Saugatuck, start your drive back to Elgin. It’s about a 2-hour drive, so you should be back by early evening.
• Dinner on the Road: If you’re feeling hungry, consider stopping for dinner at a restaurant along the way, or save your appetite for a meal back in Elgin.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary filled with beautiful sights, delicious food, and plenty of fun. Enjoy your road trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🚗✨