Southwest Michigan is known for charming downtowns, lakeshore views, and a relaxed coastal vibe—and the Social Districts in South Haven, Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville take that experience to the next level. These designated areas allow visitors to enjoy a beverage from participating establishments while strolling downtown, shopping, dining, and soaking in the local atmosphere.
If you’re planning a visit, understanding how each social district works can help you make the most of your trip—and choosing the right place to stay can put you steps from the fun.
What Is a Social District?
A social district is a designated downtown area where adults 21 and over can purchase alcoholic beverages from approved bars, restaurants, and tasting rooms and enjoy them outdoors within clearly marked boundaries. Drinks are served in official, labeled cups and are meant to enhance walkability, support local businesses, and create a more vibrant visitor experience.
South Haven Social District
The South Haven Social District covers much of the downtown area, including popular shops, restaurants, and attractions near the Black River and Lake Michigan shoreline.
What to Expect:
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Walkable downtown streets and riverfront areas
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Participating bars, restaurants, and tasting rooms
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Clearly marked district boundaries and rules
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A lively but relaxed atmosphere, especially during festivals and summer weekends
It’s the perfect setup for enjoying a drink while browsing local boutiques, heading toward the marina, or catching a sunset near the water.
DATES/HOURS: January 1 - December 31 from Noon - 10PM daily and midnight on New Years Eve
Participating Businesses (as of July 2025):
- Kitchen 527 (527 Phoenix Street)
- Taste (402 Phoenix Street)
- New Holland Spirits (253 Center Street)
- Gravity Winery (512 Phoenix Street)
- Clementine's Saloon (500 Phoenix Street)
- Harbor Light Brewery (516 Phoenix Street)
- Su Casa Restaurante (206 Center Street)
- Black River Tavern (403 Phoenix)
- Tello Italian Bistro (524 Phoenix Street)
Saugatuck Social District
Saugatuck’s social district reflects the town’s artistic, laid-back charm. Centered around Butler Street and nearby downtown areas, it pairs beautifully with Saugatuck’s galleries, waterfront views, and vibrant dining scene.
What to Expect:
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A compact, highly walkable downtown
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Easy access to art galleries, shops, and waterfront parks
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A more intimate, artsy vibe
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Ideal for afternoon exploring or a casual evening out
The Saugatuck Social District is especially popular with couples, friend groups, and visitors looking to enjoy the town’s creative energy.
DATES/HOURS: Open Daily 11AM - 11PM
Participating Businesses (as of July 2025):
- Sand Bar Saloon (141 Butler St.)
- Oyster Bar (220 Water Street)
- The Butler (40 Butler Street)
- Wally's (128 Hoffman Street)
- Phil's Bar and Grill (215 Butler Street)
- Wicks Park Bar and Grill (449 Water Street)
- Scooters Cafe and Pizzeria (322 Culver Street)
- Bowdies (230 Culver Street)
- Loco Burrito (322 Culver Street)
- Marker 14 (360 Water Street)
- Coppercraft Distillery (360 Water Street)
- The Barge (528 Water Street)
- Retro Boat Rentals (730 Water Street)
- The Mitten Brewing company (329 Water Street)
- Grow Estate (650 Water Street)
- Isabels Market Coast (236 Culver Street)
- New Holland Brewing (201 Culver Street)
- Fenn Valley Vineyards (310 Butler Street)
- Duck Valley (220 Culver Street)
- Pumpernickels (202 Butler Street)
- Noble Twist Taphouse (248 Butler Street)
Douglas Social District
The Douglas social district common area runs along Center Street from Blue Star Highway to Wade’s Bayou.
DATES/HOURS: Open Daily 11AM - 11PM
- Borrowed Time
- Everyday People Cafe
- Wild Dog Grille
- Happystance
Fennville Social District
The Fennville Social District common area boundaries are marked by signage and include the entire Central Business District, west to south and Rose Streets, north to First Street, east to the railroad tracks and south along Fennville Street. Currently there are three participating beverage venues including Salt of the Earth, Root Café, and El Jaripeo. On July and August Thursday evenings enjoy live music 6:30–8pm across from City Hall at 125 South Maple.
DATES/HOURS: 12pm to 9pm each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday year-round.
- Salt of the Earth
- Root Cafe
- El Jaripeo
Tips for Enjoying Social Districts
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Always carry your drink in the official social district cup
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Stay within the marked boundaries
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Dispose of cups responsibly
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Follow local rules and signage
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Plan to walk—these districts are designed for it
Where to Stay: Make It Effortless with Anchor Point Vacation Rentals
To truly enjoy the social districts, staying nearby makes all the difference. Anchor Point Vacation Rentals offers a wide selection of homes in and around South Haven, Fennville, and other Southwest Michigan destinations—many within walking distance or a short drive from these downtown social districts.
Whether you’re looking for:
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A luxury downtown condo
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A lakefront retreat
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A home for couples, families, or friend groups
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Properties with hot tubs, fire pits, or private pools
We’ll help you find the perfect home base so you can enjoy the area without worrying about parking, driving, or logistics.
Plan Your Social District Getaway
From sipping wine while strolling downtown South Haven to enjoying craft cocktails as you explore Saugatuck’s galleries, social districts add an extra layer of fun to your Southwest Michigan vacation.
When you’re ready to plan your visit, let Anchor Point Vacation Rentals help you find the perfect place to stay—so you can focus on relaxing, exploring, and enjoying every moment.
👉 Browse our vacation homes and start planning your stay today.
