river front walk
1 / 12

Wicks Park

4.8
·16 reviews·Saugatuck, United States

Saugatuck's charming riverfront park, featuring the historic Chain Ferry, live music, and scenic boat watching.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Wednesdays

Live music fills the air

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
river front walk

Wicks Park

Best Time

Summer Wednesdays

Live music fills the air

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Saugatuck's charming riverfront park, featuring the historic Chain Ferry, live music, and scenic boat watching.

4.8
(16 reviews)

"A beautiful park with great views, perfect for relaxing and watching the river boat traffic."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab takeout from local eateries and enjoy a casual dinner with a view in the park. :foodandwine:

🚢 Ferry Fun

Don't miss the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry for a unique river crossing experience. :ferry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saugatuck Chain Ferry

Saugatuck Chain Ferry

North side of the park

Ride the last of its kind in America across the Kalamazoo River for a unique historical experience.

Riverfront Views & Boat Watching

Riverfront Views & Boat Watching

Along the Kalamazoo River

Relax on benches and watch the diverse riverboat traffic glide by. A peaceful escape in the heart of town.

Music in the Park Gazebo

Music in the Park Gazebo

Center of the park

Enjoy summer evenings with live music performances held in the charming gazebo.

Seurat-Inspired Mural

Seurat-Inspired Mural

Public restroom building

Admire a unique mural depicting 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,' a long-standing artistic feature.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riverfront Vibe

Wicks Park is your gateway to Saugatuck's charm. Enjoy boat watching, live music, and the historic chain ferry. It's the perfect spot to soak in the town's artistic and relaxed atmosphere.

Seasonal Delights & Events

From summer concerts to festive holiday decor, Wicks Park buzzes year-round. Check local listings for events like 'Music in the Park' to enhance your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer Wednesdays
Why
Live music fills the air
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday Season
Why
Festive decorations abound
Crowd
Medium
When
Any sunny afternoon
Why
Perfect for boat watching
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

[SAVE/SHARE] QUEER TRAVEL GUIDE TO SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ #PureMichiganPartner @Pure Michigan Saugatuck is the queerest small town in Michigan and one of my personal favorites. Just two hours from Chicago, it’s been a safe haven for queer and trans locals and visitors for over a century—filled with award-winning beaches, iconic rainbow crosswalks, and tons of queer-owned cafés, shops, and g...
@explorewithchase
28.6K likes • 207.6K views

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab takeout from local eateries and enjoy a casual dinner with a view in the park. :foodandwine:

🚢 Ferry Fun

Don't miss the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry for a unique river crossing experience. :ferry:

Replying to @marie.olivia04 crying you guys are just as excited about Saugatuck as me 🫶🏻 here’s everything I recommend to do there. Comment anything I’m missing and I’ll include it in a Saugatuck blog post 💖🏳️‍🌈 #saugatuck #saugatuckmi #saugatuckmichigan #lgbttravel #lesbiantravel #gaytravel
@explorewithchase
10.7K likes • 166.2K views
Living in Saugatuck means boat watching from Wicks park, outdoor music and events on the channel, fantastic food on every corner and street. Unique, locally owned, retail shops. Plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy our Michigan summers to the fullest! And that’s only the beginning! Saugatuck is one of those little towns that just keeps on giving and it’s a must visit spot and definitely a location ...
realestatewithaubree
22 likes • 654 views

🎶 Summer Concerts

Check the 'Music in the Park' schedule for free Wednesday concerts during summer. :musical_note:

🎨 Artful Ambiance

Appreciate the local art, including the Seurat-inspired mural and plein air paintings. :art:

Low key dinner vibes in Saugatuck can mean just scooping up a delicious carry out and bringing it to Wicks Park for a casual dinner with a view🌞🛥 Wicks Park is still considered in the social district of Saugatuck so you can bring a beverage from one of the participating restaurants to sip on while you’re lounging! 🍺🍷 Bring a deck of cards and a comfy blanket to catch that incredible Michigan suns...
artcoastproperties
27 likes • 378 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab takeout from local eateries and enjoy a casual dinner with a view in the park. :foodandwine:

🚢 Ferry Fun

Don't miss the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry for a unique river crossing experience. :ferry:

🎶 Summer Concerts

Check the 'Music in the Park' schedule for free Wednesday concerts during summer. :musical_note:

🎨 Artful Ambiance

Appreciate the local art, including the Seurat-inspired mural and plein air paintings. :art:

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Wicks Park is centrally located, making it easy to explore downtown Saugatuck on foot. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(16 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Wicks Park for its beautiful riverfront views and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and boat watching. The historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry and summer concerts add unique charm, though some wish the ferry was operational more often. It's a beloved, centrally located park that captures the essence of Saugatuck.

"Beautiful Park! Enjoyed the Views! Peacefull Experience"

Isaiah Wadyko

"Small cute park that has benches and green space to enjoy watching the river boat traffic and the chain ferry. Right on the water in the heart of the walkable downtown area, definitely a good place to relax in the shade."

Aaron LePoire

"I enjoyed the photo ops with it all decked out for Christmas! 😍"

Shannon Stanhope

What People Like

Beautiful river views
Peaceful atmosphere
Historic chain ferry

What People Dislike

Ferry not always open

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wicks Park is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Saugatuck, right on the Kalamazoo River. It's easily accessible by foot from most downtown hotels and shops. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak season. Instagram

While Saugatuck doesn't have extensive public transport, Wicks Park is a central hub. If you're arriving from a nearby town, check for local shuttle services or ride-sharing options that can drop you off downtown. Reddit

Wicks Park is located in the downtown area, while Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a few miles away. You would need to drive or take a taxi/rideshare to get between the two locations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wicks Park is a public park and is free to enter. You can enjoy the river views, benches, and gazebo without any admission cost. Reddit

Wicks Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, offering a pleasant space to visit throughout the day. Specific event times, like 'Music in the Park,' will vary. Reddit

Yes, there is a small fee to ride the Saugatuck Chain Ferry. It's typically around $2.00 per person to cross the Kalamazoo River. Reddit

During the summer, Wicks Park hosts 'Music in the Park' every Wednesday. The park is also often decorated for holidays, adding to its charm. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy boat watching, relax on the benches, ride the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, attend summer concerts, admire the mural, and simply take in the scenic river views. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are public restrooms located in the center of the park, notable for their Seurat-inspired mural. Reddit

While specific leash laws can vary, parks are generally dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to check local Saugatuck ordinances or look for posted signs regarding pets. Reddit

Absolutely! Wicks Park is a great spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food or grab takeout from nearby restaurants. Some areas are within Saugatuck's social district, allowing you to bring beverages from participating establishments. Instagram

The Saugatuck Chain Ferry is a historic hand-cranked ferry that crosses the Kalamazoo River. It's the last of its kind in America and offers a unique, short ride. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Wicks Park is in the heart of downtown Saugatuck, surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering a variety of cuisines. Instagram

Yes, Wicks Park is an ideal spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing takeout meals to enjoy by the river. Instagram

You'll find everything from casual cafes and ice cream shops to sit-down restaurants offering American fare, seafood, and international options. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the Saugatuck Chain Ferry in action, the scenic river views with passing boats, the charming gazebo, and the unique Seurat-inspired mural. The park also offers lovely holiday decorations during winter. Instagram+1

The west-facing views over the Kalamazoo River can offer beautiful sunset light, especially during the warmer months. Instagram

The most prominent art installation is the mural on the public restroom, depicting a scene inspired by Georges Seurat's 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.' Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wicks Park offers a relaxed environment for families. Kids will love watching the boats on the Kalamazoo River and the unique experience of the Saugatuck Chain Ferry (check operating times). The open green spaces are perfect for a bit of running around, and the 'Music in the Park' concerts in summer provide free family entertainment. Grabbing ice cream or a treat from a nearby shop and enjoying it by the water is a simple, enjoyable activity for all ages. Reddit

🎨 Art Lovers & Creatives

For art enthusiasts, Wicks Park is a delight. The Seurat-inspired mural on the restroom building is a unique visual point of interest. The park is also a popular spot for plein air painters, and you might even catch artists at work capturing the scenic river views and the historic chain ferry. InstagramReddit The proximity to downtown galleries and studios further enhances Saugatuck's appeal as an arts destination.

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Explorers

Wicks Park is perfectly situated for those who prefer to explore on foot. It's a central point in walkable downtown Saugatuck, making it easy to combine a visit with browsing shops, dining at various restaurants, and exploring other nearby attractions. The park itself offers a peaceful respite during your explorations. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of the Saugatuck Chain Ferry

The Saugatuck Chain Ferry is a true historical gem and a must-do experience when visiting Wicks Park. As the last of its kind in America, this hand-cranked ferry offers a unique and charming way to cross the Kalamazoo River. For a small fee, typically around $2.00, you can enjoy a short, memorable journey that connects you to Saugatuck's past. It's not just a mode of transport; it's a living piece of history that provides fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of nostalgia. Reddit

Visitors often rave about the simple pleasure of operating the ferry or watching it in action. It’s a gentle reminder of a bygone era and a delightful contrast to modern transportation. The ferry operates seasonally, so it's worth checking its availability if this is a priority for your visit. Experiencing the Chain Ferry is a quintessential Saugatuck activity that perfectly complements a visit to Wicks Park. Reddit

Wicks Park: A Hub for Community and Art

Wicks Park is more than just a scenic spot; it's a vibrant community hub. During the summer months, the park's gazebo comes alive with 'Music in the Park' events every Wednesday, drawing locals and visitors alike for free outdoor concerts. This creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a warm evening. Reddit

The park also boasts a unique artistic touch with a mural on its public restroom building, inspired by Georges Seurat's famous painting, 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.' This enduring piece of art adds a cultural layer to the park's appeal. Furthermore, the park is a popular location for plein air painters, capturing the essence of Saugatuck's iconic scenes, with some of these artworks even being displayed locally. InstagramReddit

Its central location in downtown Saugatuck means it's a natural gathering place, ideal for picnics with takeout from nearby eateries, or simply relaxing and watching the river traffic. The park truly embodies the artistic and community spirit of Saugatuck. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2