Douglas, Michigan

Saugatuck and Douglas are across the bay from one another. Both are recommended by SmallTownGems.com.
The downtown area of this small town is one lightly trafficked street lined with shops and galleries. It is much less crowded and on a smaller scale than its sister community of Saugatuck. Unlike Saugatuck, its commercial district lacks water exposure, but is nice nonetheless. The town is home to the Douglas Dutchers, a vintage baseball club in a historic 1860 setting.
Saugatuck and Douglas are collectively referred to as “The Art Coast of Michigan” and have several fine art, studio and specialty galleries. The National Trust of Historic Preservation named Saugatuck/Douglas among the 2009 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Numerous beaches and state parks provide endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, sailing and other recreational activities.
Douglas was originally known as Dudleyville, but residents changed the name to Douglas. The name was reportedly chosen to honor the American statesman Stephen A. Douglas, but other sources indicate that a relative of the original owner of the land also suggested the name because he came from Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man.