Explore the (off)Shore: Sawyer, Michigan

Submitted by Beth Rudnick

Rainy weekends give us the greatest excuse to explore our lakeside towns even when we can’t make a beach excursion. A very small but happenin’ little place is Sawyer, Michigan, off Red Arrow Highway not far past Union Pier, also accessible from I-94 East. The main street of Sawyer hosts only two city blocks, but don’t be fooled. This little town packs a nice afternoon punch.

Start the journey at Go Fish antiques. An interesting mix of eclectic and repurposed furnishings and knickknacks in a vintage old building, Go Fish is just the place to find an odd accent piece to set off a room. Go Fish is open Friday – Sunday.  

Plan to include Greenbush Brewing for a bite and brew, so stop in there next to put in your name. This incredibly popular place often has a wait time, so make your reservation and head to Sawyer Home & Garden Center, located right between Go Fish and Greenbush. This ain’t your ordinary garden store, so grab a cart! Sawyer Home & Garden not only has gorgeous hanging baskets and rows of stunning potting plants/annuals but also has themed jewelry, doggie bites, bird houses and feed, clothes, unique produce including farm fresh as well as cheeses and meats, local wines and spirits, home décor, and a surprising large stock of bath essentials (and indulgent nonessentials!).  It’s never a bad idea to plan a relaxing evening with a glass of Round Barn Lake Michigan Merlot and some handcrafted bath fizzies.  

Sawyer Home & Garden Center has rooms and rooms of everything you can imagine!

Now it’s time to grab your table at Greenbush and try a Doomslayer brown ale or a Party Wolf IPA. Boasting unique craft beers exceptionally popular with the locals and tourists alike, Greenbush also has a full menu; and while Greenbush is known for its artisan meats, it also has vegetarian and vegan options and pizza for the kids. If you’re looking to just hang outside, consider the Greenbush Annex. You can find lots of merchandise there, a smaller menu and one of the best outdoor patios around. (see our list here).

Work off the Greenbush treats with a last stop at Sawyer Antique Mall at the corner of Red Arrow and Sawyer Road. Sawyer Antiques has a front room, a back room, a way back room, a bargain basement, a book loft, and the sweetest story kitty. From junk and stuff to cool vintage items, Sawyer Antiques & Kitty is a purrfect final stop on your Sawyer Journey.

While Sawyer doesn’t have its own beachfront, a visit to this quaint little town is a great way to celebrate our area and enjoy Diggin’ those Drafts!

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