When it comes to planning a trip to Northern Michigan, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its stunning natural beauty, charming small towns, and endless outdoor activities, Northern Michigan is a popular destination for travelers. However, with so many great options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the perfect place to rest your head. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in Northern Michigan, to help you make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Northern Michigan’s Accommodations
Northern Michigan offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, and from rustic cabins to modern hotels, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly vacation, or an adventure-filled escape, Northern Michigan has the perfect place to stay.
Types of Accommodations
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Northern Michigan, including:
- Cozy bed and breakfasts with a personal touch
- Luxurious resorts with world-class amenities
- Rustic cabins and cottages for a more secluded stay
- Modern hotels with comfortable rooms and convenient locations
- Vacation rentals for a home-away-from-home experience
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of the best places to stay in Northern Michigan, and be able to make an informed decision about where to stay for your next trip.
Best Places to Stay in Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan is a popular vacation destination known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming small towns. When planning a trip to this beautiful region, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, Northern Michigan has a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Northern Michigan, including top towns, cities, and resorts.
Towns and Cities
Northern Michigan is home to many charming towns and cities, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are some of the top towns and cities to consider staying in: (See Also: Best Places To Stay Around Disneyland)
- Petoskey: Known for its Victorian-era architecture, charming downtown area, and beautiful beaches, Petoskey is a popular destination for couples and families.
- Traverse City: Located on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a vibrant city with a thriving food and wine scene, beautiful parks, and a variety of cultural attractions.
- Charlevoix: This picturesque town is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming downtown area.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes: Located near Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its towering sand dunes, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful beaches.
- Mackinac Island: This charming island is located between the state’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and is known for its Victorian-era architecture, fudge shops, and lack of cars (transportation is mostly by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage).
Resorts
Northern Michigan is home to many world-class resorts, offering a range of amenities and activities for visitors. Here are some of the top resorts to consider:
| Resort | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Boyne Mountain Resort | Boyne Falls | Skiing, golfing, spa, fitness center, pool, restaurants |
| Shanty Creek Resort | Bellaire | Skiing, golfing, spa, fitness center, pool, restaurants |
| Grand Traverse Resort and Spa | Acme | Golfing, spa, fitness center, pool, restaurants, private beach |
| The Homestead Resort | Glen Arbor | Skiing, golfing, spa, fitness center, pool, restaurants, private beach |
| Crystal Mountain Resort | Skiing, golfing, spa, fitness center, pool, restaurants |
Bed and Breakfasts
For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at one of Northern Michigan’s many bed and breakfasts. Here are a few top picks:
- The Inn at Bay Harbor: Located in Bay Harbor, this luxurious B&B offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, elegant rooms, and a gourmet breakfast.
- The Petoskey Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B is located in the heart of Petoskey and offers cozy rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Traverse Bay Inn: Located in Traverse City, this B&B offers comfortable rooms, a gourmet breakfast, and a convenient location near downtown.
- The Charlevoix Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B is located in the heart of Charlevoix and offers cozy rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Camping
For those who love the great outdoors, Northern Michigan offers many camping options, from rustic state parks to luxury RV resorts. Here are a few top picks:
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: This national park offers several campgrounds, including the popular Platte River Campground and the more secluded D.H. Day Campground.
- Petoskey State Park: Located near Petoskey, this state park offers a campground with modern amenities, as well as hiking trails, beaches, and scenic overlooks.
: Located near Traverse City, this state park offers a campground with modern amenities, as well as hiking trails, beaches, and scenic overlooks. - Wild Cherry Resort: Located in Traverse City, this luxury RV resort offers full-hookup sites, a pool, and a range of amenities.
Vacation Rentals
For those who prefer the comfort and convenience of a home away from home, Northern Michigan offers many vacation rental options, from cozy cottages to luxurious homes. Here are a few top picks:
- VRBO: This popular vacation rental website offers a wide range of options in Northern Michigan, from studios to large homes.
- Airbnb: This popular vacation rental website offers a wide range of options in Northern Michigan, from cozy cottages to luxurious homes.
- Northern Michigan Vacation Rentals: This local company offers a range of vacation rentals, from cottages to homes, in popular destinations like Petoskey and Traverse City.
Summary
In conclusion, Northern Michigan offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From charming towns and cities to luxurious resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, and rustic campgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, Northern Michigan has it all.
When planning your trip, be sure to consider the top towns and cities, including Petoskey, Traverse City, Charlevoix, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Mackinac Island. If you’re looking for a luxurious resort experience, consider Boyne Mountain Resort, Shanty Creek Resort, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, The Homestead Resort, or Crystal Mountain Resort. For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast, such as The Inn at Bay Harbor, The Petoskey Bed and Breakfast, The Traverse Bay Inn, or The Charlevoix Bed and Breakfast. And for those who love the great outdoors, Northern Michigan offers many camping options, from rustic state parks to luxury RV resorts. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Near Cedar Point)
Finally, don’t forget to consider vacation rentals, which offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to traditional hotels and resorts. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Northern Michigan.
We hope this article has provided you with a helpful guide to the best places to stay in Northern Michigan. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Northern Michigan
What are the most popular towns to stay in Northern Michigan?
Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Traverse City are some of the most popular towns to stay in Northern Michigan. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts, and are close to many of the region’s top attractions.
Are there any budget-friendly options for accommodations in Northern Michigan?
Yes, there are many budget-friendly options for accommodations in Northern Michigan. Consider staying at a state park campground, renting a cabin or cottage, or looking for hotels and motels that offer affordable rates. You can also try visiting during the off-season (usually spring and fall) when prices tend to be lower.
What are some must-see attractions in Northern Michigan?
Northern Michigan is home to many beautiful natural attractions, including Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Leelanau Peninsula, and the Crystal Mountain Resort. You should also visit the charming towns and villages, such as Petoskey and Charlevoix, which offer a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Port Angeles)
Can I bring my pet with me to Northern Michigan?
Many accommodations in Northern Michigan are pet-friendly, but it’s always best to check ahead of time. Some popular pet-friendly options include camping, vacation rentals, and certain hotels and resorts. Be sure to research pet-friendly activities and attractions as well, such as hiking trails and beaches that allow dogs.
What is the best time of year to visit Northern Michigan?
The best time to visit Northern Michigan depends on your preferences. Summer is peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and biking. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you prefer milder weather and smaller crowds, while winter is ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports.
